The AIF Project

William John HARVEY

Regimental number3574
Place of birthRoma Qld
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationCarrier
AddressMorven, Queensland
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinMother, Mrs. Ellen Ann Harvey, Morven, Queensland
Enlistment date15 February 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name31st Battalion, 8th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/48/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A42 Boorara on 16 August 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll31st Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 23 June 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'At POLYGON WOOD on 26/28th September 1917, this soldier showed unexampled bravery in attending to wounded under heavy shell fire and by his fortitude under the most adverse conditions helped to a great extent in maintaining a spirit of supreme confidence in his comrades. For 3 days and night he toiled unceasingly but never once was he found unwilling to volunteer when stretcher bearers were required.' Second statement reads: 'During the operations of 29th and 30th September and 1st October these men acted as stretcher bearers, and throughout displayed a courage and devotion to duty which was the admiration of all ranks. On 29th September they brought back large numbers of wounded men of all units to the R.A.P. under an extremely intense artillery and machine gun fire. ON 30th September and 1st October they worked unceasingly, carrying the wounded through heavy artillery barrages and under direct enemy observation. By their cheerfulness and devotion to duty they set a splendid example to all ranks, and undoubtedly contributed to the saving of a large number of lives. At great personal risk Privates HARVEY and [509] PATTERSON rescued an Officer from a burning tank, and brought him under cover.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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