The AIF Project

William Percival HILL

Regimental number1079
Place of birthGeelong Victoria
ReligionMethodist
OccupationFarmer
AddressThorpdae, Gippsland, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation25
Next of kinFather, J W Hill, Thorpdale, Gippsland, Victoria
Enlistment date6 April 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll12 April 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name22nd Battalion, C Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/39/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A38 Ulysses on 10 May 1915
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll22nd Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 27 January 1919

FateReturned to Australia 29 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the attack at ESTREES, east of PERONNE, on 4th October, 1918. After the attack many of our wounded were lying helpless in advanced positions under heavy concentrated shell and machine gun fire. As the casualties amongst stretcher bearers were extremely heavy, this soldier volunteered his services, and for over 24 hours this self sacrificing man carried stretcher cases over the danger zone, exhibiting splendid courage and endurance. It was largely owing to his untiring energy and devotion that many wounded men were saved from being killed where they lay. He set a splendid example of conscientious and sterling work. later in the day, when communications had failed, this man volunteered to carry orders to the front line through a very heavy enemy barrage. By exhibiting the utmost daring, he managed to get through the barrage of H.E., and machine gun bullets, and delivered his orders to the companies in the front line. He then returned carrying reports from line Company Commanders which proved to the utmost value to his Commanding Officer enabling him to clear up the situation and decide on future operations.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 135
Date: 11 December 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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