The AIF Project

William Alan Fairlie CUNNINGHAME

Regimental number1343
Date of birth--/02/1885
Place of birthMansfield Victoria
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationEngineer's student
AddressWindermere, Marengo, New South Wales
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinFather, W A Cunninghame, Windermere, Marengo, New South Wales
Enlistment date29 March 1915
Rank on enlistmentSapper
Unit name1st Field Company Engineers, Reinforcement 8
AWM Embarkation Roll number14/20/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT SS Makarini on 15 September 1915
Rank from Nominal RollLieutenant
Unit from Nominal Roll5th Pioneer Battalion
Promotions

2nd Lieutenant


Unit: 5 Pnr Btn
Promotion date: 26 March 1916

Lieutenant


Unit: 5 Pnr Btn
Promotion date: 16 September 1916

FateReturned to Australia 13 April 1919
Medals

Military Cross

'Near Bellicourt, on 29th September 1918, though wounded the previous evening he led his platoon with great gallantry during the operations despite thick fog and heavy enemy barrage of high explosive and gas shells. He assisted in the mopping up of Bellicourt, and by skilful handling of his platoon saved many casualties. His bearing, cheerfulness, and example were most valuable assistance in the successful completion of urgent work.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 10
Date: 29 January 1920

Other detailsMedals: Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal

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