James Michael RYAN

Regimental number1047
Place of birthLimerick Ireland
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationGardener
Address55 Victoria Parade, Collingwood, Victoria
Marital statusMarried
Age at embarkation31
Next of kinWife, Mrs J M Ryan, 55 Victoria Parade, Collingwood, Victoria
Enlistment date12 September 1914
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name8th Battalion, H Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/25/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board Transport A24 Benalla on 19 October 1914
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll8th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


'(Polygon Wood 20 September 1917) Gallantry and initiative with Lewis Gun, rendering valuable assistance in covering consolidation of his Coy.'
Recommendation date: 27 September 1917

FateReturned to Australia 8 April 1918
Medals

Military Medal

'During the attack on POLYGON WOOD east of YPRES on 20th September, 1917, Pte. RYAN did splendid work displaying great gallantry with his Lewis Gun. When all his crew were knocked out and the gun damaged, though greatly shaken, he repaired his gun and bringing it into action knocked out an enemy machine gun in a Pill Box, thus enabling it to be captured. He displayed great initiative throughout and rendered invaluable assistance in covering the consolidation of his Company.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death17 January 1954
Place of burialCheltenham Memorial Park Cemetery