Lot 2697

Description

Military Medal, (GVR type 1). 3409 Pte F. Matthews (sic, actually Mathews). 45/Aust:Inf: Impressed. No ribbon and irregular dark toning, otherwise very fine.

Attestation papers show name as Matthews but one of the Ts has been crossed out. It seems that someone else completed the papers and Fred Mathews signed them.
MM: LG 16/7/1918, p8333; CAG 27/11/1918, p2263, to 3409 Pte Frederick Mathews.
Recommendation: For conspicuous gallantry as a Company stretcher bearer during the enemy attack near Dernancourt on March 28th, 1918. Prior to the enemy infantry a heavy artillery barrage was placed on his Company Sector causing a number of casualties. Disregarding the enemy's fire Private Mathews sought out the wounded, tended their wounds and carried them to a safe position. His cheery disposition encouraged the men of his Company and his devotion to duty undoubtedly saved a number of lives.
Frederick Mathews, bricklayer, age 22, born at Albury, NSW; Enl.31Dec1916 at Wagga Wagga, NSW in 9Rfts 45Bn; Emb.24Jan1917; to hospital with VD 10Feb to 17Mar 1917 and again 21May to 01Jun1917; to France 06Aug1917; TOS 45Bn 25Aug1917; awarded Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry in France; RTA 01Jul1919; Disch.28Nov1919.
Pte F.Mathews had two brothers who both served in the war. They were 2837 Pte E.Mathews 35Bn and 3178 Pte J.Mathews AMC.