Donations and Contributions

Corporal: 3073 Alfred Henry LAMERTON.

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35th BATTALION - 36th BATTALION - 33rd BATTALION AIF

Corporal: 3073 Alfred Henry LAMERTON.

Born: 18th March 1891. Newtown via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:25412/1891.

Married: 5th June 1920. Newtown via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:6066/1920. 

Wife: Constantine Elizabeth Gladys Lamerton. nee: Neal. (1898-1969) Died at Roseville via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:26318/1969.

Died: 16th May 1965. Roseville via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:17342/1965.

Father: Edmund Alfred Lamerton. (1856-1933) Died at Bankstown via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:11454/1933.

Mother: Maria Lamerton. nee: Dixon. (1865-1950) Died at Bankstown via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:19328/1950.

INFORMATION

Alfred Henry Lamerton enlisted with the AIF on the 11th September 1916 at the Sydney Royal Agricultural Ground before he was allocated to the Signal Training Company at the Moore Park Depot. Alfred was transferred to the 7th Reinforcements, 35th Battalion AIF on the 21st January 1917 and embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A68 "Anchises" on the 24th January 1917.

HMAT A68 "Anchises" 

Alfred disembarked with the 7th Reinforcements at Devonport England on the 27th March 1917 where they were marched in the the 9th Training Battalion at the Durrington Army Camp. Here the Reinforcements settled down to hard training, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and General Camp Routine. On the 17th October 1917 the Reinforcements embarked to France via Southampton and disembarked at Fovant, France where they went into billets before proceeding out to the lines where Alfred was taken on in strength with the 36th Battalion in the field on the 22nd October 1917. 

30th December 1917

HOUPLINES. At noon enemy 77 mm Guns and Trench Mortar Guns active for one hour, our 18 pounders and 4.5.Howitzer Batteries in conjunction  with our 6" Trench mortar replied to this fire. 

4th April 1918.

A heavy burst of shelling occurred at CACHY and on some 6" Howitzer Batteries situated under cover of the S.E. corner of the BOIS D'AQUENSE, at about 3.30 am. At 5.30 am the fire thickened to heavy and general shelling, counter battle work and harassing fire suggestive of preparations for an attack. Just before 6.00 am shells fell in the wood near our bivouacs. The troops were hastily got out into the open. The shelling continued to be very heavy for about two hours, in the course of which two men were killed, and Lieutenant:  927 John LANG and 8 other ranks were wounded.

At 9:00 am orders were received to "Stand To" as it was expected the enemy would attack. At 11.45 am orders were received to proceed to position of readiness at U.5. central (South of VILLERS-BRETONNEUX) for defence of the village. Moved at 11.55 am and arrived at position of readiness without casualty despite general shelling of the area crossed. Lieutenant: Sydney Horace NEWELL (Scout Officer) reported direct to C.O. 35th Battalion, who was defending the line in part of the attack area. As the position of readiness the Battalion took up a position on the reverse slope of the hill on the east side of the VILLERS-BRETONNEUX - HANGARD ROAD, with "A" and "B" Companies just below the crest, "C" Company in close support, and "D" Company in reserve.

At 1.45 pm the C.O. and Adjutant reported to the C.O. 35th Battalion, at VILLERS-BRETONNEUX the village was being heavily bombarded. At 2.30 pm the Adjutant returned with the preliminary instructions to the 2nd in Command and the C.O. awaiting developments. At 4.45 pm the C.O returned with information that the Bosch had broken through the English line and was advancing on the village. While he was speaking heavy bursts of Machine Gun fire sprayed over the hill. English troops had been retiring for half an hour through our line but efforts to stop them were in vain.

The C.O ordered "A" Company and "B" Companies to immediately counter-attack. They did so with great spirit and in fine style sweeping along the southern end of the RAILWAY LINE. A party of English troops were seen to be reforming on our right. The Adjutant was sent with an invitation to their C.O to join in a Counter-Attack. Brigadier General: WOOD of the 55th Brigade was found to be Commanding in person and he immediately agreed, and went forward on the right flank of our "C" Company. In the advance great progress was made by "A" Company on the left under Captain: John Edward Wallace BUSHELLE who imbued them with wonderful Spirit and Confidence by his gallant leadership.

Owing however to organized opposition from special M.G. strong points in an orchard and two hay stacks "B" and "C" Companies were not able to keep up to the line of "A" Company's advance and wide gaps were left between all the Company frontages by reason of the extended front on which it was necessary to deliver our Counter Attack. The Reserve Company was however sent up to reinforce the center, link up the Companies, and, as far as possible, straighten out the line. Two small Companies of the 6th London Regiment who appeared at the time were also sent into the gap between "A" and "B" Companies and our gain was consolidated. Tools and ammunition were hastened forward by a small party from Headquarters - signallers, batman, police and gas personnel, - and this party brought back wounded on the return trip, doing excellent work.

4th-5th April 1918

The First VILLERS-BRETONNEUX

The Strength of the 9th Infantry Brigade was about 2,250 but their casualties during the 2 days of fighting numbered 30 Officers and 635 men either killed in action or missing.

9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.4th-5th April 1918

33rd Battalion. AIF 3 Officers 82 Other ranks
34th Battalion. AIF 5 Officers 120 Other ranks
35th Battalion. AIF 9 Officers 282 Other ranks (including 44 missing)
36th Battalion. AIF 12 Officers 133 Other ranks (including 1 missing)
9th Machine Gun Company. AIF 1 Officer 18 Other ranks (including 4 missing)

12th April 1918.

Just after dawn (at 6:00 am) the enemy opened a barrage along our front and to our right on the French. The French S.O.S. went up immediately and was answered by a heavy barrage. Very soon the whole of the forward areas and the immediate rear was screened by heavy smoke from the enemy barrage which consisted principally of 5.9's and 4.2's. At about 7:00 am the fire slackened and it was learnt that the French had been pushed back on our immediate right and partly out of HANGARD. Reinforcements for the French came along the slope of the hill on our right flank till almost level with our line and then went half right over the hill into HANGARD. Enemy Machine Gun's attempted enfilade fire on those troops from the BOIS de HANGARD, but "C" Company on the left stopped this by rifle and Lewis Gun fire.

The line was shelled heavily several times during the day. At 7:30 pm the French, West Kent's and Essex counter attacked on our right. The barrage was lighter than in the morning. Fire died away about 8:30 pm and it was learnt that the line on the right had been re established and in some parts had gone further than the position lost in the morning. The Battalion was relieved by the 18th Battalion AIF commencing about 10:00 pm and was completed at 1:30 am, the Battalion then moved to billets in the BOIS de BLANGY where a hot meal awaited them.

At 1:09 pm a 5.9 Howitzer Shell landed in Battalion Headquarters and killed Lieutenant Colonel: John Alexander MILNE. D.S.O., Captain: Thomas Rodger MacNEE, also the Adjutant of the 5th Essex Regiment and 6 other ranks; the same shell wounded Major: John Ambrose McDOWELL. and 3 other ranks.

36th Battalion War Diary

On the 30th April 1918 the 36th Battalion was disbanded to reinforce the 33rd-34th and 35th Battalion's as their strength has been reduced. Due to low numbers of enlistments back home and the lack of reinforcements, the AIF disbanded three battalions: the 36th, the 47th and the 52nd. It was a painful process for men devoted to their units. The men of the 36th Battalion were devastated as their loyalty was to the old 36th Battalion. This was reflected men refusing to wear the 33rd Colour Patch and to continue wearing the 36th Colour Patch.

Alfred was granted leave to England from the 11th October until the 27th of October 1918 and returned to France at the ending of the war. 

ARMISTICE SIGNED

We could now tell by the news in the papers that the war was practically over although we (The Third Division) was told to hold ourselves in readiness to proceed to the line again, the 1st, 4th, and 5th Australian Divisions being already on their way back to the line. On Monday 11th November 1918 (the day the Armistice was signed) we marched to Alleray for a hot steam bath and on passing through Airaines found all the houses decorated with tricolours and the church bells pealing and the Frenchies running about like madmen. We wondered what was wrong and halted in the main street for a rest. The Captain then told us (he had interviewed the Mayor who had received a telegram saying that the Armistice was to be signed) that the Armistice was to be signed at 11 a.m. that morning it was then about 10 a.m. We gave three cheers and could scarcely realise that the war was over. When we arrived back at Warlus the news had already reached there and the town was decorated &c. Next day we had a holiday from drill to celebrate Peace. The bells of the old French church chimed day and night for several days. Most of us attended the Victory Mass at the Roman Catholic Church and we also had a great Thanksgiving service out on the parade ground. Some of the men broke camp and went to the neighbouring cities and some got as far as Paris. Many were "pinched" and put in clink (gaol) as they had no leave passes, others were caught and sent back to the Battalion.

Alfred was promoted to Temporary Corporal on the 15th February 1919 and was demobilized to return to England on the 21st of April wher here was marched in the the No:3 Command Depot before he embarked for Australia on the 12th June 1919. 

Alfred was issued his discharge certificate: 110499 and his Medically Unfit Certificate:3657 on the 17th September with his King's Silver Wound Badge A57322 on the same day. His Returned from Active Service Badge was No:160274. Alfred lost his Silver Wound Badge and requested at replacement on the 25th August 1927 when he lived at "Norron" Crinin Street, Hurlstone Park, N.S.W.  

