Numerical List in Collection – Page 10

Acting Corporal: 236 Henry Thomas GOLDSMITH.

October 7, 2017March 8, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

War Medal A/CPL 236 H T GOLDSMITH 34BN AIF

34th BATTALION A.I.F.

Acting Corporal: 236 Henry Thomas GOLDSMITH.

Born: 1895. London, England.

Married: 25th December 1918 (Xmas Day) St Peters Church, Fulham, England. Marriage Cert: ME3511.

Wife: Florence May Goldsmith. nee: Goldsmith.

Died:

Father: William Alfred Goldsmith.

Mother: Mary Goldsmith.

INFORMATION

Henry Thomas Goldsmith enlisted with A Company, No:2 Platoon, 34th Battalion AIF on the 5th of February 1916 and left Sydney on board HMAT A20 "Hororata" on the 2nd of May 1916.

20th June 1917

Informant; Private: 236 Henry Thomas GOLDSMITH A Company, No2 Platoon. Sergeant: 165 William James RICHMOND was in A Company, No:2 Platoon, 34th Bn. I have seen his grave at ARMENTIERES in the Military Cemetery with a cross with his name and number. He was killed by a splinter of shell in the Houplines Sector. I did not see it happen but knew the facts from Corporal: 60 William Melville DWYER of A Company, No:2 Platoon, now up line, in whose arms he fell. Richmond's brother is in A Company up line, and has received his effects. Dwyer also saw him and told him about the casualty.

No:1 Canadian General Hospital, ETAPLES.

Henry returned to Australia on the 24th of January 1919.

British War Medal:41327 to PTE 236 H T GOLDSMITH 34BN AIF was acquired via auction in May 2015 and is now in the Harrower Collection.

Family Information

Henry was a single 21 year old Farmer/Stockeeper who was in the care of Mrs B Ball of Gouldsville via Singleton, N.S.W upon enlistment. His father William lived at 79 Edmund Street, Camberwell, London, England.

Military Records World War 1 Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction; 30/08/2007-24/06/2017.

Temporary Sergeant: 178 Frederick SETH.

January 11, 2022March 8, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

34th BATTALION A.I.F.

Temporary Sergeant: 178 Frederick SETH.

Born: 1891. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Married:

Wife:

Died:

Father: John Moir Seth.

Mother:

INFORMATION

Frederick Seth enlisted with A Company 34th Battalion AIF on the 25th of January 1916 and was an original member of the Battalion and left Sydney on board HMAT A20 "Hororata" on the 2nd of May 1916 and disembarked at Plymouth, England on board HMAT "Aragon" on the 23rd of June 1916. Frederick was marched into Durrington Army Camp at Lark Hill and on the 18th of July Qualified at the First Rifle Course, School of Musketry at Tidwoth. He was marched back to Lark Hill from the Musketry School of Instruction at Tidworth on the 9th of August and was promoted to Lance Corporal on the 30th of September and was again promoted to Corporal on the 28th of October 1916.

Frederick proceeded overseas from Southampton for France on the 21st of November and Taken on Strength with the 34th Battalion in France. Frederick was detached to the Rail Construction Company on the 2nd of February for the next month and re-joined the 34th on the 2nd of March 1917. He remained with the 34th and was again promoted to Temporary Sergeant after Sergeant Clarke was wounded and evacuated to England on the 1st of June 1917.

Frederick was Wounded in Action; 1st occasion on the 7th of June 1917 during the Battle of Messines, receiving a Gun-Shot Wounds to his left side and hand his left leg and his jaw. He was evacuated to the 2nd Casualty Clearing Station before embarking back to England on board H.S "Staddingweiper".

Frederick was admitted to the 1st London General Hospital at Camberwell, England on the 20th of June 1917 and after treatment he was transferred to the Grove Military Hospital at Tooting

16th August 1917.

Informant: Sergeant: 178 Frederick SETH. A Company No: 4 Platoon 34th Battalion AIF. "On June 1st 1917 at Ploegstreet Wood, Lieutenant: Ernest SHANNON was on a raiding party. It is believed he was killed by one of our own bombs. His right leg was smashed above the knee to his thigh. The man carried him to the dressing station where he died soon afterwards. I cannot say where he was buried. The Stretcher Bearer and I identified him the next day at the dressing station. Dead when this happened.

