John Richard Birthisel

John Richard BIRTHISEL

Regimental number 1320

Religion Baptist

Occupation Labourer

Address Fenton Creek via St Arnaud, Victoria

Marital status Single

Age at embarkation 33

Next of kin J Birthisel, Wehla, Victoria

Enlistment date 1 October 1914

Rank on enlistment Private

Unit name 8th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement

AWM Embarkation Roll number 23/25/2

Embarkation details Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A46 Clan Macgillivray on 2 February 1915

Rank from Nominal Roll Sergeant

Unit from Nominal Roll 57th Battalion

Recommendations (Medals and Awards) Military Medal

Recommendation date: 30 September 1917

Distinguished Conduct Medal

Recommendation date: 15 September 1917

Fate Returned to Australia 14 December 1918

Medals Military Medal

'East of Glencorse Wood during the period 25th/27th September, Sergeant Birthisel did very valuable work in the organisation of and controlling of carrying parties with ammunition and water to the front line. he continually passed through the enemy barrage and by his fine example of coolness and courage inspired his men forward. Later he carried on as C.S.M. to his company and though badly wounded, he continued to organise parties under very trying circumstances and only retired from the fight fifteen hours later when ordered to do so.'

Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31

Date: 7 March 1918

Other details War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal