Person:George Grasby (1)

In WW1, George was Private #2139 in the 58th Battalion. He enlisted on 19 February 1915 and returned to Australia on 21 March 1919.

Service Record: Name: George GRASBY; Regimental number: 2139; Religion: Church of England; Occupation: Labourer; Address: Mortlake, Victoria; Marital status: Single; Age at embarkation: 19; Next of kin: Father, G Grasby, Mortlake, Victoria; Enlistment Date: 19 February 1915; Rank on enlistment: Private; Unit name: 7th Battalion, 6th Reinforcement; AWM Embarkation Roll number: 23/24/2; Embarkation details: Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A62 Wandilla on 17 June 1915; Rank from Nominal Roll: Private; Unit from Nominal Roll: 58th Battalion; Fate: Returned to Australia 21 March 1919; Other details War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front; Medals: Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal.

"At POLYGON WOOD during the tour of this battalion in the line from 23rd September to 27th September. Private Grasby was employed as a runner on Battalion Headquarters. He repeatedly carried important despatches to and from the front line through heavy barrages. He also guided reinforcing companies to the line under the most difficult and dangerous conditions. This man worked increasingly with magnificent spirt and undoubtedly set a splendid example to his comrades." (Commonwealth Gazette No. 31, 7 March 1918)

1. ↑ Vic Birth Reg. No. 16121/1896.
2. ↑ Vic Death Reg. No. 9149/1974.