As we honour the sacrifice of our heroes this Remembrance Day, November 11, let’s pause to honour men like Sergeant James Berry MM, a plasterer from Alexandria, whose courage under fire during World War I earned him a place on the prestigious NSW Fire Brigades Honour Roll.
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When war broke out in 1914, Sgt Berry was one of the first to enlist, joining up in March 1915. He served gallantly with the 20th Infantry Battalion through the hellish battlefields of Gallipoli, France, and Belgium.
His father James and two brothers, Frederick Berry and Private Edward Henry Berry also served during the First World War.
Sgt Berry’s war service was marked by both tragedy and tenacity. He fought at Gallipoli from August 1915, enduring months of brutal combat alongside his brother Frederick. But in November, Sgt Berry faced every soldier’s worst nightmare – his brother died of wounds suffered at Gallipoli in November 1915.
Evacuated from Gallipoli during the general withdrawal, Sgt Berry was dealt another blow shortly after when he was slightly wounded in the right hand at Pozieres in August 1916.
Undeterred, he returned to the 20th Battalion later that month, only to be wounded again, this time in the arm. Hospitalised once more, Sgt Berry’s torment continued when he was evacuated to England suffering facial paralysis in November 1916. But his spirit could not be broken. After recovering, he persevered yet again, returning to France in October 1917 to rejoin his comrades in the 20th Battalion.
Despite being wounded three times – to his right hand, arm and leg – Sgt Berry fought on, displaying such conspicuous bravery during an attack at Bois de Hangard (France) in April 1918 that he was awarded the Military Medal.
His Commanding Officer singled out Sgt Berry for special praise, noting how his coolness under heavy enemy fire and tireless efforts to withdraw equipment and re-establish the line set a fine example to the rest of the platoon.
After nearly four gruelling years of combat, Sgt Berry was finally returned to his homeland in early 1919, no doubt carrying the physical and emotional scars of war.
NSW Fire Brigades Roll of Honour
Sgt Berry’s courage and leadership earned his name a place on the NSW Fire Brigades Roll of Honour, dedicated in 1923 to fellow brigade members who served in the First World War.
This impressive Roll of Honour was specially designed and constructed by the department to honour their comrades who served in the war. Spanning six cast copper panels framed in Queensland Maple, the monumental plaque was crafted to solemnly commemorate the sacrifice and service of these brave fire brigade members.
Attend a service, wear a poppy, or observe a minute’s silence at 11am, and help keep the legacy of our service people alive. Lest we forget.
RSL
Published 8-November-2023
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