Wedding Portrait. 5th June 1920 Alfred and Constance. Note Alfred 36th Battalion Colour Patch.

Bridesmaid ... Bestman.. Alfred Henry Lamerton (1891-1965) - Constance Elizabeth Gladys Lamerton nee Neal. (1898-1969) - Alfred Ernest Neal (1876-1958) -  Groomsman.. Bridesmaid.. 

Constantine Elizabeth Gladys Lamerton. nee: Neal. (1898-1969)

Alfred died at 52 Shirley Road Roseville, New South Wales from a  'heart attack', aged 74; He was Cremated at the Northern Suburbs Crematorium.

Funeral Notice Alfred Henry Lamerton (1891-1965)

Granddaughter of Alfred; Cortney McGuigan. N.S.W.

Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), Tuesday 8 August 1933, page 8

LAMERTON.—August 4, 1933, at a private hospital, Belmore, Edmund Alfred Lamerton, of Warwick Street, Punchbowl, beloved husband of Maria Lamerton, and loving father of Eddie (Wagga), Bert, and Elsie (Punchbowl), Harry (Hurlstone Park), aged 77 years.

Edmund Alfred Lamerton. (1856-1933) was interned on the 12th August 1933 at the Rookwood Cemetery. Zone F Plot 1337.

Maria Lamerton nee: Dixon.  (1865-1950) is buried at the Rookwood Cemetery. Zone F Plot 1337.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 18/01/2025.

Private: 1486 Cecil William HINCKS.

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35th BATTALION AIF

Private: 1486 Cecil William HINCKS. (Aboriginal Awabakal)

Born: 1891. New Lambton via Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert: 

Married: April 1916. New Lambton via Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:1827/1916.

Wife: Theresa Hincks. nee: Hopton. (1891-1970)

Died: 7th June 1917. Killed in Action. Messines, Belgium.

Father: Richard Hincks. (1868-1954)

Mother: Ann Hincks. nee: Gray. (1868-1951)

INFORMATION

No.1486 Cecil William HINCKS was one of two brothers to serve in the AIF. He was a 24-year-old coal miner at New-Lambton in NSW when he enlisted in the AIF on the 9th of January 1916. Although married he nominated his father as his next-of-kin. He and his brother were of Indigenous ‘Awabakal’ heritage and on his AIF Attestation-Form he was described as being 5’5” in height (165cm), weighing 148 lbs (67kg), with a dark complexion, brown eyes, and black hair.
He embarked from Australia as a member of “C” Company of the 35th BATTALION AIF (Newcastle’s Own), on board the HMAT (A24) ‘Benalla’ that departed Sydney on the 1st of May 1916 and arrived at Plymouth in England on the 9th of July. On arrival in England the Battalion travelled by train, via Exeter, to the village of Amesbury in Wiltshire, where they unloaded and then marched the several miles to the Australian Camps at Lark Hill.
The 35th Battalion now joined the other Battalions of the 9th Infantry Brigade (33rd, 34th, 35th, and 36th Battalions, 9th Machine-Gun Company, and the 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery), of the new 3rd Australian Division (9th, 10th, and 11th Infantry Brigades), commanded by General John MONASH. They would all spend the next four months training hard on Salisbury Plain learning the latest methods of Soldiering and of Trench-Warfare.
The Brigade trained and practiced in musketry, bayonet fighting, the digging of trenches, received their weapons, equipment and field-kitchens, attended various courses, practiced route-marching, improving their fitness, practised trench raids and attacks while coordinating with aircraft and Artillery, culminating in a week in October spent in trenches under active service conditions. They voted in the ‘Conscription Referendum’, were reviewed by His Majesty the King on Salisbury Plain, and then completed a final Divisional Route-March of 18 miles. Selected personnel had attended various Promotion and Officer Training Courses, in preparation for the Casualties that were inevitably to occur.
The 3rd Australian Division finally received their full allocation of rifles in early November of 1916 and was then finally ready to proceed to the Western-Front. The delay in receiving their weapons had ensured that the 3rd Division was the most highly trained Australian Division to leave England. On the 21st of November 1916 most of the 9th Brigade deployed across to France as part of the 3rd Australian Division’s entry onto the Western Front. The 9th Brigade soon moving into the trenches near the village of Armentieres.
The Battalions of the Brigade then rotated through the front-line, reserve, and support-lines trenches, with the Brigades also rotating from the front-line, support lines, and rear area. Even when the Battalions were out of the front line supposedly resting, they spent their nights doing fatigues (digging trenches or repairing roads), or acting as carrying parties up to the front lines, carrying trench stores or equipment to strengthen the trenches. Always under the threat of German artillery fire.
While in the front-line trenches they aggressively patrolled and dominated no-mans-land and conducted surprise raids on the enemy trenches, sometimes for intelligence gathering and at other times to intimidate their adversaries.
He was with the 35th Battalion for the attack on the ‘MESSINES / WYTSCHAETE RIDGE’ in Belgium on the 7th of June 1917, which commenced at 3:10 a.m. with the detonation of 19 huge ‘mines’ that had been dug under certain key German positions on the Ridge. The 3rd Australian Division was given the right-hand flank of the attack, with the 9th Brigade on the extreme right. The 35th Battalion was to advance through the 34th Battalion once they had captured the German trenches, advancing further on and then capturing their own objective.
(25 mines had been prepared for the attack – but only 19 were actually detonated at the commencement of the attack. The remainder were left unfired - still containing explosives. The Peckham 2 mine was abandoned due to a tunnel collapse, and the Petit Douve Farm mine was abandoned after a German camouflet blast in August 1916. One of the four unexploded ‘birdcage mines’ (not needed as the frontline had moved) - was detonated by lightning during a storm in 1955. Two of the five remaining unexploded mines still lay directly under buildings).
It was during this attack that he was KILLED-IN-ACTION.

HOLLIDAY: George Smith. Corporal: 35th Battalion AIF. (Photo of him at Memorial Cross)

He was initially buried in-the-field in the days after the attack. The Divisional Burial Officer recorded that he was “buried in the German wire east from overturned German concrete dugout, south of mine crater, ½ mile west-south-west of Messines”. After the Armistice the Graves Registration Unit found the location of his burial and exhumed his remains. He was then reinterred in the ‘Strand Military Cemetery’, at Ploegsteert, in Belgium.
Strand Military Cemetery’ at Ploegsteert, Belgium.
His wife eventually received his Medals and received a widows-pension of two pounds per fortnight.
Bill Durrant: December 2024.
Family Information
Cecil was a 24-year-old coal miner from New-Lambton via Newcastle, N.S.W. Cecil and his brothers are of aboriginal heritage from both of their Great Great Great Grandparents (Awabakal) 
Ngah-Tong-Kahn Kogin (Awabakal People) (1801-1866)

Molly/Maria Mahrahkah Morgan (Awabakal People) (1801–1844)

Sally (Kurmahng) McGee (Awabakal People) (1820–1849)

Charlotte Ann Preston (Awabakal People)  (1829-1871)
James Hyde (convict) (1818-1899)
Annie H Hyde (Awabakal People)  (1845-1931)
William Edward Hincks (1844-1932)
Richard Hincks. (Awabakal People)  (1868-1954)

Private: Cecil William HINCKS. (1891-1917) 35th Battalion - Private: 134 Thomas HINCKS. (1893-1969) 1st Mining Corps. - Private: 4135 Bertie HINCKS. 17th Battalion AIF. (Awabakal People)

Private: 134 Thomas HINCKS. (1893-1969)

Theresa Hincks. nee: Hopton. seated. (1891-1970)

Theresa Hincks. nee: Hopton. (1891-1970)

Military Records
© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction: 28/12/2024-01/01/2025.

Private: 2346 John Brown LARKINS

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35th BATTALION AIF

Private: 2346 John "Jack" Brown LARKINS

Born: 1st September 1880. Carrington, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:20169/1880.

Died: 9th August 1945. Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:18855/1945.

Father: James Clement Larkins. (1851-24/6/1924) Died at Wickham, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:6516/1924.

Mother: Louisa Larkins. nee: Castletine. (1859-25/8/1926) Died at Wickham, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:11577/1926.

