The AIF Project

Ernest P HITCHCOCK

Regimental number371
AddressCassells Road, Brunswick, Victoria
Enlistment date18 August 1914
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name6th Battalion, Headquarters
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/23/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A20 Hororata on 19 October 1914
Regimental number from Nominal RollCommissioned
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll6th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Distinguished Conduct Medal


London Gazette 29354 of 5 November 1915.
Recommendation date: "Unspecified"

Mention in Despatches


Awarded, and promulgated, 'London Gazette', Supplement, No. 29354 (5 November 1915); 'Commonwealth Gazette', No. 12 (27 January 1916).

FateReturned to Australia 18 January 1919
Miscellaneous information from
  cemetery records
Plaque in Victorian Garden of Remembrance
Medals

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 8th May, 1915, and following days, North of Cape Helles (Dardanelles). In assisting the wounded under constant heavy fire Private Hitchcock exhibited a heroism beyond praise. Absolutely regardless of danger, he, in company with another man, attended to the wounded, leading up the stretcher bearers and dressing the severe cases in the fire trenches, even before they were completed. Not only was he instrumental in saving many lives, but, by his coolness and courage, he set a splendid example of devotion to duty and gave the greatest encouragement to all ranks.'
Source: 'London Gazette' No. 8850
Date: 6 September 1915

Military Cross

'For great gallantry and skill while leading his platoon, which was the centre of an attack, and which met with much opposition. When a frontal assault on a heavily garrison enemy strong point was temporarily held up, he split his men into two parties, and, attacking from both flanks and rear, succeeded in gaining his objective. Twice wounded early in the attack, he yet carried on until met by his company commander, who ordered him to the dressing station.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 23
Date: 12 February 1919

Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Medals: Distinguished Conduct Medal, Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death9 October 1966

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