The AIF Project

Ernest James GOTHARD

Regimental number858
Place of birthClifton Hill Victoria
ReligionMethodist
OccupationFarm labourer
AddressEdward Gothard, 54 Arthur Street, Fairfield, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation19
Next of kinBrother, Edward Gothard, 54 Arthur Street, Fairfield, Melbourne, Victoria
Previous military service55th AASC
Enlistment date5 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name31st Battalion, D Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/48/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A62 Wandilla on 9 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll31st Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Mention in Despatches


Awarded, and gazetted, 'London Gazette', second Supplement, No. 30448 (28 December 1917); 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 57 (18 April 1918).

Distinguished Conduct Medal


Recommendation date: 2 October 1917

FateReturned to Australia 30 January 1918
Medals

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty, in an attack. Whenever the advance was impeded, he was always ready to lead a party to deal with the obstacle. He led an attack on a strong point, and captured ten prisoners and a machine gun. Later, he was wounded, but refused to leave his post until utterly exhausted. By his great courage and determination he rendered valuable assistance to his company.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

Family/military connectionsBrother: 807 Sergeant William Nathaniel GOTHARD, 39th Bn, returned to Australia, 31 January 1918.
Other details

War service: Egypt, Western Front

Medals: Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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