Medals and awards

Gold Maltese crosses & alberts, to:

 

Presentation made by the Mayor (Alderman Mawby), in the Centennial Hall, Cowra.

 

Presentation made by the Mayor (Alderman Mawby), in the Centennial Hall, Cowra.

 

435 Farrier [Trooper] Francis Ernest MOON

Presentation made by Alderman Deeley, in the Centennial Hall, Cowra.

 

Obverse: "N / S / W / B".

Reverse (Carpenter medal): "Presented to Bushman G. Carpenter by residents of Cowra and district for services rendered the Empire in South Africa. 8/7/1901".

 

 

 

 

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Cowra Guardian, 30th March 1901

 

Presentation to Trooper ORMSBY.

Not since the Relief of Mafeking had the military ardour of the citizens of Cowra been aroused to such a degree as on Wednesday, when Trooper Lewis Gore ORMSBY, who went to South Africa with the Australian Bushmen, and recently returned invalided, was accorded a public demonstration and presented with a valuable memento in recognition of his services to the Empire. During the afternoon the young hero was escorted into town from his father's residence on the Grenfell Road by the band, in a four-in-hand drag, with Mr Robt. Muir as Jehu, accompanied by a number of residents in vehicles and on horseback, among whom was Trooper N. STIBBARD (a son of Mr C. Stibbard), who was on a short visit to his brother in Cowra prior to sailing for South Africa with the Federal Contingent. The drag was provided by Messrs R. Muir, Gould, C. Stevensons, W. Howey, and A. Austin. The harness was gaily bedecked with red, white and blue ribbon and rosettes. After driving through the principal streets of the town, the Band meanwhile (under the leadership of Mr Homann) playing appropriate martial airs, Trooper ORMSBY alighted at Mr Squire's residence, he being entertained by that gentleman until the demonstration at night.

Shortly before 8 o'clock the Band struck up opposite the Centennial Hall and rendered several popular airs. The people commenced to stream in – men, women, and children, representing all classes and sections of the community, and at the appointed hour (8 o'clock) for the proceedings to commence the hall was densely packed. Trooper ORMSBY arrived shortly afterwards, and his appearance on the platform was the signal for loud and continued cheering. The Mayor (Ald. Mawby) presided, having on his right the young Trooper, and on his left Mr Ormsby senr. The following, nearly all of whom were members of the Presentation Committee, also occupied seats on the platform. Messrs Squire, Evans, Heaton, J. Robertson, Taylor, Meagher, H.C. West, Banfield (secretary to the movement), H. O. West, Humann, Dignam, Deeley, Piddington, Rose, and Rev R. Seymour Smith.

The proceedings were opened by an Overture by the Band. "Sons of the s Empire" was then sung by Mr Evans, followed by Mr Piddington with "Soldiers of the Queen", the chorus being taken up by the assembled multitude and sung with great gusto.

The Mayor then rose and stated that he had been deputed by a committee most of whom were then on the platform, to present, on behalf of the residents of the town and district, Trooper ORMSBY with a valuable present. On the Saturday night that their young friend was welcomed home with such enthusiasm, a movement was set on foot to take steps to recognise his distinguished services while at the war. An energetic committee was formed and soon a substantial amount was raised from the people of both town and district. It was then decided that the memento should take the form of a gold chain and medal of the value of £15, which Mr Squire had very kindly obtained from Hardy Bros., Sydney. The subscriptions had very properly been limited to 2/6, which gave everybody an opportunity of contributing and made the presentation a much greater tribute to the recipient, showing as it did the universal appreciation of his deeds of valour on the battle-field (applause) and the pleasure at seeing him home again safe and sound. He was sure it must be very gratifying to Mr and Mrs Ormsby to see their son honored so. The Mayor in presenting the souvenir said he hoped Trooper ORMSBY would live long to wear it, and always do so with the same credit as he was now receiving it (great applause).

