The AIF Project

Lindon Ernest FRENCH

Regimental number4654
Place of birthDeloraine Tasmania
ReligionMethodist
OccupationOrchardist
AddressBridgenorth, Tasmania
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinFather, Mr E French, Bridgenorth, Tasmania
Enlistment date2 September 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name8th Battalion, 14th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/25/5
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A32 Themistocles on 28 January 1916
Regimental number from Nominal RollCommissioned
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll57th Battalion
Promotions

2nd Lieutenant


Unit: INF57
Promotion date: 6 January 1919

Lieutenant


Unit: INF57
Promotion date: 6 April 1919

FateReturned to Australia 9 July 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During the operations of 29th September - 1st October in the neighbourhood of BELLICOURT Sergeant FRENCH was acting C.SM. In the initial advance the Company came under a heavy artillery barrage at the moment when crossing a ridge facing the HINDENBURG System, a dense fog enveloped the troops. Two of the three Company Officers were badly wounded and the men go somewhat scattered and were considerably shaken. Sergeant FRENCH rallied them and helped his Company Commander to conduct the difficult advance in spite of the falling shells the gas drenched fog and badly ............ country. At a later stage he was conspicuous during the attack on the LE CATELET ............. for his courage and energy in helping his platoon leaders, all of them N.C.Os and in bandaging and caring for wounded under heavy fire. During the further advance he displayed the same qualities, encouraging his platoon leaders and helping them when met with a heavy barrage fire during the attack on the ESTREES-GRANDCOURT ridge. When the fire rendered a temporary retirement necessary he remained behind with the wounded until they were all evacuated. He has always done good work and this time his conduct was exceptionally fine and deserves recognition.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Family/military connectionsBrother: 4653 Pte Clarence Charles FRENCH, 57ty Bn, returned to Australia, 10 March 1918.
Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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