The AIF Project

John Hinwood McDONALD

Place of birthSydney New South Wales
Other NamesMCDONALD, John Henwood
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationGrazier
AddressSmith Street, Summer Hill, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation28
Next of kinMother, Mrs J McDonald, 66 Smith Street, Summer Hill, New South Wales
Enlistment date5 May 1915
Rank on enlistmentLieutenant
Unit name20th Battalion, C Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/37/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board Transport Berrima on 25 June 1915
Rank from Nominal RollMajor
Unit from Nominal Roll20th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Mention in Despatches


Awarded, and promulgated, 'London Gazette' No. 31448 (11 July 1919); 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 124 (30 October 1919).

FateReturned to Australia 19 April 1919
Medals

Distinguished Service Order

'On the 31st August 1918, during the attack on Mont St. Quentin, he advanced alone against an enemy machine gun nest, silencing two guns which were causing casualties and capturing the crews. On arrival at the objective, he rapidly re-organized and consolidated, reconnoitring the whole battalion front under heavy fire. Later, he personally directed a withdrawal in a most skilful manner, and, under very severe enemy fire, establishing himself in an admirable position with few casualties. Throughout he showed conspicuous gallantry and powers of leadership.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 67
Date: 3 June 1919

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his company in the most gallant manner and was largely repsonsible for the success of the operations. He set a fine example to his men.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169
Date: 4 October 1917

Other detailsMedals: Military Cross, Distinguished Service Order, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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