Lot 3903

Description

DCM Group of Four: Distinguished Conduct Medal (GVR Type 1); 1914-15 Star; British War Medal 1914-18; Victory Medal 1914-19. 307 Sjt: E.V.White 24/Aust:Inf: on first medal, 307 Pte E.V.White. 24Bn. A.I.F. on second medal, Lieut E.V.White A.I.F. on last two medals. All medals impressed. Swing mounted, very fine.

Together with unit photo.

DCM: LG 3/10/1918, p11687, posn 5; CAG 12/2/1919, p260, posn 6.

Recommendation: Whilst in the attack on Ville-Sur-Ancre near Albert on 19th May, 1918, he had charge of the advance party of his platoon in crossing a narrow bridge over the river. In the attack itself this NCO led his party in attacking a machine gun post, killing most of the crew and capturing the gun. Sgt White bayoneted one German in the operation. He then collected his party and brought them on to their objective with the greatest dash.

Later on he brought up a Lewis Gun to assist his Platoon Officer in mopping up a German position in a house in front of his Platoon's objective, using excellent judgement in placing the gun to cover the mopping-up operations. Next he went out in front to assist in selecting outposts under strong rifle-fire and succeeded in gaining contact across the front of the village with a flank Battalion. Throughout the operation he set a fine example of coolness, judgment and determination, which inspired his men throughout the whole day. (Certified that this NCO has not been recommended for the King's Birthday List, June 1918.) signed, C.Rosenthal, Brig-Gen, Commanding 2nd Aust Div.

Ernest Victor White, butcher, age 20, born at Dromana, Vic; Enl.15Mar1915 at Dromana, Vic; Emb.08May1915; WIA 04May1917 GSW left leg; appt L/Sgt 14Jun1917, Sgt 11Jul1917 and Lt 12Nov1918; WIA 05Oct1918 GSW arm; RTA 12Jun1919; Appt terminated 11Aug1919.