Military Medal and bar : Lance Corporal E A Sykes, 31 Battalion, AIF

Military Medal (Geo V), and bar. Impressed around edge with recipient's details.

3636 Lance Corporal Ernest Albert Sykes, enlisted on 15 February 1916 in the 8th Reinforcements of 31 Battalion, AIF. He returned to Australia on 24 January 1919. Sykes was awarded the Military Medal (MM) on 30 August 1918 at Villers Carbonnel, France. He was awarded a bar to the Military Medal on 9 September 1918 at Vermand, France. The recommendation for the MM reads 'For gallantry and devotion to duty. Near VILLERS CARBONNEL on 30th Aug. 1918 LCE. CPL. SYKES led his section across the SOMME in face of heavy artillery and M.G. [machine gun] fire. He engaged the enemy, himself accounting for several, and afforded protection for rear sections to cross. Throughout he set a fine example of coolness and courage to his command'. Recommendation for the bar to his MM reads 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. At VERMAND on Sept. 9th 1918 LCE. CPL. SYKES was one of a fighting patrol which came into contact with a superior enemy force. The enemy brought a fierce M.G. and Artillery fire to bear on patrol and patrol had to withdraw. LCE. CPL. SYKES in the face of very heavy fire set a wonderful example of coolness and courage in handling his section. Although severely wounded, having had half a hand blown off he fought on and got his section to a position of safety. By his wonderful courage and devotion to duty he set a glorious example to all'.