The AIF Project

Victor Ernest SMITH

Regimental number2444
Place of birthGeraldton Western Australia
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationLabourer
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation25
Next of kinFather, Herbert Smith, Main Light, Rottnest, Western Australia
Enlistment date5 May 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name11th Battalion, 7th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/28/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Fremantle, Western Australia, on board HMAT A63 Karoola on 25 June 1915
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll3rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Mention in Despatches


Awarded, and promulgated, 'London Gazette', second Supplement, No. 30107 (1 June 1917); 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 (4 October 1917).

FateReturned to Australia 18 July 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During operations east of YPRES, 20/22nd September, 1917, L/Cpl SMITH as Brigade Bomber rendered most valuable assistance and showed great gallantry and devotion to duty. His work entailed the distribution at the forward Brigade Main Dump and his coolness under very heavy artillery fire was at all times of a most exemplary nature. He was sent forward six days prior to the operations to prepare the dumps and the manner in which he carried out his duties is most praiseworthy. He frequently acted as guide to carrying parties, which necessitated passing through very heavy enemy barrages, and by his cool initiative and utter disregard for danger he successfully conducted them to their destination.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31
Date: 7 March 1918

Family/military connectionsBrother: 2445 Pte Charles Lewis SMITH, 51st Bn, killed in action, 3 September 1916.
Other detailsMedals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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