Ernest John Henry Berryman MM (2288A)

This is the story (short version) so far about our Great Uncle Ernie. He was born in Mersey, Tasmania on 2nd April, 1892, the first son of Alfred Caleb and Matilda Berryman, but lived his short life as a farmer at "Pine Grove", Glen Forbes, Victoria with his family until he joined the A.I.F on the 24th November, 1915 at 23 years of age in Melbourne.

He was transferred to Geelong into the 19th (Depot) Battalion and then transferred again to Broadmeadows into the 29th (Artillery) Battalion, 4th Reinforcement.

He embarked from Melbourne, Victoria on board HMAT A68 Anchises on the 14th March 1916. On the 20th April, 1916 he was transferred to the 46th (Artillery) Battalion. On the 14th June, 1916 he disembarked at Marseilles, France and gained the rank of Private.

On the 5th August, 1917 he was admitted to hospital sick with disease. On the 1st December, 1917 he rejoined his 46th Battalion and then was detached for duty with the 2nd Canadian Tunneling Coy.

On the 23rd March, 1918 he again rejoined his 46th Battalion. Great Uncle Ernie celebrated his 26th birthday on the 2nd April, 1918.

On the following day, I quote from the Citation records "For coolness and courage during an enemy attack on our lines near Albert, France 3rd April 1918. When the enemy artillery barrage ceased and the first wave of attackers appeared, Private Berryman seized a bag of bombs, rushed across the rails exposed to machine guns and snipers, waited behind a hedge until the enemy were in range and with his bombs greatly assisted to disorganise the attack. He then used his rifle, and later on returned to our line with a wounded comrade.". For his bravery, he was awarded the Military Medal.

He was killed in the field two days later on the 5th April, 1918. He is buried at Millencourt Communal Cemetery Extension (Row B, Grave No 59) Picardie France.

His belongings were on their way home aboard the SS Barunga which was lost at sea with all its cargo, as the result of enemy action.

Maree Trewin