b. ?. d. ?
DATE OF AM ACTION: 18/06/1920 Madras, India.
Very little is known about the life of Ellaya other than his Albert Medal action.
AM CITATION:
On the night of June 18th, 1920, a dangerous fire broke out’at the Arsenal at St.,.Thomas’ Mount, and the flames, 20’ft. high, had reached a spot within 5 yards of which a large quantity of aerial bombs were stacked.’ Lieutenant Galbraith superintended the removal of the bombs for nearly three-quarters of-an hour, remaining until the last bomb had been removed, and he set a splendid example to .the Troops by his gallantry and perseverance. Four thousand of these bombs were stored in the Arsenal, and an explosion would have resulted in heavy loss of life. Subadar-Major Ellaya, with 43 men of ” C ” Company, took. a prominent part in the work of removing-the bombs which were lying close to the flames. He was the first member of his Regiment to arrive on the scene, and he too.set a fine example to the men under him by carrying away the -bombs and continuing to do so until ordered to another duty by his Commanding Officer. The work he performed in removing the bombs exposed him to very great danger.
BURIAL LOCATION: UNKNOWN.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: UNKNOWN.