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Auction: 25112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 407

(x) Three: Serjeant E. J. Williams, 19th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, who was terribly wounded by a grenade at Gallipoli only to return to service where he was killed in action at Menin Road

1914-15 Star (1344 Pte E. J. Williams. 19/Bn. A.I.F.); British War and Victory Medals (1344 Sjt. E. J. Williams. 19 Bn. A.I.F.), mounted court style for wear, very fine (3)

Edward John Williams was born at London, England in 1881, he served for twelve years with the East Surrey Regiment and was discharged. Fetching up in Sydney Williams was working there as a Labourer on the outbreak of the Great War. Enlisting on 22 February 1915 he was posted to the 19th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force and embarked for Gallipoli on 25 June 1915.

Landing there on 16 August 1915 the Battalion was soon into action at the Battle of Hill 60, Williams survived this action but was later wounded on 16 October 1916. His service records note 'Bomb Wd. L. Eye. R. Arm & leg', the widespread nature of the wounds tells us a story as to their extent. Despite the terrible injury Williams was taken to the 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Station and managed to survive his wounds.

Posted to a training Battalion while he convalesced Williams returned to his Battalion in France in May 1916. He was hospitalised as a result of an 'Old Injury' in July and then for a 'bombb [SIC] Wd. L. Foot.' On 13 July although it is unclear if this is the same wound as before giving him further trouble or a fresh injury. Regardless Williams had rejoined the 19th Battalion by 18 August 1917.

They went into action at Menin Road the next month, an offensive that started with a massive artillery bombardment on 20 September. The next day Williams was killed in action and he is commemorated upon the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial; sold together with copied research.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£200

Starting price
£80