WW1

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Boden, Herbert

Born 13^th July 1890 Launceston Tasmania to Randolph and Annie Boden (nee Martin) a labourer he departed Melbourne 22^nd December 1914 on board “HMAT Ceramic” with the 15^th Infantry Battalion. 

He died of multiple gunshot wounds received in action 29^th September 1918 at the 12^th Casualty Clearing Station. 

Military Cross awarded 8^th March 1919

Near Bony on the 29^th September 1918 this officer rendered most gallant and valuable services in repelling a hostile counter attack. Having led his platoon to within 50 yards of the enemy, he halted it and advanced himself to reconnoitre and discover in what strength the enemy were.  As he reached Willow trench he saw a large party of Germans advancing up the communication trench to occupy it. Without hesitation he attacked them single handed and bombed them for some distance down the trench inflicting severe casualties upon them causing the remainder to retreat in confusion leaving behind several machine guns.  A lewis gun of his platoon was then brought to bear on the retreating enemy which resulted in practically the whole party becoming casualties.  He then led forward his platoon and while disposing them along Willow Trench was severely wounded.

The dash and courage of this officer saved the situation at a critical time and enabled his company to advance and hold the position with few casualties. The success of the operation of the left flank of the battalion on this day was almost entirely due to 2^nd Lt Boden’s courage and enterprise.

Widespread regret was expressed when the sad news reached Nabowla that Lieut 'Tas' Boden had died of wounds in France on September 29th. Deceased, who was a Private in the original 15th Battalion was present at the historic landing at Gallipoli where he afterwards saw months of heavy fighting and as a result of severe wounds received he was invalided home. He returned to France as sergeant with the 40th Battalion and has since been several times wounded. By hard work he had reached the rank of Lieutenant. Comrades say that nothing too great can be said in favour of the deceased soldier. Some time ago he was awarded a Belgian decoration and had twice been recommended for the V C but on both occasions his luck was out. He was recently married to an English lady. The deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved relatives of the gallant young soldier.

North Eastern Advertiser (Scottsdale) 18^th October 1918

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