Rupert Thomas COLLIER

Regimental number11461
Place of birthSydney New South Wales
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationOperator
Address22 National Street, Rozelle, Sydney, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation18
Next of kinUncle, W H Illingworth, 'Anzac', Broad Road, South Randwick, New South Wales
Previous military service4th FA Brigade
Enlistment date27 September 1915
Rank on enlistmentGunner
Unit name5th Field Artillery Brigade, Reinforcement 3
AWM Embarkation Roll number13/33/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board RMS Osterley on 15 January 1916
Rank from Nominal RollGunner
Unit from Nominal Roll4th Field Artillery Brigade
FateReturned to Australia 6 May 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'These gunners[ Collier and 27899 C. Baldwin] , acting as telephonists, formed part of an Observation Post party who were manning a post on the night 7th/8th August 1918 at VILLERS BRETONNEUX near AMIENS. Heavy area shoots were placed by the enemy on our forward areas cutting the telephone lines repeatedly. These men remained on the lines throughout the night showing utter disregard for personal safety, enabling the Observation Officer to pass useful information to our Counter Batteries, thereby assisting the Infantry during their forming up for attack. They showed great courage and devotion to duty.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Military Medal


Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 61
Date: 23 May 1919

Other detailsMedals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Date of death30 November 1963
Place of burialSpringvale Cemetery