honor role

Harburn, Roy William

** MC & Bar 961 Capt 51st and 11th Bn.

Born at Sydney, NSW, CoE. Enlisted 31 August 1914 age 20, bank clerk. Gave his address as National Bank, Kellerberrin, WA and Nok as father, J. W. Harburn of Marmion St, Cottesloe. Embarked at Fremantle 2 November 1914 per A11 Ascanius. Served at Gallipoli in 1915, Egypt 1916, France 1916-18 and had a minor head wound on 2 April 1917. RTA October 1918 per A32 Themistocles. Awarded MC, Bar, 1914-1915 Star, BWM and VM. Citation: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During a night counter-attack by his Battalion on a strong enemy position, against a succession of strong points, capturing forty prisoners and six machine guns. On gaining the final objective, he reorganized his own company and the men of other companies whose officers had become casualties, taking command of the whole line, and placing it in a good state of defence. He was cheerful and cool, and inspired those under him by his example.’ Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No. 15 4 February 1919 and London Gazette 3rd supplement No. 30901 18 September 1918. Citation for his second Military Cross: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and fine leadership during an attack. He led his company splendidly under heavy fire, gained his objective, and consolidated his position. In this operation his company and another made a big advance, and captured nearly 200 prisoners. He rendered most valuable service.’ Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No. 61-23 May 1919. London Gazette 3rd supplement No. 31043 2 December 1918. Service awards and medals: MC and bar, 1914-1915 Cross, BWM and VM. Roy is the brother of Jack Harburn 2811 of Marmion St, Cottesloe. in 1919.

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