Private Ralph Jones
George Cross

Background
Ralph Jones was born September 26, 1900 to parents Henry William Jones and Eliza Jones in Gorleston, Norfolk in the United Kingdom. He served in the British Army at the end of World War I and in the Army of occupation on the Rhine, Germany, until invalided in April 1920. During 1926, he emigrated to Australia.

Wartime History
On January 15, 1942 he was again mobilised to serve in the Australian Army with service number N244527. During February 1942 assigned to the 22nd Garrison Battalion as a guard at Cowra POW Camp.

Cowra Riot
On August 5, 1944 he manned the No. 2 Vickers machine gun position with Private Benjamin Gower Hardy who fired for five minues at rioting Japanese Prisoners Of War (POWs) but were overrun and clubbed both men to death. Afterwards, both earned the George Cross for helping to "quelling Japanese uprising".

Memorials
Jones was officially declared dead August 5, 1944. He is buried at Cowra War Cemetery at Row D. Grave 10.

George Cross Citation "Private Ralph Jones was on duty with another soldier as the crew of a Vickers machine gun at the No. 12 Prisoner of war Camp, Cowra, guarding the compound in which were interned over 1000 Japanese prisoners of war. On the night of 4th-5th August, 1944, the prisoners staged a mass outbreak, stormed over the perimeter, and bore down on the machine gun crew. Private Jones and his companion stood their ground and continued to work the gun until they were killed, displaying outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty against an overwhelming onslaught. Private Jones met his death in the true British spirit of sacrifice for his country." (London Gazette - September 1, 1950)

References
WW2 Nominal Roll - Ralph Jones
CWGC - Ralph Jones

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