Born in Melbourne, Bourke and a Saddler by trade, John Charville was 26 years and married when enlisted on the 4th of March 1915 in the 7th Battalion, 7th Reinforcement, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of Private, Number 2334. His Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A64 Demosthenes on the 16th of July 1915. Wounded in action in the 7th of August 1916; 23rd of October 1817 – 2nd occasion; 16th of May 1918 on the 3rd occasion. Sergeant returned to Australia per 'Karoola' ex England - Gunshot wound wrist and arm, left hand and chest on the 13th of December 1918. Disembarked on the 26th of July 1919 and discharged on the 29th of January 1919. Distinguished Conduct Medal for Work at Hollebeke on the 17th of December 1917. Recommendation date: 24 December 1917. 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in action. A post on his right was successfully raided by the enemy, and five prisoners were captured. He went out, under heavy machine gun fire, and in broad daylight, to cut the enemy party off, with the result that he rescued three of the captured men and took five prisoners, including two officers, and accounted for several of the enemy. This success was mainly due to his personal courage and initiative.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 110 Date: 7th of August 1918. Tree No. 616