Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War 1917 ‘Hindenburg Line’ M.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant L. I. Rzeszkowski, 16th Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, who was wounded in action on the Western Front, 4 July 1918

Military Medal, G.V.R. (3037 Pte L. I. Rzeszkowski. 16/Aust: Inf:); 1914-15 Star (3037 Pte. L. I. Rzeszkowski. 16/Bn. A.I.F.); British War and Victory Medals (3037 Sgt. L. I. Rzeszkowki 16 Bn. A.I.F.) mounted for display, with four lapel badges including Returned Sailors & Soldiers Imperial League, Australia, generally good very fine (lot) £700-£900

M.M. London Gazette 15 June 1917. The original recommendation states:

‘This man was conspicuous amongst many brave men for his coolness and courage during the assault on the Hindenburg Line on the morning of the 11th April 1917. After getting through the enemy’s barbed wire entanglements, he helped other men also to get through at the risk of almost certain death from enemy machine fire which was pouring in from all directions. His fine example and bravery and devotion to duty under most trying circumstances is worthy of the highest commendation and went far towards keeping up the courage of many younger soldiers, for whom this was their first fight. He is recommended for distinction.’

Leonard Ignatius Rzeszkowski was born in Jamestown, South Australia in 1897. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force at Keswick, South Australia, 10 June 1915. Rzeszkowski served with the 16th Australian Infantry Battalion in Gallipoli before being evacuated in December 1915. He served with the Battalion in the French theatre of war from June 1916.
Rzeszkowski was awarded the M.M. for his gallantry during the assault on the Hindenburg Line, near Hamel Vaire and Hamel Woods, 11 April 1917. The Battalion suffered 80% casualties during the unsuccessful attack.

Rzeszkowski advanced to Lance Corporal in July 1917, and to Sergeant in June 1918. He was wounded in action 4 July 1918, and returned to Australia in December 1918. Rzeszkowski was discharged in February 1919.