Time for a true story! Read on…!

When two of our church members were busy cleaning inside the church around mid-winter 2014, a man with a camera entered and asked if he could photograph our WWI Honor Roll. The reply that was given went something like this, ‘Sorry, but we have no WWI Honor Roll. There’s another church down the street, maybe you could try them?’. The man agreed to do that and left, but re-appeared not long after with this message… ‘Guess what? That church down the street has your Honor Roll!’

The photograph (left) was taken of the Honor Roll which can be found in the Hall of the Forest Street Uniting Church just down the street from us.  It was first posted on this website in the Centenary year of the Gallipoli landings (2015).

Now, in November 2019, we are pleased to be able to add to the picture something of the stories of the 57 men from St John’s who left to serve ‘God, King and Country’. 10 of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice.

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THE MEN LISTED ON THE ROLL OF HONOR,  ST JOHN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, BENDIGO.

INTRODUCTION

The first mention of a Roll of Honor at St John’s Presbyterian Church, Bendigo, occurs at a Service conducted on 27 June, 1915.   This early Roll contained 7 names. The present Roll of Honor was unveiled on 6th October, 1918.   This was an impressive monument of polished oak, lettered in gold, containing 57 names.   Of these men, 10 made the Supreme Sacrifice, indicated by a gold crown on the Roll of Honor.   It is also worthy of note that 14 men returned to Australia assessed as “Medically Unfit”, either through the result of Wounds or Sickness.    3 men were awarded the Military Medal for Bravery in the Field, and 1 man received a recommendation without the award.   1 man was recommended for the award of Mention in Despatches.   2 men became Prisoners of War in Germany. The Roll contains the names of members of the congregation who enlisted for active service.   Some names were misspelt, or an initial was given for a nickname.   It is also possible that the congregation was able to contribute names of family members who were not necessarily members of the church, and possibly not even from Bendigo.  Some names had no discernible link with Bendigo.

Location of the Roll of Honor:

During World War 1 St John’s Presbyterian Church was located in Forest Street, midway between Barnard and Rowan streets.    The church was a wooden structure, designed by Messrs Vahland and Son, Architects.   The Opening Service was conducted on 4 July, 1897, by the Rev. J. H. Mackay.   (The name of his son, Joseph Mackay, would be amongst the names later recorded on the Roll of Honor.)  In 1951 the congregation purchased the former Congregational Church building, situated on the corner of Forest and MacKenzie Streets.    The Roll of Honor was transferred to the new Church. From 1977-1979 the Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational Churches merged to become the Uniting Church in Australia.   The St John’s Presbyterian Church building was awarded to the Uniting Church and the former Wesleyan Methodist Church in Forest Street became the Forest Street Uniting Church.   The furnishings from St John’s were also transferred to the Uniting Church, including the Roll of Honor.   The Roll of Honor was hung in the Hall of the Forest Street Uniting Church, which position it currently occupies. The members of St John’s who wished to remain Presbyterian continued to worship in Eaglehawk, and later in All Saints Anglican Church, Bendigo.    A few years later the congregation was able to purchase their former church building on the corner of Forest and MacKenzie Streets, which was re-dedicated as St John’s Presbyterian Church at a Service on October 6, 1985.

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David John ANDERSON

David John Anderson, known as ‘Jack’, was born in Bendigo, the son of David and Jeanette Anderson, of 33 View Street.     His father was a Chemist, and after ‘Jack’ passed the preliminary exams in pharmacy he entered his father’s shop as an apprentice.     Amongst other activities he held the post of secretary of the High School Old Students’ Society, and served as Lieutenant in the Senior Cadets.

He enlisted for service at the age of 18 years and 2 months, the second man from St John’s Presbyterian Church to enlist.    He was described as being 6’ ½” tall, with a fair complexion, grey eyes and auburn hair.    He was allotted Service no. 1175 and appointed as Sergeant to the 1st Reinforcements for the 8th Battalion.   He embarked for service overseas on 22.12.14 and joined the 8th Battalion in Egypt on 25.2.15.

During March he injured his thumb and was admitted to hospital to be treated for blood poisoning.   He lost his thumb nail, and then developed a bad attack of boils necessitating a longer stay in hospital.    After leaving hospital he was put in charge of Battalion stores and equipment, the accident to his thumb precluding him from more active participation.    He sailed with the battalion and assisted them in the Landing at Anzac Cove on 25th April, 1915, but remained on board and returned with the wounded.

He embarked for Gallipoli on 2.6.15 and joined the 8th Battalion in the trenches at Steele’s Post on 12.6.15.   Steele’s Post was a critical position on the heights above Anzac Cove.   The firing line was only just beyond the crest, with the Turks entrenched less than 100 yards in front.

David John Anderson was Killed in Action on 16.6.15, during heavy shelling which seriously damaged the parapets of the trenches.   He was buried in Shrapnel Gully, about 400 yards SE of Anzac Cove, and a simple wooden cross was erected over his grave.     The Commonwealth War Graves Commission later re-interred his remains in the Shrapnel Valley Cemetery (Plot 2, Row D, Grave 7) and erected a gravestone.     His parents requested the words of the inscription:

SERJEANT D. J. ANDERSON 8TH BN, AUSTRALIAN INF. 16 JUNE 1915    AGE 18 THY WILL BE DONE

His was the first death from St John’s Presbyterian Church.

“At St John’s Presbyterian Church yesterday morning the Rev J Barnaby made a touching reference to the late Sergeant D. J. Anderson, news of whose death at the Dardanelles came through during last week.   Mr Barnaby was preaching on “Things that transcend the love of life.”   Amongst others he said, patriotism was strong in the community at present, and was stronger in many than the love of live [sic].   In the name of the congregation he offered the sincerest sympathy to the relatives of the one who had been associated with the church, and who by laying down his life in the heyday of his young manhood had nailed the lie to the wall that the reckless and godless made the best soldiers.   It was now proved that the men of high spiritual ideals, with strong faith in God, made the best fighting material.   After the benediction had been pronounced the congregation remained standing with heads reverently bowed, while the organist, Miss Gall, played the Funeral March.” [Bendigo Independent:           12 July 1915]

 

Studio Portrait of 2nd Lieut David John Anderson, 67th (Bendigo) Infantry.

c 1913-14 Australian War Memorial H06362

 

 

Neil Marwick BENNETTS

Neil Marwick Bennetts was born in Pyramid Hill, the son of Richard Bennetts.    The family subsequently moved to 187 View St, Bendigo, and Neil was educated at the Violet St School and St Andrews College.    He was later employed as a Railway Porter with the railways in Melbourne.     He enlisted on 19.1.15 aged 19 years and 7 months.   He was described as being 5’ 6½” tall with a fresh complexion, brown eyes, and black hair.    He was allocated Service No. 1914 and appointed to the 5th Reinforcements for the 14th Battalion.   He embarked for overseas on 17.4.15.

In July he embarked for Gallipoli, but by the end of the month was diagnosed with Haemorrhoids and sent to hospital in Malta and England.    In March, 1916, he embarked for Egypt and re-joined the 14th Battalion.     He was transferred to the 4th Pioneer Battalion on 27.5.16 and subsequently embarked for France.

The 4th Pioneer Battalion participated in the final phase of the Battle of Pozieres – the capture of Pozieres Ridge.     The battalion was employed constructing communication trenches and machine gun emplacements, and on 3rd August, 1916, was engaged on widening and deepening Copse Avenue through Pozieres.     Neil Marwick Bennetts was initially recorded as Missing and later recorded as Wounded in Action 3.8.16.    Suffering a Gun Shot Wound in his left forearm, he was admitted to hospital in England.   He embarked for return to Australia on 17.3.17, and was discharged “Medically Unfit.”

He re-enlisted for service on 17.5.18 and was appointed to Unit No 11 General Hospital. He was discharged from the AIF on 14th November 1918, 3 days after the Armistice.

 

Private Neil Bennetts

Bendigo Independent.  8 September, 1916

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

THE BERNAU BROTHERS

Ernest Victor and Norman Leslie Spencer Bernau were born in Bendigo, the sons of Mrs Susan Bernau.   The family later moved to 119 Fawkner Street, North Fitzroy.   Other members of the wider Bernau family were members of St John’s, but the relationship has not been fully explored.

Ernest Victor BERNAU

Ernest Victor Bernau was one month short of his 32nd birthday when he enlisted in Echuca.     He was a Miner, and had worked in Broken Hill prior to enlisting.   He was 5’ 6½” tall, and had dark hair.   He Attested for Service at Broadmeadows on 8.10.14 and was appointed to the 14th Battalion with Service No. 1193.    The Battalion embarked for overseas on 22.12.14.

The 14th Battalion was part of the 4th Australian Brigade under Colonel Monash.   This Brigade formed part of the New Zealand and Australian Division.    The Battalion landed at Anzac Cove on the morning of 26th April and then moved to Quinn’s Post and Courtney’s Post, on the heights above Monash Valley.

“He was in the landing in April and spent some weeks in the trenches before he was wounded.   He was engaged sapping, and was blown up by a shell.” [Bendigo Advertiser 10 December 1915]

On 19.9.15 Ernest Victor Bernau re-joined the 14th Battalion at Mudros, on the island of Lemnos, where the battalion had been withdrawn for a rest period. On 4.10.15 he was admitted to hospital in Mudros, suffering from Pyrexia, later described as Neurasthenia. (i.e. nervous debility.    This was a common diagnosis for shell shock).   From Mudros he was sent to hospital in England.     Following discharge from hospital he embarked for Egypt, and re-joined the battalion on 2.4.16.   On 13.5.16 he was transferred to the 4th Training Battalion at Tel-el-Kebir. On 8.8.16 he embarked for Return to Australia for Discharge, Medically Unfit.   (Concussion & Neurasthenia)

PRIVATE E. V. BERNAU

(Melba, photo)

Bendigonian.    23 December 1915

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

Norman Leslie Spencer BERNAU     

Norman Leslie Spencer Bernau was one month short of his 26th birthday when he enlisted in Melbourne.     He was 5’ 7” tall, with brown eyes and dark hair, and listed his occupation as Driver.  He was employed by Messrs Henry Berry and Co., Merchants, of Collins Street.    He Attested for Service on 9.2.15 and was appointed to the 22nd Battalion, with Service No. 43.     The Battalion embarked for overseas on 10.5.15.

The 22nd Battalion disembarked at Anzac on 5.9.15 and moved into the trenches on Lone Pine Hill.    Norman Leslie Spencer Bernau became dangerously ill on 16.11.15, suffering from Enteric Fever.   He spent the following four months in hospital in Malta and England.

On 4.4.16 he was transferred to the 60th Battalion which was stationed at Ferry Post in Ismailia, Egypt.   The battalion moved into the front trenches of the Suez Canal defences on 15.4.16.   Shortly after this Norman Leslie Spencer Bernau was admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of Hernia (20.4.16). On 24.6.16 he embarked for Australia for Discharge, Medically Unfit. (Hernia).

PRIVATE N. L. S. BERNAU

(Melba, photo)

Bendigonian.    23 December 1915

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

William James BLAKE

William James Blake, known as ‘Will’, was born in Quarry Hill, Bendigo, the son of Samuel John and Euphemia Blake.   The family later moved to “Ellerslie”, Forest St, Bendigo.    He was educated at Gravel Hill and Violet street schools and was then apprenticed as a Draper, working at Myer’s store in Bendigo.   He was a teacher in St John’s Presbyterian Sunday School, and, in 1916, was elected as a member of the board of management of St John’s Presbyterian Church.      He served in the Citizen Force as a Sergeant in the 67th Infantry.

William James Blake enlisted for service on 25.9.1916.    Aged 21 years and 9 months, he was described as being 5’ 8¼” in height, with a fair complexion, grey eyes and light brown hair.   He was appointed to the 8th Reinforcements of 60th Battalion, with Service No. 3110.   He entered the Broadmeadows Depot on 9th October, 1916, and a fortnight later was sent to No 9 NCO School at Geelong.    He was a lifelong friend of Richard Bertram Taylor.   They enlisted in the same month, were in camp together, and attended NCO School together.   On 23rd November, 1916, they were farewelled together.

“The action of Cpls W Blake & B Taylor, of the AIF, in offering themselves in the service of the nation, was highly eulogised on Thursday, when their fellow members of St John’s Presbyterian Sunday School assembled to present them each with a fountain pen.   The presentation was made by Mr W Wright, superintendent of the Sunday School, at a social held for the purpose in the residence of Mr W Anderson, Mount Korong-road.” [Bendigonian   30 Nov 1916]

William James Blake embarked for overseas on 16th December, 1916.   He was appointed Acting Lance Corporal for the duration of the voyage.   On arrival in England he entered the 15th Training Battalion and reverted to the rank of Private.      He embarked for France on 14th June, 1917.

On 29th June, 1917, he was taken on the strength of 46th Battalion.     He was appointed Lance Corporal on 6th October.    On 16th May, 1918, he was admitted to hospital suffering from trench fever, and sent to England.   (Trench fever was rife in the trenches of WW1.   Transmitted by body lice it resulted in fever, headaches, and sore muscles.)     He rejoined his battalion in France on 27th August.

On 18th September, 1918, the 46th Battalion participated in the first Allied attack on the Hindenburg Line – a heavily fortified German line of defence with numerous machine gun posts.     William James Blake was Killed in Action during the attack.   Death was instantaneous, the result of machine gun fire, the bullet penetrating his heart. He was buried in the Jeancourt Communal Cemetery Extension, France, in a small village approximately half way between Peronne and St Quentin.  (V  F  3) His gravestone is inscribed with the words:

“ONE OF GOD’S BEST LOVED BY ALL SEMPER IDEM”  (NB  Semper Idem = Always the same.)

The news of his death was published in the local newspapers. “This news will be received with sincere regret by many organizations in the city and by a large number of citizens, for he was most popular with everyone with whom he was associated, and whom he met in business.”  [Bendigo Independent, 12 October, 1918]

“Bendigo is the poorer through the loss of another of its fine young patriots in the person of Lance-Corporal William James (Will) Blake.  . . . . . Possessed of a genial disposition, the late Lance-Corporal Blake was very highly respected.   He was an upright, Christian young man who displayed the evidence of a good heart, and the stamp that designates a gentleman.” [Bendigonian, 17 October, 1910]

An ‘In Memoriam Service’ was held at St John’s Presbyterian Church on Sunday night, 20th October, 1918.

Lance-Corporal W. J. BLAKE

(Bartlett Bros. photo)

Bendigo Advertiser        19 Oct 1918

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

Frederick Eales BROWN

It has been difficult to find definitive evidence for the man recorded as F. Brown on the Roll of Honour.  The most likely identification appears to be Frederick Eales Brown, due to the following evidence:

• The name of Frederick Brown was among the seven names recorded on the first Roll of Honor at St John’s Presbyterian Church. (June, 1915)
• The name of Frederick Eales Brown is listed on the Electoral Roll for Bendigo in 1914.

Frederick Eales Brown was born in Benalla, the son of Mr F T Brown of Bridge St, Benalla.  Frederick was a Fitter & Turner and had completed his apprenticeship with the Victorian Railways at Newport.     Whilst at school in Benalla he was a member of the Junior Cadets.

