Alexander Albert McGoldrick was born in Ballarat and was a Softgoods Salesman when he enlisted in the 6th Field Ambulance, Section A on 20 March 1915 at the age of 18. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A31 Ajana on 4 June 1915. and reached Gallipoli in late August to serve with the 6th and 8th Australian Field Ambulance. In October he became ill and was evacuated on the Hospital Ship Karoo, to hospital in Egypt, suffering from æenteric'. He was reported as dangerously ill and was returned to Australia in January 1916. He recovered and embarked again in September 1916. On September 25th 1917 he was wounded in action but he continued to serve and his gallantry was recognised through the awarding of a Military Medal. His recommendation read: 'At the South West of Bellicourt during 29th and 30th September 1918, these stretcher bearers displayed conspicuous bravery in carrying wounded across ground exposed to enemy observation and under heavy shell and machine gun fire. Each carry was across the Hindenburg System and owing to the rain making the ground slippery each trip took 3 hours to carry 1000 yards across wire, trenches etc. In spite of numerous casualties amongst the bearers, these men by their endurance, determination and example encouraged the other bearers and in an extraordinarily difficult situation, made the evacuation of wounded possible. Devotion to duty of these men is deserving of special reward.' He returned to Australia 20 May 1919.
Tree No. 628