People Australia

Harold Ernest Clifton, c 1917 photographer unknown

from Bank of NSW Roll of Honour

HHAROLD ERNEST CLIFTON was born at Burrowa, N.S.W., on 2nd February, 1894, the son of Mr. J. H. and Mrs. E. J. Clifton. He was educated in Sydney schools and entered the Bank’s service on 14th May, 1911, being appointed to the Bathurst Street (Sydney) Branch. On 11th June, 1912, he was transferred to Ashfield; on 3rd March, 1913, to Surry Hills; and on 28th May, 1914, to Pitt Street (Sydney) Branch.

Enlisting on 13th February, 1915, with the 17th Infantry Battalion, he went to Gallipoli, and afterwards saw service in Egypt, France and Belgium over a period of three years.

Harold Clifton was promoted to lieutenant on the field. In 1916 he was mentioned in despatches by Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig. In 1917 he was awarded the Military Cross.

The London “Gazette” of 15th March, 1918, gives the following particulars of the brave conduct which won Lieutenant Clifton the Military Cross:—

"With reference to the award conferred as announced in the London ‘Gazette,’ dated 27th October, 1917, the following are the statements of service for which the decoration was conferred :—

Lieutenant Harold Ernest Clifton, M.C. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer led his platoon with conspicuous skill and marked initiative, although wounded early in the attack. Despite his wound, he continued to lead his men, and inspired them with confidence—showing absolute disregard for his own personal safety."