INFORMATION

Served and suffered during The Great War, resting at Sandgate Cemetery.
79 years ago today, on the Wednesday afternoon of the 9th August 1945, Private John Brown Larkins, referred to as Jack, 35th Battalion (Reg No-2346), coal trimmer from 30 Denison Street, Carrington, New South Wales, was laid to rest at Sandgate Cemetery, age 65. ANGLICAN 1-65. 84.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134372749 - funeral notice does not state service.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article134373669 - obituary states service.
Never married.
Born at Carrington, New South Wales on the 1st September 1880 to James, "Cockney Jim", died 24.6.1924, Wickham, N.S.W., age 72, buried at ANGLICAN 1-65. 86 - http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165273929, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article137635342, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article137635453, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165267809, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article137634709, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/180237319/james_larkins, from 30 Denison Street, Carrington, N.S.W., and Louisa Larkins, died 25.8.1926, Wickham, N.S.W., age?, sleeping at ANGLICAN 1-65. 86, mother of 4 sons and 1 daughter - http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article138177543, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/180237321/louisa_larkins, from the corner of Victoria & Denison Streets, Carrington, New South Wales, Jack enlisted on the 14th April 1916 at Carrington, N.S.W.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article133889860 - report of a farewell and the presentation of a gold medal to Jack and 48 other Carrington boys at the Carrington School of Arts Hall.
Unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales on board HMAT A30 Borda on the 17th October 1916.
Wounded in action - 12.10.1917 (GSW left groin, 1st Battle of Passchendaele), 4.4.1918 (GSW left chest, penetrating, dangerously ill).
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article138743323 - the 367th & 368th Australian Casualty lists, N.S.W., WOUNDED, Pte. J. Larkins, Carrington (1st occasion).
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article138156566 - report that Jack had been admitted to a hospital in England suffering from his 2nd wounding.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article159101918 - the 395th & 396th Australian Casualty lists, Northern District, WOUNDED, Pte. JOHN LARKINS, Carrington (2nd occasion).
Granted leave to England from 25.2.1918 to 11.3.1918.
Commenced return to Australia 31.7.1918.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140982602 - report that Jack will be returning home soon.
Jack arrived home on the 28th September 1918, being discharged medically unfit on the 1st January 1919.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article137499455 - report of impending public welcome home for Jack, who had arrived home on the Monday night of the 30th September 1918.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article137489955 - report of a public welcome home and the presentation of bars to Jack and 4 other returned Carrington boys at the Carrington School of Arts Hall.
Mr. Larkins’s name has been inscribed on the Carrington Citizens' Memorial Gates, Carrington Municipal District Roll of Honor as LARKIN and the Carrington Football Club Roll of Honor.
Carrington Football Club Roll of Honor
I have placed poppies at Jack’s gravesite in remembrance of his service and sacrifice for God, King & Country.
https://www.findagrave.com/.../180237320/john-brown-larkins.
Service record states Died after Discharge, 7/8/1945.
Plaque in New South Wales Garden of Remembrance.
Officially commemorated – https://connect.dva.gov.au/commemsoawg/commemoration/viewCommemoration.html?commemorationId=NjY0MjI3.
Contact with descendants would be greatly appreciated.
For more detail, see “Forever Remembered“.
http://www.commemoratingwarheroes.com/cemetery-main-search/.
Lest We Forget.
Gary Mitchell. August  2024.
Family Information
John was a single 35 year old Coal Trimmer from Dennison Street, Carrington, New South Wales upon his enlistment with the AIF. His brother Richard Larkins (1884-1913) Died from injuries received from being run over by a coal wagon at Carrington. 

Sandgate Cemetery, New South Wales, Australia

Anglican 1 section 65 plot 86 Buried next to brother Richard

Military Records

Under Construction: 10/08/2024.

Lieutenant Colonel: Clifford Russell RICHARDSON

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2nd BATTALION - 33rd BATTALION AIF

Lieutenant Colonel: Clifford Russell RICHARDSON. MC

Born: 1890. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:4486/1890.

Married: 1918. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:5998/1918.

Wife: Ethel Mary Richardson. nee: Snape. (1899-1982)

Died: 5th July 1946. 112 Mann Street, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:15184/1946. (Residence)

Father: Russell Richardson. (18..-1944) Died at Armidale, N.S.W. Death Cert:621/1944.

Mother: Florence May Richardson. nee: Arnott. (18..-1919) Died at Armidale, N.S.W. Death Cert:8356/1919.

INFORMATION

Clifford Russell Richardson Served with the NSW Senior Cadets for 7 years. He served with the 4th Australian Infantry Regiment and the 14th and 13th Infantry Regiments. He received his Commission as a 2nd Lieutenant on the 5th April 1909 and Lieutenant on the 15th August 1912 and to Captain in August 1913 when serving with the 14th Infantry at Armidale, N.S.W.

The photograph is of Captain Clifford Russell RICHARDSON in the uniform of a 14th Infantry officer and prior to the Great War, was a Captain in "A" Company (Armidale, Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Hillgrove, Uralla, and Inverell) of this Battalion.

Captain Richardson. 14th Infantry Militia

Captain Clifford Russell RICHARDSON,  He enlisted on 27 August 1914 and was allotted to the 2nd Battalion, A Company which embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A23 Suffolk on 18 October 1914. Subsequently RICHARDSON was Wounded in Action 25 April 1915. During the Great War RICHARDSON Returned to Australia, 6 July 1916.

Sydney Mail, 26 May 1915, p. 8.

Clifford disembarked in Egypt on the 8th December 1914 and was promoted to the rank of Major on the 5th of April 1915 and disembarked on the 25th April 1915 landing at the Gallipoli Peninsula with the 2nd Battalion where he was recommended for the Military Cross. 

Military Cross

'On 25th April, 1915, during operations near Gaba Tepe, for displaying great coolness and courage, and leading a charge against superior numbers under a heavy cross fire, resulting in the flight of the enemy in disorder.'

Rank Captain
Unit 2nd Australian Infantry Battalion
Service Australian Imperial Force
Conflict/Operation First World War, 1914-1918
Award Military Cross
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 11 September 1915 on page 1747 at position 12
London Gazette 3 June 1915 on page 5331 at position 10
Clifford was Wounded in Action at Gallipoli and was evacuated to Alexandria where he was admitted to the Deaconess War Hospital for a Gun Shot Wound to his Right Arm. Clifford was invalided to Australia on board the Hospital Ship "Karoola" and was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and appointed as the the first Commanding-Officer to the 33rd Battalion AIF. 
Printed in 'The Armidale Chronicle' 23rd Feb 1916.
24th March 1916
Lieutenant Colonel RICHARDSON quickly became ill, and was then replaced by Major: Leslie James MORSHEAD, who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and given the Command. He was then the only Commanding Officer of the Battalion while it was on active service.
Bill Durant: June 2023.
Family Information
Clifford was a single 24 year old Merchant storekeeper from Beardy Street, Armidale, New South Wales. His parents were married in 1889 at Redfern, N.S.W. Marriage Cert:3097/1889.

July 1945

Armidale. New South Wales

In the Will of CLIFFORD RUSSELL RICHARDSON late of Armidale in the State of NDSW Merchant, deceased. Application will be made after 14 days from the publication hereof that Probate of the last Will and Testament of the above named deceased dated 4th July 1945 may be granted to Ethel Mary Richardson and John Russell Richardson the Executrix and Executer in the said Will named. And all notices may be served at the undermentioned address. All creditors in the Estate of the deceased are hereby required to send in particulars of their claims to the undersigned. A.W. Stimpson & Co. Proctors for the Executors. Armidale.

Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 - 1861; 1863 - 1889; 1891 - 1954), Friday 5 July 1946, page 6

MR. C. R. RICHARDSON

Death Occurs After Lengthy Illness

Mr. Clifford Russell Richardson, managing director of the firm of J. Richardson and Co. Pty. Ltd., of Armidale, passed away this afternoon at the age of 56 years.

The late Mr. Richardson was one of Armidale's best-known and respected citizens. The Richardson family has been associated with Armidale's growth for many years. The firm was established by Hon. John Richardson, who was succeeded by his son, the late Mr. Russell Richardson, who passed away two years ago. In 1918 the late Mr. Clifford Richardson entered business and subsequently assumed control of the company's affairs. He carried on until several

months ago, when failing health forced his retirement. The fourth generation, Mr. John Richardson, then took over, and he is assisted by his brother, Mr. Robert Richardson.

Deceased was a member of the original 2nd Battalion in World War I, and held the rank of captain. He gained his majority on the field. He was wounded at Gallipoli, and was the first Australian officer to be awarded the Military Cross in the war. He was invalided to England, where he assisted in the formation of the 33rd Australian Infantry Battalion, and then took reinforcements to Egypt, where he became very ill, and was invalided back to Australia.

The late Mr. C. R. Richardson In civic affairs, he was prominent for over 20 years. In 1923 he was a member of the Armidale City Council, and served as Deputy Mayor. He was foundation president of the Armidale Rotary Club, president of the Armidale Golf Club, and played a leading part in the location and establishment of the club on its present site. He was P.W.M. of the Masonic Lodge, Unity No. 6, patron of the R.S.S. and A.I.L.A., chairman of the Committee of Management of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, chairman of the Armidale and New England Hospital Board for several years, a former director of the New England Building Society, secretary of the Armidale City Tennis Club in 1918-19, treasurer of T.A.S. Old Boys' Union, Guardian of Minors for the Armidale district, a life member of the Armidale Bowling Club, a member of the Committee of the Armidale and New England Jockey Club, trustee of the Baby Health Centre, and during the last war he served as Manpower Officer at Armidale.

In 1918 the late Mr. Richardson married Miss Molly Snape, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Snape, formerly of Armidale, and now resident at Lindfield. He was educated at The Armidale School, and never lost his interest in the school. He is survived by his wife, two sons, Messrs. John Russell and Robert Russell, and one daughter, Miss Phil. Richardson. Both sons served in the last war.

The late Mr. Richardson possessed characteristics which won him firm friends in town and country. To those who did not know him intimately he gave the impression of being extremely reserved, but beneath a seemingly cold exterior he possessed a warm and charitable disposition. No worthy cause found him unresponsive, and his acts of generosity were legion. His advice was sought by old and young, and given as readily as was his money for charitable and patriotic causes. Although war injuries hampered his sporting activities, he never lost interest in club affairs, and he will be as well remembered by sportsmen and sportswomen as he will be by business associates and personal

friends. His uprightness of character and adherence to the highest ethics of the commercial code will be long remembered.

