The AIF Project

William Johnstone GOURLAY

Regimental number389
Place of birthHobart Tasmania
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationConfectioner
AddressLaunceston, Tasmania
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinFather, William J Fourlay, 80 Elizabeth Street, Launceston, Tasmania
Enlistment date15 February 1916
Rank on enlistmentLance Corporal
Unit name40th Battalion, B Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/57/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Hobart, Tasmania, on board HMAT A35 Berrima on 1 July 1916
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll40th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 17 October 1917

FateReturned to Australia 25 March 1919
Miscellaneous information from
  cemetery records
Plaque in Launceston Garden of Remembrance
Medals

Military Medal

'On 4th October, 1917, East of YPRES for conspicuous devotion to duty in action. During the advance, he was wounded but organised a carrying party to go to the rear and bring back ammunition. On his return he assisted in consolidation and took charge of a post throughout the night. he finally consented to go back and have his wounds dressed, only when ordered to do so by an Officer.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death20 April 1976

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