Born at Middle Park Victoria, CoE. Enlisted 24 May 1915 age 19, railway employee. Nok mother, Vera England at 15 Dwyer St, Boulder. Embarked at Fremantle 18 June 1915 per A51 Chilka and served at Gallipoli in August 1915. Served in Egypt, Gallipoli, France and Belgium and returned to Australia per A40 Ceramic. In 1966 Ernest resided at 394 Stirling Hwy, Cottesloe. Awarded the Military Medal in 1916 and again 1917. In 1917 he received a most satisfactory report from No. 2 Anzac bombing and trench mortar school. In addition to the Military Medal twice awarded, in 1918 he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. Service Awards and medals: DCM. MM, 1914-1915 Star, BWM and VM. Citation for the Military Medal on 4 October 1916, Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 62 of 19 April 1917. Citation for the 1917 Military Medal: “His majesty has been graciously pleased to award the Military Medal for bravery in the Field… ‘” 15 May 1917 Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 189 of 8 November 1917. Citation for DCM: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Whilst leading a reconnoitring party, consisting of himself and two others, he came on an enemy machine gun post. He took the gun, brought it back and returned with more men to attack the crew. He captured five and killed one without sustaining a casualty. He did fine work.’ Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No 15, 4 February 1919.
