The Australian War Memorial Collection. Test site
Australia Service Medal 1939-45. Impressed around edge with recipient's details.
This Australia Service Medal 1939-45 was issued to Major W Ruthven, 3 Garrison Battalion. The Australia Service Medal 1939-1945 was instituted in 1949 to recognise the service of members of the Australian Armed Forces and the Australian Mercantile Marine during the Second World War.
William ‘Rusty’ Ruthven was born at Collingwood, Melbourne on 21 May 1893. He was a mechanic in the timber industry before enlisting in April 1915. After serving on Gallipoli he went to France, where he was wounded in April 1916.
During an attack near Ville-sur-Ancre in May 1918, Ruthven performed outstanding acts of bravery. He took command of a company after the officer commanding was wounded, and personally assaulted enemy strongpoints. Throughout the successful action, he led by example, inspiring and encouraging his men. During the mopping-up and consolidation, he captured 32 Germans. For his actions he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Ruthven was commissioned a second lieutenant in July 1918 and discharged in December. He became a soldier-settler for a while, but returned to Collingwood and became a local councillor. During the Second World War he served in garrison battalions, reaching the rank of major. From 1945 to 1961 he was a member of the Victorian parliament. Ruthven died on 12 January 1970.
British War Medal 1939-45. Impressed around edge with recipient's details. This British War Medal 1939-45 was issued to Major W Ruthven, 3 Garrison Battalion. The British War Medal 1939-45 recognise
Victory Medal. Impressed around edge with recipient's details. This Victory Medal was issued to Lieutenant W Ruthven, 22 Battalion, AIF. The Victory Medal was authorised in 1919 to commemorate the v
Elizabeth II Coronation Medal. Unnamed as issued. This Elizabeth II Coronation Medal was issued to William Ruthven, VC. The Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal was issued in 1953 to commemorate the
British War Medal 1914-20. Impressed around edge with recipient's details. This British War Medal 1914-20 was issued to Sergeant W Ruthven, 22 Battalion, AIF. The British War Medal 1914-20 was insti
George VI Coronation Medal. Unnamed as issued. This King George VI Coronation Medal was issued to William Ruthven, VC. The King George VI Coronation Medal was issued in 1937 to commemorate the coron
1914-15 Star. Impressed on reverse with recipient's details. This 1914-15 Star was issued to Sergeant W Ruthven, 22 Battalion, AIF. The 1914–15 Star was authorised in 1918 and was awarded for servic