The chain is of curb pattern, weighing 2oz in solid gold, and the medal a Maltese cross surmounted with a crown, under which and immediately above the cross itself are crossed rifles; N S W B (New South Wales Bushman) appear in raised letters on the four squares of the cross, in the centre of which there is a diamond inlaid. The opposite side bears the following inscription – "Presented to Bushman Lewis Gore Ormsby by residents of Cowra and district in recognition of services rendered to the Empire in South Africa. March 27th. 1901".

After Mr Evans sang "The Empire Calls", Trooper ORMSBY, who on rising was enthusiastically received, briefly returned thanks. He thanked them most heartily for their kind feeling towards him and for the valuable present. He could not find words to express his deep gratification for the whole-hearted treatment he had received from them. He sat down amidst great applause followed by cheers.

Mr Homann gave a cornet solo.

Votes of thanks having been accorded to the Band and Mayor, the singing of the National Anthem brought the first part of the proceedings to a close.

A successful social was afterwards held. Music was supplied by the Band, Mrs Richards, Miss Meagher (piano), Mr Banfield and Master R. Meagher (violin). Messrs H.C. West and W. Howey acted as Ms.C. Dancing was indulged in with vigor until midnight, when the company departed after having spent a most enjoyable time.

Presentation to Trooper George CARPENTER.

An immense gathering assembled at the Centennial Hall on Monday night for the purpose of taking part in the demonstration in honor of Trooper Geo. CARPENTER, who recently returned from the war. The proceedings throughout were most enthusiastic and enjoyable. Previous to commencing, the Cowra Town Band, under the leadership, of Mr. Fred Homann, played some stirring martial airs in front of the hall.

The Mayor (Ald. Mawby), presided, and with him were seated on the platform Trooper Geo. CARPENTER, his father (Mr Wm. Carpenter), two brothers, Trooper Ig. SMITH (Carcoar), and several prominent citizens.

The proceedings were opened by the Band effectively rendering an "In Memoriam", composed in honor of the soldiers who have, fallen in the South African war.

Trooper L.G. ORMSBY sent an apology for his unavoidable absence.

A duet (violin and piano) was nicely rendered by Master and Miss Meagher. Mr Evans, then gave with marked effect "When the Empire Calls", for which, he was vociferously encored. Mr Homann followed with a cornet solo given in his usual admirable style. "Soldiers of the King" was splendidly sung by Mr Piddington.

The Chairman expressed pleasure at seeing present such a large and representative gathering to do honor to their gallant young friend. Although somewhat indisposed during the last few days and strongly advised not to venture out, he felt it incumbent upon him to attend there that night – the occasion being of more than ordinary importance. On behalf of the people of town and district he had to present Trooper CARPENTER with a handsome and valuable memento, which would surprise both their young friend and others. He then referred to the hearty reception Trooper CARPENTER received on his return a few weeks since, and the energetic action since taken by a number of citizens to show their appreciation of the young soldier’s services in a more tangible form, as was now being shewn. He concluded an eloquent and patriotic speech by remarking that there need be no fear of the Empire being in danger while there were men like their gallant young friend ready to defend her, nor would Britain ever lie at the proud foot of a conqueror. He then handed Trooper CARPENTER a handsome massive gold albert with gold Maltese cross medal, diamond in centre, attached. The medal, on its reverse side bore the inscription "Presented to Bushman G. Carpenter by residents of Cowra and district for services rendered the Empire in South Africa. 8/7/1901".

The Band then played the "Pretoria March", followed by a song "Queen of the Earth" by Mr Buckingham, who was encored.

Trooper CARPENTER. who on rising to respond was greeted with loud and continued cheering, said he could not express in words the appreciation he felt towards them for the manner in which they had honored him that evening and for the handsome present they had given him. In volunteering his services to fight for the Empire in South Africa he felt he was doing his duty, and as one of the representatives of Australia at the war he had tried to do his duty to the best of his ability (applause). Although he took part in no big engagements, he saw a good deal of flighting. [Trooper Carpenter here gave a brief account of the engagements he took part in and other facts relative to the war, which, owing to want of space, we are precluded from publishing until next issue]. He concluded by again thanking them for their handsome gift, which he would prize, and also for the warm welcome he received on his return from South Africa. He resumed his seat amidst great applause.

Mr Burns rendering of "Under the Greenwood Tree" was much appreciated.

Mr James Smith, after a few facetious remarks, called for three cheers for Mr ana Mrs Carpenter, parents of the young hero, which were given with great gusto.

Mr Carpenter, senr., in returning thanks for the feeling of good-will exhibited towards himself and family, said he claimed no credit for his son going to the war, as the offer of his services was purely a voluntary act for which he alone was responsible. He would not say anything in praise of his son as it might cause him to blush, and as regarded himself he was too modest to sound his own praises (laughter). Before his son left for the war be spent nine days at the camp in Sydney and a finer body of men than those comprising this contingent he had never before seen, and who, he was sure, if they got the opportunity, would be only too willing to have a cut in at the Boers (applause). Some of them fell but that was the case in all battles, and some of them returned with honors, the British officers having attested to the bravery and usefulness of the Australians on several occasions during the campaign. He sincerely thanked them for the great honor they had paid his son, and also for the hearty manner in which the health of his wife and himself had been received. …….

……. Troopers Hubert WATT, MOON, and HARTLY are also on their way home..

 

 

Cowra Guardian, 24th August 1901

 

Returned Soldiers Honored.

PUBLIC WELCOME TO TROOPERS WATT AND MOON.

Despite the unfavorable weather that prevailed there was a large and representative gathering present at the social tendered to Troopers Hubie WATT and Frank MOOM in the Centennial Hall on Monday night. In the absence of the Mayor through illness Ald. Deeley presided, having Trooper MOON, Sergeant MAYNE (Wellington), and Mr Moon on his right, and Troopers WATT and YOUNG (Gulgong) and Mr W.R. Watt on his left. There were also on the platform Troopers L.G. ORMSBY and Geo. CARPENTER, Messrs J.C. Reid, A.R. West, R. Lockyer, J. Dignam, and N. Ormsby. The proceedings throughout were most enthusiastic and a thoroughly enjoyable evening was spent.

In his opening remarks the Chairman expressed regret at the Mayor being prevented, through suffering from a severe cold, from presiding over such an important function as that being held that night. The Mayor was only too glad to be present on such occasions and he was very sorry, indeed, that his health would not permit him to attend to do honor to the two young men who had lately arrived from South Africa, where they had fought so bravely for the Empire (applause). …….

……. The Chairman said it now became his pleasing duty to present, on behalf of residents of town and district, Troopers MOON and WATT with a handsome gold medal each, as a tangible proof of their appreciation of the splendid services rendered by those two young heroes while fighting for the honor and integrity of the Empire in South Africa (loud and continued applause). Nothing gave him greater pleasure than to preside over such a great gathering, assembled to do honor to those who had gone forward to the battlefield and whose deeds had shed lustre upon Australia and would be handed down in the history of this great country as an example for future generations (applause). They went to South Africa to fight for the same freedom and privileges as they possessed here, and volunteered their services for the honor and glory of the Empire (applause). He felt unable to adequately express in words the great and magnificent achievements of the Australians against the Boers, and they had opened the eyes of the Mother Country to the importance of these States to her in time of difficulty (applause). It was unnecessary for him to account at any great length the valour and prowess of the Australian soldier on the field of battle, as, like himself, they had seen the published accounts, from authoritative sources, in respect to same from time to time. It remained for him now to hand the medals to Troopers WATT and MOON, and it afforded him very great pleasure in doing so. [The handing of the medals to the recipients was the signal for loud and prolonged applause]. In conclusion the chairman expressed the hope that the recipients would long be spared to wear the handsome souvenirs they had just been presented with, and that they would be a further incentive to them to do their duty to their country if ever occasion arose again (applause.) The Chairman also extended a hearty welcome to the visitors, Sergeant MAYNE and Trooper YOUNG.