He enlisted in Melbourne on 18.6.1915.   He was 22 years and 6 months old, and described as being 5’ 5½”in height, with a fresh complexion, blue eyes and black hair.    Stationed initially at 16 Depot Bendigo, he was later appointed to the Army Medical Corps and allocated Service No. 13264.    He embarked from Australia with AMC Special Reinforcements on 7.3.16.

He joined the 12th Field Ambulance at Serapeum in Egypt on 20th April, 1916, and  embarked for France in June, 1916.   On 10th December he was attached for Temporary Duty with 1st Anzac Corps Engineers Workshop, returning to 12th Field Ambulance on 7th March, 1917.

Frederick Eales Brown was Wounded in Action on 4.10.17 sustaining a Gunshot wound to his right shoulder.    Stretcher bearers had been called into action during the Battle of Broodseinde Ridge, near Ypres in Belgium.   Frederick was admitted to hospital and later transferred to England.   He was discharged from hospital on 16.11.17 and spent some months at Hurdcott before being sent to the Convalescent Depot at Weymouth in September, 1918.      He embarked for Return to Australia on 8th November, 1918.

John Godber BROWN

John Godber Brown was born in Melbourne, the son of Daniel Brown, who later lived at “Polmont”, 124 Forest St, Bendigo.    John Godber Brown worked as a Bush Contractor.    He enlisted in Melbourne on 9.8.15, aged 29 years and 1 month.   He was described as being 5’ 6½“ in height, with a dark complexion, brown eyes and dark hair.

His Service commenced on 13.8.15 when he entered the Depot Battalion.   On 27.9.15 he was appointed to the 16th Battery, 6th Field Artillery Brigade, as a Gunner and allotted Service No. 7976.     He embarked for overseas on 22.11.15. He was appointed acting Bombardier on 13.3.16 at Ismailia in Egypt, and promoted Provisional Bombardier on 14.9.16 in France.

On 23 June, 1917, his unit was at Messines, in Belgium.     John Godber Brown was one of three men of the 16th Battery, 6th Field Artillery Brigade, to be recommended for the Military Medal.

“On the afternoon of the 21st June, 1917, at Messines, the 16th Battery was heavily shelled and all ranks were ordered to leave the gun pits, and seek cover, five casualties having previously occurred.   At 3.30 pm the camouflage on No. 1 pit caught fire and burnt fiercely endangering about 300 rounds of Shrapnel and H.E. stores in the pit alongside the gun.   BSM Crooke called for volunteers to assist him to put out the fire.    No 7976 Bdr Brown, J. G, (and 3 others) immediately volunteered, and these other ranks at great personal risk, succeeded in putting the fire out by throwing buckets of water over it, the water being obtained from shell holes and a well near by.   The whole of the camouflage was destroyed and many sandbags set alight also a few rounds of ammunition were charred.   All the above took place under very heavy shell fire from the enemy S.G.s “ [awm   Recommendation for Honours and Awards.]

He was subsequently awarded the Military Medal. He received further promotion, Temp Corporal (30.9.17), Corporal  (12.11.17) Temp Sergeant (25.1.18) and Sergeant (3.5.18), and on 24.8.18 was detached to join the Artillery Cadet School in England.    He was attached to No 2 Brigade Royal Field Artillery to qualify for a commission (6.9.18), then joined No 1 Brigade Field Artillery Cadet School where he was appointed a Cadet (11.10.18).

Following the Armistice he returned to France and was appointed to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant (5.1.19) and Lieutenant (5.4.19).   He embarked for Australia on 29.5.19.

David BRUCE

David Bruce was born near Gathkin, Vic, on 14th November, 1887, the son of Mr David Bruce, a Grazier of Canary Island, near Pyramid Hill, Vic.   David Bruce the younger was a Clerk at Watsons Auctioneers in Bendigo and lived at 31 McKenzie Street, Bendigo.

Initially, David Bruce sought exemption from military service on the grounds of being an “only son” (October, 1916) and a certificate of exemption was issued.   He applied to enlist in the AIF on 28th November, 1917, in Pyramid Hill.    His application was forwarded to Melbourne for approval during January, 1918.   The application carried the handwritten note “he has special qualifications for ASC” and was signed by Lieut AAS Corps, 3rd MD.   Following his receipt of the letter of approval, David Bruce was able to enlist in the AIF, which he did on 28.2.18.   He was 30 years and 3 months old, 5’ 8” in height, with a sallow complexion, brown eyes and brown hair.

He attested in Melbourne on 9.3.18 and on 15.5.18 joined the Recruit Depot Battalion at Broadmeadows Camp.   He was appointed to the Australian Army Service Corps on 13.6.18 with Service No. 74790.   He was still at the Broadmeadows Depot when the war ended and was discharged from the army on 24.12.18.

William Ferguson BUCHAN

William Ferguson Buchan was born in Bendigo, the only son of William Ferguson and Annie Helen Buchan and the grandson of Mr & Mrs A Osborne of 171 Wattle St.     Known as ‘Bill’, he was a Plumber, having completed his apprenticeship with A Wilson of View St.    His mother was named as Next-of-Kin so it is possible that his father was deceased.

He enlisted on 14.7.15 aged 22 years and 2 months.    He was described as being 5’ 7¼ ” tall, with a fresh complexion, blue eyes and brown hair.    His initial training commenced on 31.7.15 when he entered the 16th Depot Battalion in Bendigo.     On 19.12.15 he was appointed to the 14th Reinforcements for the 7th Battalion and allotted Service No. 4445.   He embarked for overseas on 28.1.16.

On arrival in Egypt he was transferred to the 57th Battalion. (29.3.16)    This was a new battalion comprising half Gallipoli veterans and half fresh reinforcements from Australia.     He embarked for France on 17.6.16 and on 1.7.16 was appointed Machine Gunner.

The 57th Battalion participated in the Battle of Fromelles on 19 July, 1916. William Ferguson Buchan was Killed in Action on 21.7.16.

In a Letter dated 30th July 1916, Private Harold Dunn wrote: “We have been in the trenches for about 20 days, and things have been pretty lively . . . .  We have lost Bill Buchan and 2 others from our section.   Bill Buchan, being a reserve machine gunner, was called up at the last moment, and fell like a hero at his post . . . . ” [Bendigonian    5 Oct 1916]

He was buried in the Rue-Du-Bois Military Cemetery, Fleurbaix, France.   (Plot 1, Row B, Grave 1)   Fleurbaix is approx. 5k SW of Armentieres.

The inscription on his grave reads: “FAR FROM HIS LOVING ONES  BENEATH ARE THE EVERLASTING ARMS – MOTHER.”

Gunner WILLIAM F. BUCHAN

(Bartlett Bros. photo)

Bendigo Advertiser.   19 Sept 1916

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

Benjamin Milton CHALLEN

Benjamin Milton Challen was born in Bairnsdale, the son of Mr P. R. and Mrs Florence Challen.    The family had moved to Bendigo in time for him to attend the Central School in Bendigo.    His father, formerly Post Master of Bendigo, was now deceased, but his mother was still alive, and a sister, Mrs I Ingram, lived in Hargreaves St.   On his enlistment papers Benjamin Milton Challen signed his name ‘B Milton Challen’, so it seems probable that he was known as ‘Milton’.    He was a Dental Mechanic and was currently serving as a Signaller in the Light Horse.   He was the 3rd man to enlist from St John’s Presbyterian Church, Bendigo.

Benjamin Milton Challen enlisted in Bendigo on 19.10.14.     He was 21 years and 7 months old, 5’ 4” tall, with a fair complexion, grey eyes and black hair.    He was appointed Sapper and allotted Service No. 669.   He embarked for overseas on 25.2.15 with the 2nd Reinforcements for the 2nd Division Signal Company.

He embarked for Gallipoli with the 4th Infantry Brigade Signal Section on 5.4.15.   In a letter dated 26.4.15  he wrote:  “On Monday morning, April 26, the 14th Battalion, which was on our transport, was ordered ashore . . . . I was left on board to give a hand with the wounded and maintain communication with the shore”   [Bendigo Independent   14 June 1916]

In May he wrote to his sister: “This war has given me what I never had before – health.   I will never go back to indoor work, but am going fruit growing or mixed farming.   We are well fed on bacon, cheese, biscuits, bully beef and stew, and are all in first-class nick.”   Describing conditions at Anzac, he wrote: “We are being tested by the fires of hell.   Fear leaves you after the first hour under fire and you do not care what happens.    You hear the bullets singing round your head as you go out to mend the broken telephone wire.   You kneel down and do your job to the accompaniment of their whistling.   . . .   I am used a lot to carry despatches, and the ‘mighty atom’, as I have been nick-named, because of my height, is glad to be only an atom, at times.”    [Bendigo Advertiser. 14 July, 1915]

On 29.5.15 he disembarked at Alexandria, Egypt.   While in Egypt he attended a Signal School, re-joining his unit on 30.1.16.    The following month he was transferred to the 4th Division Signal Company.     In June he embarked for France, disembarking at Marseille on 8.6.16.

On 10.8.16 he was Wounded in Action during the battle of Pozieres.     He was admitted to hospital with Shell Shock in France and later transferred to hospital in England.    On discharge from hospital he was transferred to Signal School in England (2.9.16).

On 13.3.17 he was posted to No 49 Dental Unit, London, as Staff Sergeant.   In May he joined the 63rd Dental Unit.     A newspaper report stated: “    . . . . owing to ill health as the result of being gassed in 1916, is now on the staff of a dental hospital in England.”    [Bendigonian. 7 Feb 1918]

On 8.6.18 he was transferred to the 83rd Dental Unit.    He embarked for return to Australia on 2.1.19. During WW2 he served in the Citizen Military Forces with Service no V5939.

The Cox Brothers

James Albert, George Alexander and Thomas Alfred Cox were born in Charlton, Victoria, the sons of Thomas and Mrs Cox.   The family later moved to Bendigo, where they lived at 14 Nettle St Bendigo.

George Alexander COX

George Alexander Cox was the first of the brothers to enlist, and the only one to enlist in Charlton.   He volunteered for service on 26.2.15 aged 23 years and 1 month.   He was a Farmer and was described as being 5’ 4¾”in height, with a ruddy complexion, blue eyes and reddy brown hair.   He entered the Broadmeadows Training Depot on 6.3.15 and the following month was appointed to the 6th Reinforcements of the 7th Battalion.   On 17.6.15 he was transferred to the 7th Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion.    He embarked for service overseas on 16.7.15, with Service No. 2345.

On 12.8.15 he was diagnosed as suffering with “Diarrhoea” and was admitted to hospital in Malta.    He re-joined his unit at Anzac, but on 3rd October was again ill and was admitted to the Field Ambulance in Rest Gully.   He was discharged two days later.   In November, 1915, he was again admitted to hospital in Malta before being transferred to England.   On this occasion the diagnosis was Enteritis.    He re-joined the 8th Battalion in France on 8.8.16.

A note in his Service Record states that on 30th September, 1916, he was complimented by the Divisional Commander for his participation in a successful raid.     The 8th Battalion War Diary records that a Raiding Party had raided the enemy’s trench.    The raid had been a complete success and “the work of all ranks was o/a brilliant courageous nature.”    Congratulations had been received from Army Corps, Divisional and Brigade Commanders. [awm   8th Battalion War Diary   AWM4  23/25/21   September 1916]

On 11.5.17 George Alexander Cox was transferred to the 2nd Machine Gun Company.    During October he participated in The Battle of Broodseinde Ridge, Ypres, in Belgium, and was recommended for the Military Medal.

“This man was detailed as runner and guide.   He carried (?) parties under very heavy shell fire & (?) very willing volunteer for anything which put him into danger.   Owing to casualties he was put in charge of a gun, relieving an NCO, and showed great courage under shell fire refusing later to be relieved himself stating later that he felt quite ok.   His behaviour was exceptional throughout, he was on the line from 1st to 11th October taking part in the attack and was in great (?) throughout. [awm   Recommendation file for Honours and Awards.]

Note: the handwritten recommendation is difficult to decipher.

On 11.1.18 he was admitted to hospital in France suffering from Scabies, re-joining his unit after a stay of 5 days.   He was appointed Lance Corporal 1st Machine Gun Battalion on 12.3.18, Temporary Corporal on 19.5.18 and Corporal on 10.8.18.   In October he was admitted to hospital for a week suffering from Cellulitis in the hand. Following the Armistice he spent some months in England, during which time he was married to Florence Catherine McJanet, at the Congregational Chapel, Rectory Place, Woolwich. (13.2.19)     He embarked for return to Australia on 4.7.19.

Pte. George A. Cox

Bendigo Independent.   13 December 1915

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

 

James Albert COX

James Albert Cox was the oldest of the three Cox brothers, and the last to enlist.   He was a Farmer, like his younger brother, and enlisted in Bendigo on  3.4.16, aged 26 years and 7 months.   He was 5’ 3¼” tall, with a fresh complexion, grey eyes and fair hair.

He entered the 2nd Depot Battalion at Castlemaine on 22.6.16.  The official date of his commencement of service is 14.7.16, the date on which he was transferred to the Light Horse in Seymour.   On 25.7.16 he was appointed to the 23rd Reinforcements for the Light Horse and allotted Service No. 2603.   On 16.8.16 he was appointed to the 5th Reinforcements for the 2nd Pioneer Battalion.     He embarked for overseas on 18.9.16.

On 15.11.16 he reported at the Pioneer Training Battalion in England and embarked for France on 31.12.16.   He spent the first two months in Etaples and was taken on the strength of the 2nd Pioneers Battalion on 8.3.17.

On the 7th September, 1917, the battalion moved to the Ypres locality in Belgium, and began work on building and repairing the roads.    James Albert Cox was Wounded in Action on 24.9.17, sustaining shell wounds to his head, right arm, left forearm and both legs.   The wounds were severe and he had his left leg amputated above the knee.   He was transferred to hospital in England on 19.10.17. He embarked for return to Australia on 23.7.18, for discharge.

Thomas Alfred COX

Thomas Alfred Cox was the youngest of the three brothers and the second to enlist.   He was as Electrician, and 21 years and 5 months old when he enlisted in Melbourne on 2.10.15.   He was described as being  5’ 2” in  eight, with a medium complexion, brown eyes and dark hair.   He spent two months at 24 Depot, Royal Park, as a Sapper and then moved to 16 Depot Battalion in Bendigo  (2.12.15)      On 15.12.15 he was appointed to the 15th Reinforcements for the 2nd Field Company Engineers, with Service No. 6332.    He embarked for overseas on 21.3.16.

On 24.4.16 he disembarked at Alexandria, Egypt, and joined the Reinforcements at Tel-el-Kebir.     He embarked for France on 16.8.16 and joined 2nd Field Company Australian Engineers on 7.9.16.   During September,1916, whilst at Ypres in Belgium,  his foot was scratched by a shell fragment.   He carried on, but 3 weeks later the scratch became septic and he was admitted to hospital. (2.10.16.)    He was transferred to hospital in England on 8.10.16 with a diagnosis of Cellulitis in the Left foot, resulting from an accident.    He was discharged from hospital on 7.11.16 and sent to Australian Details No 3 Camp, Parkhouse.    He re-joined 2nd Field Company Engineers in France on 23.5.17.    On 1.11.17 he was appointed Lance Corporal.

