As far as Rutherford artist Jim Casey is concerned, his grandfather was a Great War hero who deserved to receive the Victoria Cross for his bravery on the Western Front.

Mr Casey believes all soldiers are heroes who deserve every recognition for their efforts and service to their country.

This Anzac Day, Mr Casey thought it was important to share the details of his grandfather Alexander George Shearer who enlisted on December 5, 1915, in the 18th Battalion, 10th Reinforcement Australian Imperial Force.

“I have had this information about my grandfather for many years and I felt it was about time to share it,” Mr Casey said.

“What my grandfather did during ­important battles in World War I should be recognised and he should have received a VC for his single handed action.

“Everyone who dons that uniform is a hero. I never wear a badge because badges are for people who earn them.”

Corporal Shearer received a Military Medal and bar for his courageous and ­gallant actions in Europe and he returned to Australia on August 28, 1919.

Mr Casey refers to Corporal Shearer’s war records which detail his actions and commendations.

“On September 20,1917, near Westhoek, Belgium, he led his men forward to the attack close to our barrage, mopped up strong points of the enemy before they were able to show fight, undoubtedly saving many casualties thereby.

“On reaching the final objective he pushed on with a small patrol and gained valuable information.

“He visited his post under heavy shell fire in order to ascertain if they were safe.

“His example throughout the whole action was that of great soldierly quality. 

“He had on previous occasions done very valuable work.”

War records from 1918 show another act of bravery from Corporal Shearer.

“For gallantry and devotion to duty 

during the operations on Mont Saint-Quentin near Peronne, France, on August 31, 1918.

“His platoon was holding an isolated position on the flank.

“The enemy had established a strong post which, with bombs, rifle and machine gun fire was endangering the situation. Corporal Shearer placed a Lewis gun in a position to bring fire on the enemy post, and after bombing it, rushed forward along and killed the whole of the garrison.

“It was due to his courage and initiative that the enemy post was cleared and his platoon saved a number of casualties.”

For these actions, Corporal Shearer was awarded a bar to the Military Medal.