Born in England, U.K. and a Labourer by trade, Oliver Baum was 23 years and single when enlisted on the 8th of July 1915 in the 8th Battalion, 11th Reinforcement, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of Private, Number 3242. His Unit embarked from Adelaide, South Australia, on board HMAT A71 'Nestor' on the 11th of October 1915. Private wounded in action while remaining at duty in France on the 27th of April 1918. Appointed Lance Corporal on the 15th of October 1918. Embarked return to Australia ex 'Dev'ha' on the 8th of May 1919. Disembarked on the 23rd of June 1919. Discharged from the 3rd Military District on the 23rd of June 1919 with the termination of period of enlistment. Recommendations (Medals and Awards) Military Medal. Recommendation date: 29 September 1917: 'At POLYGON WOOD during the tour of the 58th Battalion, in the line from 23rd September 1917 to 27th September 1917 Private Baum did magnificent service as a battalion runner when all other means of communication had broken down. He carried despatches to and from the front line and to Brigade Headquarters in rear under very heavy barrage fire. He guided reinforcing companies to the front line when the Battalion was seriously threatened. Fatigue parties and ration parties under his guidance reached their objectives safely and with despatch. Day and night he worked inceasingly under very trying conditions and he set his comrades a splendid example of devotion to duty.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 31Date: 7 March 1918. Tree No.3321