The Armistice for the end of hostilities came on 11th November, 1918. On 10th January, 1919, Thomas Alfred Cox was admitted to hospital with Tonsillitis.   A  week later the diagnosis was altered to Scarlet Fever.   He was transferred to England and admitted to the King George Hospital in London (25.2.19) with a diagnosis of Cerebro Spinal Fever (i.e. Meningococcal Meningitis).   He embarked for Australia on 12.5.1

D. CUNDY

It has been difficult to find definitive evidence for this man.    He was possibly connected to the family of George Fredrick [sic] and Charlotte Cundy, of 244 Valentine St, Bendigo.   This family was definitely associated with St John’s Presbyterian Church.

In a search of Service Records only one reference to the initial “D” was found – William Dart Cundy, No. 5680 of the 48th Battalion.    He was born at Williamstown, S.A., the youngest son of John & Johanna Cundy.     William Dart Cundy was Killed in Action on 11.4.17 at Bullecourt, France.   He was 36 years old.

Note:   The Honor Roll was Unveiled on 6 October, 1918.   The name of “D Cundy” was one of three names added after this date.   William Dart Cundy was KIA  11.4.17, which fact would have been known prior to the unveiling, so it seems unlikely that it was his name that was recorded on the Honor Roll.

George Cedric CUNDY

George Cedric Cundy was born in Bendigo, the son of William Henry and Charlotte Cundy, of 244 Valentine St, Bendigo.   His father was a Geologist and Surveyor.     His mother died in September, 1916.

George Cedric Cundy enlisted in Bendigo on 17.1.1918.   As he was 18 years old the consent of his father was required in order for him to go on active service before the age of 19 years.     He was a Jackaroo, 5’ 4” tall, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and fair hair.

On 1.2.18 he was attached to the Recruit Battalion at Broadmeadows.   He was appointed to 1st Battalion Egyptian General Service on 19.2.18 and allotted Service No. 64184.    He passed the Riding Test for the Light Horse on 13.3.18 and stated his willingness to serve in Egypt.    He embarked for overseas on 14.9.18.

He disembarked at Suez, Egypt, on 19.10.18 and was taken on the strength of 8th Light Horse Regiment as Trooper on 14.11.18.   He embarked for return to Australia on 7.8.19.

Note:  National Archives Australia has him listed as George Fredrick Cundy.

His Service Record correctly identifies him as George Cedric Cundy.

James Robert CUNNINGHAM

Very few details are available for this man as his WW1 Service Record has been amalgamated with his WW2 Service Record and is not currently easy to access.

James Robert Cunningham was born in Pannoobamawm, via Rochester, Vic., the son of Thomas Cunningham.    He was a Grocer and aged 19 when he subscribed in Bendigo on 17.11.17.    He embarked for overseas on 28.2.1918 with Field Company Engineers, Special Draft Reinforcements, with Service No. 21589.   He was then appointed to 4th Field Company Engineers.   He embarked for return to Australia on 15.12.19.

After the war he served in the CMF as a Sergeant, no V17880, in 1 Aust BOD.   During WW2 he enlisted in the AIF, attesting in Maryborough on 11.8.41.   His Service No. was VX 126926.     He was 44 years of age, a Business Manager, and married to Jessie Cunningham.

Leslie Bryant DICKSON

Leslie Bryant Dickson was born in Camperdown, NSW, the son of Evan Ernest and S. J. Dickson of “Hazlemere”, 91 Wood St, Bendigo.   He enlisted in Melbourne on 10.8.16 at the age of 18.   Both parents gave consent to his enlistment.    Leslie Bryant was a Labourer, 5’ 4½” tall, with brown eyes and brown hair.

On 16.8.16 he was appointed to the 4th Reinforcements for the 38th Battalion, but was transferred to the 6th Reinforcements for the 60th Battalion on 25.9.16.   He embarked for overseas on 2.10.16 with Service No. 2667.

Disembarking in England he was sent to the 15th Training Battalion.    He embarked for France on 25.6.17 and joined the 60th Battalion on 20.7.17.

On 25.4.18 the 60th Battalion were at Villers Brettoneux.   The Germans had attacked on 24th April and captured the town, and the 60th Battalion participated in the counter-attack which retook the town.   Leslie Bryant Dickson was one of two men recommended for the Honour of Mention in Despatches (by Officer commanding 60th Bn), and Mention in Corps Orders (by Officer commanding 15th Infantry Brigade).

The recommendation stated “At Villers Bretonneux, east of Amiens, during the 25th/27th April, 1918, these men rendered valuable assistance and displayed conspicuous gallantry in carrying out their duties of Company Runners under heavy barrage and machine gun fire.   They were of the greatest assistance in maintaining communications and continued to perform all duties cheerfully and with the utmost disregard for danger.” [awm.   Recommendation File for Honours and Awards.]

He was transferred to the 59th Battalion on 25.9.18.    After the Armistice he was transferred to 5th Australian Division Train and appointed Driver. (12.1.19)   He embarked for Australia on 5.11.19.

Walter DON

Walter Don was born in Bendigo.   Both parents were deceased by the time he enlisted, and he named his sister Margaret Don, of Glenferrie, as his next-of-kin.    He enlisted in Melbourne on 22.2.16, at the age of 33 years and 2 months.   He was a Coach Builder and stated that he had previously been rejected for active service due to defective eye sight.   He was described as being 5’ 8¾” in height, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and black hair.

He entered the Reinforcement Camp and the following month was appointed Sapper (16.3.16).     He was promoted to Lance Corporal in May and appointed to 10th Field Company Engineers (29.5.1916) with Service No. 10195.   He embarked for overseas on 20.6.16. He disembarked in England and on 23.11.16 embarked for France.    He was Wounded in Action on 4.1.17 but remained on duty.    At this time the 10th Field Company Engineers were engaged in mining, repairs and maintenance in the front line at Houplines.    He was wounded for the 2nd time on 7.6.17 while 10th Field Company Engineers were at Ploegsteert Wood in Belgium.   He re-joined his unit on 17.6.17.

On 11.9.17 he was admitted to hospital in France suffering from pain resultant from an old injury, a fractured bone in his right hip.    He was sent to hospital in England, where he was diagnosed with Chronic Osteo Arthritis Right Hip.   He embarked for Australia on 10.1.18.

Andrew Thomas ENEVER

Andrew Thomas Enever was aged 18 years and 1 month when he enlisted for Service on 5.8.15.    Born in Bendigo, he was the son of Donald Enever, of 7 Langston Street, Bendigo, and was employed at the Electrical Supply Co.   On enlistment he was described as being 6’ 1”tall, with a fair complexion, brown eyes and fair hair.   He was given Service No. 10403 and appointed to B Company, 12th Battalion.    On 11.11.15 he was appointed to the 2nd Reinforcements for 4th Field Artillery as a Gunner.

He returned to Bendigo in January, 1916, on final leave, and his parents presented him with a handsome leather wallet, the presentation being made at the conclusion of an evening service at St. John’s Presbyterian Church.    He embarked for overseas on 5.1.16.

In Egypt he joined the 2nd Division Ammunition Column, but soon after became ill with enteric fever and spent two months in hospital.    He spent the remainder of the year in England. He embarked for France in March, 1917, and was posted to the 113th Battery on 5.4.17 as a Driver.    He embarked for Return to Australia on 15.5.19.

Oscar Thomas FLIGHT

Oscar Thomas Flight was born in Bendigo, the son of Oscar G C Flight, the well-known musician and bandmaster of the Bendigo Citizens’ Band.    The family lived at 253 Mitchell St, Bendigo.     Oscar Thomas Flight was a student at Melbourne University, studying Civil Engineering.     He enlisted in Melbourne on 2.8.15, aged 20 years and 5 months.   He was 5’ 8” tall, with a sallow complexion, brown eyes and black hair.     On 20.11.15 he was appointed to 5th Field Company Engineers as a Sapper with Service No. 3018.    He embarked for overseas on 23.11.15.

He embarked for France from Alexandria, Egypt, on 17.3.16.   On 10.5.17 he was promoted to Lance Corporal.   He transferred to the Australian Flying Corps with the rank of 2/am, entering the AFC Training Depot on 7.9.17.   On 30.10.17 he was attached to 29th Training Squadron and was transferred to 28th Training Squadron in December.   Having graduated, he was appointed as Flying Officer (Pilot) to be 2nd Lieutenant. (22.1.18)    He departed for France on 27.2.18 and, on 1.3.18, joined 2nd squadron Australian Flying Corps.

On 28.3.18 he was reported as “Missing”.    He was later known to have been captured. “A ‘circus’ of 7 German aviators, swooping suddenly ‘out of the blue’ upon the aeroplane driven by Lieut Oscar Flight of Bendigo had him at a disadvantage right from the onset and eventually was the means of his being taken prisoner.   Lieut Flight was attached to a scouting party in France . . .  Had left the aerodrome on a reconnoitring cruise with 3 companions, all in E5 single man scouting machines.   The quartet flew into thick, heavy, cloud masses and Oscar lost his mates.   Was speeding . . .  over enemy territory when suddenly he was attacked from above by a flotilla of 7 German aeroplanes.   They circled around him like hawks above him, peppering him with their Machine guns and gradually forcing him lower and lower and all the time damaging the machine.   The supports were finally shot away and shattered and splintered, his aeroplane fell headlong to earth behind the German lines.   With the greatest good luck, Lieut Flight escaped without serious injury, but was bruised, cut and badly shaken, and was made a prisoner.” [Bendigo Advertiser.   8 August 1918]

He became a POW in Karlsbruhe Camp, Germany, where he remained a prisoner until 13.12.18 when he was released and repatriated to England. On 31.1.19 he was promoted to Lieutenant and was attached to the overseas Training Brigade.   He embarked for Australia on 19.2.19.

George Ross FREEMAN

George Ross Freeman was born in Bendigo, the son of Mr G H Freeman of the Bendigo High School Staff.   The family lived at 64 Barkly Place, Bendigo.      Known as “Ross”, his name was incorrectly recorded as “Freeman, G. K” on the St John’s Honour Roll.      Having completed his education at the Bendigo High School he passed the Public Service Examination and was subsequently employed at the Clerk of Petty Sessions office in Prahran.

In his Journal, George Ross Freeman recorded: “When war was declared in August 1914 I immediately presented myself as a volunteer at the Prahran Drill Hall and was there informed that the minimum age was 19.   I being at that time barely more than 17 I was not eligible so had to curb my impatience.   Shortly afterwards the age was reduced to 18 and I tried again, stating that I was over that age.   This time I was rejected on account of chest measurement being too small. ”

He was transferred to Bendigo in November, 1914, and was employed as a junior Clerk in the Clerk of Courts Office.     He volunteered for service on 22.4.15, the same day as Angus Mackay from Bendigo.    The two men would later enter Signal School together, and be appointed as signallers to the same unit.   When he enlisted George Ross Freeman was aged 18 years and 8 months, and was described as being 5’ 10” in height, with a fair complexion, grey eyes and “medium” hair. He was farewelled by the magistrates and court officials on 22nd April, 1915.

“I was sworn in by Mr E. M. Moore P.M. who made a very nice speech from the bench and I was presented with a case of pipes, on behalf of the bench.   We left for Melbourne that night.” (G. R. Freeman: Journal.)

On 30.4.15 he entered Signal School.    He was appointed to the 7th Reinforcements for the 5th Battalion on 4.7.15 .    The date of the official commencement of his service is given as 7.7.15, the date of attesting at Seymour.    He embarked for overseas on 16.7.15 with Service No. 2485. He joined the 5th Battalion in camp at Lemnos on 3.11.15.   The battalion had been withdrawn from Anzac for a period of rest.     His journal entry for this date records “(We) went along to see the Sig officer and he is going to fit us into the sigs straight away.” The battalion left Lemnos on 14.11.15, and landed at Anzac on 16.11.15.    They moved into the front line the following day.

In his journal George Ross Freeman wrote that he was suffering from dysentery (29.11.15) and that the dysentery was still pretty bad when they were relieved on 18.12.15 and evacuated from Anzac.     After a spell on Lemnos the battalion embarked for Egypt. During February the Australian force was re-organized, with the addition of new battalions.   Each new battalion comprised half Gallipoli veterans, and half fresh reinforcements from Australia.    George Ross Freeman was one of the core of veterans to transfer from the 5th Battalion to the newly formed 57th Battalion. (17.2.16)    He was admitted to hospital on 12.4.16, suffering from Dysentery, and re-joined his unit on 20.4.16.   The battalion embarked for France on 17.6.16.

The 57th Battalion participated in the Battle of Fromelles on 19 July 1916.     On August 19th the battalion was in the front line at Rue-Du-Bois, near Fleurbaix,  when Angus Mackay was Killed in Action.    ‘Ross’ Freeman wrote to Mr Mackay in Bendigo telling him the details of his son’s death.

George Ross Freeman was admitted to hospital on 17.10.16, suffering from Diarrhoea.  He was transferred to hospital in England (11.11.16) where the diagnosis was given as Paratyphoid.    Whilst in England he was transferred to 65th Battalion (5.2.17) and transferred once again to 57th Battalion. (7.10.17)   He spent this period in various training camps waiting to be drafted for overseas.    He embarked for France on 12.12.17. He embarked for return to Australia on 21.3.19.

George Ross Freeman

Image courtesy of Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum, Bendigo

 

 

 

Arthur John GALL

Arthur John Gall was born in Bendigo, the son of William Gall of 26 Barkly Street, Bendigo.    He was a Dentist, and held the LDS Vic diploma.    He had previously completed his apprenticeship with J K Knight of Bendigo.   He enlisted for service on 1.2.16, aged 30 years and 4 months and was appointed to the Australian Army Dental Corps.   He entered the Claremont Military Camp in Southern Tasmania.     On 21.6.16 he applied for a Commission, stating that he had served 3 months in the AIF holding the rank of Sergeant.     He was promoted to Lieutenant on 1.9.16.   He embarked for overseas with the Dental Details on 9.9.16.

He disembarked in England, and on 14.10.16 was transferred to 1st Australian Dermatological Hospital.     On 1.12.17 he was promoted Captain.    He embarked for France on 4.4.18 and on 2.5.18 was appointed to Australian No. 24 Dental Unit (7th Field Ambulance). Following the Armistice he embarked for duty in England.   On 9.4.19 he embarked for return to Australia via America, travelling at his own expense, in order to attend a refresher course at the School of Dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania

SGT A. J. GALL

Dental Corps at Claremont Military Camp.

Tasmanian Weekly Courier, 6th July, 1916.

(Ref.    Discovering Anzacs.)

 

Hugh George GLENN

Hugh George Glenn was born in Bendigo, the son of Mrs Letitia Glenn.   He enlisted in Ipswich, Queensland, on 24.8.1914, aged 28 years and 6 months.   He was an Engine Fitter, 5’ 11¼” in height, with a fresh complexion, blue eyes and fair hair.    His signature on his Service Records is “Glenn” but his surname was misspelt on the Roll of Honor.    He was appointed to the 2nd Australian Light Horse Regiment and allotted Service No. 153.    He embarked for overseas on 24.9.14. He landed at Anzac on 9.5.15.    The Regiment moved into action at Quinn’s Post on 13.5.15 and then to Pope’s Post. (26.5.15)   Hugh George Glenn was wounded on 30.5.15, sustaining a Bomb wound to his right thigh.    He was admitted to hospital in Malta.   He returned to Anzac on 19.7.15.