Tooting Grove Hospital.

Frederick was discharged from Hospital and granted a furlo on the 18th of August until the 1st of September 1917. After his furlo Frederick was ordered to report to the Training Depot at Perham Downs and then to the 1st Command Depot on the 8th of October.

Frederick was ready to be sent overseas again and left Longbridge Deverill via Southampton for France on the 2nd of November 1917 and was marched into Rouelles, France the next day. Frederick was Taken on Strength with the 34th on the 6th and was sent to Brigade School on the 28th of November and re-joined his Battalion on the 2nd of December. Frederick was again of to do some more training and was detached to the Australian Corps School on the 13th of January 1918 where he spent the next 5 weeks before returning to the 34th on the 23rd of February.

A week later Frederick was admitted to the 10th Field Ambulance suffering from Influenza before being transferred to the 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Station on the 1st of March. After being treated and having a 2 month rest Frederick returned to the 34th on the 8th of May 1918. He was sent back to the front line and 3 weeks later Frederick was Wounded in Action; 2nd occasion at Villers-Brettoneux on the 29th of May 1918 receiving Severe Gun-Shot Wounds to his left leg.

Frederick was evacuated to the 2nd Australian Casualty Clearing Station and then to the 5th Casualty Clearing Station before being transferred to the 6th Australian General Hospital at Rouen, France on the 7th of June. Frederick was sent back to England on board the "Grantully Castle" on the 10th of June and was admitted to the Horton War Hospital at Epsom before being transferred to the London War Hospital where Frederick had his left leg Amputated above the knee.

25th July 1918.

Informant; Sergeant: 1895 George Edward CLARK A Company, No:1 Platoon, 34th Battalion. He was wounded near VILLERS-BRETONNEUX. I did not see it myself but Corporal: 178 Frederick SETH of my Company, (now in Horton War Hospital, Epsom) was wounded by the same shell and lost his leg. They were on a working party digging a trench. Lieutenant: 373 Albert DOWDING was taken away and died in hospital somewhere I think. He fought at GALLIPOLI. He was an oldish man, we called him "Dad", grey, short, probably about 52, very quiet but very chummy with the boys.

No:11 Stationary, ROUEN.

After His recovery Frederick was transferred to the 2nd Auxiliary Hospital on the 22nd of July 1918.

Frederick spent the next month before being granted furlo from the 22nd of August to the 30th of August. He was sent for repatriating back at the 2nd Auxiliary Hospital at Southall. Frederick was returned to Australia on the 19th of September 1918 with an Artificial Limb and was discharged Medically Unfit for General Service and Home Service and returned to Australia on the 19th September 1919 and was discharged from the AIF on the 11th January 1920.

Frederick's British War Medal:42362 and Victory Medal:41481 to T/SGT F SETH 34 BN AIF were acquired at Auction from Colonial Medal in Queensland in April 2007 and are now in the collection.

Family Information

Frederick was a single 25 year old Labourer from Roland's Plains, Port Macquarie, N.S.W. upon enlistment. His father John Moir Seth was recorded as his next of kin who lived at "Mooring Side" Nursery, Edinburgh, Scotland. Frederick's brother James Alexander Seth also enlisted.

Lance Corporal: 2152 James Alexander SETH. 34th Battalion AIF

Military Records World War 1 Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction; 23/03/2007-20/08/2014.

Lieutenant: 225 Thomas Brown NORMAN. M.C.

December 22, 2023March 8, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

34th BATTALION A.I.F.

Lieutenant: 225 Thomas Brown NORMAN. M.C.

Born: April 1888. Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand.

Married 1: 28th February 1916. St Johns Church, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:553/1916.

Wife 1: Phyllis Sarah Norman. nee: Loder. (1891-1918)

Married 2: 19th September 1921 Milton, New South Wales, Australia.

Wife 2: Dorothy Norman. nee: Cork. (1898–1929)

Married 3: 1933.

