| Place | Europe: Western Front |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL/01051.002 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Cork, Leather, String, Tin-plated steel |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | Germany |
| Date made | c 1917 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
German water bottle: Sergeant W E Brown, 20th Battalion AIF
Description
German water bottle made from pressed steel with the halves soldered together. Water bottle has hot-dipped tin outer which is painted grey-green. Cork stopper connected to neck of bottle by twine. Maker's tag soldered on seam near neck of bottle impressed with 'ULLRICH17'. Has accompanying brown leather carrier and snap hook.
History / Summary
This water bottle was collected by 1689 Sergeant Walter Ernest 'Wally' Brown while serving with the 20th Battalion in France during the First World War. This was one of a number of items collected by Brown during the war, who wished to create a 20th Battalion museum after the war.
Brown was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions during fighting near Passchendaele, Belgium between 5-10 October 1917. The following year he was awarded the Victoria Cross for capturing 13 German troops, including an officer, single handedly, near Vaire Wood following the Battle of Hamel. He returned to Australia in December 1919 and was discharged on 15 February 1920.
On 21 June 1940 he re-enlisted (NX35492) in the Second AIF. With the 2/15th Field Regiment he moved to Malaya in August 1941 and was in Singapore when it fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. Brown was last seen in the hours prior to the Allied capitulation disappearing toward the enemy lines saying 'No surrender for me.' His body was never recovered.