On 31.8.15, suffering from Dysentery, he was again under medical care.   He was sent to Egypt and admitted to hospital in Heliopolis.   The Medical Report stated “admitted to this hospital on 5.9.15 suffering from an obscure febrile attack, 10 days later he developed pneumonia.”    He was reported as dangerously ill on 20.9.15. On 11.11.15 he embarked for Australia for a 3 months Change due to Debility following Pneumonia.     In June the following year he was discharged from the AIF as “permanently unfit.”

H. G. Glen

Pictorial Supplement to the Queenslander.

3 July 1915.

(Ref.   Discovering Anzacs. )

 

George A. HERSCHELL

George A. Herschell was born in Bendigo, the son of Richard Herschell of 72 Forest St.  Before retirement his father had a boot store in View St.    George Herschell was a Salesman, living at 69 Auburn Rd, Hawthorn.   His previous military service had been as a Bugler, 5 years with 4th Battalion, 1st Brigade Infantry (1896-1901) and thereafter 4 months with 2nd Comm Horse, and 5 months with Vic Scot Regiment as Sgt Bugler.

George A. Herschell enlisted for service on 19 August, 1914, and was therefore one of the earliest to enlist.   He was 31 years and 4 months old, 5’ 7” tall, with a florid complexion, grey eyes and light brown hair.   On 8.9.14 he was appointed to 5th Battery Australian Field Artillery Brigade as a Trumpeter and allotted Service No.831.   He embarked for overseas on 20.10.14.

He embarked for Gallipoli on 8.4.15 and served at Anzac until the evacuation.   In Egypt he was transferred to Brigade Headquarters at Tel-el-Kebir (22.2.16).   He was mustered as a Gunner on 11.3.16 and embarked for France on 22.3.16. He was admitted to hospital with Scabies on 1.9.16 and re-joined his unit on 23.9.16.   On 31.1.17 he was attached to Headquarters 1st Aust Division Artillery, re-joining his unit on 20.3.17.   He was appointed acting Bombardier on 14.9.17, and promoted to Bombardier on 30.9.17. He embarked for return to Australia on 24.9.18 on Special 1914 Leave. (i.e. Leave given to men who had enlisted during 1914)

Roy HILLIER

Roy Hillier was born in Bendigo.   He was a Miner, and had attended the Violet Street School and the School of Mines.   On his Service papers he listed his grandmother, Mrs Isabella Hillier, of 164 Inglewood Rd, Bendigo, as his next-of-kin.    He had completed 3 years’ previous service with the AAMC, 17th Brigade (CMF).

He enlisted in Bendigo on 7.9.15, aged 21 years and 6 months.    He was 5’ 5” in height, with a fair complexion, grey eyes and red hair.   On 19.10.15 he joined the Australian Army Medical Corps at Ascot Vale and was issued with Service No. 14809.     He was transferred to the Clearing Hospital at Broadmeadows on 1.6.16 and embarked for overseas with the Army Medical Corps Details on 25.9.16.

He disembarked in England and was attached to AAMC No. 2 Depot at Parkhouse on 14.11.16.   On 15.6.17 he embarked for France and joined No. 10 Field Ambulance (29.6.17).      He was Wounded in Action on 20.5.18, sustaining a Bomb wound to his left leg.   The entry in the unit War Diary noted:  “As a result of bombs dropped by hostile aeroplane about 10 pm in vicinity of old aerodrome Allonville.”      He was taken to the Casualty Clearing Station and then transferred to hospital in England.   He re-joined his unit in France on 3.12.18.

After the Armistice he was diagnosed with Bronchitis and admitted to hospital in England. (9.3.19)    He embarked for return to Australia on 12.5.19.

Private Roy Hillier

Bendigo Independent  15 June 1918

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

 

THE HINDLEY BROTHERS

Harold, John James and Francis Grant Hindley were the sons of John and Margaret Hindley.   The family had emigrated from Liverpool, England, and settled at Coleraine, in the district of Hamilton.    By 1914 John and Margaret Hindley were living in Boort, where John worked as a Draper.

Francis Grant HINDLEY

Known as “Frank”, Francis Grant Hindley was the first man to enlist from St John’s Presbyterian Church, Bendigo.   He was also amongst the first men to enlist in Bendigo, enlisting on the first official date of 18th August, 1914.   The youngest of the three brothers, Frank had been born in Hamilton.   At the start of the war he was employed as a Mechanic, and lived with his sister, Mrs T. W. Griffiths, at ‘Ivanhoe’ Mitchell St, Bendigo.   He was 19 years and 6 months old, 5’ 8” tall, with a dark complexion, hazel eyes and brown hair.   He was appointed to the 7th Battalion, and allocated Service No. 790.   He embarked for overseas on 19.10.14.

The battalion disembarked in Egypt for a further period of training and then embarked for Gallipoli.   Francis Grant Hindley was with the Machine Gun Section of 7th Battalion when it participated in the Landing at Anzac Cove on 25.4.15.    He was wounded on 6.7.15, while the battalion was in the trenches at Steele’s Post.    Sustaining Shock Concussion he was admitted to hospital in Lemnos and then in Malta.   He was also suffering from influenza and piles.    He was discharged from hospital and entered the overseas base in Cairo on 28.11.15.    He was not present during the evacuation of Anzac, and re-joined the battalion in Egypt on 9.1.16.

During February, 1916, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps was re-organized.   A new Division was formed, with each battalion containing a ‘core’ of veterans.    ‘Frank’ was one of the veterans transferred to the newly formed 59th Battalion. (24.2.16)     He embarked for France on 24.6.16. On 23.7.16 he was transferred to the 58th Battalion.   He was appointed Acting Sergeant on 1.4.17, promoted Sergeant on 20. 6.17, and on 5.8.17 reverted to Private at his own request.   He was appointed Lance Corporal on 15.9.17. He embarked for Australia on 5.4.18 on Furlough (i.e. Special 1914 Leave) and was then discharged Medically Unfit, with Haemorrhoid.

 

Francis Grant Hindley

Image courtesy of Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum, Bendigo

 

 

 

 

 

Harold HINDLEY

Harold Hindley was born in Liverpool, England, the oldest of the three brothers.     He was a Railway Employee, and enlisted in Melbourne on 8.7.15.    He was 30 years and 8 months old, 5’ 8” tall, with a sallow complexion, brown eyes and brown hair.   He was initially appointed to the 9th Reinforcements for the 22nd Battalion (21.7.15) but two weeks later was appointed to the 8th Reinforcements for the 5th Battalion.    He embarked for overseas on 8.10.15 with Service No. 2570. He joined the 5th Battalion on the Gallipoli Peninsula on 7.12.15, just prior to the evacuation.     The battalion embarked for Lemnos, then moved to Egypt in January, 1916.

Harold disembarked in France on 30.3.16.    On 16.8.16 the 5th battalion was in the Forward Line Trenches at Pozieres when Harold Hindley was wounded.   He sustained a severe Gun Shot Wound in his thigh, and shell contusion to his back and shoulder.   He was discharged from hospital on 21.10.16 and transferred to the Convalescent Centre at Weymouth, England.    On 28.3.17 he was attached for duty with 1st Australian Dermatological Hospital at Bulford.

He was later diagnosed with Contracture of Great Toe and Neurosis and sent back to Australia for discharge as medically unfit.   He embarked for Australia on 19.10.18.

Harold Hindley

Image courtesy of Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum, Bendigo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

John James HINDLEY

Known as ‘Jack’, John James Hindley was born at Coleraine, in the district of Hamilton, Vic.   He was variously described as Laborer (Service Record) or Cloth Merchant   (German Death Certificate).    He enlisted in Melbourne on 2.7.15 aged 26 years and 9 months.   He was described as being 5’ 10” in height, with a sallow complexion, hazel eyes and brownish red hair.     On 9.7.15 he was appointed to the 9th Reinforcements for the 21st Battalion and assigned Service No. 2747.   He embarked for overseas on 2.8.15.

On 8.9.15 he was transferred to the 8th Reinforcements for the 14th Battalion and joined the battalion at Gallipoli on 13.11.15.    He participated in the evacuation of the Gallipoli Peninsula during December 1915 but soon after was admitted to hospital in Lemnos suffering from influenza.      He embarked with the battalion for Egypt.    On 7.4.16 he was transferred to the 4th Infantry Brigade Machine Gun Company.    He embarked for France in June 1916.

His unit participated in the 1st Battle of Bullecourt which commenced on April 10, 1917.    The Australian 4th Division breached the German Hindenburg Line during the battle, but had been left isolated and over 1,000 men were captured.    John James Hindley was reported as Wounded and Missing on 11th April.   The report was later amended to state that he had been captured at Reincourt.  (i.e. NE of Bullecourt, behind the Hindenburg Line.)    He was interned at Dulmen, a town in the district of Coesfeld, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.    He was wounded in his left arm and had also sustained a bullet wound in his left leg.    He was admitted to the prison hospital on 25.4.17.   His left arm was subsequently amputated. He died on 6.5.17 whilst a Prisoner of War.   The German Death Certificate stated the cause of death to be “Gun Shot Wound left upper arm and exhaustion.”    He was initially buried in the Dulmen POW Cemetery, but his body was later re-interred in the Cologne South Cemetery.  (Plot 10   Row C   Grave 1)

The inscription on his gravestone reads: “HE HELPED TO GIVE AUSTRALIA A NEVER-DYING NAME”

 

John James Hindley

Image courtesy of Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum. Bendigo.

 

 

Joseph Ezekiel JUDD

Known as ‘Joe’, Joseph Ezekiel Judd was born in Charlton, the only son of Peter Judd.    The family later moved to Bendigo and lived at 78 Olinda Street.   Joseph Ezekiel attended the Quarry Hill School, and was later employed in the grocery department of the Bendigo Co-operative Distribution Society.   He enlisted in Bendigo on 22.2.16, aged 19.   He was 5’ 6” in height, with a fresh complexion, light brown eyes and light brown hair.   He was appointed to the 38th Battalion on 9.3.16, allotted Service No. 309, and sent to the Bendigo Camp where he qualified as a Sniper.

On leaving to go into camp he had been presented with a pocket wallet from the members of the Bendigo Co-operative Distribution Society.    Then, in May, he was farewelled by his friends who had gathered at Brady’s Arcade Hotel, to wish him Godspeed.   He was presented with a military wristlet watch on behalf of the gentlemen and a safety razor from the ladies.    He embarked for overseas on 20.6.16.

Disembarking in England he joined the 38th Training Battalion, and embarked for France on 22.11.16.     He was wounded on 11.1.17, sustaining a Gun Shot wound to the left cheek.    He re-joined the battalion on 16.1.17.

The 38th Battalion participated in the Battle of Messines in Belgium, 7-9 June 1917.   The Battalion War Diary reported that the Northern Offensive began at 3.10 a.m. on 7.6.17.    The battalion was “much hampered by enemy gas shells” and the men left the trenches wearing gas masks.    On 8.6.17 Joseph Ezekiel Judd was wounded for the 2nd time, sustaining shell wounds in the face, chest, thigh and foot.     The severity of his leg wound resulted in amputation of the right thigh.   He was sent to hospital in England on 9.9.17.

On 16.7.18 an ophthalmic surgeon advised that he undergo an immediate enucleation of the eye. (i.e. removal of the eye)   A note on his Service Record reports “Patient was unwilling to have this done and preferred to embark w/o having the operation.”     He embarked for Australia on 23.7.18.

Private J. Judd

(Bartlett Brows., photo)

Bendigo Independent .  6 August 1917

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper

 

Francis Louis KELLY

Known as ‘Frank’, Francis Louis Kelly was born in Berwick, Vic, the son of Francis William and Elsie Kelly.    The family later moved to Bendigo, where they lived at 232 Valentine St.   Francis Louis was educated at the Grammar School and the School of Mines, Bendigo.    He was employed as a Bank Clerk with the Bank of NSW.

He enlisted in Bendigo on July 17, 1915, aged 21 years and 11 months.   He was described as being 5’ 7½” tall, with a fresh complexion, brown eyes and brown hair.    He subscribed at Broadmeadows on 1st November, 1915, and was appointed to 16th Depot Battalion, with Service No. 3802.    On 29.2.16 he was transferred to No. 5 Tunnelling Corps.    He embarked for overseas on 25.5.16, with the rank of Staff Sergeant, (Acting) Quarter Master Sergeant.

When he enlisted he was not married and named his father as next-of-kin.   This was amended before he embarked to name his Wife, Mrs Eileen G Kelly, of 83 Wills St Bendigo.

He embarked for France on 28.8.16, and joined the 2nd Tunnelling Company.   In April, 1917, he was transferred to Base Depot, (1st Division HQ), and was promoted to Temporary Regimental QM Sgt in July.     On 15.12.17 he embarked for England having been diagnosed with flat feet.   On the same date he reverted to the rank of S/Sgt.    He embarked for Australia on 30.1.18 to be discharged Medically Unfit.  (Flat Feet)

Francis Louis Kelly

(Ref.  Discovering Anzacs

Uploaded by Grave Secrets.)

 

 

 

 

 

The KINGSLEY BROTHERS

Claude George and Gordon Stanley Kingsley were born in Bendigo, the sons of George Kingsley, Manager of the Central Red White and Blue Mine.   Their mother was deceased.    The family lived at 364 Barnard St, Bendigo.

Claude George KINGSLEY

Claude George Kingsley was the eldest son in the family.   He was educated at the Violet Street State School and the School of Mines, and was employed as a Blacksmith at the Central Red White and Blue Mine.

He was among the first men to enlist in Bendigo, enlisting on the first official date of 18th August, 1914.    On the same night he was entertained by members of the Students’ Club, Bendigo School of Mines.   Aged 19 years and 8 months, he was 5’ 4” tall with a ruddy complexion, brown eyes and red hair.   He arrived at the Broadmeadows Camp on 19.8.14 and was appointed to the 7th Battalion with Service No. 799.    He embarked for overseas on 19.10.14.

The battalion disembarked in Egypt and spent the next few months in training.  Claude George Kingsley participated in the Landing at Anzac Cove on 25th April, 1915.    He was wounded during the following day, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his left hand.   In a letter to his father he wrote that a bullet had entered the top of his wrist coming out near his little finger.

In a later letter, he wrote: “I was only there 48 hours, but I saw enough to last me 100 years.   You can never thank the lads enough, and no one can describe what being under fire is like.   It is too awful.”    [Bendigonian. Sept 16, 1915]

He was admitted to hospital and later transferred to England.     Discharged from hospital he was appointed to the office of the Defence Department, London.  (18.1.16)       He was promoted to the rank of Corporal on 1.5.16 and joined the Australian Postal Corps in London on 25.5.16.    He arrived at the Infantry Drafting Depot on 22.2.17 and was appointed Acting Sergeant.    Reverting to the rank of Corporal, he embarked for France on 21.6.17, re-joining the 7th Battalion on 14.7.17.

