4340 Bombadier Ernest Henry WIBER DCM

Ernest Henry Wiber DCM

Born 28 August 1888 Forest Gate, Essex, England

Occupation: Seaman

Service:  4th Volunteer Bn, Royal Fusiliers

NSWFB

Joined 2 February 1914, Third Class Fireman, No 3 Station Circular Quay, Penrith

Resigned 18 August 1915 for Active Service

First AIF

Enlisted 10 August 1915, Occupation Fireman

4340 Private, Trench Mortar Battery, 15th FAB 4 July 1916

5 AMTMB 15 July 1916

5th DAC 11 December 1916

Promoted Bombardier 7 March 1917

Discharged 23 August 1919

Awarded Distinguished Conduct Medal, London Gazette 28 December 1917

Recommendation for the Distinguished Conduct Medal, 4340 Bombadier Ernest Henry Wiber

5th Australian Medium Trench Mortar Battalion, 5th Australian Divisional Trench Mortar Brigade

On 22nd JULY 1917, Cpl (then Bdr) Wiber was in charge of his gun in action in the vicinity of our front line in the YPRES Sector.

After the second round had been fired, the enemy retaliated heavily with 5.9” and 77mm’s which fell around the gun. He completed his task by firing thirty rounds before taking cover, and it was during this, on three separate occasions, he, through sheer force of character, and personal example pulled his gun crew together when they appeared to waver, due to the enemy’s heavy fire.

It was due to his splendid example in keeping his gun in action and completing his allotted task that the enemy’s wire in this Sector was completely destroyed, offering no obstacle to our advancing Infantry.

At the time he Cpl (then Bdr) Wiber was suffering from the effects of gas received on the night 18th/19th July1917.

His determination, courage and devotion to duty deserves special recognition.

London Gazette 17th April 1918

4340 Ernest Henry Wiber, 5th Australian Medium Trench Mortar Battalion

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal to the undermentioned Warrant Officers, Non – Commissioned Officers and Men for acts of gallantry and devotion to duty in the field.

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.

His gun was very heavily bombarded by the enemy while in action, but he completed his allotted task with the greatest determination, and succeeded in destroying the enemy’s wire before the attack. He set a splendid example of courage and devotion to duty.

Distinguished Conduct Medal

British War Medal

Victory Medal

NSWFB LS&GC Medal + 30 Years Service Bar

NSWFB

Rejoined 22 July 1919 Temp Third Class Fireman

1 Station HQ

15 Station, Burwood

Promoted to Station Officer 1932

Retired 28 August 1948

Deceased 1964, North Sydney