The AIF Project

John MATHESON

Regimental number1670
Place of birthHorsham Victoria
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationLabourer
AddressSt Helen's Plains, via Horsham, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation27
Next of kinFather, Samuel Matheson, St Helen's Plains, via Horsham, Victoria
Enlistment date10 April 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name38th Battalion, 1st Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/55/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A54 Runic on 20 June 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll38th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Recommendation date: 20 October 1917

FateReturned to Australia 13 August 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'On 12th October 1917, East of Ypres, he displayed conspicuous devotion to duty in action. When in an advanced position, and his Unit had suffered very severe casualties, he took charge of the situation round his Post, rallied those who were left and by his coolness and courage, inspired confidence in all around him and so organised the position that it was held in the face of strong enemy opposition. The position at this point was serious, owing to the heavy casualties amongst leaders and Private MATHESON'S prompt and courageous action at a critical time saved the situation.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death11 October 1922
Place of burialGreen Lake Cemetery

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