War - Ww1 Vc - Queensland - John Leak Vc,9th Battalion,1st Aif Poem by Paul Warren

John Leak enlisted in Rockhampton, Queensland on 16th April,1915
As a true blue who enlisted before the bloodbath of The Landing was seen
And is recognised as the first Queensland VC of the Great War era
Although being born in Portsmouth, England and migrating to Australia

He went to the Western Front and was involved at Pozieres
Where the Australians advanced and were pounded by artillery there
And John Leak was one of a party which finally captured an enemy strong hold
When the enemy started to bomb their way back in a move that was bold

John jumped out of the trench and ran forward under heavy machine gun fire
And threw three bombs into the Germans enemy bombing post through the wire
He then jumped down and finished off the three remaining of the bombing party
But the enemy bombed their way back and the Australians had to stand hardy

John stood tall and bombed back, being the last to withdraw as they went back
Showing conspicuous bravery and ensuring his mates survived as a fact
And he made such an impression that when the Australians were reinforced then
They were able to re-take the trench with John Leak winning the VC in the end.

© Paul Warren Poetry