Claude George Kingsley was Wounded for the 2nd occasion on 21.9.17, during the Battle at Menin Road in Belgium.    He sustained a Gun Shot Wound to his right shoulder and was sent to hospital in England.   He re-joined the battalion in France on 9.1.18.    During May, 1918, he was admitted to hospital suffering from Pyrexia of Unknown Origin.  (i.e. Fever)   He was promoted to the rank of Temporary Sergeant on 25.6.18.

On 1.7.18 the 7th Battalion was in the front line at Moolenacker when Claude George Kingsley was Wounded in Action for the 3rd occasion, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his right forearm.    He was admitted to hospital, where the wound was described as severe.    Assessed as Medically Unfit, he embarked for Australia on 20.11.18.

 

PTE C. G. KINGSLEY,

of Bendigo

Bendigo Independent.    20 May 1915

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

 

 

Gordon Stanley KINGSLEY

Gordon Stanley Kingsley was 18 years of age when he enlisted in Melbourne on 4.9.16.    Employed as a Porter with the Victorian Railways, based at Harcourt Railway Station, he was described as being 5’ 5¾” in height, with a medium complexion, brown eyes and brown hair.   He spent his initial two weeks in camp with C Company Reserves, and was then appointed to the 4th Reinforcements for the 38th Battalion.    On 25.9.16 he was transferred to the 6th Reinforcements for the 60th Battalion.    He embarked for overseas on 2.10.16 with Service No. 2704.

Disembarking in England he was attached to the Australian Army Postal Corps. (27.12.16)     He was detached from duty with the Postal Corps on 19.4.17 and embarked for France on 14.5.17.    He joined the 60th Battalion and, at the end of June, was selected to attend a Pigeon course.    In July he attended the Army Sniping School.    On 29.9.17 he was admitted to hospital suffering from Scabies, re-joining the battalion on 4.10.17.    On 21.11.17 he was again admitted to hospital with Scabies, re-joining the battalion on 2.12.17.

On 4.4.18 the 60th Battalion went into the line near Corbie.    On 8.4.18 the Battalion War Diary recorded “The weather is still wet.   It has rained practically the whole time since we came into the line.”   On the same day Gordon Stanley Kingsley was sent to hospital in France.    In a cable sent to their father, his brother Claude reported that Gordon was in hospital suffering from gas and trench fever.

He was discharged from hospital to the Australian Infantry Base Depot on 9.5.18.    On 19.5.18 he was transferred to 3rd Australian General Hospital, re-joining the 60th Battalion on 20.8.18.     On 25.9.18 he was transferred to the 59th Battalion.       He embarked for return to Australia on 2.7.19.

 William Eric LEWIS

William Eric Lewis was born in Bendigo, the son of Mr W. W. Lewis.   His mother was deceased and his aunt, Miss Jean McDonald, had joined the family at 122 Queen St, Bendigo.    On 29.8.16 William Eric Lewis applied to enlist in Bendigo.   He was 18 years old and still a student.   His application was rejected on medical examination, his chest measurement being under the required standard.   He re-applied and attested on 13.3.17 in South Melbourne.    Stating his age to be 18 years and 3 months, he was employed as a Clerk and living with his sister Nessie at 70 Moubray St, Albert Park.    He was 5’ 6” tall, with a fresh complexion, brown eyes and dark brown hair.

He joined the Recruit Battalion at Royal Park on 19.3.17, and was sent to the 1st Depot Battalion at Seymour on 30.4.17.   On 21.5.17 he attended the AIF Signal School and, on 1.8.17, was appointed to the 25th Signal Company, 2nd Division, as Sapper with Service No. 19114.    He embarked for overseas on 4.8.17. He disembarked in England and arrived at the 2nd Division Signal Company at Parkhouse on 3.10.17.    On 5.11.17 he moved to the English Training Depot Signal Section at Shefford.   He embarked for France on 3.3.18.

In France he was posted to the 3rd Army Brigade Australian Field Artillery as Signaller. (22.3.18)    After the Armistice he was detached to the Australian Corps Signal Company. (24.3.19)     He embarked for return to Australia on 18.7.19.

Arthur John LOADER

It has been difficult to find definitive proof of the man listed on the Roll of Honor as ‘A. Loader’.    His name was added to the Roll after the official unveiling in October, 1918, so it appears likely that it was submitted by a Bendigo relative.     The name ‘Loader’ appears on the Bendigo Electoral Roll for the war years.’

Arthur John Loader was born in Bendigo.     He was a married man and lived with his wife Christian at Railway Street, Kyabram.   He enlisted in Melbourne on 25.2.16 at the age of 29 years and 7 months.   He was a Blacksmith, 5’ 6” tall, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and light brown hair.   He joined the 22nd Training Battalion on 28.3.16.   On 28.4.16 he was appointed to the 18th Reinforcements for the 7th Battalion and allotted Service No. 5710.    He embarked for overseas on 3.7.16.

Disembarking in England, he joined the 2nd Training Battalion. (2.9.16)     He embarked for France on 22.10.16.    After some time spent at the Base Depot he arrived at the 7th Battalion. (7.2.17)

On 16.4.17 the battalion moved forward to the front line at Beaumetz.   Arthur John Loader was wounded during the relief, sustaining a shell wound to his face.    He was discharged from hospital on 12.8.17 and re-joined the 7th Battalion on 27.8.17.

On 4.10.17 the Battle of Broodseinde began in Belgium.   On 5.10.17 Arthur John Loader was Wounded in Action for the 2nd occasion, sustaining shell shock.    He was admitted to the Field Ambulance with shell concussion and later transferred to hospital in England with a diagnosis of “debility”.   He was discharged from hospital on 15.11.17.      He embarked for Australia on 25.1.19

William LOVE

William Love was born at Fordell in Fife, Scotland, the son of Henry and Euphemia Love.   By profession he was a Soldier, having previously served for 21 years with the Black Watch in Scotland.   In Australia he served as Company Sergeant Major with the Instructional Staff of the Citizen Military Forces until granted permission to enlist in the AIF.    He enlisted in Melbourne on 16.8.17.    Aged 42 years and 4 months, he was 5’ 8¼” in height with a medium complexion, hazel eyes and black to grey hair.    He was a married man, and lived with his wife Margaret at 321 View St., Bendigo.

At Broadmeadows Camp he was appointed Company Sergeant Major of the 2nd Depot Battalion, then appointed to the 1st Depot Battalion in September.   He was appointed to the 20th Reinforcements for the 24th Battalion on 13.11.17, the official date given for his commencement of service.    He embarked for overseas on 21.11.17 with Service No. 6831.

Upon arrival in England he was posted to the 6th Training Battalion.   He embarked for France on 7.4.18 and joined the 24th Battalion, at which time his Service No. was extended to 6831A.  (15.4.18)

William Love was Killed in Action on 31.8.18, the result of Shell concussion.   The Battalion War Diary noted that it had previously been reported that Mont St Quentin had been captured.   The Battalion started to move forward, but was shelled fairly heavily as Mont St Quentin was still in enemy hands.

William Love was buried in the Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France.   [V  J  5 ]        He was 43 years old.   The inscription on his gravestone reads:

“HE GAVE HIS LIFE, HIS ALL HE LIKE A SOLDIER FELL OUR DEAR DADDY”

Sergeant-Major W. LOVE

Bendigo Advertiser   25 September 1918

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)\

 

 

Archibald McALPINE

Archibald McAlpine was the son of Mr & Mrs McAlpine, of 225 Charles St, Elsternwick, Vic.   He was the brother of Mrs J. Y. Hope of Bendigo.   No other Bendigo connection has been found. He served in the 2nd Battalion of the Otago Regiment, N.Z.E.F., with Service No. 11315.

Archibald McAlpine Died of Wounds on 2.10.16 at the age of 31.    He was buried in Grave V B 40  at Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt-L’Abbe, France.

Newspapers in Bendigo published the following notice: ‘On the 2nd October, died from wounds received in action in France, Archibald Hugh, aged 32, of New Zealand Expeditionary Forces, second son of J. H. and M. A. M’Alpine, 22 Charles-street, Elsternwick, loving brother of Ronald, Mrs Hands (Dandenong), Percy E.A. McAlpine, Mrs Gamble (Elsternwick), Mrs C Wilson (Harcourt), and Mrs J. Y. Hope (of Bendigo).

“He rose responsive to the Empire’s call, And gave his strength, his life, his all.”’ [Bendigonian, 19 October, 1916]

John Crowle McLEOD

The entry ‘J. McLeod’ on the Roll of Honor possibly refers to John Crowle McLeod.    Other than his Birth no link to Bendigo has been discovered.     John Crowle McLeod was born in Bendigo, the son of Mr J McLeod, who lived in East Brunswick, Vic.

John Crowle McLeod volunteered for service on 22.6.15 in Bacchus Marsh.    He enlisted in Melbourne on 12.7.15.    He was a Line Foreman, 29 years and 2 months old, over 6’ in height, with a dark complexion, brown eyes and black hair.   He entered the Depot on 19.7.15 and on 3.8.15 was appointed to the  5th reinforcements of the 22nd Battalion and allotted Service Number 2348.   He embarked for overseas on 29.9.15.

On 8.1.16 he joined the 22nd Battalion in France, and on 8.2.16 was appointed temporary Corporal.    On 29.6.16 he took part in a successful raid on enemy trenches at the Bois Grenadier Firing Line.

On 4.8.16 the Battalion received orders to attack at Pozieres.   The Battalion moved forward and gained their objective.     The position was consolidated and the trenches were defensible by dawn the following morning.   The Battle of Pozieres Ridge continued on 5.8.16.   The enemy counter-attacked and were driven out, followed by continual small bombing attacks.    John Crowle McLeod was Wounded in Action during the day, sustaining severe Gun Shot Wounds to his head and chest, wounds that included a fractured Parietal Bone.   He was sent to hospital in England.     He embarked for Australia on 12.11.16, classified Medically Unfit.

William Alexander McROBERT

William Alexander McRobert was born in Shelbourne, Vic, the son of William Graham McRobert, of 154 Myrtle St, Bendigo.   William Alexander was a Furrier, although he is also listed as an Overseer.    He volunteered in Bendigo on 29.4.18 aged 21 years and 2 months.   He was 5’ 10½”tall, with a medium complexion, blue eyes and dark hair.    He joined the Recruit Depot Battalion at Broadmeadows and his service commenced officially on 1.5.18.    While at Broadmeadows he passed the Riding Test for the Light Horse and volunteered to serve in Egypt.   He was appointed to the 7th Egyptian General Service Reinforcements with Service No. 64831.    He embarked for overseas on 16.10.18.

He disembarked in Suez, Egypt, on 22.11.18 and was appointed to the 4th Light Horse Regiment on 4.1.19.     Shortly afterwards he was transferred to the 20th Australian Provost Corps and attached for guard duty at Moascar (7.1.18).    He was admitted to hospital on 9.2.19 with Tonsillitis and Diptheria, and discharged on 20.2.19.     On 19.4.19 he was again admitted to hospital with Tonsillitis, being discharged on 30.4.19.   He returned to the 4th Light Horse Regiment on 2.5.19 and was appointed temporary Corporal on 19.5.19.    He embarked for Australia on 15.6.19.

Angus MACKAY

Angus Mackay was born in Bendigo, the elder son of Angus and Marion Pringle Mackay, of 93 Forest St Bendigo.    His father was one of the proprietors of the Bendigo Advertiser, and Angus was himself a Journalist with the Bendigo Advertiser.    He was educated at St Andrews College, Bendigo, and at Wesley College, Melbourne.   He volunteered on 22.4.15 aged 18 years and 3 months.   He was 5’ 10½” in height, with a dark complexion, brown eyes and medium coloured hair.     He joined on the same day as ‘Ross’ Freeman, and they entered Signalling School together on 30.4.15.   They were later appointed as signallers to the same unit.     On 4.7.15 Angus Mackay was appointed to the 7th Reinforcements for the 5th Battalion, and allotted Service No. 2486.    He subscribed for service on 7.7.15 at Seymour and this date is given as his official commencement of service.   He embarked for overseas on 16.7.15.

He joined the 5th Battalion in camp at Lemnos Island on 3.11.15 and was posted to Headquarters Signallers.     After this rest period on Lemnos the battalion returned to Anzac, landing on 16th November.   They moved into the front line the following day.     Later in the month, whilst on his way back from collecting water in Shrapnel Gully, Angus Mackay was hit in the left temple by a piece of shrapnel.    “His hat was well back on his head with a clean white bandage round his forehead and a big splodge of blood showing through. . . . . . He got it dressed and only lost one shift on the phone over it.   His chief regret later was that he thought there would be no scar.”    (G. R. Freeman: Journal)

The battalion was relieved on 18.12.15 and evacuated from Anzac.     After a spell on Lemnos the battalion embarked for Egypt.   During February the Australian force was re-organized, with the addition of new battalions.   Each new battalion comprised half Gallipoli veterans, and half fresh reinforcements from Australia.    Angus Mackay was one of the core of veterans to transfer from the 5th Battalion to the newly formed 57th Battalion.  (17.2.16)    He embarked for France with the 57th Battalion, and disembarked at Marseilles on 17.6.16. The Battalion arrived in France in time to participate in the Battle of Fromelles on 19 July,  1916.     The 57th Battalion was allocated a supporting role and suffered relatively light casualties but had to hold the line over the following period.

Angus Mackay was Killed in Action on 19.8.16.   The Battalion War Diary records that the Battalion was in the front line at Rue-Du-Bois.   During the day preparations were made for a raid on the enemy trenches to take place at 10.40 p.m.   Two “telephonists” were to precede the raiding party by 45 minutes, carrying telephones and laying wire to a position in No Man’s Land.  They were then to follow the raiding party to a position close up against the enemy parapet and remain in communication.   They were to retreat with the raiding party.     About halfway across No Man’s Land they encountered an enemy barrage, resulting in casualties.  [paraphrase : 57th Battalion War Diary.  August 1916.]

In October the Bendigo Advertiser published a letter written by ‘Ross’ Freeman in which he reported that Angus had met his death under particularly unfortunate and distressing circumstances.   He had volunteered to take the place of another man who was indisposed.   While engaged with others in this task he was wounded in the leg and head. [Bendigo Advertiser.   20 Oct 1916. ]

In his Journal, George Ross Freeman adds that Angus Mackay had reached the Lying In position when he was hit by one of the Allies’ Trench mortars.    He was carried into the Australian lines and was hit and killed by a German shell.    He added that “It was our Brigades first raid in France and things were not then brought to a fine art as they were later.”

He was buried in the Rue-du-Bois Military Cemetery, Fleurbaix, France.  ( I  G 17)      Fleurbaix is  approximately 5 kilometres s-w of Armentieres.   The inscription on his gravestone reads: “THIS IS A FINER RESTING PLACE THAN EVEN  IN WESTMINSTER ABBEY.”

 

Angus Mackay

Image courtesy of Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum,      Bendigo.

 

Joseph MACKAY

Known as ‘Joe’, Joseph Mackay was born in Bendigo, the only son of Rev. James Hannah and Mary Mackay.    Formerly of Bendigo, Rev Mackay had subsequently moved to the Clarendon St, (South Melbourne) Presbyterian Church.    Very few details are available for Joseph Mackay’s WW1 service as the record has been amalgamated with his WW2 Service documents.   It is known, however, that he was 21 years of age when he enlisted in 1915, and he was engaged in a Clerical profession.     He was appointed to the 12th Reinforcements for the 14th Battalion, with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant.   He embarked for overseas on 23.11.15. He disembarked in Egypt and joined the 14th Battalion.    The Battalion moved into position at the Suez Canal Defences (26.3.16) before embarking for France in June 1916.

