The AIF Project

John LEAN

Regimental number3150
Place of birthSydney New South Wales
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationWickerworker
Address110 Quarry Street, Ultimo, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation21
Next of kinFather, E Lean, 110 Quarry Street, Ultimo, New South Wales
Previous military service25th Infantry
Enlistment date14 August 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name19th Battalion, 7th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/36/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A29 Suevic on 20 December 1915
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


'Set a splendid example of coolness and bravery to his men at Strazeele on the night of 16-17 April 1918.'
Recommendation date: 25 April 1918

Distinguished Conduct Medal


'For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty on 5th May 1918.'
Recommendation date: 14 May 1918

FateReturned to Australia 8 November 1918
Medals

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. At a time when identification was urgently required Corporal Lean who was on outpost duty, entered the enemy outpost line in broad daylight and captured a prisoner, with whom he returned to his post. He went out again immediately afterwards with three other men, and rushed a neighbouring enemy post, killing one man and taking the three other prisoners; he brought them back to our lines. This took place in full view of the whole battalion and the example of Corporal Lean's courage and resource had a marked effect on all who witnessed it.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 15
Date: 4 February 1919

Date of death8 July 1960
Place of burialBotany Cemetery

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