Military Medal : Private A R J Clarke, 45 Battalion, AIF

Military Medal (Geo V). Impressed around edge with recipient's details.

Australia Rangy Jerome Clarke was a 24 year old labourer from Lismore, NSW, when he enlisted in the AIF on 12 August 1915. Given the number 3042 and the rank of Private, he sailed from Brisbane with 7 Reinforcements of 25 Battalion on 30 December 1915. Toward the end of the war he transferred to 45 Battalion and was awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry during the August offensive of 1918. The recommendation for the award reads 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during operations East of HAMEL from 8th to 11th August 1918. This soldier acted as a Company Runner throughout the operations, doing splendid work on every occasion. On the night 9th/10th August 1918 he gallantly carried very important messages through heavy machine gun fire. His courage and initiative were beyond all praise.' The award was published in the London Gazette on 24 January 1919. Clarke embarked for return to Australia on 5 April that year.

• British War Medal 1914-20 : Private A R J Clarke, 25 Battalion, AIF
• Victory Medal : Private A R J Clarke, 25 Battalion, AIF