| Accession Number | P07247.001 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Photograph |
| Object type | Black & white - Print silver gelatin |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Date made | c November 1915 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain
|
Studio portrait of 4128 Private (Pte) James Augustine Hanscombe (left) and his best mate, 4068 ...
Description
Studio portrait of 4128 Private (Pte) James Augustine Hanscombe (left) and his best mate, 4068 Pte Joseph Britten, 17th Battalion. Pte Hanscombe was later awarded the Military Medal (MM) for attempting to rescue Pte Britten, who was killed in action. Both farmers of Bega NSW, they embarked with the 10th Reinforcements on 8 March 1916. They transferred to the 5th Divisional Ammunition Column (5 DAC). Driver (Dvr) Britten's service number changed to 4068A; he also served with the 15th Field Artillery Brigade before returning to the 5 DAC. He was killed in action on 6 October 1917 and buried at Birr Cross Roads Cemetery at Zillebeke, Belgium. Driver Hanscombe's MM was awarded for bravery and devotion to duty, although heavily shocked, while delivering ammunition along the Menin Road whilst the column was being heavily shelled. Dvr Britten was the driver killed whilst delivering ammunition.