Lot 4423

Description

Trio: British War Medal 1914-18; Victory Medal; Croix de Guerre. 82 Sgt J.M.Curran 1-Tunn.Coy A.I.F. on first and second medals, last medal un-named. Very fine.

Belgium Croix de Guerre: LG 05Apr1919, p4526. COAG 23Jul1919, p1169 - 'Sergt.Curran had been in charge of shifts working on deep mining (Hill 60) Dugout and forward roads since May 10th 1916 to October 1918, up til March 1918 in Belgium and Northern France. Living most of the time in the forward area (Ypres salient) under shell fire. By his devotion to duty he raised himself from sapper to Sergt and has at all times by his courage and example carried through the work entrusted to him, especially the forward road from Westhock to Broodseinde and the dugout on the Broodseinde Ridge. In connection with the recent operations at Bony Sept 29th-Oct 3rd 1918 he was in charge of a party on forward roads under heavy enemy machine gun and shell fire closely following up the Infantry. The attack being held up and the road party becoming involved in the battle, he rallied his party and by his coolness and courage kept the road work going notwithstanding heavy casualties. The subsequent operations were greatly assisted by this important work having been accomplished.'

Recommended for DCM, though not approved - 'On the 10th inst at Hooge these NCOs exhibited fine courage and devotion to duty. An important work was started under heavy enemy fire; by their example and encouragement these men persevered and though casualties were heavy, succeeded in carrying the initial stages of the work through successfully'.

James Martin Curran, labourer, aged 29, born Wollongong, NSW; Enl. 26Aug1915; Emb. 20Feb1916 Sydney. Operations France and Flanders with 1st Tunnelling Company, 1st Div. Hazebrouck from 08May1916, to Corporal 25Aug1916, Sergeant 10Jun1917. RTA 20Apr1919.

With research.