Wife 3: Emma Margaret Lucy "Poppy" Norman. nee: Bassett.

Died: 1967 Wellington, New Zealand.

Father: Alfred Harold Norman. (1860–1944)

Mother: Elizabeth Frances Brown (Lizzie) nee: Tyree. (1865–1925)

INFORMATION

Thomas Brown Norman enlisted on the 1st of September 1915 with the rank of sergeant and served with A company 34th Battalion and was an original member of the Battalion. On the 1st of May the Battalion left by train from Farley Station for the Showground in Sydney. Equipped with kit bags and necessary clothing, and was reviewed in Moore Park by General: Gustave Mario RAMACCOTTI.. On the following morning of the 2nd of May 1916 the men embarked on the transport HMAT A20 "Hororata" and sailed at 4:00 pm. Arriving in England in early July, the Battalion spent the next five months in training. It crossed into France on the 22nd November, and moved into the trenches of the Western Front for the first time on the 27th of November, just in time for the onset of the terrible winter of 1916-17.

21st June 1917

On the 21st June the Battalion moved back to Vauxhall Camp and the following day went into tents at Neuve Eglise and relieved 1st Wiltshire Regiment. Training, sports and other competitions were carried out. The weather was fine and enemy planes were very busy strafing our Observation Balloons and the Artillery on several occasions shelling Neuve Eglise. Whilst Here the DUKE of CONNAUGHT held an inspection at Bailleul, the Battalion being represented by Captain: Robert Joseph STEWART Company Sergeant Major: 225 Thomas Brown NORMAN and 3 Other Ranks.

Military Cross

14th May 1918

MILITARY CROSS

2nd Lieutenant: Thomas Norman BROWN. 34th Battalion AIF. For distinguished and gallant service during an attack on enemy positions in the vicinity of MORLANCOURT near ALBERT, on the night of May 5/6th, 1918. he led his platoon to the final objective with great dash and courage. When the position was captured he re-organised his platoon and consolidated the line.

at daybreak the enemy succeeding to gain a footing in a trench on the right, thus endangering the flank. He led his platoon in a counter attack with the greatest fearlessness, driving out the enemy and re-establishing the position. his bearing throughout the whole operation was an inspiration to his men.

London Gazette 16th September 1918. Page 11051 Position 4.

Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 4th of February 1919. Page 136 Position 3.

On 1st July 1918 Lieutenant Colonel. Ernest Edward MARTIN. D.S.O. the Commanding Officer addressed the Battalion on its work during its sojourn in France and presented Parchments, with the 4th Army Commander's compliments and congratulation to the recipients of Decorations. Captain: Charles Eric WATSON. M.C. and Lieutenant: 21 James BRUCE. D.C.M. M.C.

The Green Diamond Concert Party gave concerts daily in the Hospital Street Victor River. Cricket Matches, Swimming Carnival and Transport Competition were held and the Troops generally were having a good time. Tactical Training Schemes were practiced. Lewis Gun instruction was carried out at the Citadel, Amienes, and practice attack with Tanks was held.

The Green Diamond Concert Party (aka 5th Australian Infantry Brigade Concert Party - Green Diamonds program 1917-1919. With its line-up including professional vaudevillian Bruce Drysdale (previously with Stanley McKay) and female impersonator "Tiki" Carpenter, the Green Diamonds presented a variety entertainment of songs, dances, comedy routines and farces in France around the end of the war. The concert party was formed from within the 5th Brigade, which itself comprised the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th infantry Battalions)

Green Diamond Program

Whilst here a redistribution of Headquarters and Company Officer's took place:-

Lieutenant: 225 Thomas Brown Norman M.C. 1919

HEADQUARTERS

2nd in Command	Major: Francis George GRANT.
Adjudgent	Captain: Henry Thomas HICKS.
Signal Officer	Lieutenant. 932 Hector Reginald McLEOD.
Scout Officer	Lieutenant: 561 Stanley Arthur SMITH
Lewis Gun Officer	Lieutenant: James SNEDDEN.
Intelligence Officer	Lieutenant:917 Thomas WILLIAMS.
Transport Officer	Lieutenant: Eric Charles EDWARDS.
Quarter Master	Captain: James Egbert Arthur FLORANCE.
Regimental Sergeant Major	Warrant Officer I: 43 John James CROSS.
Regimental Quarter Master Sergeant	H.H. BEVAN
Transport Sergeant	Temporary Sergeant: 1912a Robert FOX.

