Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Military Medal

'At DERNANCOURT South West of ALBERT April 5th 1918. He did magnificent work in organising two platoons after the officers became casualties. When his trench was out flanked by the enemy he cleverly got his men into fresh positions and avoided heavy casualties and drove the enemy back. His pluck and example to the men was of the highest order. he worked unceasingly for many hours and was always bright and cheery and inspired the men accordingly. He has been previously recommended for splendid work during the former part of the operations.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 185
Date: 27 November 1918

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Meritorious Service Medal

'This N.C.O. has had a continuously long and consistent career with the Battalion, and could always be relied on as a never failing and experienced N.C.O. During the period under review, from February to September 1918 he has participated in every action in the Line, and has distinguished himself in work both in and out of the Field and is worthy of the highest merit.'
Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 67
Date: 3 June 1919

Sergeant James Charles Lawrence was born and raised on Canally Station near Balranald, New South Wales. He was working in Queensland when he enlisted. He was known to his mates as ‘Lawrie’.

He was one of the foremost fighting sergeants in the 47th Battalion and played a prominent role in the defence of Dernancourt against overwhelming odds.

On 28 March 1918 at Dernancourt, France, when an enemy attack succeeded in securing a foothold in the 47th Battalion line, Sergeant Stan McDougall charged the second wave single-handedly, killing seven men and capturing a machine-gun, which he turned on the attackers, routing them and causing many casualties. Realising that a wave of Germans had actually crossed the railway line they were defending, McDougall, with James Lawrence, ran along the railway line firing at the troops until the gun’s barrel had blistered his hand. They continued, with Lawrence now holding the Lewis Gun, allowing McDougall to keep shooting with his good hand, until the Germans resistance was at an end.

On moving to take prisoners, Lawrence was alerted by a shouted warning from McDougall (who had seen a German officer level a revolver at Lawrence’s back). In avoiding the shot, Lawrence stumbled and fell, and another Australian sergeant dealt with the German officer.

Mcdougall was awarded the Victoria Cross for this action and Sergeant Lawrence the Military Medal.

Sergeant McDougall V.C. later commented, “It was a day to remember, hey Lawrie!”