Matthew POLAND

Regimental number1993
Place of birthCoalville Victoria
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationMiner
AddressKembla Heights, South Coast, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation24
Next of kinFather, M Poland, Senr, Kembla Heights, South Coast, New South Wales
Enlistment date19 June 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name18th Battalion, 3rd Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/35/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A54 Runic on 9 August 1915
Rank from Nominal RollLance Corporal
Unit from Nominal Roll2nd Pioneer Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 31 March 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty east of BRESLE on 16th April, 1918. These N.C.O.s [POLAND, 1747 S.D. WATSON] were engaged in laying out tape for a new trench, and although under heavy shell fire for an hour and a half they stuck to their task and on completing it, guided the working parties onto their work. By their good example and coolness the work was successfully constructed in spite of a number of casualties which occurred. These N.C.O.s have not been recommended in connection with the King's Birthday Honours Despatch.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 185
Date: 27 November 1918

Other detailsMedals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal