Australian Forces

Private Timothy Hughes, MM - native Australian.

Government of Australia/AWM

Private Hughes' citation for the Military medal reads as follows - "Private Timothy Hughes - 2/10 Australian Infantry Battalion, is approved for the award of the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry and bravery during the Buna Aerodrome action. At 0700 hours, 26 December 1942, No. 9 Platoon, A Company 2/10 Battalion reached its objective in the centre of Buna Strip and came under heavy enemy machine gun fire from both sides of the strip and from machine gun posts south and east of Dispersal Bay. The Platoon was definitely pinned down. To allow the Platoon to dig in, Private Hughes volunteered to climb on top of the Dispersal Bay under concentrated fire from three directions. From this position he engaged two of the enemy posts with grenades. Private Hughes returned for a Thompson sub-machine gun and from his position on the Dispersal Bay gave covering fire while his Platoon moved into cover. During the period his Platoon was consolidating he made three separate sorties with grenades and Thompson sub-machine-gun. Private Hughes showed remarkable bravery, exceptional coolness and initiative. His total disregard for his own safety set a fine example throughout the Platoon and also throughout the Company." Speaks for itself. Best regards, JR.