Reuben Herbert Hooley MM (SN 307) born in Ballarat, was a 21 year old painter when he enlisted in Ballarat on August 17th 1914. He embarked aboard the Benalla on October 19th and was wounded at Gallipoli in June 1915 while serving with the 8th Infantry Battalion. He went on to serve in France where he was wounded three times, but the highlight of his service was the award of the Military Medal, 'During the operations east of YPRES on 20th September, 1917, L/Cpl. HOOLEY took charge of his platoon in the attack when his Officer and Sergeant were wounded. He led his men with great skill and courage and captured his portion of the final objective with great dash. His initiative and coolness set a splendid example to his men throughout the action.' He returned to Australia aboard the Leicestershire, disembarked at Melbourne on January 22nd 1919 and was discharged on March 23rd.