The AIF Project

Alfred Henry FOTHERINGHAM

Regimental number3529
Place of birthSydney New South Wales
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationDriver
AddressAshfield, Sydney, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation27
Next of kinFather, J Fotheringham, 27 Robert Street, Ashfield, Sydney, New South Wales
Enlistment date27 September 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name20th Battalion, 8th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/37/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A60 Aeneas on 20 December 1915
Rank from Nominal RollDriver
Unit from Nominal Roll13th Field Artillery Brigade
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Work near Hamel on 9 August 1918.
Recommendation date: 17 August 1918

FateReturned to Australia 9 March 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During the advance in front of HAMEL - VILLERS BRETONNEUX on 9th August 1918 whilst this Driver's Battery was moving it came under a quick burst of fire from enemy 105 mm Howitzers which killed and wounded several men and horses, including the lead driver of this man's team, also wounding Driver FOTHERINGHAM on the hand. This stopped the team and blocked the road. he then dismounted from his centre horses and mounting as lead driver, drove off immediately. by his presence of mind and quick decision on this occasion, he permitted the position to be cleared and thus prevented further possible casualties. Later in the afternoon, this Driver's team again came under fire, some of the horses being wounded, so that the wagon had to be temporarily abandoned. Driver FOTHERINGHAM volunteered to return, and with the assistance of other drivers succeeded in getting the wagon back to the Battery, although under continuous heavy shell fire. During the whole time he showed great coolness and presence of mind, and his excellent example and devotion to duty are deserving of special recognition.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death28 March 1949
Place of burialWilberforce Cemetery

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