"Too far away thy grave to see, but not too far to think of thee"
SYDNEY, Charles Douglas
Service no 3540 Lance Corporal 7th Field Ambulance
Son of Herbert SYDNEY Of Kingaroy, Qld. Occupation prior to enlistment Clergyman Enlisted 16 April 1915 Returned to Australia 25 January 1919
Queenslander's who fought in The Great War
SYKES, Ernest Albert
Service No 3636 Private 31st Battalion
Born Sydney, NSW NOK Francis William Henry HALL Of Mitchell, Qld. Occupation prior to enlistment Labourer Enlisted 15 February 1916 Served on the Western Front Awarded Military Medal 'For gallantry and devotion to duty. Near VILLERS-CARBONNEL on 30th August 1918 Lance Corporal SYKES led his section across the SOMME in face of heavy artillery and 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.' Awarded Bar to Military Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at VERMAND on September 9th 1918 Lance Corporal SYKES was one of a fighting patrol which came in contact with a superior enemy force. The enemy brought a fierce Machine Gun and Artillery fire to bear on patrol and patrol had to withdraw. Lance Corporal SYKES in 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 go his section to a position of safety. By his wonderful courage and devotion to duty he set a glorious example to all.' Returned to Australia 24 January 1919