'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 16th October, 1917 at BELLEWARDE RIDGE (east of YPRES). A shell burst in the pit, knocking the gun off its platform, and caused casualties to the detachment. Gunner McKINNEY assumed command, got the gun back into position and into action again in a very short time. He carried out the duties of an N.C.O. at a very critical time without hesitation. His work throughout the operations since 9th September, 1917, has been excellent.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

Regimental number	1374
Place of birth	Melbourne Victoria
Religion	Roman Catholic
Occupation	Labourer
Address	c/o Miss A Bowsey, 1 Bowen Terrace, Melbourne, Victoria
Marital status	Single
Age at embarkation	24
Next of kin	Cousin, Miss A Bowsey, 1 Bowen Terrace, Melbourne, Victoria
Enlistment date	23 December 1914
Rank on enlistment	Private
Unit name	12th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number	23/29/2
Embarkation details	Unit embarked from Adelaide, South Australia, on board HMAT A50 Itonus on 15 February 1915
Rank from Nominal Roll	Gunner
Unit from Nominal Roll	10th Field Artillery Brigade
Fate	Returned to Australia 14 December 1918
Medals	Military Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 16th October, 1917 at BELLEWARDE RIDGE (east of YPRES). A shell burst in the pit, knocking the gun off its platform, and caused casualties to the detachment. Gunner McKINNEY assumed command, got the gun back into position and into action again in a very short time. He carried out the duties of an N.C.O. at a very critical time without hesitation. His work throughout the operations since 9th September, 1917, has been excellent.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95 Date: 27 June 1918
Other details	Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

Lawrence McKINNEY