Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Memorial Plaque 1914-18 (Thomas Hewett Boyd) with Woolwich Arsenal’s stamp mark on reverse, very fine £150-200

M.C. London Gazette 4 June 1917. ‘2nd Lt. Thomas Hewitt Boyd, Infy. [Australian Imperial Force]’

Recommendation: ‘Conspicuous service as Adjutant 6th Battalion an officer showing an excellent example of efficiency and courage and devotion. During the tours of duty of his battalion in the Gueudscourt and Flers sectors from December 1916 to February 1917, this officer carried out his duties in a most notably efficient manner. In addition to the above this officer has showed throughout the whole campaign in various grades and always with noticeable ability and resource.’

Thomas Hewitt Boyd was born in Alphington, near Linton, Victoria. A Compositor by occupation, he enlisted on 22 May 1914, aged 22 years, 3 months. He sailed from Melbourne on H.M.A.T. Horarata on 19 October 1914. Served in Gallipoli and was wounded on 25 April 1915 - gunshot wound to right arm. Promoted to 2nd Lieutenant in August 1916 and served in France with the 6th Battalion and was appointed Adjutant in December 1916. Again wounded in action on 26 April 1917 - gunshot wound to the back. Promoted to Lieutenant in May 1917. Awarded the Military Cross for his efficiency and bravery in action in France. Serving with the 6th Battalion Australian Infantry in Flanders, he was killed in action (shellfire) at Broodseinde Ridge on 4 October 1917. He was buried in the Passchendaele New British Cemetery. With copied gazette extracts and copied service and casualty details.