World War I veteran Major Michael Shanahan was from Roma, Queensland. He enlisted 20 August 1914 and embarked from Brisbane on 24 September 1914 with the 2nd Light Horse Regiment, B Squadron on the transport ship 'Star of England'. His horse 'Bill' was known for bucking everyone who tried to ride him except Shanahan. Shanahan received the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) '[f]or conspicuous gallantry in action', organising and maintaining an outpost line 'with the greatest courage and determination.' With 'Bill' he rescued four wounded men and himself under heavy fire, the horse carrying all five men to safety without bucking.
Sources: Roland Perry, Bill the Bastard (2012), The AIF Project website, www.aif.adfa.edu.au
