William Donovan Joynt

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William Donovan Joynt, 1919.

William Donovan Joynt VC (19 March 1889 - 5 May 1986) was an Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

He was 29 years old, and a lieutenant in the 8th (Victorian) Battalion, Australian Imperial Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 23 August 1918 at Herleville Wood, near Chuignes, Peronne, France, Lieutenant Joynt took charge when his company commander had been killed. When the leading battalion had been demoralized by heavy casualties, he rushed forward and reorganized the remnants of the battalion. Having discovered that heavy fire on the flanks was causing delay and casualties, he led a frontal bayonet attack on the wood, thus saving a critical situation. Later, at Plateau Wood, after severe hand-to-hand fighting, he turned a stubborn defence into an abject surrender. He was subsequently badly wounded by a shell.

He later achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel.