The AIF Project

Thomas Richard KNIGHT

Regimental number2698
Place of birthWyngan New South Wales
ReligionMethodist
OccupationShop assistant
AddressLaurel Street, Willoughby, Sydney, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation23
Next of kinFather, J Knight, Laurel Street, Willoughby, Sydney, New South Wales
Enlistment date5 August 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name17th Battalion, 6th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/34/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A14 Euripides on 2 November 1915
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll17th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: "5 March 1917

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 27 September 1917

Mention in Corps Routine Orders


Recommendation date: 14 October 1917

Bar to Military Medal


Recommendation date: 7 September 1918"

FateReturned to Australia 18 January 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During the operations near WESTHOEK on 20th September 1917 this N.C.O. proved himself a leader of men by his cheery and encouraging example, his absolute disregard for personal safety, and his determination. On the Officer in charge of his platoon becoming a casualty he assumed command and led it through to the third and final objective where he immediately saw to the consolidation of his position and made preparations for the counter-attack. Despite hostile bombardment he held on until the Battalion was relieved. On several previous occasions this N.C.O. has shown great courage but during this operation he excelled his previous high standard, not only by his devotion to duty and courage, but also by his determination and ability to handle men and win their confidence at a time when the situation absolutely demanded this.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 66
Date: 2 May 1918

Bar to Military Medal

'During the attack on MONT ST. QUENTIN, near PERONNE, on 31st August 1918, and when all four Company Officers had become casualties, this N.C.O. immediately took charge of the remnants of the Company and, with great skill and tenacity, held on to his position, where 5 counter attacks were repelled. It was entirely due to his fine example and courage that his Company was reorganised and steadied up after a heavy enemy barrage had been put down on their sector.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Bar to Military Medal

'During the attack on MONT ST. QUENTIN, near PERONNE, on 31st August 1918, and when all four Company Officers had become casualties, this N.C.O. immediately took charge of the remnants of the Company and, with great skill and tenacity, held on to his position, where 5 counter attacks were repelled. It was entirely due to his fine example and courage that his Company was reorganised and steadied up after a heavy enemy barrage had been put down on their sector.'

Other details

War service: Egypt, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal & Bar, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death7 December 1957
Place of burialRookwood Crematorium

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