William David SMITH

Regimental number431
Place of birthLaunceston Tasmania
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationPlasterer
Address196 Victoria Street, North Richmond, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation24
Next of kinMother, Mrs Ada A Smith, 196 Victoria Street, North Richmond, Victoria
Enlistment date2 September 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit nameMachine Gun Company 15, Reinforcement 6
AWM Embarkation Roll number24/20/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A17 Port Lincoln on 20 October 1916
Regimental number from Nominal Roll431B
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Machine Gun Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 15 June 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'During operations near ZONNEBEKE on 12th October, 1917. He was with mobile guns and showed great bravery by helping to keep a gun in action and allow Infantry to retire. He rendered valuable services, helping to keep down casualties. He was the second last man to retire. He showed wonderful pluck and coolness.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death18 June 1967
Place of burialSpringvale Cemetery