Troopers MOON and WATT, who were enthusiastically received, briefly returned thanks for the manner in which they had been honored and for the handsome presents. Trooper WATT concluded by asking Trooper YOUNG to give an account of their experiences.

Trooper YOUNG said that his experience in South Africa was that a Sergeant went before a Trooper, and consequently he would give way to Sergeant MAYNE (applause).

Sergeant MAYNE explained that Trooper YOUNG had been more closely associated with Trooper WATT under difficult and exciting circumstances and his narrative would prove more interesting to the audience (applause).

Trooper YOUNG then detailed a most interesting account of the events in connection with the capture of Trooper WATT and himself while scouting on the 5th August, 1900, by the Boers. [In next issue we will publish in full these thrilling experiences as related by Trooper Young—Ed. C.G.]

Mr Moon sincerely thanked them for the kind welcome they had extended to his son and for the admirable manner they had appreciated bis services.

Mr W.R. Watt also thanked the people of Cowra for the kind welcome they had extended to his son and for the nice token they had presented him with. He referred to the difficulty his son had in getting away to South Africa owing to his youth and mentioned that be had another son still at the war.

The Chairman said he exceedingly regretted that Trooper WENSLEY could not be honored in the same manner as the other returned soldiers, but on account of the movement for the presentation to Troopers WATT and MOON having been initiated and most of the subscriptions either promised or given before Trooper WENSLEY arrived, the committee were unable to include him. Although Trooper WENSLEY had enlisted in South Africa he had proved himself as good a soldier as any that enlisted in Australia. He deemed this explanation necessary as some misapprehension had arisen over the matter, but he could assure Trooper WENSLEY and his friends no disrespect was intended to be shown him. He trusted some gentlemen would at once take the matter up with a view of making a presentation to Trooper WENSLEY (applause).

At the instance of Mr Watt a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the Chairman, and the singing of the National Anthem concluded the first part of the entertainment.

The floor having been cleared, dancing was indulged in for a couple of hours to the excellent music of the Band, which also rendered appropriate airs prior to the commencement of the function.

 

 

Cowra Guardian, 5th October 1901

 

Return of Mr Maurice BEAHAN from the War.

Between two and three hundred persons, among whom were a large number of ladies, assembled at the railway station on Wednesday night, for the purpose of extending a hearty, welcome to Mr Maurice BEAHAN, who arrived home by the 8 o'clock train, after an absence of nearly two years in South, Africa with the “A” Battery, which recently returned to Sydney after having done good and loyal service for the Empire, as well as upholding the honor of Australia. As the train approached the station the Cowra Town Band, under the leadership of Mr Homann, struck up "See the conquering hero comes", followed by "Soldiers of the King", and other patriotic airs. Private BEAHAN's appearance at the carriage window was the signal for loud and prolonged cheers, and on stepping to the platform was heartily greeted by the Mayor and other prominent citizens and friends. Quiet having been restored, the Mayor, accompanied by Mr BEAHAN, ascended a platform seat, and extended a formal welcome to the returned soldier. He said it could not be other than pleasurable to his young friend to find such an assemblage present to welcome him back to his old, home, especially as there were such a number of young ladies in attendance (applause). They had all heard of the famous Battery to which Mr BEAHAN was attached and of the good work accomplished by it in South Africa. Mr BEAHAN had seen longer service than any of those who had gone to the war from this district and consequently no, doubt, his experiences and hardships were much greater. He (the Mayor) was glad to welcome him back in good health, and so long as they could find men like him ready to put their shoulder to the wheel either in defence of the motherland or this – their native or adopted – country, there was no fear but that the old flag would still continue to fly, as it always had done, in spite of the world (applause). He noticed that the members of the Battery – including their young friend – had had an immense welcome at the Town Hall, Sydney, which was some recompense for the privation and hardships they had undergone since leaving these shores. In becoming a soldier Mr BEAHAN was only following in the footsteps of his late father, who was a soldier before he was born and came to Cowra loaded with honors (applause). He trusted their young friend would be always ready to take up arms in defence of the grand old flag to which they all belonged (applause). [At the request of the Mayor, three cheers were given for Mr BEAHAN. The Mayor, in conclusion, on behalf of the people of the town and district, extended a hearty welcome to Mr BEAHAN, which was followed by loud applause.