Tomorrow afternoon at 2.15 o'clock at the Masonic Temple a Lodge of Sorrow will be held, and at 3 o'clock a memorial service will be conducted in St. Paul's Presbyterian Church by the Rev. H. McNeil Saunders, M.A. The remains will be taken to Sydney tomorrow night for cremation.

Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 - 1861; 1863 - 1889; 1891 - 1954), Monday 8 July 1946, page 6

SERVICE FOR LATE C. R. RICHARDSON

St. Paul's Filled to Capacity

ARMlDALE'S FINAL

TRIBUTE

St. Paul's Presbyterian Church was filled to overflowing on Saturday afternoon, when a service for the late Mr. C. R. Richardson was held.

Representatives from Armidale sporting bodies, the Armidale sub-branch of the R.S.L and A.I.L.A Armidale and New England Hospital, and the staff of J. Richardson

and Co. attended.

Pall-bearers were Messrs. T. Beesley, J. Mannix. J. O'Dell, F. Snell, B. Halpin and T. Cardwell.

"It could be said of this man, 'Large was his bounty and his soul sincere'," said Rev. H. MacNeil Saunders. M.A., who conducted the service. "From among us has gone forth into another realm hidden from our sight and understanding, a man who sojourned for 66 years amongst us. Life is measured in qualitative values, " and in Clifford  Russell Richardson the measure was not stinted." he said. "As a citizen, it is not necessary that I speak of him. A rich spirit of public service animated his contribution to his fellows and guided his sense of duty.

"As an employer he held high a standard of integrity and justice, tempered with kindly humanity, the challenge and generosity of which will not vanish into the years. He had an intense personal interest in each member of the staff, treating and trusting them as friends rather than servants. He sought out secret ways to comfort and assist the afflicted. Only the imposter discovered his stern abhorrence of fraud and culpable failure.

"As a philanthropist his charity often knew no bounds, not even of prudence. Every worthy- cause awakened his practical sympathy. In deference to his life-long policy of reticence, we must leave his beneficiaries to keep alive in their hearts the good he did to them.

"It was in the Church, however," he continued, "that his deepest convictions found expression in deeds rather than words. Over 20 years ago he was elected to the Committee of Management; during the ministry of the Rev. A. M. Stevenson, M.A. who has remained  his life long friend. For upwards of 10 years he has been the guiding soul of the board, as chairman, being loyal and understanding to his brethren and his Minister, efficient and far sighted with the temporal affairs entrusted to the managers.

"He scorned bigotry and helped all the denominational activities: of the city. But he was immovably loyal to his Presbyterian heritage, which he prized above all other interests in his life. His grandfather was a Minister of the Word, and in his own way he followed in his steps. He spoke for the committee at my social welcome, most of you recall, and there were no honied words.

Those who knew him best loved him most. To them we express our sorrow and commend them to the consolations of Christ which fail not. "He had faults and who has not? and he mourned over them deeply. He did not by clumsy artifice seek to hide that which cannot be hidden from God, and seldom is concealed from men, but rather he strove to overcome his faults. That inner heroism is not given to all men. God knows and God understands. Mr. Saunders concluded.

Bowlers Pay Tribute

At the afternoon tea adjournment at the Bowling Green on Saturday members observed a period of silence out of respect to the memory of the late Mr. C. R. Richardson. The president (Mr. K. Jones) said that Mr. Richardson had been a life member of the club, and although indifferent health had precluded his regular active participation in the game he never lost interest in club affairs, and was ever ready to assist its progress. His death was a loss to the commercial and sporting life of the community.

Trove

Funeral - Clifford Russell Richardson - 3:00pm Monday 8th July 1946 Northern Suburbs Crematorium. 

27-November-2015

87 Douglas Street, The Armidale School, Barney Street entrance, Armidale, 2350
27-November-2015
The Armidale School Gates, Erected in the Memory of Major C.R. Richardson MC 

The gates, at the Barney Street entrance to the school, commemorate Major C. R. Richardson, a former pupil of the school who died in 1946. The gates, a gift from J. Richardson & Co. Limited, were opened and blessed by Bishop Moyes on 18th  August, 1957. 

Clifford Russell Richardson attended the Armidale School from February 1901 to Easter 1907. He was a prefect, vice-captain of the 1st XI, a member of the 1st XV and a sergeant in the cadets. He enlisted soon after war was declared in 1914 and sailed to Egypt later that year. Landing in Gallipoli, he was severely wounded in his right arm. The first Australian officer to be awarded the Military Cross, he died in 1946, aged 56.

Military Records
© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction: 14/06/2023.

Private: 2844 Cecil Albert Victor HARDY.

by

33rd BATTALION AIF

Private: 2844 Cecil Albert Victor HARDY.

Born: 21st January 1891. Gilgai, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:7119/1891.

Married: 1934 Inverell, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:19833/1934.

Wife: Phyllis Ellen Hardy. nee: Cook. (1916-1969)

Died: 31st May 1943. Mayfield, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:10909/1943.

Father: Robert Augustus Hardy. (1859-1937)

Mother: Jemima Hardy. nee: Thorn. (1866-1952)

INFORMATION

Served and suffered during The Great War, resting at Sandgate Cemetery.
80 years ago today, on the Tuesday afternoon of the 1st June 1943, Private Cecil Albert Victor Hardy, 33rd Battalion (Reg No-2844), blacksmith from Lambeth Street, Glen Innes, New South Wales and 66 Christo Road, Georgetown (Waratah), N.S.W., father of one, was laid to rest at Sandgate Cemetery, age 52. ANGLICAN 3-164. 47.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140441404 - funeral notice does not state service.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140447460 - report of funeral and obituary does not state service.
Born at Gilgai, New South Wales on the 21st January 1891 as Cicil A V to Robert Augustus and Jemima Hardy; husband of Phyllis (Ellen G?) Hardy nee Cook (married 1934, Inverell, N.S.W., died? 1969, Maclean, N.S.W.), Cecil enlisted on the 10th November 1916 at Armidale, N.S.W.
Unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales on board HMAT A72 Beltana on the 25th November 1916.
Admitted to hospital 19.1.1918 (myalgia), 7.2.1918 (myalgia).
To Paris on leave from the 17.3.1918 to the 12.4.1918.
Wounded in action - 17.4.1918 (mustard & phosgene gas, severe, Villers-Bretonneux, France).
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article183604670 - report that Cecil had been gassed.
Cecil was invalided home on the 16th May 1919, being discharged on the 24th August 1919.
Mr. Hardy’s name has been inscribed on the Gilgai Honour Roll, Inverell St. Augustine's Anglican Church Honour Boards - http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article185339434 and The Capt. Clarence Smith Jeffries (V.C.) and Pte. William Matthew Currey (V.C.) Memorial Wall.
I have placed poppies at Cecil’s gravesite in remembrance of his service and sacrifice for God, King & Country.
Service record states Died after Discharge, 31/5/1943.
Officially commemorated 26.11.1943 – https://connect.dva.gov.au/.../viewCommemoration.html...
Contact with descendants would be greatly appreciated.
For more detail, see “Forever Remembered “
http://www.commemoratingwarheroes.com/cemetery-main-search/
Lest We Forget.
Gary Mitchell: May 2023.
Family Information
Cecil was a single year old Blacksmith from Lambeth Street, Glen Innes, New South Wales upon his enlistment with the AIF. He was apprenticed to J Hall of Inverell for 5 years prior to moving to Glen Inness. 

Inverell Times (NSW : 1899 - 1907, 1909 - 1954), Wednesday 9 June 1943, page 3

Mr. Cecil A. V. Hardy

As briefly announced in a previous issue of the "Times" the sad death occurred in a Waratah Hospital recently of Mr. Cecil Albert Victor Hardy at the age of 52 years. The deceased gentleman was born at Gilgai, being a son of the late Mr. R. A. Hardy, of that centre, and Mrs. Hardy, who were renowned for their great work in the cause of charity, the name of Hardy being connected with nearly every function held at Gilgai for many years for any worthy cause. Until about 12 months ago, when he joined the staff of the Newcastle steelworks, the late Mr. Hardy had resided in this district all his life. He served his country for three years in the Great War and during that time was badly gassed, and this fact greatly contributed to his not being able to withstand pneumonia which he contracted only three days before his untimely demise.

A blacksmith by trade the late Mr. Hardy was employed by Mr. Harry Hall for a number of years, and he was a great favourite of all with whom he came in contact. His prowess in the field of sport was also well known and he was a great lover of cricket and hockey where he excelled himself in no mean degree. Besides his aged mother, the deceased gentleman leaves a wife, who was formerly Miss Phyllis Cook, of Gilgai, and one small son, Leslie, to whom the sympathy of one and all is extended in their sudden great loss. Surviving brothers and sisters are Messrs Herbert, Gordon and Walter (Sydney) Arthur (Inverell), George (Gragin), James (Tamworth), Oliver (Yetman), Reid, who is a member of the Fighting Forces, and Mesdames W. Hallett (Kempsey), H. Hardy (Woolbrook) and Miss Vera Hardy (Newcastle). A wealth of beautiful floral tributes covered the casket and after a service the remains were laid to rest in the Church of England portion of the Sandgate cemetery.

