Ernest Herbert BAKER

Regimental number350
Place of birthPicton New South Wales
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationTelephonist
AddressFassifern, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation18
Next of kinFather, Hubert John Baker, Fassifern, New South Wales
Previous military service16th Aust Infantry
Enlistment date18 July 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll18 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name30th Battalion, B Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/47/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A72 Beltana on 9 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll30th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 8 April 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the operation in the vicinity of NAUROY on the 29th September/1st October 1918. All the senior N.C.O.'s of the Platoon becoming casualties, this man was called upon to take charge of two sections. Later, he assumed command of the entire Platoon and carried out his duties in a most tactful and capable manner. Whilst his Company was holding the front line, he led patrols with great dash and daring in the endeavour to locate hostile Machine Gun posts which were causing losses to his unit, which he successfully accomplished. During an operation carried out by the unit on the left flank of the Company, the enemy placed a heavy barrage on the area occupied by the Company. This N.C.O. displayed remarkable coolness and quick decision in getting his men away to a safer spot, and thereby avoided many casualties. The utter disregard for his own safety and the high sense of duty displayed by this junior NC..O. set a splendid example to all ranks.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919