William Currey
William Matthew Currey VC (born Wallsend, NSW September 19, 1895 - April 30, 1948) was an Australian politician [1], labourer and railway worker, citizen soldier and whilst a member of the First AIF a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
Details
He was 22 years old, and a private in the 53rd Bn (N.S.W.), Australian Imperial Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
On 1 September 1918 in the attack on Péronne, France, Private Currey rushed forward under heavy machine-gun fire and captured single-handed a 77mm field gun which had been holding up the advance, killing all the crew. Later, when the advance was checked by an enemy strong-point he crept round the flank and engaged the post with a Lewis gun, then rushed it, causing many casualties. Subsequently he volunteered to carry orders for withdrawal to an isolated company, doing so under heavy fire and bringing back valuable information. The citation published in the London Gazette of 14th December 1918 concluded that his behaviour was a striking example of coolness, determination and utter disregard of danger... and his gallant work contributed largely to the success of the operation.[2]
Australian war historian C.E.W. Bean described the final act of Currey's heroism thus At 3 am when efforts to reach (a Lt Waite in an advanced position) having failed Private Currey volunteered to make his third attempt and going out far into the disputed front he stood up and called with all his lung power. "Waitsy! Get in." The Germans turned on him every weapon they had; he was gassed and his respirator was shot through. But Waite had heard him and returned.[2]
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Australia
He was the member for Kogarah in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly from 1941 till his death. He represented the ALP.
References
- ^ "Mr William Matthew CURREY (1895 - 1948)". Former Members Index A-Z. Parliament of NSW. 21st October 2008. Retrieved 28 January 2009.
{{cite web}}: Check date values in:|date=(help); Cite has empty unknown parameter:|coauthors=(help) - ^ a b McGirr, James (12th May 1948). "Death of W. M. Currey Esq, VC, M.L.A.". Hansard of the Legislative Assembley, Parliament of NSW: 3129.
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External links
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