The Battalion occupied the Bois Grenadier Trenches on 2.7.16 and carried out raids on the German trenches on this and the following day.     The Germans carried out a counter raid at 10.23 pm on 3.7.16.    The War Diary records that the Germans opened with a terrific bombardment on the trench which completely flattened all the trenches.   This was followed by an enemy approach, some of whom had reached the parapet and jumped in, but they had been repulsed.  [paraphrase: War Diary 14th Bn]

“One of our ‘bays’ tenanted by Lieut J. Mackay and (4 others) had been hit by a shell during the bombardment, burying Mackay and Corporal Urie up to their shoulders in the debris.   The three privates, when endeavouring to release their comrades were surprised by the sudden appearance of the Germans, who bombed the pit, killing (one) and wounding (two) . . . .    They also endeavoured to drag out Mackay and Urie, but failing, threw five bombs at the helpless and imprisoned men, which fortunately failed to explode.   Both were subsequently released by their comrades.” [Newton Wanliss: The History of the Fourteenth Battalion AIF, being the story of vicissitudes of an Australian unit during the Great War.]

Mackay sustained wounds to his arm, leg and chest and was admitted to hospital in England.   He re-joined the  battalion on 27.9.16.     In 1917 he was promoted to the rank of Captain.    The battalion moved forward on the night of 16.9.18, and participated in the Battle of the Hindenburg Outpost Line on 18.9.18.    Joseph Mackay embarked for return to Australia on 1.5.19.

In WW2 he again attested for service. (18.12.1939).   He was 45 years of age, lived in Elsternwick, and listed his occupation as Commercial Traveller.   He was not married and named his sister, Dr. Kate Mackay of Collins St, Melbourne, as his next-of-kin.    He served with ACMF, 6 Infantry Training Battalion, Service no.  V82325.    He died on 25.2.1942 from injuries and was buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Vic.   (Section 1, Plot P,  Row C,   Grave no. 13)

 

Lt. Joseph Mackay

Australian War Memorial     PO5859.008  Studio Portrait of four 14th Bn officers.

 

 

 

 

 

The MENZIES Family

Thomas Menzies and his son Thomas Walter Menzies.

Note:  Their surname was incorrectly written on the Roll of Honor as ‘Menzie’. 

Thomas MENZIES

Known as ‘Tom’, Thomas Menzies was born in Greenock, Scotland, the son of William & Mary Menzies.    The family migrated from Scotland to Footscray, Vic., and both parents were deceased by 1915.    Thomas was married to Mrs Florence Amy Menzies, and the couple had two children.    They lived at 5 Hood St, Yarraville, where Thomas was employed as an Engine Driver.    A brother and sister in law, A and M Joyce, lived in Bendigo.   It was probable that the names were submitted for inclusion on the Honour Roll by these relatives.

On 8.7.15 his son, Thomas Walter Menzies, enlisted for service in Melbourne.   He was 18 years old, and both parents signed their consent for his enlistment.

Thomas Menzies Snr. enlisted in Melbourne on 16.7.15, just over a week after his son.   He stated his age to be 37 years.    It is possible that he lowered his age on enlistment as the Commonwealth War Graves Commission later recorded that he was 45 years of age.   He was 5’ 2” in height, with a dark complexion, brown eyes and black hair.    He had 5 years previous military service, having served with the Air Naval Reserve on HMS Psyche.   He was appointed to the 30th Battalion Naval Unit, RAN Bridging Train.     His Service No. is listed as Depot.

Thomas Menzies died on 9.9.15 at the Field Hospital, Liverpool Camp, NSW, from Lobar Pneumonia / Pleurisy.   He was buried at the Liverpool New Cemetery, NSW.    (Pres   Row C   Grave 61)

Thomas Walter MENZIES

Thomas Walter Menzies was born in Yarraville, Vic, the son of Thomas and Florence Amy Menzies.     Thomas Walter was a Barber’s Improver.   The family had previously lived in Broken Hill, NSW, where Thomas Walter had completed a 2 year apprenticeship with Clifton. Thomas Walter enlisted for service in Melbourne on 8.7.15. He was 18 years and 4 months old.    Both parents gave their consent to his enlistment.    He was 5’ 2” in height, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and fair hair.

He joined the 9th Depot Battalion at the Show Grounds Camp, Ascot Vale, on 8.7.15.     On 9.9.15 Thomas Menzies Snr. died at Liverpool Camp, NSW.   A Discharge from Service was granted to Thomas Walter on 1.10.15 “owing to the death of his father, and also that he is under age.”

On 13.11.16 Thomas Walter Menzies re-applied for service in Melbourne.     He was 19 years of age, and now employed as a Labourer.    He named his mother as next-of-kin, giving her address as 3 French St, Footscray.    He reported to Royal Park on 27.11.16.      On 21.3.17 he was appointed to the 19th Reinforcements for the 22nd Battalion and allotted Service No. 6946.   He joined the 2nd Depot Battalion at Broadmeadows on 4.4.17 and embarked for overseas on 11.5.17.

He disembarked in England in July, 1917, and was almost immediately admitted to hospital with Ingrowing Toe Nails.   In August he was admitted to hospital with Tonsillitis.    He was discharged from hospital on 7.9.17.    On 24.9.17 he took an unauthorised trip to Scotland, returning on 11.10.17.     Charged with being Absent Without Leave, he was sentenced to 4 days imprisonment.

He embarked for France on 6.3.18 and joined the 22nd Battalion on 13.3.18.  On 19.5.18 the 22nd Battalion participated in the attack on Ville-sur-Ancre.    Thomas Walter Menzies was Wounded in Action, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his left knee.   He was discharged from hospital on 9.6.18 and then invalided to the Convalescent Depot in England.   He embarked for return to Australia on 16.1.19

H. K. MORRIS

It has been difficult to find definitive evidence for this man.    He was possibly “Harold Morris” who was reported as receiving 2nd Prize at the Sunday School Anniversary, held November, 1914.     He was a Member of Rev T. Darroch’s class. [paraphrase: Bendigo Independent.  9 November 1914]

It is also possible that he was Harry Morris, born in Bendigo, who enlisted in Bendigo on 30.11.14 aged 18 years & 6 months.   He initially served with the 8th Battalion and was later transferred to the 4th Division Light Trench Mortar Battery.  He was allotted Service No. 1314.

BUT Harry Morris, No. 1314, Died of Wounds on 5.9.18 and was buried in Daours Communal Cemetery Extension, France. (IV E 20)     His death was reported in the Bendigo Independent on 19 September, 1918, but is not indicated on the Roll of Honor of St Johns Presbyterian Church.

Another problem is the fact that Harry Morris, No. 1314, had a brother, Charles Morris, who was Killed in Action on 11.4.17 and is commemorated on the Villers Bretonneux Memorial.    There is no mention of Charles Morris on the St John’s Presbyterian Church Roll of Honor.

Stanley MURRAY

Known as ‘Stan’, Stanley Murray was born in Deniliquin, NSW.    He was a Labourer and lived in Atkinson St, Bendigo, with his wife Alice and two children.     He enlisted in Boulder, WA, on 15.4.15.    He was 37 years of age, 5’ 4¾” in height, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and brown hair turning grey.   He joined the 6th Reinforcements for the 11th Battalion.    On 2.6.15 he was appointed to the 28th Battalion at Blackboy Hill, with Service No. 902.    He embarked for overseas on 9.6.15.

He disembarked in Egypt.    He was absent without leave at Abbassia from 11 a.m. on 6.7.15 until 6 a.m. on 7.7.15.   He was admonished and forfeited 2 days pay.    He was to make a habit of ‘playing the tourist’, being absent on later occasions for four days in Marseilles, one afternoon in France, and one hour in Le Havre.

On 4.9.15 he embarked for Gallipoli.     He was admitted to hospital with jaundice on 5.11.15, and re-joined his battalion on 11.11.15.     He disembarked at Alexandria, Egypt, on 10.1.16.

On 16.3.16 he embarked for France, disembarking in Marseilles on 21.3.16.   He was Mustered as a Driver on 25.8.16, then re-mustered as Private on 2.9.16.   On 23.10.16 he was admitted to hospital with DAH  NYD. (i.e. Disordered Action of the Heart.    Not Yet Diagnosed)    He was discharged from hospital on 6.11.16 and re-joined the 28th Battalion on 15.11.16.   He was admitted to the Australian Field Ambulance with Laryngitis from 9 – 22.1.17.

On 3.5.17 the 28th Battalion moved into the front line at Noreuil.   At about 2pm they began a Bombing attack on the enemy lines, which was followed by an enemy counter attack.   Stanley Murray was Wounded in Action, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his shoulder.    He was transferred to No. 2 Convalescent Depot in Rouen on 6.5.17.   On 24.7.17 he was discharged to the Base Depot at Buchy and after a period of Leave in England he re-joined the 28th Battalion. (24.9.17)

On 14.10.17 he was admitted to hospital with Synovitis in his Knee.    He was transferred to the Convalescent Depot in Etaples before embarking for England and the Convalescent Depot in Weymouth.     He embarked for Australia on 1.2.18.    He was subsequently discharged Medically Unfit.   The stated disability was “overage & rheumatism”.

The NEWELL Brothers

William James Leslie and Norman Stanley Newell were born in Bendigo, the sons of Mrs Elizabeth Newell of 73 Rowan St, Bendigo 

Norman Stanley NEWELL

Norman Stanley Newell was the younger brother and the first to enlist.   He applied to enlist on 18.2.16 in Sydney, stating his address to be 283 Forbes St, Darlinghurst.     The following day he enlisted in Bendigo.   He was a Postal Official, aged 27 years and 10 months.   5’ 6” in height, he was described as having a fresh complexion, blue eyes and black hair.

On 16.3.16 he was appointed to the 4th Reinforcements for the 60th Battalion and allotted Service No. 2223.      He embarked for overseas on 1.8.16.   Disembarking in England he joined the 15th Training Battalion. He embarked for France on 6.12.16.   On 20.12.16 he was admitted to hospital with a case of suspected Mumps, and he was discharged to the 5th Australian Division Base Depot on 9.1.17.   He joined the 60th Battalion on 16.1.17.

On 8.8.18 the Battalion participated in the great Allied offensive around Amiens (8th–11th August).   The Battalion moved into position in front of Villers-Brettonneux, and  moved into attack on 9.8.18.    Moving forward at 11 a.m. the battalion met heavy opposition.

Norman Stanley Newell was Wounded in Action on 18.8.18 sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his left hand.    He was admitted to hospital in England and embarked for Australia on 2.1.19.   He was Discharged as permanently unfit.    His Left thumb had healed but the terminal phalanx was described as ‘uncontrollable’.

William James Leslie NEWELL

William James Leslie Newell was employed by Messrs Stilwell Bros as a Salesman.   He enlisted in Bendigo on 2.3.16, aged 32 years and 4 months.  He was 5’ 5½” tall, with a dark complexion, blue eyes and brown hair.  He had been rejected for service on his first application on account of his teeth.

“Messrs Stilwell bros and Staff assembled (after business) to bid Godspeed to (Mr W. Newell) . . .  who has been a member of staff for the past 17 years.   Mr F Stilwell, on behalf of the firm, read and presented an autograph letter, eulogising Mr Newell for his past services, also a substantial cheque, wallet and fountain pen.   Mr J Webster, for the employees, presented him with a radium dial wristlet watch and spoke of the high esteem in which he was held by all the employees.   Mr Newell feelingly responded, and expressed the hope of some day being back with them amongst the pots and pans.” [Bendigonian.  23 March 1916]

On 16.6.16 William James Leslie Newell was appointed to the 38th Battalion and allotted Service No. 485.    He embarked for overseas on 20.6.16.   He Disembarked in England and after a period spent in a Training Battalion embarked for France on 22.11.16.    He was admitted to hospital on 23.12.16 with Scabies, and re-joined his battalion on 18.1.17.

The 38th Battalion took part in the Battle of Passchendaele on 12.10.17.    For his part in the action, William James Leslie Newell was recommended for bravery in the field and was subsequently awarded the Military Medal.

“On 12th October 1917, East of Ypres, he displayed conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in action.   This soldier was employed as a runner, between Bde HQ’s and the front line, and did exceedingly good work carrying messages during most severe bombardment.   On his return journey from the front line, he used to assist in carrying back wounded.   His courage and cheerfulness in danger were an inspiration to others.” [awm File: Honours and Awards.]

He was appointed Lance Corporal on 22.11.17.    He was on leave in England when the Armistice was celebrated on 11.11.18.       He re-joined the battalion in France on 23.11.18.   He embarked for return to Australia on 30.4.19.

Duncan McHutchison NICOL

Duncan McHutchison Nicol was born in Malvern, Vic, the son of Mr M. M. and Mrs Christine Nicol.    He was a Telephone Mechanic, and had completed a two year apprenticeship with the Bendigo Electric Supply Company when he volunteered for service in April 1915.    He was 25 years and 6 months old, 5’ 6”tall, with a dark complexion, blue eyes and black hair.   He named his mother as next-ok-kin.    Mrs Christine Nicol moved from Warrnambool to “Kelvin”, Horace St, Bendigo, in 1916.     Duncan McHutchison Nicol enlisted as a single man, but he was actually married to Mrs Nessie Mary Nicol, who lived at 47 Mackay St., Essendon.

He entered the Depot at Broadmeadows on 13.4.15.    On 18.6.15 he was appointed to the 8th Reinforcements for the 5th Battalion, and was transferred to the Signal School on 7.7.15.     He was appointed to No 3 section, 3rd Division Signal Company, on 11.9.15, with Service No.  1863.    He embarked for overseas on 10.11.15 and disembarked in Egypt.

On 2.3.16 he was transferred to the 5th Division Signal Company at Tel-el-Kebir.   He was admitted to hospital on 10.3.16 suffering from Sciatica refraction.   He was discharged from hospital on 29.3.16 and re-joined his unit on 18.4.16.    On 25.4.16 he was transferred to the 4th Division Signal Company.   In yet another move he joined the 25th Howitzer Brigade on 28.4.16 and was posted to the 113th Battery.    On 10.5.16 he was transferred to Brigade Headquarters.

He embarked for France and disembarked at Marseilles. (25.6.16)    On 15.7.16 he was attached to 5th Division Artillery Headquarters as a Signaller.   He was admitted to hospital on 18.10.16 with Myalgia (i.e.muscle pain).   On discharge from hospital he was transferred to Artillery Details as a Gunner (9.4.17) and moved to 13th Field Artillery Brigade (13.6.17).    He was admitted to hospital on 5.9.17 with a condition NYD (Not Yet Diagnosed), and was discharged on 18.2.18.    He re-joined his unit on 20.3.18. On 22.10.18 he was admitted to hospital suffering from Trench Fever (severe) and invalided to England.    He embarked for return to Australia in 2.1.19.

