William Edward BROWN

Regimental number2779
Place of birthGeorgetown Queensland
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationMiner
AddressCairns, Queensland
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation20
Next of kinFather, William Alexander Hugh Brown, Forsayth via Cairns, Queensland
Enlistment date10 May 1916
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll1 May 1916
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name47th Battalion, 6th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/64/3
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, on board HMAT A74 Marathon on 27 October 1916
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll45th Battalion
FateReturned to Australia 1 July 1919
Medals

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in commanding his platoon with skill and ability during an attack when most of his officers and non-commissioned officers had become casualties. He established his platoon on a defensive position on the flank, and repelled a hostile counter attack, inspiring all ranks by his fine example.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 219
Date: 20 December 1917

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during operations East of WYTCHAETE August 7th - 16th 1917. This soldier displayed exceptional courage and endurance during his Company's tour in the line under adverse weather conditions, volunteering for all phases of work, and when his Company was relieved he remained on and acted as Scout N.C.O., for the new Company.' Second entry reads: 'At VILLERS BRETONNEUX on 1st May, 1918, he displayed consummate bravery and disregard of danger in directing the advance of the Battalion under heavy machine gun fire. When one Sector was opposed he went to its assistance with revolver and grenades and succeeding in diverting the attack, causing casualties. His presence in the line is a powerful tonic to men in the vicinity and he is a monument of courage. he made a particularly dangerous reconnaissance of enemy Posts gaining valuable information.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 15
Date: 4 February 1919

Bar to DCM

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. As scout sergeant he did splendid work, crawling through a barrage across "No Man's Land" to find out the enemy's intentions. He took a Lewis gun with him, and used it to advantage. During three and a half hours of attack he was indefatigable, collecting information, sniping, and bringing up ammunition.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 15
Date: 4 February 1919

Other details

War service: Western Front

Medals: Distinguished Conduct Medal & Bar, Military Medal, British War Medal, Victory Medal