The AIF Project

John Patrick FRANCIS

Regimental number5012
Place of birthForbes New South Wales
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationLabourer
AddressBogan Gate, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation25
Next of kinFather, J P Francis, Mountain View, Bogan Gate, New South Wales
Enlistment date22 November 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name17th Battalion, 13th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/34/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A55 Kyarra on 5 June 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll17th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


For conspicuous gallantry in disposing of four Germans in an enemy trench whilst severely wounded.
Recommendation date: 13 May 1917

FateReturned to Australia 20 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During the operations on 3rd/4th May against the HINDENBURG Line near NOREUIL this soldier acted as first bayonet man to a party of 12 under Sergeant MCKAY. On entering the trench he bayoneted two Germans and continued to go forward until further opposition was met with. Despite being shot through the jaw he continued to fight until ordered to withdraw, having accounted for two more enemy in the meantime. He exhibited splendid pluck and determination and was to a very great extent responsible for the party penetrating so far up the trench.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 189
Date: 8 November 1917

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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