The ORR Brothers

James William Leslie and Thomas Stanley Orr were born in Bendigo, the sons of Thomas William and Esther Emma Orr.    The family lived in Mitchell Street but later moved to 13 Rowan Street.

James William Leslie ORR

James William Leslie Orr enlisted in Bendigo on 21.7.15.    He was 20 years and one month old and worked as an Engine Cleaner.   He was 5’ 7” in height, with a dark complexion, blue eyes and black hair.     He entered the Depot at Broadmeadows on 21.7.15 and was appointed to the 12th Reinforcements for the 5th Battalion on 11.10.15.   He embarked for overseas on 23.11.15 with Service No. 3930.

He disembarked in Egypt and joined the 5th Battalion on 22.2.16.    He transferred to the 46th Battalion on 31.3.16.     He embarked for France in June, 1916.     He was admitted to hospital with a severe case of Trench Feet on 24.11.16 and was transferred to hospital in England.    He embarked for France on 10.6.17 and re-joined his unit on 1.7.17.

In December, 1918, he was accidentally wounded in his right eye.   He was transferred to hospital in England with a Corneal Ulcer on 14.1.19 and embarked for return to Australia as an Invalid on 1.4.19.

 Thomas Stanley ORR

The younger of the two brothers, Thomas Stanley Orr enlisted in Bendigo on 17.2.16, aged 18 years and 5 months.    He was an Electrician, 5’ 6½” in height, with a dark complexion, hazel eyes and dark brown hair.   On 15.3.16 he was appointed to the 39th Battalion and allotted Service No. 1372.     He embarked for overseas on 25.5.16. He disembarked in England, and spent the next months in training camp.   He embarked for France on 23.11.16.

On 14.2.17 he was accidentally wounded in the face and hands during Professional Grenade practice at the Special School of Instructions.    He was admitted to hospital in France and then transferred to England. He embarked for return to Australia on 27.8.17.    He was discharged Medically Unfit due to the wounds to his right hand.

Ronald William RAE

Ronald William Rae was born in Deniliquin, NSW, the youngest son of Mr A. Rae.   The family later moved to Bendigo and Ronald attended the Violet Street School.   He was a Printer, and had been apprenticed to Bolton Bros for 5 years.    He enlisted in Melbourne on 5.7.15, aged 23 years and 9 months.    He was described as being 5’ 6” tall, with a fresh complexion, grey eyes and dark brown hair.   He named his brother as next-of-kin.

He joined the 52nd Company Depot at Broadmeadows, and was promoted to provisional Corporal on 12.7.15.   On 2.8.15 he was appointed to the 10th Reinforcements for the 7th Battalion as a Private, with Service No. 3132.   He embarked for overseas on 29.9.15.

He disembarked in Egypt and joined the 2nd Training Battalion at Zeitoun.    On 26.2.16 he was appointed to the 59th Battalion, but was later transferred to the 57th Battalion. (15.3.16)    On 20.3.16 he was admitted to hospital with a diagnosis variously described as Influenza and Pyrexia of Unknown origin.   He was discharged from hospital on 2.5.16 and returned to the 2nd Training Battalion.   On 13.6.16 he embarked for England and joined the 15th Training Battalion at Hurdcott.   On 12.7.16 he was appointed Acting Corporal, but reverted to the rank of Private on 7.8.16.   On 1.9.16 he embarked for France and re-joined the 57th Battalion. (30.9.16)

On 5.12.17 he suffered a scalded foot and was admitted to hospital in France and was then sent to hospital in England.    Discharged from hospital he returned to his unit in France.     On 15.2.18 he was admitted to the Casualty Clearing Station, suffering from Sinusitis.   He was admitted to hospital on 11.3.18 suffering from a defective septum and was, once again, sent to hospital in England.    Discharged from hospital he was transferred to the Convalescent Depot at Hurdcott (25.3.18) and then joined the overseas training brigade. (30.5.18)     He embarked for France on 17.7.18 and re-joined his unit on 23.7.18.      On 26.9.18 he was admitted to hospital suffering from Furunculosis (i.e. boils).    Once again he was sent to England for treatment.      He embarked for return to Australia on 21.1.19.

Walter Harold REYNELL   

Walter Harold Reynell was born in Bendigo, the only son of Walter Alfred and Louise Reynell, of Barnard St.   His father was an Auctioneer at the Stock Sales at the Bendigo Municipal Yards.    Walter Harold worked as a Salesman/Auctioneer with his father at the office in Williamson street.   Walter Harold was educated at the Bendigo High School and, later, at Dr Crowther’s Grammar School in Brighton.    Whilst at school he achieved athletic success in high jump, running and boxing and was awarded a cup for the heavyweight throwing championship.     Whilst serving in the Senior Cadets he held the rank of 2nd Lieutenant.

He Volunteered at Bendigo on 2.2.16 and was sworn in on 31.3.16.   He was 19 years and 7 months old, 5’ 10” in height, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and fair hair.   He was described as being of “heavy build”, with a slight hammer toe (i.e. the 3rd toe on his right foot).     He stated that he had previously been rejected for service on account of his feet.    On 11.4.16 he was appointed to the Reinforcements for the Field Artillery Brigade as a Gunner.   On 1.6.16 he was appointed to the 3rd Division Ammunition Column, No 2 Section, as a Driver.    He embarked for overseas on 27.6.16 with Service No. 24492.

He disembarked in England and joined the 23rd Field Artillery Brigade. (25.11.16)   On 12.1.17 he was selected to attend the Royal Artillery Cadet School at St. John’s Wood, where he remained until 5.7.17.     He embarked for France on 8.8.17.    On 2.9.17 he joined the 29th Battery of the 8th Field Artillery Brigade as a Driver.   He was Wounded in Action on 12.9.17, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his arm.    He re-joined his unit on 6.11.17.

On 11.11.17  his unit was stationed at Hill 63, opposite Messines, Belgium.   Walter Harold Reynell was Wounded for the 2nd occasion, sustaining a Shell Wound to his right femur.     He died of the wounds received.

Reports of his death were later recorded by the Red Cross. “Back a week or so from Blighty (after wounded).   He had only been with the Battalion about two days when we went into action at Hill 63 on Sunday November 11.   He was killed between 9 and 10 am by a shell, a 5.9, which knocked out five . . . .    carried to Red Lodge Dressing Station.   He died as we got there.   Had been wounded in stomach and the leg, was unconscious . . .  We were standing to for action.” “Standing outside a dugout stray shell  fell.” (AWM.   Red Cross Files.)

He Died at the 26th Field Ambulance Dressing Station, In the Field.   He was buried in the Rosenburg Chateau Cemetery Extension at Ploegsteert, 1¾ mile SW of Messines.     His grave was later exhumed and he was re-buried in the Royal Berks Cemetery extension, Ploegsteert.    (Plot 2  Row D  Grave 50)

The inscription on his gravestone reads: “DEARLY LOVED AND ONLY SON OF MR AND MRS W A REYNELL BENDIGO”

 

Driver Harold Reynell

(Bartlett Bros., photo)

Bendigo Independent.    30 November 1917

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

 

 

The SLADE Family

The Slade family comprises a Father, John Slade, and his two sons, Emil Albert John and Cecil Godfrey Slade.   John Slade and his wife, Emilie Augusta (known as Amelia) Slade, lived in View St, Bendigo.   The family later moved to 232 Valentine Street, Bendigo.

Cecil Godfrey SLADE

Known as ‘Godfrey’, Cecil Godfrey Slade was born in Melbourne.   He enlisted in Bendigo on 13.6.16, aged 20 years and 2 months.   He was a Railway Clerk, 5’ 7” tall, with a dark complexion, brown eyes and brown hair.    On 27.9.16 he was appointed to the 21st Reinforcements for the 7th Battalion and allocated Service No. 6615.    He embarked for overseas on 2.10.16.

Disembarking in England he was appointed to the 2nd Training Battalion.   He embarked for France on 20.8.17.    He joined the 23rd Battalion on 1.9.17.

Cecil Godfrey Slade was Wounded in Action on 4.10.17, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his left thigh.    The War Diarist recorded that the 6th Brigade had participated in an attack at Zonnebeke (in Belgium) and had carried the Broodseinde ridge.   The 23rd Battalion had been in support, carrying ammunition to the front line and digging a communication trench.     Cecil Godfrey Slade was admitted to hospital and later transferred to hospital in England.

He was discharged from hospital on 29.12.17 and after a short furlough was attached to No. 1 Command Depot in Sutton Veny.    On 3.3.18 he was attached for duty with Depot headquarters.   He moved to the overseas training brigade on 25.4.18.   He embarked for France on 8.5.18 and re-joined his unit on 10.5.18.   On 23.6.18 he was admitted to hospital with Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (i.e. Raised body temperature and fever, with no identified cause).   He re-joined his battalion on 31.7.18.

On 13.1.19 he was transferred to the Australian Army Postal Corps.    He embarked for return to Australia on 13.7.19.

AUSTRAL BUSHLAND.

Oft I’ve thought of thee, dear land,  Whom I’ve left to roam;
Though I beauteous lands may see, Still I long for thee and home.
Sights and places wondrous fair, Towering hills and waters there,
Scenes in lands of sun and heat, Others, too, mid rain and sleet.

I have seen snow-covered beauty,  In the depths of winter’s thrall,
Then the breaking of the spring-time, When a fresh green covers all.
Sights of many placid cattle Basking in flow’d fields and line.
Hills and treetops clothed in sunshine, Eventides golden gleam divine.

And I’ve stood and gazed with pleasure  As the serried gusts blew o’er,
Winds that made the green crops quiver, Making waves roll o’er and o’er.
Fields made white with many daisies, Buttercups, too, gleam as gold,
Cornfields red with poppies waving  In amid the green corn bold.

Woodlands tho’ perhaps not nature’s, Still make beauteous spots to know,
Sunlight glinting on the green leaves, Casting pale soft light below.
And tho’ all this beauty fair,  Still it seems to me,
Nothing that can yet compare with My own land I long to see.

How I long for thee, dear homeland, For the days when I return;
I have learned to love thy nature,  For thy glorious bush to yearn.
For ‘tis wild and free and rugged, By the hand of man not marred,
And thy own auld grandeur calls me  Home again from lands afar.

Sig. C. G. SLADE, O.A.S. [Bendigonian. 12 December 1918 ]

Emil Albert John SLADE

Emil Albert John Slade was born in South Yarra, Vic.   He was the elder brother and the first of the family to enlist.   He enlisted in Melbourne  on 13.3.15, aged 22 years and 5 months.    He was a Commercial Traveller, and lived in South Yarra.    He was 6’ tall, with a medium complexion, grey eyes and dark brown hair.    On 29.5.15 he was appointed to the 6th Field Ambulance and allocated Service No. 3367.     He embarked for overseas on 4.6.15.

He Disembarked in Egypt and was serving with the 6th Ambulance when casualties from the Battle of Lone Pine, Gallipoli, were disembarked at Alexandria.     In a letter home, Lieut G J C Dyett, wrote: “The most gratifying feature about my removal from the boat was being carried off by Private Slade, of Bendigo, who was doing stretcher bearing duty at Alexandria prior to going to the front.”    [Bendigo Independent.    13 January 1916]

Emil Albert John Slade arrived on the Gallipoli Peninsula on 5.9.15.     On 17.10.15 he was admitted to hospital with Influenza and was discharged on 20.10.15.   After the evacuation of Anzac he embarked for Egypt.   He was admitted to hospital in Tel-el-Kebir on 13.1.16, suffering from Influenza, but he was transferred two days later to the Military Infectious disease hospital at Cairo with a diagnosis of Scarlet Fever.   On 27.1.16 he was admitted to hospital in Heliopolis for a Circumcision.   He was discharged on 11.2.16 and admitted to the overseas base at Giza.

He embarked for France on 19.3.16, disembarking at Marseilles on 27.3.16.   On 22.3.17 he was admitted to hospital with a septic right finger.    He was transferred to the Convalescent Depot on 30.4.17.    He was admitted to hospital suffering from Debility on 25.7.17.   He was discharged to Base on 13.9.17 and re-joined his unit on  3.10.17.  He embarked for return to Australia on 23.3.19.

John SLADE

John Slade was born in Bendigo.    He volunteered for service on 30.11.16, aged 44 years and 7 months.    His two sons were already serving with the AIF.     He was a Grocer, 5’ 9¼” in height, with a fair complexion, steel blue eyes and iron grey hair.    He attested on 1.12.16 and entered the Recruit Company at Royal Park on 5.12.16.   He was appointed to the Field Artillery Reinforcements at Maribyrnong on 8.1.17.     He was stationed at Royal Park from 19.1.17.   On 20.3.17 he was transferred to No 5 Australian General Hospital.   He was appointed to the Army Medical Corps on 30.7.17 and moved to the Clearing Hospital at Seymour.    He embarked for overseas on 8.8.17 with Service No. 18175.

He disembarked in England on 2.10.17 and moved to the Army Medical Corps Training Depot.   On 2.11.17 he embarked for France and joined the 6th Field Ambulance. (20.11.17)

He was admitted to hospital suffering from Pyrexia of Unknown Origin on 24.11.17, re- joining his unit on 12.12.17.          On 25.10.18 he was admitted to hospital with Scabies (i.e. skin infestation caused by very small mites).   He re-joined his unit on 8.11.18.    Later in the same month he was given a period of Leave to England, but became ill whilst on Leave and was admitted to hospital on 1. 12.18, suffering from Myalgia (i.e. muscle pain).    He was discharged from hospital on 28.1.19 but was soon re-admitted, suffering from Influenza, Bronchitis, Myalgia and Debility.  (15.2.19.)    He embarked for Australia on 24.3.19.

Richard Bertram TAYLOR  

Richard Bertram Taylor was born in Bendigo, the youngest son of Nicholas and Grace Pascoe Taylor, of 193 Wattle St Bendigo.    His father was deceased by the time he enlisted for service.   Known as “Bert”, Richard Bertram Taylor had been educated at the Violet Street School and later at the Bendigo High School.    He was a Home Missionary, with charge of the Golden Square, Kangaroo Flat and Big Hill Presbyterian churches.     He was a Corporal in the 67th Battalion Citizen Force, and he read aloud the names of the seven men recorded on the first St. John’s Honour Roll at the unveiling on 27th June, 1915.

He enlisted on 20.9.16, aged 20 years and 2 months.    He was 5’ 8½” in height, with a dark complexion, brown eyes and black hair.   He entered the Broadmeadows Depot on 9th October, 1916, and was appointed to the 22nd Battalion.    He was sent to No 9 NCO School at Geelong a fortnight later. (25.10.16)    He was appointed to the 8th Reinforcements of the 60th Battalion on 8.12.16 and allotted Service No.3248.

‘Bert’ was a lifelong friend of William James Blake.  They enlisted in the same month, entered camp together, and attended NCO School together.  On 23rd November, 1916, they were farewelled together.

“The action of Cpls W Blake & B Taylor, of the AIF, in offering themselves in the service of the nation, was highly eulogised on Thursday, when their fellow members of St John’s Presbyterian Sunday School assembled to present them each with a fountain pen.   The presentation was made by Mr W Wright, superintendent of the Sunday School, at a social held for the purpose in the residence of Mr W Anderson, Mount Korong-road.  [Bendigonian.  30 Nov 1916]

He embarked for overseas on 16.12.16, having been appointed Acting Corporal for the duration of the voyage.   He disembarked in England on 18.2.17, and joined the 15th Training Battalion at Hurdcott, reverting to the rank of Private.   He was appointed Lance Corporal on 6.10.17.   He embarked for France on 14.6.17.