Jemima Hardy nee Thorn (1866-1952) - Robert Augustus Hardy (1859-1937)
16th January 1934. Gilgai, New South Wales, Australia.
Obituary

MR. ROBERT A. HARDY.

The late Mr. Robert Augustus Hardy, whose death occurred in the District Hospital on Tuesday morning last, was a well-known figure in Inverell and district for many years. Since his marriage in 1884 he has resided with his wife and family at Gilgai and he has long been known as the grand old man of that centre. Deceased, who was in his 73rd year,

was born in Lamplough, an old mining town near Ballarat. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hardy, and he accompanied his parents to this State in his early teens. In New South Wales, they first lived at Singleton, but later journeyed to Brodie's Plains. On January 16, 1884, deceased was married to Miss Jemima Thome, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. G. Thorne, of Gilgai, the marriage being celebrated by the late Rev. James Grahame. It was then that the deceased gentleman moved to Gil gai, which centre was to become his home for the remainder of his life. He followed the occupation of a butcher for many years and was employed by Mr. J. F. Rogerson, and his old friends recall many occasions when deceased paid for the meat he delivered to others in less fortunate circumstances . Probably, as a result of the mining atmosphere in which he was born, the late Mr. Hardy also tried his luck on the tin fields in the close neighbour- hood of his home, but he was not successful in securing any exceptionally rich deposits. Of late years deceased had lived a quiet life in the little village he loved so well, but he was ever ready to give his assistance to any movement which was launched by organisations in that centre. The Gilgai Sports Club, which has conducted many outstanding cycle meetings, owes much to the late Mr. Hardy. He was always a keen sports man, and when unable to participate himself, was ever ready to lend his assistance in active service. On numerous occasions he filled the position of secretary to the Gilgai Club, and

was again in that role at the last meeting. With a large amount of experience and knowledge of past activities, he was able to attend to his duties in an extremely competent manner. When the Gilgai hockey girls were engaged in matches with visiting teams, they were always assured of the staunch support of the centre's oldest sportsman, and it was with evident delight that he accompanied the team to 'Emmaville last year, when eight of his grandchildren were members of the team. On January 16, 1934, Mr. and Mrs. Hardy celebrated the golden anniversary of their wedding, at their home in Gilgai, and all members of the family gathered to offer their con gratulations on the occasion. The social feast was held under the trees at the rear of the residence, and two long tables accommodated the fifty descendants or immediate relatives. Deceased is survived by his widow      

and nine sons and three daughters, namely, Mrs. Harold Hardy (Inverell), Mrs. W. J. Hardy and Miss Vera Hardy (Gilgai), Messrs. Herbert (Auburn), George (Gragin), Cecil, Gordon, Arthur, James, and Reid (Gil gai) Walter (Sydney), and Oliver   (Yetman). Mr. William Hardy, of Inverell. is a brother, and there are also 34 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren

Jemima Hardy nee Thorn (1866-1952) - Robert Augustus Hardy (1859-1937) 

Inverell Cemetery.

Military Records
© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction: 01/06/2023-12/06/2023.

Private: 2701 Percy James WALKER

by

34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 2701 Percy James WALKER

Born: 25th June 1892. “Kaludah”, Lochinvar, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:15752/1892. 

Died: 18th January 1917. Died at Sea on board HMAT "Port Napier" directly off the Port of Plymouth, England.

Father: Major Edward "Ted" Walker. (1859-1937) Died at West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:19704/1937.

Mother: Katherine Caroline Walker. nee: Ekert. (1860-1938) Died at Mayfield via Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:22766/1938.

INFORMATION

Died on this date 18th January. Percy James Walker was born at “Kaludah”, Lochinvar, New South Wales on 25th June, 1892. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (A.I.F.) on 10th July, 1916 as a 21 year old, single, Labourer from Harper’s Hill, Lochinvar, NSW.
“Kaludah”, Lochinvar, New South Wales
Private Percy James Walker, Service number 2701, embarked from Sydney, NSW on SS Napier on 17th November, 1916 with the 9th Infantry Brigade, 34th Infantry Battalion, 5th Reinforcements.
On 31st December, 1916 Private Walker was admitted to Troopship Port Napier’s Hospital with Lobar Pneumonia (double), Emphysema. Private Percy James Walker died on 18th January, 1917 at Sea on board H.M.A.T. Port Napier (as listed on Casualty Form – Active Service & Field Service Form) from Myocarditis.
He was buried at Sea on 18th January, 1917 from H.M.A.T. Port Napier. He is commemorated on the Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton, Hampshire, England as he has no grave. His death is acknowledged by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Private Percy James Walker was buried at Sea on 18th January, 1917 from H.M.A.T. Port Napier. He is commemorated on the Hollybrook Memorial, Southampton, Hampshire, England as he has no grave. His death is acknowledged by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. 
Logan & Carlton Solicitors, West Maitland, wrote to Base Records on 19th March, 1917 regarding Percy James Walker Deceased stating we are acting for Mary Jane Walker, sister of the above named Deceased on an application for Probate of his Will and shall be obliged if you will let us have the usual Military Certificate of Death to lodge in connection there with.” Base Records replied on 24th March, 1917 enclosing a certificate of report of death of the late Private P. J. Walker.
The Mutual Life and Citizens’ Assurance Co. Ltd wrote to Base Records on 17th April, 1917 requesting a death certificate & identification particulars for Percy James Walker, No. 2701, 34th Battalion  whose life was insured with this Company.”
Base Records replied on 24th April, 1917 enclosing a certificate of report of death of the late Private P. J. Walker along with identification particulars. Base Records contacted Mrs K. Walker, Harpers Hill, Lochinvar, NSW, mother of the late Private P. J. Walker, on 13th May, 1921 stating she was noted she was registered on the records of the late Private P. J. Walker as the next of-kin but desired to know if there were any nearer blood relatives than herself & specifically asked if his father was still alive due to the Deceased Soldiers Estates Act 1918, which stated that the War Medals & Mementoes of a
deceased soldier were to be handed in the following order of relationship – Widow, eldest surviving son, eldest surviving daughter, father, mother, eldest surviving brother, eldest surviving sister etc.
Mrs K. Walker replied to Base Records on 23rd May, 1921 stating that his father was alive & his address was Major Edward Walker, Harpers Hill, Greta, NSW.
Private Percy James Walker was entitled to British War Medal only as he had not entered a Theatre of War. A Memorial Scroll & Memorial Plaque were also sent to Private Walker’s father Major E. Walker, as the closest next of kin. (Scroll sent December, 1921 & Plaque sent July, 1922).
(The above is a summary of my research. The full research can be found by following the link below)
Bill Durrant: January 2023. 
Note: All Percy's clothing effects were destroyed, so there may have been some doubt by the doctor(s) on board that the virus that caused his attack of myocarditis could be transmitted, this would explain why he was buried immediately at sea directly off the port of Plymouth, England rather than bringing him to shore for burial.
Jeff Crisdale
Greta War Memorial
Family Information
Percy was a single 21 year old Labourer from Lochinvar, New South Wales, upon his enlistment with the AIF. Private: 2321 Walter HAGGARTY 36th Battalion AIF.
Lance Walker playing cards with Major ‘Ted’ Walker (father), George Walker (brother) and Arch Wotton (brother-in-law, husband of Florence Walker)
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate, Tuesday 27 July 1937

OBITUARY MR. M. E. WALKER.

Mr. Major Edward Walker, a well known resident of the Lochinvar district, died in the Maitland Hospital on July 16 after a short illness. Born at Lochinvar, Mr. Walker was in his 79th year. Until two years ago he had engaged in farming pursuits. For 40 years he had lived at Harper's Hill. Five children predeceased Mr. Walker, and he is survived by his widow, now in her 77th year, two sons, Messrs R. H. and L. H. Walker (Newcastle), and four daughters, Mesdames P. Hannan(Heddon Greta), E. Brown (Newcastle), G. A. Wotton (Telarah), and J. H. Marriott (Louth Park). Fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren also survive. The internment was made in the Church of England cemetery at Lochinvar, the pall-bearers being Messrs. R. H. Walker (son), V. Wotton (grandson), I. Brown (son-in-law), and J. H. Walker (nephew).  

Grave of Major Edward Walker (1859-1937) - Catherine Walker nee Ekert. (1860-1938)

Pte: George Edward Walker - Pte: Percy James Walker 

The Maitland Daily Mercury, Wednesday 26 October 1938

OBITUARY LATE MRS. WALKER

The death occurred on Thursday last of Mrs. Walker, relict of the late Mr. Major Edward Walker, who predeceased her by about 12 months. The late Mrs. Walker, a member of the well-known Ekert family, was a well-known and highly respected resident of this district, where practically the whole of her life, was spent. Upon the death of her husband, she went to reside with her daughter, Mrs. Brown, of Mayfield, where she lived until her death. Two of Mrs. Walker's sons, the late  Messrs. Geo. and Percy Walker, en listed from Lochinvar for the Great War. The latter died at sea and the former died as a result of wounds a few years after he returned from the war. The remains were brought to Lochinvar on Friday, and interred beside those of her husband and son in the Church of England cemetery after a service in the church, Rev. A. McKinlay, B.A., conducting both services.  

