Regimental number | 4377 |
Date of birth | |
Place of birth | Nelson, New Zealand |
Religion | Church of England |
Occupation | Salesman |
Address | 17 Washington Valley, Nelson, New Zealand |
Marital status | Single |
Age at embarkation | 27 |
Next of kin | Father, Robert Watson, 17 Washington Valley, Nelson, New Zealand |
Enlistment date | |
Rank on enlistment | Gunner |
Unit name | Field Artillery Brigade 1, Reinforcement 6 |
AWM Embarkation Roll number | 13/29/2 |
Embarkation details | Unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A35 Berrima on |
Regimental number from Nominal Roll | Commissioned |
Rank from Nominal Roll | Lieutenant |
Unit from Nominal Roll | 3rd Field Artillery Brigade |
Promotions |
2nd Lieutenant Promotion date: Lieutenant Promotion date: |
Fate | Returned to Australia |
Medals |
Distinguished Conduct Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He displayed great gallantry and coolness in going to the assistance of wounded men, under heavy fire. He has set a splendid example throughout.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 189 Date: Military Cross 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Foucoucourt, on 27th August, 1918, when he accompanied the attacking infantry as forward Observation Officer. The enemy offered strong resistance, frequently holding up the advance with machine gun fire. In one case, he worked his way forward several hundred yards in front of our outposts, directing the fire of three batteries, which gave great assistance to the infantry by barraging machine gun nests and strong posts. he showed fine courage and initiative throughout.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61 Date: Bar to Military Cross 'For conspicuous gallantry at Nauroy, near Bellicourt, on the night of 2nd-3rd October, 1918. His battery was the centre of an enemy bombardment, which continued for over four hours. Though badly gassed himself, he tried to save the life of a wounded officer. He showed great energy and devotion to duty, and stayed with his battery until next day, when it was withdrawn from the line.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 10 Date: |
Discharge date | |
Other details |
Medals: Military Cross & Bar, Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal Captained AIF Rugby XV: King's Cup competition, United Kingdom, 1919; Australia, 1919; South Africa, 1919. Also served in World War II in 2nd Garrison Bn from 4 March 1940 (appointed Temporary Captain, 15 June 1940); transferred to 1st Papuan Infantry Bn, 26 June 1940. |