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Private PERCIVAL ERIC GRATWICK

Service Number: WX10426
Regiment & Unit/Ship

Australian Infantry

A.I.F. 2/48 Bn.

Date of Death

Died Between 25 October 1942 and 26 October 1942

Age 40 years old

Buried or commemorated at

EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY

XXII. A. 6.

Egypt

Commonwealth War Graves Commission - Headstone Placeholder
  • Country of Service Australian
  • Awards Victoria Cross
  • Additional Info Son of Ernest Albert and Eva Mary Gratwick, of Perth, Western Australia.
  • Personal Inscription REST IN THE LORD
  • Additional Citation note

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th January, 1943, gives the following details: During an attack at Miteiriya Ridge on the night 25th-26th October, 1942, Private Gratwick's platoon was directed at strong enemy positions, but its advance was stopped by intense fire at short range which killed the platoon commander, the platoon serjeant and many others, reducing the platoon strength to seven. Private Gratwick, acting on his own initiative and with utter disregard for his own safety, charged the nearest post and completely destroyed the enemy with hand grenades. He charged a second post, from which the heaviest fire had been directed, and inflicted further casualties, but was killed within striking distance of his objective. By his brave and determined action, Private Gratwick's company was enabled to move forward and mop up its objective. His unselfish courage, his gallant and determined efforts against the heaviest opposition changed a doubtful situation into the successful capture of his company's final objective.

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Buried or commemorated at