24th January 1901. Article.

20th July 1918. Article.

Military Records
© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction: 19/01/2023.

Private: 579 Peter WOTHERSPOON

by

34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 579 Peter WOTHERSPOON

Born: April 1894. Stirlingshire, Scotland. 

Married: 1914. Kurri Kurri, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:1953/1914.

Wife: Margaret Edith Wotherspoon. nee: Batey. (1894-1969) Died at Newcastle, New South Wales, Death Cert:15856/1969.

Died: 23rd of July 1980. Tweed Heads, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:105076/1980.

Father:

Mother:

INFORMATION

No.579 Peter WOTHERSPOON was born in Scotland. He was married and 21 years of age, working as a Miner at Abermain in NSW, when he enlisted on the 4th of January 1916.
He embarked as a member of “B” Company of the 34th BATTALION AIF (Maitland’s Own) on board the HMAT (A20) ‘Hororata’ that departed Sydney on the 2nd of May 1916. The route was via: Albany in Western-Australia, Columbo in India, the Suez Canal, and Port Said. At Alexandria in Egypt the Battalion was then transhipped onto the S.S. ‘Aragon’ for the final leg of the voyage to Plymouth in England, arriving on the 23rd of June 1916.
On arrival in England the Battalion travelled by train, via Exeter, to the village of Amesbury in Wiltshire, where they unloaded and then marched the several miles to the Australian Camps at Lark Hill. On arrival they were allocated to the No.1 Camp and were then given four days Disembarkation-Leave prior to commencing training.
The 34th Battalion now joined the other Battalions of the 9th Infantry Brigade (33rd, 34th, 35th, and 36th Battalions, 9th Machine-Gun Company, and the 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery), of the new 3rd Australian Division (9th, 10th, and 11th Infantry Brigades). They would all spend the next four months training hard on Salisbury Plain learning the latest methods of Soldiering and of Trench-Warfare.
The Brigade trained and practiced in Musketry, bayonet fighting, the digging of trenches, received their weapons, equipment and field-kitchens, attended various courses, practiced route-marching, improving their fitness, practised trench raids and attacks while coordinating with aircraft and Artillery, culminating in a week in October spent in trenches under active service conditions. They voted in the ‘Conscription Referendum’, were reviewed by His Majesty the King on Salisbury Plain, and then completed a final Divisional Route-March of 18 miles. Selected personnel had attended various Promotion and Officer Training Courses, in preparation for the Casualties that were inevitably to occur.
The 3rd Australian Division finally received their full allocation of rifles in early November and was then finally ready to proceed to the Western-Front. The delay in receiving their weapons had ensured that the 3rd Division was the most highly trained Australian Division to leave England.
On the 21st of November 1916 the 34th Battalion of the 9th Brigade deployed across to France as part of the 3rd Australian Division’s entry onto the Western Front. The 9th Brigade soon moved into the trenches near the village of Armentieres.
He was with the 34th Battalion for the attack on the ‘MESSINES / WYTSCHAETE RIDGE’ in Belgium on the 7th of June 1917, which commenced at 3:10 a.m. with the detonation of 19 huge ‘mines’ that had been dug under certain key German positions on the Ridge. (25 mines had been prepared for the attack – but only 19 were detonated at the commencement of the attack. The remainder were left unfired - still containing explosives. The Peckham 2 mine was abandoned due to a tunnel collapse , and the Petit Douve Farm mine was abandoned after a German camouflet blast in August 1916. One of the four unexploded ‘birdcage mines’ (not needed as the frontline had moved) - was detonated by lightning during a storm in 1955. Two of the five remaining unexploded mines still lay directly under buildings).
It was during this battle that he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION (wound to his neck and to his left hand). He was admitted to the 9th Field-Ambulance then transferred to the 2nd Casualty Clearing Station at Steenwerck. He was then transported to Le Touquet and admitted to the 8th Red Cross Hospital. He rejoined the 34th Battalion on the 6th of July.
He attended a Course at the Brigade Signal School for the period 19th – 25th July.
He was with the Battalion for the unsuccessful attack on 'PASSCHENDAELE' in Belgium on the 12th of October 1917. Unfortunately the ancient field-drainage systems at Passchendaele had been previously destroyed by shelling and the Artillery fire on Passchendaele combined with heavy rainfall had turned and churned those same flooded fields into a muddy quagmire. The attacking troops were expected to advance 2,500 yards (2.2 km) over wet and muddy shell torn ground, Battalions advancing through Battalions (leapfrogging) after each objective (of three) was captured. This distance twice exceeded what would normally be expected for an objective, even in very good conditions. The attack commenced at 5.25 a.m. on the 12th and by the end of the day the 3rd Australian Division had sustained approximately 2,935 casualties (of which 299 were killed) and after being forced to withdraw from the second objective, finally held a line only just in front of that mornings starting point. It was reported that men had sunk into the liquid mud in the shell holes under the weight of their own equipment and drowned.
It was during the battle that he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION (contusion to his back). He was admitted to the 3rd Field-Ambulance Hospital, rejoining the Battalion on the 30th of October.
On the 30th of December 1917 he was detached to the ‘Wireless School’, rejoining the Battalion on the 5th of January 1918. He enjoyed a period of Leave from the 7th until the 24th of January 1918.
In late March of 1918 in response to a major German breakthrough, the 9th Australian Brigade was rushed to the ‘SOMME’ and used as a ‘Mobile Unit’, being thrown into the line wherever strengthening was needed. He was then with the Battalion for the ‘1st Battle of VILLERS-BRETONNEUX’ on the 4th of April when the German attack toward ‘Amiens’ was stopped by the Australians, and he was there for the Defence of ‘Villers-Bretonneux’ up until the 9th Brigade was relieved on the 18th. The relieving British Units subsequently lost the Village to the Germans, and the 13th and 15th Australian Brigades had to re-capture the Village in a night-time attack on the 24th/25th April 1918 (known now as the ‘2nd Battle of Villers-Bretonneux’).
On the 26th of May 1918 he was again reported WOUNDED-IN-ACTION (mustard Gas). He was admitted to a Casualty Clearing Station then transported by Ambulance-Train to a Stationary Hospital on the Coast. On the 7th of June 1918 he was transferred across to England where he was admitted to the Norfolk War Hospital at Norwich. On the 3rd of July he was transferred to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital and two days later was released to the No.3 Command-Depot. On the 13th of September he marched in to the Overseas Training Brigade, but on the 11th of October marched back to the 9th Training-Depot at Fovant.
On the 30th of October 1918 the Ottoman-Empire signed an Armistice ending the fighting in the Middle-East. On the 3rd of November the Austro-Hungarian Government signs an Armistice with the Allies leaving Germany to fight on alone, and on the 11th of November 1918 the Germans finally also sign an ARMISTICE ending the fighting in Europe.
On the 4th of December 1918 he marched into the 4th Command-Depot in preparation for his return to Australia. He commenced his return voyage on the 2nd of January 1919 and disembarked in Melbourne on the 17th of February. He then travelled overland to Sydney. He was discharged from the AIF on the 9th of August 1919.

27th February 1919.

ABERMAIN Signaller P. Wotherspoon, who recently returned home after three years' service at the front, was tendered a hearty welcome home by his relatives and friends at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. A. Batey, Harle street, on Saturday night.

He died on the 23rd of July 1980 (aged 86) and was buried in the Kurri-Kurri Cemetery. His headstone does not record his service in ‘The Great War’.

Margaret Edith Wotherspoon nee Batey (1894-1969) - Peter Wotherspoon (1894-1980)

Bill Durrant: July 2022.

Family Information

Peter was a married 21 year old Miner from Abermain, New South Wales upon his enlistment with the AIF.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 09/11/2022-22/01/2023.

Lance Corporal: 787 Denis Francis HAYES

by

36th BATTALION AIF

Lance Corporal: 787 Denis Francis HAYES

Born: 18th May 1880. Fishery Creek, West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:17469/1880.

Married: 1940. Moree, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:21411/1940.

Wife: Elinor May Hayes. nee: Belford. (1916-1957) Died at Glen Innes, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:6710/1957.

Died: 23rd December 1948. Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:18362/1949.

Father: Dennis Hayes. (1842-14/08/1909) Drowned in the Hunter River at Maitland, N.S.W. Death Cert:9903/1909.

Mother: Margaret Agnes Hayes. nee: Hayes. (1844-1824) Died at West Maitland, N.S.W. Death Cert:2316/1924.

INFORMATION

A Forgotten Digger who served and suffered during The Great War resting at Sandgate Cemetery, his Honour and Dignity to be restored.
74 years ago today, on the Friday afternoon of the 24th December 1948, Lance Corporal Dennis Francis (Francies, Francie) Hayes, 36th Battalion (Reg No-787), labourer and ironworker (Messrs. Armstrong & Royse, Timber Mills, Wickham, N.S.W.), from 120 Maitland Road, Islington, New South Wales, was laid to rest at Sandgate Cemetery, age 68. CATHOLIC 1-27. 44. Never married.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140354728 - funeral notice does not state service.
Born at Fishery Creek, West Maitland, New South Wales on the 28th May 1880 to Denis and Margaret Hayes of Regent Street, West Maitland, New South Wales, Dennis enlisted January 1916 at Newcastle, N.S.W.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article133880564 - report of presentation of medal by the Islington Military Presentation Committee at the Lyric Picture Theatre at Islington.

Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate (NSW : 1876 - 1954), Monday 19 June 1916, page 3

ISLINGTON VOLUNTEERS. SIXTY-FIVE MEDALS PRESENTED.

A further illustration of the excellent work being performed by the Islington Military Presentation Committee was afforded yesterday afternoon, when, at a sacred concert, given in the Lyric Picture Theatre, Islington, no fewer than 65 medals were presented to recruits, who have enlisted from lslington. Some of the men have gone to the front, and their relatives received the medals on their behalf. the presentations being made by Alderman Jenner, the Mayor of Wick-ham, who presided. The medals of those who were present in person to receive them were pinned on their breasts by Mrs. Jenner, the Mayoress. There was a large attendance, including members of the Naval and Military Association and Returned Soldiers' Association. The proceedings opened by the singing of a verse of the National Anthem. This was followed by the "Dead March" in "Saul," as a tribute to the late Lord Kitchener, played by Miss Lily Bernasconi's orchestra, while the audience stood with bowed heads. The programme was very fine. Miss Bernasconi's orchestra played selections in admirable style, the work of the players being featured by taste and expression. Miss D. Wilson used her soprano voice of sweet quality to good effect in her vocal solo, and Miss Leon Trevitt, who possesses a rich contralto voice, was also very successful, being encored. The clever young violinist, Miss Maisie Bailey, delighted her hearers with her playing, and had to respond to an encore. Miss O'Hara displayed marked elocutionary ability in her re-citation, and the vocal solos of Messrs. R. Glover and D. Stewart were also enjoyable numbers.

Miss Welford accompanied the singers, and Miss O'Connor accompanied Miss Bailey. An apology for unavoidable absence was received from Mr. W. C. Grahame, M.P.. who was on the programme for an address. In his place a brief address was given by Senator Watson. In the course of his re marks Senator Watson said he, felt it a privilege and honour to be associated in that function, and he had a sense of pride by reason of the fact that one of the boys to receive a medal was his own son,. who had gone to the front, We had been looking forward from the commencement of the war for a decisive victory, but bur expectations had not yet been realised. Battalion after battalion had left these shores, and thousands of the brave follows had returned wounded and maimed. They were honourable wounds. It was much better to go through life maimed, and lamed, and wounded in battle than to be a shirker, a man who was not prepared to play the game. Forever would those men who had gone to the front be honoured. He ventured to say, on behalf of the Federal Government, that every just claim on behalf of the returned soldiers would receive just consideration, for that was the policy and the promise of the pre-sent Government. Not only would this Government honour that, but the people of Australia would see that that promise was maintained.

He paid a high tribute to the work of the Islington Military Presentation Committee, and said the Wickham municipality, in recognition of its residents who had enlisted, stood on equality with any other municipality in the State. He was sure the council had the appreciation and support of the people behind them in what they were doing. Alderman Colilan, chairman of the committee, expressed his pleasure at seeing such a large attendance, and that the Naval and Military Association and the Returned Soldiers' Association were represented. In the course of a brief out line of the work of the committee, he said the first meeting was held in September, 1915, when it was decided that recognition should be made of every man enlisting from Islington. The matter was taken up enthusiastically by the residents, and the ladies worked hard. On October 3 the committee presented 55 medals to recruits. Those men were then in camp. Others had, however, gone to the front, and it was decided that they, too, should have recognition. With the assistance of the citizens, the committee was able at a later date to hand 27 medals to the relatives of those men who had already left for the front. He related a story of how a medal that had been presented to a man who volunteered at Islington was sent with his other effects, when the poor fellow was killed on Gallipoli Peninsula, to his parents, who lived in Scotland. The deceased soldier's mother, writing to a friend in New South Wales, said how gratified she was that her son had been honoured by the people of Islington, so many miles away from Scotland.

The Mayor, prior to the presentation of medals, wished the recipients every success, and trusted they would be spared to return safe and sound, and crowned with glory. They could be assured of a hearty welcome when they came home. He also said he had decided that every man who enlisted from the Wickham municipality should receive a memento. Medals were then presented to the following: W. Adams. H. J. Bagnall, R. W. Bowman, ,J. Beecham, C. F. Coleman, C. Callaghan, D. B. Crawford, W H. Cheek, A. H. Clark, W. Dickson, J. A. Duffey, J. Danks, R. Emerton, J. R. Edgar, C. Eyre, P. J. Edgar, L. W. Fayers, S. Ford, A. Gower, A. H. Hayes, D. F. Hayes, J. Hyland, J. Hallston, A. Huntress, J. C. Hawkins, H. B. Irwin, C. W. Ingram, P. R. Jamieson, J. J. Jamieson, S. Keevers, W. Lewis, H. G. Mitchell, R. Marks, R. W. Malcolm, W. W. Moore. W. L. Mitchell, C. E. Newton, H. R. Orchard, H. J. Proctor, J. E. H. Pur cell, J. P. V. Plumbo, C. L. Power, A. B. Peebles, R. H. Peade, A. Peade, W. Ryan, J. A. Ryan, H. C. Sadler, F. H. C. Smith, H. H. Webber, R. A. Webber, F. P. Warner, D. M'Dade, A. C. M'Ilveen,. N. D. M'Lean, A. W. Limeburner, J. P. Eagan, J. Blackwood, C. Garde, H. Lamerton, W. Jamieson, W. Ross, Sharp, D. Watson. C. M'Iiveen. The presentations were acknowledged by Priv. Eade, sec. Newcastle branch of the Returned Soldiers' Association, Sergeant Howson, and Sergeant Miller. A medal donated by Mr. N. A. O'Leary to Albert Irwin, of the 35th Battalion, was received on his behalf by his mother, the presentation being made by the Mayor. Alderman Kirk, treasurer of the commit-tee, thanked Messrs. Dix and Baker for the use of the picture theatre, Senator Watson for his address, Miss Bernasconi and the members of her orchestra, and the other ladies and gentlemen who contributed to the programme.

Admitted to hospital 20.7.1917 (influenza).
Wounded in action - 3.12.1917 (GSW face, severe).
Dennis returned home on the 22nd May 1918, being discharged medically unfit on the 22nd November 1918.
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140981623 - welcome home by the Islington Military Presentation Committee at the Rosedale Hall, Tighes Hill.
Mr. Hayes’s name has been inscribed on the Wickham Municipal District Roll of Honour Board (1).
I located this Forgotten Digger resting in an unmarked grave, so December 2018 I placed a cross adorned with poppies on the gravesite in remembrance of his service and sacrifice for God, King & Country.
I submitted an application to DVA November 2021 asking for a Commonwealth War Graves Plaque, curbing and marble chip, and this was accepted January 2022.
I will post photos when gravesite complete.
Contact with descendants would be greatly appreciated.
For more detail, see “Forever Remembered “
Lest We Forget.

Gary Mitchell: December 2022.

Family Information

Denis was a single 35 year old labourer and ironworker (Messrs. Armstrong & Royse, Timber Mills, Wickham, N.S.W.), who lived at 120 Maitland Road, Islington, New South Wales upon his enlistment with the AIF. Denis previously served with the 4th Infantry Regiment. The 4th Infantry Battalion was designated the "Australian Rifles", a regiment that had existed in various forms since 1908. Denis resigned prior to his enlistment with the AIF. 

Elinor May Hayes. nee: Belford. (1916-1957) Glen Innes Cemetery

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 28/12/2022-31/12/2022.

Lance Corporal: 1141 James HUSBAND.

by

34th BATTALION AIF

Lance Corporal: 1141 James HUSBAND

Born: 1891. Ayr, Scotland.

Married: 1914. Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:4532/1914.

Wife: Marion Husband. nee: Brown. (18..-1969) Died at Blacktown New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:41553/1969.

Died: 6th of November 1964. Concord Repatriation Hospital, Concord, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:39209/1964. 

Father: Alexander Husband.

Mother: Agnes Husband.

