| Place | Europe: France, Picardie, Somme, Hindenburg Outpost Line Area |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | OL00666.002 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Award |
| Physical description | Enamel, Silver gilt |
| Location | Main Bld: Hall of Valour: Main Hall: Somme to Hindenburg Line |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | United Kingdom |
| Date made | c 1919 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George : Lieutenant Colonel H W Murray, 4 Machine Gun Battalion, AIF
Description
Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George. Unnamed as issued.
History / Summary
Henry William 'Harry' Murray holds a unique place in the history of the AIF. Murray was appointed a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for his outstanding work in France during 1918 for his command of the 4th Australian Machine Gun Battalion. This was one of many decorations that Murray received for his service with the AIF. During the course of the war he also received the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Service Order (twice), the Distinguished Conduct Medal, the French Croix de Guerre and was Mentioned in Despatches four times. The recommendation for the CMG reads:
'This officer has commanded the Machine Gun Battalion of the Division since its inception on the 15th March 1918. His work has been marked by conspicuous gallantry, ability, tactical knowledge and devotion to duty.
During the period 18th September to 11th November he commanded the machine guns of the Division (and those of an attached Machine Gun Battalion) with marked success in the operations which resulted in the capture of the Hindenburg Outpost Line. He also, as Liaison Machine Gun Officer with 2nd American Corps, largely contributed to the successful work of the machine guns of that Corps in the operation resulting in the breaking of the main Hindenberg Line near BELLENGLISE.
He is recommended for high distinction.’
Murray was born at Evandale, Tasmania on 1 December 1880 and was working in Western Australia when he enlisted in the 16th Battalion as private soldier 315. Later commissioned in the 13th Battalion, by the end of the war he commanded the 4th Machine Gun Battalion and was more highly decorated than any other AIF soldier.
He settled in Queensland on his return to Australia and during the Second World War commanded the 26th Battalion and later the local Volunteer Defence Corps. Murray died in the Miles District Hospital on 7 January 1966.