"A" COMPANY

Officer Commanding	Captain: Telford Graham GILDER.
2nd in Command	Lieutenant: William Henry SALVATORI.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 9152 Alexander John GRUNSELL.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 225 Thomas Brown NORMAN.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 11334 Leslie John Bentley HARTSHORN.

"B" COMPANY

Officer Commanding	Captain: Norman Sydney CAIRNS.
2nd in Command	Captain: Alexander Warren MACDONALD.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: Sydney Rodgers NICKLIN.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 1410 Oliver Provan DAVIDSON.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 12391 John Murray ROHAN.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: Leonard Rossiter STAHLE.

"C" COMPANY

Officer Commanding	Captain: Herbert Henry PERCY.
2nd in Command	Lieutenant: 1514 Frank William GIFFORD.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 21 James BRUCE.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 1790 Stanley Harold HUBBARD.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: 7245 Frank Furneaux HEBBARD.

"D" COMPANY

Officer Commanding	Captain: Edmund BEAVER.
2nd in Command	Captain: Henry Cecil Llewellyn BENNETT.
Lieutenant	Harry Hurlston RICHARDSON.
Lieutenant	Lieutenant: R.C. BLANCH.
Lieutenant	2nd Lieutenant: 2036 Vere "Vic" Cumming STEVENSON.

Military Cross, British War Medal and Victory Medal were offered to me for purchase in march 2008 from a dealer in Sydney, N.S.W. I was unable due to the financial cost and had to decline. I acquired his group at auction in May 2019 and they are now in the Harrower Collection.

His photograph printed in the 'Sydney Mail' (NSW : 1912 - 1938) Wed 4 Sep 1918.

(Status Auctions-May 2010-July 2012-May 2019)

1914-1918. Military Cross for Morlancourt & pair, 34th Battalion AIF. MC, GvR, engraved (contemporary chisel-cut): "Lt. T. B. Norman, Morlancourt, May 1918"; British War & Victory impressed officially: "Lieut. T. B. Norman, AIF." Thomas Brown Norman, born Dunedin, NZ., resident Mosman, NSW. Enl 1/09/1915. To UK as Sergeant with 'A' Company, 34th Bn 2/05/1916. Ops France & Flanders from July 1916. CSM 26/06/1917, Lieutenant 18/11/1917. Awarded MC for Gallantry at Morlancourt 5/05/1918 vide Commonwealth Gazette 4/02/1919 : "For conspicuous gallantry & devotion to duty. He led his Platoon successfully to his objective with great dash & courage, and, when the enemy later gained a footing in the trench, he drove them out & re-established the position. He set a fine example to his men" (Source Comm. Gaz no15, 4/02/1919). Norman is mentioned for this action in Bean's Official History Vol. VI, pg 82. RtA 26/07/1910 & to Reserve of Officers, 2 MD 1/01/1920. Together with his original typewritten & personally signed congratulatory letter (27/05/1918) from General Birdwood & original notification of award LG listing from Victoria Barracks, Melbourne 1919. On original ribbons. gVF also with brief research notes.

