Lance Corporal Leslie Scouller, 8th Battalion
Australian War MemorialThe Colac Soldiers’ Memorial was built to commemorate those who enlisted in the First World War.
On 15 November 1924 the sandstone monument was unveiled by the esteemed General Sir Harry Chauvel. It was later expanded to commemorate those who served in the Second World War and the Korean War.
Listed on the Colac Soldiers’ Memorial is Lance Corporal Leslie Alexander Scouller. He enlisted on 10 July 1915 and served in the 8th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force (AIF).
The 8th Battalion was among the first infantry units raised for the Australian Imperial Force during the First World War. Like the 5th, 6th and 7th Battalions, it was recruited from Victoria and, together with these battalions, formed the 2nd Brigade.
During the intense fighting at the Third Battle of Ypres, Scouller was awarded the Military Medal. His citation reads:
”During the attack on Polygon Wood east of Ypres on September 20th 1917. When his Section Commander was killed Pte Scouller took command and together with another section of Rifle Grenadiers, captured two enemy strong points. He displayed great initiative and set a splendid example to the men inspiring them with great confidence.”
He was killed in action on 26 August 1918 during the “last hundred days” of the First World War. He was 25.
Image: Officers and men of the 8th Battalion take shelter behind a pillbox during an ”area strafe” at Railway Wood in the Ypres Sector. Identified, from left, seated: Lieutenant J.O. Pitt; Lieutenant T.W. Johnstone MC; Captain A.G. Campbell DSO; Second Lieutenant P. Lay MC DCM MM. Standing, left to right: Lance Corporal H.J. Gray; Sergeant J.T. Pinchen MM; Lance Corporal L.A. Scouller MM; Sergeant J.R. Jorgenson; Private R.M. Cullen. The soldier whose head can be seen top left is unidentified. 28 October 1917.
- Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1106
