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Leslie Ellis Carter - Information

Leslie joined up a few days after his older brother, Alfred George. He signed up in Marrickville on the 10th of January 1916, aged 23. At the time, he was living on Wentworth St in Parramatta, working as a mercer. Leslie was born and raised in Wilton. He commenced his training, being assigned to the 7th Field Artillery Brigade as a Gunner. While training, Leslie married his sweetheart before he was shipped out, sailing from Sydney on the 11th of May 1916 upon the HMAT Argyllshire.

Leslie landed in Plymouth Harbour in early July. The following month, he was transferred to the 3rd Divisional Ammunition Column as a Driver. He went to work immediately delivering vital munitions to base camps and docks for overseas. In late November, Leslie was transported to France. After the winter, he was re-mustered as a Gunner. Just before the Third Battle of Ypres commenced, Leslie was transferred back to the 7th Field Artillery Brigade. During this operation, the use of artillery was paramount, not only damaging enemy defences but also providing protection for the infantry with creeping barrages. Consequently, they were prime targets for enemy fire. Leslie’s 27th Battery was consistently bombarded. On the 15th of September, he was injured by a shell blast cutting his shoulder. He got it patched up and remained on duty. Leslie continued to prove his devotion to duty, appointed Acting Bombardier in October and Temporary Corporal in November. After another winter, he was made Bombardier and then Corporal in early 1918. Once stalemate was broken, Artillery units worked tirelessly keeping up with changing positions. Their continued effort helped to win the war. Leslie served his unit well. Throughout 1918, he was mentioned in despatches that passed the desk of Commander-in-Chief General Haig, and promoted Sergeant in December. He left for Australia on the 12th of May 1919, reuniting with his young bride.