William DONNELLY

Regimental number2538
ReligionRoman Catholic
OccupationIronworker
Address248 Esplanade East, Port, Melbourne, Victoria
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation22
Next of kinMother, Mrs K Donnelly, 248 Esplanade East, Port Melbourne, Victoria
Enlistment date19 January 1915
Date of enlistment from Nominal Roll12 July 1915
Rank on enlistmentPrivate
Unit name6th Battalion, 7th Reinforcement
AWM Embarkation Roll number23/23/2
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A64 Demosthenes on 16 July 1915
Rank from Nominal RollPrivate
Unit from Nominal Roll6th Battalion
Recommendations (Medals and Awards)

Military Medal


Gallant bearing under heavy shell fire, in leading successful attack, and setting splendid example. (East of Ypres).
Recommendation date: 5 November 1917

FateReturned to Australia 1 July 1919
Medals

Military Medal

'This N.C.O. showed great bravery and devotion to duty during the attack on DECLINE COPSE, East of ZONNEBEKE, on 26 October 1917. He personally led the attack on two dug-outs in the cutting, and clearing them of the enemy, at great personal risk, capturing five prisoners. Throughout the whole operation his work was of a very high order, and his gallant bearing under heavy shell fire was at all times a splendid example to all who saw him.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 95
Date: 27 June 1918