The AIF Project

John Rankin KEITH

Regimental number1680
Place of birthWagga Wagga New South Wales
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationCarpenter
AddressMerriden, Western Australia
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation20
Next of kinMother, Mrs Effie Keith, Merriden PO, Meriden, Western Australia
Enlistment date25 February 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name51st Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/68/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A60 Aeneas on 17 April 1916
Rank from Nominal RollCorporal
Unit from Nominal Roll51st Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 17 July 1918

FateReturned to Australia 3 September 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During an attack on enemy positions north east of SAILLY-LE-SEC near AMIENS on night of 10th/11th June, 1918, this N.C.O. who is a signaller repeatedly went out and repaired, under extremely heavy shell fire, the telephone lines between Companies and Battalion Headquarters, and also the Battalion on left. His excellent work enabled the communications to be maintained not only between Companies and Battalion Headquarters, but also the Battalion on the left to keep communication with its Brigade Headquarters. his devotion to duty and coolness under fire were an excellent example to all about him.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 36
Date: 14 March 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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