Charles Egerton Yates (SN 2278) born at Berwick, Victoria, was a 24 year old labourer when he enlisted in Rockhampton, Queensland, on February 29th 1916. Posted to the 52nd Battalion he embarked aboard the Boorara on August 16th and sailed first to England and then to France in December. He was twice wounded in action, suffering shrapnel wounds to his arm in June 1917 and back in October 1917. It was during the October action that his gallantry earned for him the Military Medal. 'Whilst his Company was in the line at BROODSEINDE RIDGE and under very trying circumstances, this soldier, whilst as Company Signaller, carried out his work exceptionally well. Nearly all other Signallers had become casualties, killed and wounded and the work which fell on him, entailed great fatigue, and called for courage and gallantry. On the night 17th/18th October, 1917, he exhibited untiring energy and bravery in repairing telephone lines which lay across a very heavily shelled area between Company and Battalion Headquarters - the wires being cut as frequently as 15 times during the night.' In March 1918 he was transferred to the Australian Corps Signal Company. At the war's end he was returned to Australia aboard the 'Borda' disembarking on June 27th 1919. He was discharged on August 11th 1919.
He also enlisted again during World War 2.