| Accession Number | AWM2017.1187.1 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Photograph |
| Object type | Black & white - Print silver gelatin |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | Belgium |
| Date made | 25 April 1917 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain
|
Studio portrait of 650 Sergeant William James Moffatt DCM
Description
Studio portrait of 650 Sergeant William James Moffatt DCM. A miner from Broken Hill, NSW, Moffat was a member of the 2nd Tunnelling Company, Australian Engineers. He received his DCM "for gallantry and distinguished conduct". On 28 May 1917 at Swan Chateau, near Ypres, enemy gas shells filled a dugout 35 feet below ground. He headed a rescue party and led it six times down a 50 feet incline, bringing six men to the surface. This work occupied two hours and was carried out under heavy shell fire. Sadly, the six rescued men all succumbed to the effects of the gas. Sergeant Moffatt survived the war and lived until 1949.