Photograph comprising three soldiers searching for water in Palestine using a spear. Sapper (Spr) ...

Photograph comprising three soldiers searching for water in Palestine using a spear. Sapper (Spr) Lionel Simpson has identified himself in the image as the soldier with the helmet on, with the caption on the back of the photograph "lifting up a speer (sic) after testing for water, yours truly with his back to you with the helmet on". Spr Simpson of Alexandra, Vic, was a carpenter prior to enlistment on the 22 Oct 1914 as a Private (Pte). He embarked with the service number 840 from Melbourne aboard HMAT Wiltshire (A18) with the 4th Reinforcement, 8th Light Horse Regiment on 13 April 1915. He was wounded in action on 7 August 1915 from the charge at the Nek at Gallipoli, and then went on to serve in the Middle East campaign. Spr Simpson was promoted several times during his service. On 20 October 1916 he was promoted to Lance Corporal, on 24 February 1917 he became a Corporal, and on 1 May 1917 he became a Sergeant. He received the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his services on 13 July 1918. A quote from the Commonwealth Gazette on 24 September 1918 "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During a period of three months he has performed consistent good work, and has rendered valuable service, especially in connection with the development of water supply, a task which was successfully accomplished, thanks to his energy and resource". Simpson returned to Australia on 25 September 1919.