The AIF Project

John Harold WILLIAMS

Regimental number1275
Place of birthNewcastle New South Wales
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationBlacksmith's striker
AddressBurke Street, Carrington, Newcastle, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation21
Next of kinMother, Mrs John Williams, Burke Street, Carrington, Newcastle, New South Wales
Enlistment date24 December 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name35th Battalion, D Company
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/52/1
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A24 Benalla on 1 May 1916
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll35th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 4 July 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'For most gallant conduct and devotion to duty during attack on enemy position near MORLANCOURT on the night of 5th/6th May, 1918. Private WILLIAMS acted as No. 1 of a Lewis Gun. An enemy machine gun opened out on his Company front and threatened to seriously impede the advance. Firing his gun from his hip he rushed the position, killed the gun team and captured the gun. Acting alone he showed exemplary courage and initiative, and undoubtedly saved his Company many casualties, and obviated what might have been a serious delay.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 15
Date: 4 February 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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