Australia: 1914-18 Military Cross for Morlancourt & pair, 34th Bn AIF. MC, GvR, engraved (contemporary chisel-cut): 'Lt. T. B. Norman, Morlancourt, May 1918'; British War & Victory impressed officially: 'Lieut. T. B. Norman, AIF.' Thomas Brown Norman, born Dunedin, NZ., resident Mosman, NSW. Enl 1/09/1915. To UK as Sergeant with 'A' Company, 34th Bn 2/05/1916. Ops France & Flanders from July 1916. CSM 26/06/1917, Lieutenant 18/11/1917. Awarded MC for Gallantry at Morlancourt 5/05/1918 vide Commonwealth Gazette 4/02/1919 : 'For conspicuous gallantry & devotion to duty. He led his Platoon successfully to his objective with great dash & courage, and, when the enemy later gained a footing in the trench, he drove them out & re-established the position. He set a fine example to his men' (Source Comm. Gaz no15, 4/02/1919). Norman is mentioned for this action in Bean's Official History Vol. VI, pg 82. RtA 26/07/1910 & to Reserve of Officers, 2 MD 1/01/1920. Together with his original typewritten & personally signed congratulatory letter (27/05/1918) from General Birdwood & original notification of award LG listing from Victoria Barracks, Melbourne 1919. On original ribbons. gVF also with brief research notes. (P)

Family Information

Thomas was a married Indent Agent from "Wian" Mosman Street, Mosman, N.S.W. upon enlistment.

Birth of Son Thomas Keith Norman (1916–1983) 4 Dec 1916 • Mosman, New South Wales, Australia

Death of Wife Phyllis Sarah Loder (1891–1918) 20 Dec 1918 • at ‘Koorong’, 2 Hale Road, Mosman, New South Wales, Australia

Death of Mother Elizabeth Frances Brown (Lizzie) Tyree (1865–1925) 28 Jun 1925 • Mosman, New South Wales, Australia.

Death of Father Alfred Harold Norman (1860–1944) 25 Oct 1944 • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

Thomas Keith Norman served during World War 2 service number 33956 with the 29th Battalion that shows Thomas Brown Norman was living in Wellington, New Zealand.

Military Records

World War 1 Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 24/03/2008-27/11/2015.

Lieutenant: Eric Charles EDWARDS.

January 25, 2023March 8, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

Eric Charles EDWARDS

34th BATTALION A.I.F.

Lieutenant: Eric Charles EDWARDS.

Born: 6th December 1890. Gundagai, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:15615/1891.

Married: 1924. Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:720/1924.

Wife 1: Esme L Edwards. nee: Farquahar. (1908-1929)

Wife 2: Gladys Marjorie Edwards. nee: Le Poer Trench. (Grand Daughter of the 3rd Earl of Clancarty)

Died: 30th July 1958. 35 Weymouth Street, St Marylebone, London, England.

Father: Osman Adams Edwards. (1858-11/05/1949)

Mother: Rose Anne Theresa Edwards. nee: Dillon. (1862-1942)

INFORMATION

Eric Charles Edwards enlisted on the 12th of August 1915 with the rank of Corporal. Eric was soon promoted to the rank of Sergeant on the 11th of November. He attended to Royal Agricultural Society Show Grounds in Sydney and was promoted to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant on the 6th of January 1916 and attached with the 2nd Reinforcements 34th Battalion AIF. He left Sydney on board HMAT A15 "Port Sydney" on the 4th of September 1916 as Commanding Officer of the 2nd Reinforcements.

Eric arrived at Plymouth, England and disembarked on the 29th of October 1916 and was marched to Durrington Army Camp and commenced training with the 9th Training Battalion. His training included Revolver School which he commenced on the 14th of January 1917. He completed extensive training at the Tidworth School of Instruction at Durrington Army Camp before proceeding overseas on the 19th of September from Southampton.

Eric was Taken on Strength with the 34th Battalion on the 6th of October 1917, he was to reinforce the Battalion for the attack on Passchendaele. He was Wounded in Action, 1st Occasion on the 12th of October 1917, receiving a Severe Gun-Shot wound to his Left Arm. He was admitted to the 2nd Red Cross Hospital at Rouen, France before being sent back to England and was transferred to the 3rd London General Hospital on the 25th of October.

9th-12th October 1917 saw the 3rd Division, 9th and 10th Infantry Brigade in action during the Battle of Passchendaele, which saw massive losses and suffering in the Australian ranks. The casualties numbered 3,199 men in 24 hours during the height battle. The 34th Battalion lost every officer that day, either killed or wounded including their Medical Officer, Major: Gother Robert Caslisle CLARKE and some of his staff were killed while dressing the wounded. The spirit of some of the wounded is illustrated by the case of Corporal: 3170 Winsleigh Alexander MURRAY 35th Battalion, (formerly a Methodist Minister from Newcastle) gave up his place in a queue waiting for stretcher bearers and was never heard of again.

