Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Lance-Corporal E. Ottosen, 37th Australian Infantry, for his gallantry as a stretcher bearer during heavy shelling and bombardment at Ypres on 14 October 1917; he was subsequently killed in action on 30 September 1918

Military Medal, G.V.R. (2127 L.Cpl. E. Ottosen. 37/Aust: Inf:) edge bruising and contact marks, nearly very fine £500-£600

M.M. London Gazette 28 January 1918.
The Recommendation states: ‘On 4th October 1917, East of Ypres, he displayed exceptional gallantry and devotion to duty in action. At a time when enemy shelling and machine gun fire were exceedingly heavy, he was indefatigable in his work as stretcher bearer and in organising other parties in this work. He stood out conspicuously and was an inspiring example to others.’

Edgar Ottosen was born in Surrey Hills, Victoria, Australia, and attested for the Australian Imperial Forces on 29 May 1916, having previously served in the Citizen Military Forces. He embarked at Melbourne on 25 September 1916, and served with the 37th Australian Infantry during the Great War on the Western Front. Awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry at Ypres, he was killed in action on 30 September 1918, aged 24. He is buried in Unicorn Cemetery, Vendhuile, France.