INFORMATION

No.1141 James HUSBAND was born in Scotland and arrived in Australia in 1910. He was married and 24 years of age, working as a labourer at Abedare in NSW when he enlisted at West-Maitland on the 12th of January 1916. His younger brother would enlist a few months later. Private: 2166 John HUSBAND. 34th Battalion AIF. 
He embarked as a member of “D” Company of the 34th BATTALION AIF (Maitland’s Own) on board the HMAT (A20) ‘Hororata’ that departed Sydney on the 2nd of May 1916. The route was via: Albany in Western-Australia, Columbo in India, the Suez Canal, and Port Said. At Alexandria in Egypt the Battalion was then transhipped onto the S.S. ‘Aragon’ for the final leg of the voyage to Plymouth in England, arriving on the 23rd of June 1916.
On arrival in England the Battalion travelled by train, via Exeter, to the village of Amesbury in Wiltshire, where they unloaded and then marched the several miles to the Australian Camps at Lark Hill. On arrival they were allocated to the No.1 Camp and were then given four days Disembarkation-Leave prior to commencing training.
The 34th Battalion now joined the other Battalions of the 9th Infantry Brigade (33rd, 34th, 35th, and 36th Battalions, 9th Machine-Gun Company, and the 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery), of the new 3rd Australian Division (9th, 10th, and 11th Infantry Brigades). They would all spend the next four months training hard on Salisbury Plain learning the latest methods of Soldiering and of Trench-Warfare.
The Brigade trained and practiced in Musketry, bayonet fighting, the digging of trenches, received their weapons, equipment and field-kitchens, attended various courses, practiced route-marching, improving their fitness, practised trench raids and attacks while coordinating with aircraft and Artillery, culminating in a week in October spent in trenches under active service conditions. They voted in the ‘Conscription Referendum’, were reviewed by His Majesty the King on Salisbury Plain, and then completed a final Divisional Route-March of 18 miles. Selected personnel had attended various Promotion and Officer Training Courses, in preparation for the Casualties that were inevitably to occur.
The 3rd Australian Division finally received their full allocation of rifles in early November and was then finally ready to proceed to the Western-Front. The delay in receiving their weapons had ensured that the 3rd Division was the most highly trained Australian Division to leave England.
On the 21st of November 1916 the 34th Battalion of the 9th Brigade deployed across to France as part of the 3rd Australian Division’s entry onto the Western Front. The 9th Brigade soon moved into the trenches near the village of Armentieres.
On the 1st of February 1917 he was appointed a Lance-Corporal and on the 17th of February he marched out to attend a Bayonet-Fighting Course.
On the 29th of April he was attached to a working-party and rejoined the Battalion on the 15th of May.
He was with the 34th Battalion for the attack on the ‘MESSINES / WYTSCHAETE RIDGE’ in Belgium on the 7th of June 1917, which commenced at 3:10 a.m. with the detonation of 19 huge ‘mines’ that had been dug under certain key German positions on the Ridge.
* Note - (25 mines had been prepared for the attack – but only 19 were actually detonated at the commencement of the attack. The remainder were left unfired - still containing explosives. The Peckham 2 mine was abandoned due to a tunnel collapse , and the Petit Douve Farm mine was abandoned after a German camouflet blast in August 1916. One of the four unexploded ‘birdcage mines’ (not needed as the frontline had moved prior to the attack) - was detonated by lightning during a storm in 1955. Two of the five remaining unexploded mines still today lay directly under buildings).
On the 11th of June he reported sick and was admitted to hospital with concussion. He was discharged to duty on the 15th.
He again reported sick on the 16th of July and admitted to hospital, diagnosed with ‘myalgia’. On the 30th of July he rejoined the Battalion and was promoted to the rank of Temporary-Corporal.
On the 31st of August 1917 he was transferred to the 9th Training-Battalion at Durrington in England and reverted to his substantive rank of Lance-Corporal. On the 3rd of September he marched in and became part of the training-cadre.
On the 30th of October he was reported as being ‘on command’ at the two week Physical Training & Bayonet Fighting Course held at Tidsworth.
He attended the 40th Army ‘Physical Training & Bayonet Fighting Course’ in the gymnasium at Aldershot from the 26th November until the 21st of December 1917.
On the 17th of December 1917 he was promoted to the rank of ER/Corporal but reverted to the rank of Lance-Corporal when he deployed back to France on the 1st of March 1918. He rejoined the 34th Battalion on the 9th of March 1918.
In late March of 1918 in response to a major German breakthrough, the 9th Australian Brigade was rushed to the ‘SOMME’ and used as a ‘Mobile Unit’, being thrown into the line wherever strengthening was needed. He was then with the Battalion for the ‘1st Battle of VILLERS-BRETONNEUX’ on the 4th of April when the German attack toward ‘Amiens’ was stopped by the Australians. On the 5th of April 1918 he was recorded as being WOUNDED-IN-ACTION (severe shrapnel wound to his thigh).He was admitted to hospital and on the 10th was transferred across to England where he was admitted to the Military Hospital at Colchester.
On the 22nd of May he was transferred to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford. He was then granted a furlough from the 14th to the 28th of May with orders to then report to No.4 Command-Depot at Hurdcott. He was still at the No.4 Command-Depot on the 11th Of November 1918 when the Germans signed the Armistice.
On the 18th of December 1918 he commenced his return voyage to Australia, arriving back on the 11th of February 1919. He was discharged from the AIF on the 23rd of March 1919.
He died at the Repatriation Hospital at Concord in NSW on the 6th of November 1964, aged 73.
Bill Durrant: August 2022.
Family Information
James was a married 24 year old labourer from Aberdare, New South Wales, Australia. James and his wife  Marion lived at Northcote Street. James served for 4 years with the Royal Horse Artillery for 4 years prior to him emigrating to Australia.
Military Records
© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction: 09/11/2022-17/12/2022.

Private: 2166 John HUSBAND

by

33rd BATTALION - 34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 2166 John HUSBAND

Born: 1890. Ayr, Scotland.

Died: 12th October 1917. Killed in Action. Passchendaele, Belgium 

Father: Alexander Husband. 

Mother: Agnes Husband. 

INFORMATION

No.2166 John HUSBAND was born in Scotland and arrived in Australia in 1910. He was a 20 years old ‘Wheeler’ at Aberdare in NSW when he enlisted on the 17th of May 1916. His older brother had enlisted earlier on the 12th of January.
* Note - A ‘wheeler’ was assigned to work with the pit-ponies in a coal mine. He would lead them through the tunnels of the mine to collect the coal-trolleys and take them up to the surface, and vice versa.
He embarked as a member of the 3rd Reinforcements of the 33rd BATTALION on board the HMAT (A68) ‘Anchises’ that departed Sydney on the 24th of August 1916 arriving at Devonport in England on the 26th of October 1916.
On arrival in England the Reinforcements travelled by train, via Exeter, to the village of Amesbury in Wiltshire, where they unloaded and then marched the several miles to the Australian Camps at Lark Hill.
On the 10th of November 1916 he was transferred to the 34th BATTALION AIF (Maitland’s Own)and taken-on-strength by them. He was posted into “D” Company and due to duplication in the Regimental-Numbers within the Battalion; he was allocated the suffix “A”.
On the 21st of November 1916 the 34th Battalion of the 9th Brigade deployed across to France as part of the 3rd Australian Division’s entry onto the Western-Front. The 9th Brigade soon moved into the trenches near the village of Armentieres.
He reported sick on the 15th December 1916 and was treated by the 10th Australian Field Ambulance for ‘bronchitis’. He was discharged back to duty on the 19th.
He was detached to a Working Party on the 18th of February 1917 and returned to the Battalion on the 3rd June.
On the 5th of June 1917 he was selected as one of the ‘nucleus’ (aka “B” Team) of the 34th Battalion and marched in to the Brigade ‘Concentration Camp’ at Kortepyp-Camp. He rejoined the Battalion on the 13th of June.
* Note: - This nucleus was usually 25% of the Unit strength and was kept out of major battles to be used as the basis for rebuilding the Unit in the event of the Unit being destroyed.
The attack on the ‘MESSINES / WYTSCHAETE RIDGE’ in Belgium on the 7th of June 1917, commenced at 3:10 a.m. with the detonation of 19 huge ‘mines’ that had been dug under certain key German positions on the Ridge.
* Note - (25 mines had been prepared for the attack – but only 19 were actually detonated at the commencement of the attack. The remainder were left unfired - still containing explosives. The Peckham 2 mine was abandoned due to a tunnel collapse , and the Petit Douve Farm mine was abandoned after a German camouflet blast in August 1916. One of the four unexploded ‘birdcage mines’ (not needed as the frontline had moved prior to the attack) - was detonated by lightning during a storm in 1955. Two of the five remaining unexploded mines still lay directly under buildings).
He was with the 34th Battalion for the unsuccessful attack on 'PASSCHENDAELE' in Belgium on the 12th of October 1917 and was in the new frontline trenches when he was seen to be struck by shrapnel from an artillery shell. As the battlefield could not be held, his remains could not be recovered, and were never again discovered.
* Unfortunately the ancient field-drainage systems at Passchendaele had been previously destroyed by shelling and the Artillery fire on Passchendaele combined with heavy rainfall had turned and churned those same flooded fields into a muddy quagmire. The attacking troops were expected to advance 2,500 yards (2.2 km) over wet and muddy shell torn ground, Battalions advancing through Battalions (leapfrogging) after each objective (of three) was captured. This distance twice exceeded what would normally be expected for an objective, even in very good conditions. The attack commenced at 5.25 a.m. on the 12th and by the end of the day the 3rd Australian Division had sustained approximately 2,935 casualties (of which 299 were killed) and after being forced to withdraw from the second objective, finally held a line only just in front of that mornings starting point. It was reported that men had sunk into the liquid mud in the shell holes under the weight of their own equipment and drowned.
After this Battle he was reported as MISSING-IN-ACTION. A later Court-of-Inquiry amended this to KILLED-IN-ACTION on 12th October.
He currently has no known grave, and is commemorated among the thousands of ‘missing’ inscribed on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. His name is also inscribed on the ‘Australian Roll-of-Honour’ at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, and on the Aberdare Cemetery WW1 ‘Memorial-Gates’.
Menin Gate War Memorial
Aberdare Cemetery Roll of Honour

Bill Durrant: July 2022.

Family Information

John was a single 20 years old Wheeler from Stewartlee, Aberdare, New South Wales upon his enlistment and was still serving with the14th Infantry. His brother Lance Corporal:1141 James HUSBAND. (D Company 34th Battalion AIF)

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 09/11/2022.