He joined the 46th Battalion in Belgium on 1.7.17.    At this time the Battalion was stationed at Hill 63, on the Ploegsteert Front, providing fatigues and working parties to the front line.    He was appointed Lance Corporal on 6.10.17. He was Wounded in Action on 12.10.17, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his left hand.

The Battalion was the Reserve Battalion during an attack near Zonnebeke, in Belgium, occupied in carrying stores forward and supplying stretcher bearers.    He returned from hospital on 7.12.17.

On 27.4.18 the Battalion received orders to move forward to take over the line in front of Villers-Brettonneux, in France.  The Germans had taken the village on 24th April, but it had been re- captured on 27th April.    The Battalion moved into the front line in the early hours of 28th April, 1918.     Richard Bertram Taylor was Killed in Action during the same day.    He was buried in the Chalk Pits British Cemetery, located 1½ miles south of Corbie.   His body was later re-interred in the Villers-Brettonneux Military Cemetery.  (Plot XI  Row C  Grave 3)    Apart from the Rising Sun emblem, denoting Australia, together with his name and unit details, his headstone contains no personal inscription.    The prominence is given to a large Cross.

The Bendigo Independent newspaper carried this notice of his character: “Lance-Corporal Taylor was a youth of determination, tempered with reason, and was a fine stamp of Australian manhood.   His cheery nature and kindly disposition won for him an enviable place in the circle of his friends.   Though young in years he was matured in wisdom. . . ” [Bendigo Independent.  18 May 1918]

Lance-Corporal R. B. TAYLOR

Bendigonian   30 May 1918

(Ref. trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper)

 

 

William John THOMAS

William John Thomas was born in Bendigo.    He was employed as a Warehouseman, and named his sister, Clivda Jane Thomas of Richard St, Bendigo, as his next-of-kin.   He enlisted in Bendigo on 2.3.16 at the age of 32 years and 1 month.    He was 5’ 5” tall, with a fair complexion, blue eyes and fair hair.    He was appointed to the 38th Battalion and allotted Service No. 491.    He embarked for overseas on 20.6.16.

Disembarking in England he was sent to the 2nd Training Battalion and embarked for France on 16.9.16 to join the 6th Battalion.   He joined the 59th Battalion from the 6th Battalion Reinforcements on 8.10.16 and was transferred to the 6th Battalion on 25.10.16.    He embarked for return to Australia on 10.6.19.

 William Henry James WILLIAMS

Known as ‘Harry’, William Henry James Williams was born near the town of Stratford, Vic., the son of William Henry James Williams of Homebush, via Avoca.    ‘Harry’ had been a student at the Bendigo School of Mines and later worked as a Mine Managers Assistant.

He  attested for service at Bendigo on 13.7.15 aged 24 years and 4 months.    He attested for a second time at Ascot Vale on 26.7.15.   On this occasion he stated his age to be 25 years and 8 months.     He was 5’ 7” in height, and had a dark complexion, brown eyes and black hair.

On 29.10.15 he was appointed to No 2 Company Mining Corps and allocated Service No. 734.   He was farewelled from Bendigo on 5.12.15.

“Friends of Sapper Harry Williams and members of  St John’s Presbyterian Church and school met at “Rupertsleigh”, Moran-st., to bid farewell to him prior to his sailing with the miners’ corps for the front.   A pleasant evening was spent with parlor games and musical and other items.   In presenting Sapper Williams with  a pocket wallet, Mr W Thomas expressed his admiration for the soldier.   Mr Thomas’s remarks were supported by Messrs B. Taylor, W. Blake and C. Burns, all of whom wished the soldier a safe return.  Sapper Williams made a modest reply.   A vote of thanks was accorded the host and hostess Mr and Miss M’Williams.” [Bendigo Advertiser.  6 December 1915]

He arrived at the Mining Corps, Casula, NSW, on 11.12.15 and embarked for overseas from Sydney on 20.2.16.   He disembarked in France on 5.5.16.   He was wounded on 30.11.16, sustaining a Gun Shot Wound to his left ear.   He was taken to the New Zealand Dressing Station and discharged to the reinforcements camp on 10.12.16.   He re-joined his unit on 11.12.16.

The Mining Corps was in the process of re-organization, and was split into three companies.   On 29.12.16 ‘Harry’ was transferred to the newly formed  2nd Australian Tunnelling Company.     On 12.1.17 he was attached to 1st Canadian Tunnelling Company, re-joining his unit on 4.2.17.

On 23.2.17 he was admitted to hospital with hiccups and was discharged to his unit on 17.3.17.   He was granted Leave to England from 11.9.18 – 28.9.18. He spent the first months of 1919 in England and embarked for Australia on 31.3.19.

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APPENDIX  1.            HONOR ROLL UNVEILED.

Preaching to a large congregation at St John’s Presbyterian Church yesterday morning the Rev. J. Darroch said:- . . . . . . . . “Some of us have feared, and have been condemned for having feared, lest another European power, following the evil example of the tyrants of the past, should grasp an overlordship when the moment comes.   And so it has come to pass, not to our surprise, but to our sorrow and dismay.   Germany has had success against her foes.   She has had success in science and in trade and in diplomacy.   She has wrought assiduously at the construction of a vast army and a navy greater than her needs.   She has been loud in her professions of peace – She has been silent, or as silent as her boastfulness could be, in her preparations for war.   She has glorified militarism; she has made a god of force.   The deity her Emperor invokes is a Prussian idol, half of iron, half of blood, a strange god we know not.   But no one can go on for ever leading a double life, and some months ago – almost a year – to the horror of mankind, the mask was thrown aside, and Germany stood revealed as the “infamous” destroyer of the peace of the world.   Our nation could not stand still and permit such infamy to have its way.   She would have been unfaithful to her history and ideal, to the sepulchres of her sons, and to the God of Righteousness and Peace in whom she trusts.   As before, in the evil day, our people have forgot their differences.   Let there be no softness, no sentimentalism, no cravenness of spirit among us in these stern times.   Let us strengthen each others hands in God.   Let us not be selfish, nor let us hoard, but share.   Let us remember our glorious history, the invincible spirit of our ancestors, and the solemn grandeur of the task before us.   Let us rejoice that we have lived to see our beloved country stronger even than of old, even more united, even more inspired by the “righteousness which exalteth a nation.”   Let us be very much in prayer.   Let this church be more than ever a House of Prayer and if we cannot go and serve under the colors of the King of Kings, and can all be at our post together here, if God will, there will stream forth something of the spirit of Christ, which can alone remove mountains and must ere long prevail.”

At the close of the service, Mrs Lawson unveiled a roll of honor, which was read by Corporal Bertram Taylor.   It is as follows:- ST JOHN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ROLL OF HONOR

Neil Marwick Bennetts, Francis Hindley, Emil Slade, Frederick Brown, Benjamin Challen, David John Anderson, Harold Hindley

But I say unto young men, “Fight the good fight.”

A number of Senior Cadets attended, and the choir, under Mr W Gall, rendered the anthem, “We shall dwell in the land.” [Bendigo Independent.   28 June 1915]

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APPENDIX  2.    HONOR ROLL UNVEILED – ST JOHN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.

Before a large congregation in St John’s Presbyterian Church, Forest-street, Sunday evening, Rev. J. Barnaby M.A., B.D., unveiled an honor roll bearing the names of those connected with the church who had enlisted for active service.   The rev gentleman preached a powerful sermon on the text, St Matthew, 10-34 – “Think not that I came to send peace on the earth; I came not to send peace, but a sword.”   The preacher said the final end of Christ’s mission was abiding peace, but the immediate result of His coming was often strife.   It was often through strife that true peace came.   Strife, struggles and unrest all led the way to lasting peace.   On coming to Christ the individual life met the sword and strife in several ways.   The coming of Jesus set up warfare with one’s life, for it meant taking sides for truth or against truth, for goodness or against goodness.   All through history where there had been a clashing of ideals, the coming of Christ had meant strife.   . . . . . .    During our four years of war, the flower of our manhood had gone to the front.   The world was poorer to-day in man power, but he claimed that 1918 was richer in spiritual ideals because of the sacrifice of its manhood.   In the midst of their sorrows for their loved ones who had departed they could afford to rejoice because the day of God’s grace was coming.   Righteousness must prevail, and our greatest concern should be not to see that God’s side was winning, but to see that we were on His side.   Referring to the men who had laid down their livers, the speaker said:- “The sacrifice of Jesus Christ seems easier for us now.   He died for us, and these men have died for you and me.   We should be recreant Australians if in the years to come we forgot these men.”

The Rev. Mr Barnaby then removed the large Union Jack which veiled the honor roll containing the following names: –  *J. Anderson, W. J. Blake, D. Bruce, *W. Buchan, J. Brown, F. Brown, E. V. Bernau, N. L. Bernau, N. M. Bennetts, G. A. Cox, T. A. Cox, J. A. Cox, B. M. Challen, G. C. Cundy, G. [sic] Dickson, W. Don, A. T. Enever, G. K. Freeman, A. J. Gall, H. G. Glenn, G. Herschell, R. Hillier, H. Hindley,*J. Hindley, F. Hindley, J. Judd, F. Kelly, W. Love, W. E. Lewis, W. [sic] McRobert, *A. Mackay, J. Mackay, *A. McAlpine, S. Murray, H. K.  Morris, J. McLeod, W. Menzie, T. Menzie, D. McH Nicol, W. J. L. Newell, N. S. Newell, T. S. Orr, J. W. [sic] Orr, *W. H. Reynell, R. W. Rae, J. Slade, E. Slade, C. G. Slade, *R. B. Taylor, W. J. Thomas, H. Williams.

The congregation then sang the National Anthem and the Soldiers’ Hymn.   During the service special anthems were rendered by the choir under the conductorship of Mr W. Gall.   Mrs Bennett presided at the organ. [Bendigonian. 10 October 1918]

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APPENDIX  3.  ST  JOHN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.  UNVEILING OF HONOR ROLL.

SERMON BY REV. J. BARNABY, M.A., B.D.

At St. John’s Church last evening the roll in honor of those members of the congregation who have gone forth to fight the good fight for King and Empire was unveiled in the presence of a large congregation by the Rev. J. Barnaby, M.A., B.D., of Ormond College, Melbourne.

The honor roll is a fine piece of work of polished oak on which are inscribed over fifty names, stars [sic] opposite nine names on the roll signifying those who have made the supreme sacrifice in the discharge of their duty.

An inspirational sermon was preached by the Rev. Barnaby, who took for his text, St. Matthew 10 – 34: “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but the sword.”   Peace through strife!   How strangely the words sounded from the lips of Him who came to say, ‘Glory to God in the Highest, on earth peace and goodwill to men’; ‘I came from Him not to do My own will, but the will of Him Who sent me’; “I come not to call the righteous but sinners to repent’; ‘I come that they might have Life and that they might have it more abundant.’   . . . . . . “Tonight, in the midst of our sorrow, we can have hope that the day of God is coming nearer, and that the day of victory is sure.   However long the war may last we know that there can be only one end, because God is God, and God is on the side of right.   Our chief concern is not to have God on our side, but that we should be on God’s side, that makes for truth, and liberty, and justice.  . . . . . To-night, we think of those who have gone from the city, from the bush, from the mine, from the schoolmaster’s desk and the counting house, from this city, and from this congregation.   This congregation has done well to show the value it sets on their service, having erected a monument which will be a sign to all who worship here to gaze on, a monument on which the names of those who have gone forth to defend us and fight for the flag and the things we hold dear.   We place that memorial there as a mark of our esteem and respect and reverence.   Because of those who have fallen the sacrifice of Jesus Christ seems easier to believe in now.   He died for us and our men died for us.   They made the supreme sacrifice and were faithful unto death, and we would be a recreant Australia if we forget the duty we owe to them and forget to care for those who return.   Tonight, as a tribute of respect to those who did their duty in the name of this congregation, I unveil now the monument to the honor of these men.”

As the speaker lowered the Union Jack that covered the honor board, the congregation rose and reverently sang the National Anthem, and “God Bless our Splendid Men.”

The following are the names inscribed on the board:- J. Anderson, W. J. Blake, D. Bruce, W. Buchan, J. Brown, F. Brown, E. V. Bernau, N. S. [sic] Bernau, N. [sic] Bennetts, G. A. Cox, T. A. Cox, J. A. Cox, B. M. Challen, G. C. Cundy, G. [sic] Dickson, W. Don, A. T. Enever, G. K. Freeman, A. J. Gall, H. C. Glenn, C. Herschell, R. Hillier, G. [sic] Hindley, J. Hindley, T. [sic] Hindley, J. Judd, F. Kelly, W. Love, W. E. Lewis, W. [sic] McRobert, A. Mackay, J. Mackay, J. McAlpine, S. Murray, H. H. [sic] Morris, J. McLeod, W. Menzie, T. Menzie, D. McH Nicol, W. J. L. Newell, N. S. Newell, T. S. Orr, J. W. L. Orr, W. H. Reynell, R. W. Rae, J. Slade, G. C. Slade, R. B. Taylor, W. J. Thomas and H. Williams.     [Bendigo Independent.  7 October 1918]

Note:  the name of E. Slade was not included in this report.

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SOURCES OF INFORMATION

National Australian Archives.       Service Records
Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Australian War Memorial.      Recommendation file for Honours and Awards.
Embarkation Rolls
Australian Red Cross Society Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau files
Unit War Diaries
The Soldiers Memorial Institute Military museum, Bendigo. G.R. Freeman. Journal
trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper
Bendigo Independent; Bendigo Advertiser; Bendigonian.
www. Discovering Anzacs
Newton Wanliss:                     The History of the Fourteenth Battalion AIF, being the story of vicissitudes of an                                                          Australian unit during the Great War.
Larna Malone:                          The First Lot.   7th Battalion The first men of the Bendigo district to volunteer for                                                        service in the First World War.

Photographs.

Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum, Bendigo.
Australian War Memorial.
www                                      Discovering Anzacs
www                                      trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper
Bendigo Independent; Bendigo Advertiser; Bendigonian.

St John’s Presbyterian Church, Forest Street, Bendigo, during ww1: Forest Street Uniting Church, Bendigo, Victoria: One hundred and fifty years of worship, witness and service.   Edited by Rod Hamilton & Lawrence D McIntosh.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to thank Rev Philip Burns, Leo Reither and Jean Wright of St John’s Presbyterian Church, Bendigo, for their never failing help, encouragement and support throughout the process of researching this booklet.

A great debt is owed to Peter Ball, of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum, Bendigo. His extensive knowledge and care for the men of Bendigo who served in Australia’s armed forces, together with his willingness to provide information and assistance, has contributed greatly to the completion of this project.

While every care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, errors and omissions may occur.

Larna Malone, 2019

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With thanks to the Forest Street Uniting Church for permission to enter, to Cameron Spink for the photo and to our own St John’s member, Larna Malone, for her most diligent and appreciated research!