The AIF Project

Recommendation date: 28 September 1917

'In the 15th Australian Infantry Brigade's operation at POLYGON WOOD on the 26th September 1917. No. 705 Lance Corporal HARRIS A. was in charge of one detachment of this Battery. During the action Lance Corporal HARRIS, who with his detachment was in reserve - rendered most valuable assistance to the detachments which had gone forward with the attacking troops, by keeping them supplied with ammunition. He took charge of and guided the ammunition parties forward himself, and though he and his party had to pass the enemy's artillery barrage each time, he succeeded in keeping a good supply of ammunition up to the mortars. By his bravery and devotion to duty, Lance Corporal HARRIS set a splendid example to all who came in contact with him.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

'During the continuation of the advance of the Brigade in front of HARBONNIERES on the 9th August this N.C.O. pushed his team forward under heavy Machine Gun and rifle fire and opened fire with his mortar to good purpose. Engaging Machine Guns to cover our Advancing Troops. A wide tract of country swept by Machine Gun and Rifle fire had to be crossed. And the gauntlet of a sniper, who had already claimed several casualties, had to be run. One of the team was wounded by a bullet from this sniper and Lance Corporal HARRIS rendered first aid under a hail of bullets and assisted the casualty to a place of safety. Later another man endeavoured to reach Lance Corporal HARRIS and was wounded and HARRIS accompanied by Private Scott again rendered assistance and helped the wounded man to a place of safety. While helping others with no though for self HARRIS was himself wounded.'