Ernest Pither HITCHCOCK MC, DCM, MID

HITCHCOCK, Ernest Pither

Service Numbers: 371, R6397, NG2076
Enlisted: 18 August 1914
Last Rank: Private
Last Unit: 5th Infantry Battalion
Born: Omeo, Victoria, Australia, 10 May 1892
Home Town: Brunswick, Moreland, Victoria
Schooling: Moreland, State School, Victoria, Australia
Occupation: Salesman
Died: Vehicle crash, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia , 9 October 1966, aged 74 years
Cemetery: Woden (Canberra) Public Cemetery, ACT
Memorials: Coburg Moreland State School No 2837 Honour Roll
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World War 1 Service

18 Aug 1914: Enlisted AIF WW1, Private, 371, 6th Infantry Battalion
19 Oct 1914: Involvement Private, 371, 6th Infantry Battalion, --- :embarkation_roll: roll_number: '8' embarkation_place: Melbourne embarkation_ship: HMAT Hororata embarkation_ship_number: A20 public_note: Attached from Australian Medical Corps
19 Oct 1914: Embarked Private, 371, 6th Infantry Battalion, HMAT Hororata, Melbourne
11 Sep 1916: Embarked Private, R6397, 5th Infantry Battalion, HMAT Euripides, Melbourne
11 Sep 1916: Involvement Private, R6397, 5th Infantry Battalion, --- :embarkation_roll: roll_number: '8' embarkation_place: Melbourne embarkation_ship: HMAT Euripides embarkation_ship_number: A14 public_note: ''

World War 2 Service

12 Oct 1944: Discharged NG2076
Date unknown: Enlisted NG2076

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Biography contributed by Sharyn Roberts

Birth registration details

Name:Ernt Pither HitchCock
Birth Date:Abt 1892
Birth Place:Omeo, Victoria
Registration Year:1892
Registration Place:Victoria, Australia
Father:Hy HitchCock
Mother:Charl Pither
Registration Number:16296

 

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 8th May, 1915, and following days, North of Cape Helles (Dardanelles). In assisting the wounded under constant heavy fire Private Hitchcock exhibited a heroism beyond praise. Absolutely regardless of danger, he, in company with another man, attended to the wounded, leading up the stretcher bearers and dressing the severe cases in the fire trenches, even before they were completed. Not only was he instrumental in saving many lives, but, by his coolness and courage, he set a splendid example of devotion to duty and gave the greatest encouragement to all ranks.'
Source: 'London Gazette' No. 8850
Date: 6 September 1915
 

Military Cross

'For great gallantry and skill while leading his platoon, which was the centre of an attack, and which met with much opposition. When a frontal assault on a heavily garrison enemy strong point was temporarily held up, he split his men into two parties, and, attacking from both flanks and rear, succeeded in gaining his objective. Twice wounded early in the attack, he yet carried on until met by his company commander, who ordered him to the dressing station.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 23
Date: 12 February 1919

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