WW1 The Great War for Civilisation 1914-1919 Victory Medal Engraved & Researched GA Sanderson #1060-1

This medal was given to Private George Alexander Sanderson’s family after World War 1.

He served in the 26th battalion of the Australian Infantry (AIF).

The medal is engraved: 655 PTE. G.A. SANDERSON 26 BN. A.I.F.

George Alexander SANDERSON was born in Gympie, the fifth son of William SANDERSON (Blacksmith, Carriage builder, Wheel Wright, Farrier) and Bridget JORDON of Pomona, North Coast Line, QLD, when George enlisted. They were living in Cooran when George was Killed in Action on 16th July 1918.

George was 27 and 11 moths when he enlisted. He was never married and no known children. His trade or calling at this time is as a Blacksmith, highly likely trained by his father. On his Roll of Honor information given by his father William states his son’s occupation is as a miner. George enlisted at Bundaberg Qld on 19th May 1915. George would have been mining at Mt Perry at the time he enlisted. He states his religion as church of England.

George embarked from Australia on 29th June 1915 and embarking from Alexandria, Egypt for the Gallipoli Peninsular on 4th September 1915. He was struck down with Influenza at the end of October 1915 and was transferred to the 13th Casuality Clearing Station on the Gallipoli Peninsular. He was back with his unit one week later. He disembarked ex Murdos at Alexandria on 9th January 1916 and then disembarked ex Alexandria at Marsielles France on 21st March 1916. He was killed in Action on 16th July 1918.