People Australia

Frederick Smith, n.d. photographer unknown

from Bank of NSW Roll of Honour

Frederick Oscar Clyde Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry William Smith, of the Public School, Cassilis, was born at Cassilis, New South Wales, on 26th September, 1891, and received his education at that school and the East Maitland High School. He entered the service of the Bank at Maitland on 16th January, 1909; was transferred to Quirindi, as ledger-keeper, on 7th February, 1912; and to Lismore, as ledger-keeper, on 2nd November, 1914.

Frederick Oscar Clyde Smith enlisted in the A.I.F. on 9th August, 1915, and embarked on 2nd November, 1915. Eventually joining the 53rd Battalion, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant, and saw active service in France, where he was wounded on three occasions—at Fromelles, Bullecourt and Polygon Wood.

On the night of 29th July, 1918, Frederick Oscar Smith was in charge of a flanking platoon and led a successful attack upon the German first and second line trenches near Morlancourt. Later, when the officer in charge of a second platoon was wounded, this gallant young N.C.O. took command of the two platoons. He organized the defences and remained in charge of the platoons until he was relieved two nights later. For this valuable service he was awarded the Military Medal.