Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Son of Jonathan and Margaret MURRAY, Lennox Street, Maryborough, Queensland

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'During a strong enemy attack at Dernancourt on the 5 April 1918, he displayed marked gallantry and initiative. He had charge of a Lewis gun team commanding an important position, against which the enemy launched determined assaults. He repeatedly repulsed them, and by his accurate fire inflicted heavy casualties and he himself was woun ded in three places, he continued to use his gun with great effect. He set a fine example of coolness and courage.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 109
Date: 15 September 1919

SERGEANT W. MURRAY.
The very vigour of their manhood, the impetuosity of their courage,
carried slopes that afterwards in cold blood seemed impregnable. And they held what they had won, and proved them selves an army fit to rank alongside any that a world empire had produced. The foregoing tribute was paid to the Australian soldiers in the early  stages of the war by a military writer. Maryborough boys shared in the deeds referred to, and today they are taking part in equally heroic struggles. Proof of this is borne out by the sad tidings that come to Maryborough homes from time to time, saying that their  gallant son or brother has been one of those that paid the cost of victory. Such a message has been received by Mrs. Murray, sen., of Lennox, street. Some months ago she was advised that her son, Sergeant William Murray, was reported missing on April 5th. A fortnight later a further message stated he was wounded and a prisoner of war in Germany. 'Yesterday the following sad intelligence was received through the Red Cross Society — 'We deeply regret to inform ypu that the following cable has been received to-day from 
London, dated 10th September: 3593a, Murray, 52nd Battalion, died wounds while prisoner of war in field hospital, on 19th May. Please accept our very sincere sympathy in your sad loss. — F. Mercier Smith, secretary. Thus has ended another bright career and our
city, has lost a young townsman of whom, it had good reason to be proud. Sergeant Murray was a fine a young fellow, and in his 24th year. He was one of our most promising oars men, and time & again he brought credit to Maryborough through his prowess in that direction. He took a keen interest in military matters before the outbreak of war, and when the call came for men he readily  responded. The military authorities, however, detained Sergeant-Major Murray for instructional purposes, and he trained many, a raw recruit for service abroad. Frequently he offered his services, but
it was not until 1916 that he was allowed to enlist and his services were accepted in January, 1917. In October of last year he left with the rank of Sergeant. He was not, however, destined for a lengthy period of active service. He was, evidently seriously wounded and taken prisoner by the Germans, and subsequently passed away.