Commonwealth of Australia 19/9/19

Commonweath of Australia

Department of Defence, 4th Military District

No. 4245. Cpl. C. T. Quinn, 32nd Batn. M. M.

During the attack near MORLANCOURT, Southh of ALBERT on the night 28/29th July, 1918 Cpl Quinn as section commander showed conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. His handling of his section throughout the operation was done with exceptional skill and he worked indefatigably during consolidation of the newly won position. During consolidation he moved around in front of his position and while doing so encountered a party of three of the enemy. These he immediately attacked and killed one, the other two he took as prisoners. His dash and daring as well as his cheerful manner throughout set a spendid example to his men under his command.

19/9/19 

Brig. - General.

Commandant, 4th Military District

France; August 25th, 1918

My Dear People,

Just a few lines to let you know how I am getting on, I was a bit off colour yesterday, but I am quite well again to-day. I went to see Bert yesterday that he is on Blighty Leave. Lorrie Bell has been wounded. I saw Frank Cahill & Aleck Burton they are both quite well.

The war is going on nicely & we are having lovely fine weather for the advances the Allies are making.

I was awarded the Military Medal the other day over a little stunt we done on the night of 28th of July. I did not do anything special to earn it. I do not want any decorations at all, but I want to be satisfied in my own mind that I have done my job to the best of my ability, more than that I cannot do. I will send you a piece of ribbon when I get some. Wally Arnolds got one too but he earned his as he done some real good work. I say! Who said Bill Oulman was sleepy? Just about bangs Banniger doesn't it.

Well, I will close now hoping you are all quite well.

I remain your loving Son & Brother

Tom

Portsmouth; November 21, 1917

Ward A 15
5th Southern General Hospital
Milton Division

My Dear People,

Just a short note to let you know I am getting along first rate.

I am able to walk about now but it will be a month before my wound is healed up, although it is very healthy and is doing first rate. Of course the bandages hinder me a bit but I think I will go for a stroll tomorrow. I do not use a stick as I have no faith in them. They are like girls, they would let you down if it came to a pinch.

There is a lady here who looks after the Australians here and gives us our Red Cross stuff, cigaretes etc. I got a razor etc. off her. We are looked after real well. There is a chap here who was in the same section as Bert Lilley and he tells me Bert won the Military Medal - good luck to him.

I do not know how long I will be here. I might be sent out to an Australian hospital at any time. We are paid the magnificant sum of 3/- a week here, but I do not spend any at all as I do not want for anything.

I am enclosing the bit of shell that made a hole in my leg. If ever I get home I will make a watch pendant of it. Well I must close now. Hoping you are all quite well.

I remain

Your Loving Son and Brother

Tom