David Leslie Davies was born in Ballarat and was already a soldier when he enlisted in the 9th Field Artillery Brigade, 33rd Battery as a Lieutenant on 4 April 1916 at the age of 20. His unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A8 Argyllshire on 11 May 1916.

He was awarded the Military Cross for æconspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as forward observing officer. He worked continually in exposed positions under heavy shell fire, by his initiative and skill transmitting valuable information, later he carried out a successful reconnaissance leading and organizing a party to secure portions of enemy guns.' His outstanding service continued, and the following year he was awarded a Bar to his Military Cross for æconspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty east of Clery on 20th August 1918, in close support of the infantry advance. He directed concentration of fire of the guns as they arrived, and maintained the rate of fire until communications were opened with brigade headquarters. His energy and ability throughout ten days fighting largely contributed to the success of the operation.' He achieved the rank of Major before returning to Australia in May 1919.
Tree No 2579