World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Tumut, New South Wales, he served as a Private in the 55th Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Forces. During an attack on the Hindenburg defenses near Bellicourt on September 30, 1918, Private Ryan, under heavy fire, was one of the first to reach the enemy trenches. As a German counter-attack drove the Australians back, Private Ryan led an attack on the Germans with bayonets. His party killed three Germans, then he single-handedly rushed the remainder and drove them back. He was badly wounded in the shoulder, but his action enabled the trench to be retaken. For most conspicuous bravery, he was awarded the Victoria Cross from King George V at Buckingham Palace on May 22, 1919.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Tumut, New South Wales, he served as a Private in the 55th Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Forces. During an attack on the Hindenburg defenses near Bellicourt on September 30, 1918, Private Ryan, under heavy fire, was one of the first to reach the enemy trenches. As a German counter-attack drove the Australians back, Private Ryan led an attack on the Germans with bayonets. His party killed three Germans, then he single-handedly rushed the remainder and drove them back. He was badly wounded in the shoulder, but his action enabled the trench to be retaken. For most conspicuous bravery, he was awarded the Victoria Cross from King George V at Buckingham Palace on May 22, 1919.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
Inscription
BRAVEST OF THE BRAVE.
1717. 55TH BALLALION A I.F.
ERECTED BY
THE STATE GOVERNMENT
OF VICTORIA
AS A TRIBUTE
TO THE MEMORY OF
A GALLANT SOLDIER
Family Members
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