Military Cross: Lieutenant Frank Clift, 53 Battalion, AIF

Military Cross (Geo V). Engraved reverse with recipient's details.

Military Cross awarded to Lieutenant Frank Clift, 53 Battalion, AIF. Born at Huntingdon, England, Clift was working as a selector near Kiama, NSW when he enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force on 16 February 1916, aged 27. He embarked on board HMAT Ceramic at Sydney on 14 April 1916 with the second reinforcements of 53 Battalion. Appointed to the rank of lieutenant in October 1917, Clift was wounded in action soon after in France. Upon rejoining his unit, he took part in the 5th Division's attack at Morlancourt on 29 July 1918. It was for his actions during the battle that Clift was awarded the Military Cross, as well as being seriously wounded for a second time. The citation for the Military Cross reads: 'During the operations near MORLANCOURT this Officer displayed conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty while in charge of his platoon which was on the left flank of the Battalion. Although seriously wounded by a bomb thrown by one of the enemy this gallant Officer continued directing operations until his platoon had begun consolidating their positions and were in touch with the 8th Brigade.' It was further noted in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette of 4 March 1919: 'His example of determination and endurance had a great effect on his men.' As result of his injuries, Clift took no further part in combat actions during the First World War. He returned to Australia in December 1918.