Born on 26 January 1885 at Cowra, NSW and one of the first graduates of Claremont Teachers College. At the time of his enlistment, his mother, E.M. Tulloch and his sister Gladys resided at Manly Beach Bungalow, corner of Sydney St and Ocean Rd, now Marine Pde, Cottesloe. Embarked at Fremantle at 2 November 1914 per A11 Ascanius. William served at Gallipoli and on 3 May he was shot in the abdomen and evacuated to a hospital at Alexandria. He rejoined his unit in July and was wounded a second time, receiving bomb splinters in his face and severe concussion. Rockliff received a special MID for the period 25 April to 5 May, “having performed various acts of conspicuous gallantry or valuable service.” Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, 27 January 1916, p.156, 122. London Gazette 5 November 1915, p. 11002, 90. Military Cross. He was mentioned again with others for the capture of a Turkish trench. In August 1915 he was invalided to Western Australia and granted six months leave. Re-embarked at Fremantle 6 June 1916 per A29 Suevic. He returned to the war in France and awarded the Military Cross. Commonwealth of Australian Gazette, 20 December 1917, p.3382/19. London Gazette 25 August 1917, p.8825/7. Citation for the Military Cross: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Although suffering heavy casualties, he led his company to the capture and consolidation of the objective. In spite of the fact that the company was isolated during the whole of this time and under very severe hostile barrage the security of their position was never in doubt owing to his gallant determination and personal example.” RTA 28 May 1919 and resumed his teaching career. During WW2 Rockliff was a Commanding Officer at Northam army camp. A later address was Victoria Ave, Cottesloe Beach and then at Mon repos Wellington St, Mosman Park. Four brothers enlisted. Robert Edward Rockliff 2015 was mortally wounded at Gallipoli on 20 July 1915 and died two weeks later. WW1 Award and service medals: MC, 1914-1915 Cross, MID, BWM and VM