Mr BEAHAN, who on rising received a great ovation, briefly returned, thanks. He felt much, gratified at the appreciation of his services, as shown, that evening. After they arrived in South Africa they were classed as regular troops, and could have been kept there until the end of the campaign, which was very indefinite seeing that the British failed to break the backs of the Boers during the winter in the Brackenburg [sic] Mountains. He believed the war would be continued all through the summer. However, they were allowed to return after an absence of nearly two years. He again thanked them for their kind welcome (applause).

Presentation to Mr. Maurice BEAHAN.

THERE was a large attendance at the social tendered on Friday night, 8th inst., at the Centennial, to Mr Maurice BEAHAN, who recently returned from South Africa, where he had seen active service with the "A Battery". The occasion was also marked by a handsome presentation from the citizens to the young soldier. The Mayor (Ald. Mawby) presided, Mr BEAHAN occupying a seat on his right; and there were also on the platform Messrs C.T. Deeley, H. Ford, senr., H. Ford, jun., V. Heaton (treas.), H.G. Dunlop (sec.), W. Noble, R. Ellis, A.R. West, J. Butler, Dignam, Dale, M.J. Lee, and T. Dwyer.

Prior to the commencement of the proceedings the Cowra Brass Band rendered inspiriting airs in front of the hall.

The Mayor opened the function with a few remarks, after which a choice selection was played by the band. Mr Alfred James having contributed a song, for which he was encored, and Mr James Dale an amusing recitation, the Mayor rose and said it now became his duty to say a few words in connection with the presentation to Mr BEAHAN. It was a very old and trite saying "honour to whom honour is due". These words were very applicable in the present case. Cowra recognised that Mr BEAHAN had given his services – if necessarily his life – in the maintenance of the proud independence of the grand old British flag (applause). He had volunteered for service in South Africa, and had assisted his compatriots from all parts of the world in maintaining the prestige of the British nation there. He felt very pleased, indeed, and he knew all present felt the same, to have the opportunity of welcoming their young soldier friend back to his native land in good health, and safe and sound (applause). He would be able to look back in years to come with pride and satisfaction to the services he had given the Empire in South Africa, and the experience he had gained. He was proud to say that Mr BEAHAN's late father had been a soldier in her late Majesty's service (applause). Through the energetic action of a number of townsmen a handsome memento in the shape of a massive gold chain and medal (suitably inscribed) had been provided for presentation to Mr BEAHAN that night, in recognition of his services (applause). They all claimed allegiance to one flag and belonged to one kindred, and while that was the case the prestige of the great – world-wide – nation to which they belonged would never be lowered, and so long as they had such men as the bold young warrior before them to fight their battles they could rely upon it, in the language of the immortal Shakespeare, that “Britain never did nor never will lie at the proud foot of a conqueror”.

Apologies were tendered for the absence of Messrs Evans and Buckingham, who had promised to sing. After another song by Mr James, the Mayor, in suitable words, handed the presentation to Mr BEAHAN, which was followed by loud applause.

Mr BEAHAN, who on rising received quite an ovation, returned his sincere thanks to one and all for the handsome treatment he had received at their hands that evening, particularly for their valuable presents. He concluded by giving a brief and interesting account of his experiences in South Africa.