The AIF Project

Paul Matthew POTTAGE

Regimental number1102
Place of birthHarrow Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationLetter carrier
AddressMafeking, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation19
Next of kinFather, A E Pottage, Mafeking, Victoria
Enlistment date17 August 1914
Rank on enlistmentDriver
Unit nameField Artillery Brigade 2, Reinforcement 15
AWM Embarkation Roll number13/30/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT Malwa on 21 March 1916
Rank from Nominal RollSergeant
Unit from Nominal Roll13th Field Artillery Brigade
FateReturned to Australia 15 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'On the night of 13/14th August 1917 while all Batteries were moving their guns to a position in the old 'NO MAN's LAND' and while much difficulty was experienced in getting the guns over old shell holes owing to the very wet condition of the ground, a heavy Gas and H.E. Shell Bombardment was opened on the road at about I.5.b.1.9. where the 51st Battery was at that time. The horse ridden by Driver W.R. HERITAGE was severely wounded by a shell and fell on this Driver who also had been wounded. No. 1102 Sergeant P.M. POTTAGE immediately went to the assistance of Lieut. COWLISHAW who was engaged in extricating Driver HERITAGE and when Lieut. COWLISHAW collapsed from Gas poisoning, this N.C.O. took command and completed the task of getting the guns into position. He displayed the greatest courage, initiative, and resource.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Date of death30 May 1966
Place of burialSpringvale Cemetery

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