Eric was promoted to Lieutenant on the 5th of November 1917 whilst in hospital and remained in England to convulses for nearly 6 months before being sent overseas again from Southampton on the 5th of April 1918, this time to reinforce the Battalion for it's push on Villers-Bretonneux. He was Taken on Strength with the Battalion and was marched to the front line he was again Wounded in Action, 2nd Occasion after 2 months of fighting on the 17th of July 1917 receiving a Gun-Shot Wound to the left arm.

Eric was admitted to the Officers 1st General Hospital in Harve on the 20th of July before being invalided to England on the 29th of July. Eric's overseas service was over and he was struck off the reserve list as he was wounded twice in the left arm and the war was in it's final stages. Eric remained in England and was granted special leave in London. After his leave was cancelled he returned to Australia on board the Hospital Transport "Orontes" leaving England on the 25th of October 1919, Eric's services were terminated on the 12th of February 1920.

Eric was a 25 year old Pastoralist from Wollongong, N.S.W. upon enlistment with his next of being his father Senior Magistrate; Osman Adams Edwards of Wollongong Court House.

Eric's British War Medal:51988 to LT E.C.EDWARDS AIF was acquired from Colonial Medals of Queensland Australia in February 2005 and is now in the Harrower Collection.

Brother; Cyril Osman EDWARDS Lieutenant 34th Battalion AIF.

Family Information

Osman and Rose Edwards had 3 son's. Eric Charles Edwards born 1891 at Gundagai, NSW. Birth Cert:15615/1891. Cyril Osman Edwards born 1893 at Gundagai, NSW. Birth Cert:16179/1893. Keith Paul Edwards born 1899 at Bingara, NSW. Birth Cert:28728/1899.

Saturday 25th June 1898.

The Sydney Morning Herald.

THE PUBLIC SERVICE The "Public Service Gazzette" issued yesterday notices the following appointments and resignations. The Treasurer Messrs Henry Duncan BROWN inspector of tabacco factories and Dugald Stuart STUART inspector of distileries and escise also, Minister for Lands Mr Glynn Sutherland Palgrave McFARLAND, assistant clerk of Petty Sessions, Lismore, to be also Assistant Crown Land agent at that place. Minister for Mines Mr George GEDDES to be Warden's Clerk and Baliff to the Warden's Court at Coramba; Mr Osman Adams EDWARDS Clerk of Petty Sessions at Grafton, to be Warden's Clerk, mining Registrar at Grafton.

Saturday 31 st December 1898.

The Sydney Morning Herald.

Mr Osman Adams EDWARDS C.P.S. Grafton, is gazetted a Magistrate of the Colony.

Osman Adams Edwards died 11th May 1949 at Hawkesbury River, Brooklyn, N.S.W. Death Cert:11995/1949. He was privately cremated on the 12th May 1949. His parents were Charles and Matilda. Eric's second wife's grand parents were Sir William Thomas Le Poer Trench the 3rd Earl of Clancarty and Lady Sarah Juliana Butler.

(Studio Photo) Anzacs on Line

Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction; 28/12/2006-27/09/2019.

Lieutenant: 61 Cyril Osman EDWARDS.

May 12, 2020March 8, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

34th BATTALION A.I.F.

Lieutenant: 61 Cyril Osman EDWARDS.

Born: 16th October 1893. Gundagai, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:16179/1893.

Married: 1931. Burwood, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:1597/1931.

Wife: Cecile Margaret Edwards. nee: Huntley. (1901-1989)

Died: 8th March 1974. Woollahra, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:45858/1974.

Father: Osman Adams Edwards. (1858-1949) Police Magistrate, Goulburn, N.S.W.

Mother: Rose Anne T Edwards. nee: Dillon. (1862-1989)

INFORMATION

Cryil Osman Edwards enlisted with the 11th Infantry, 3rd Battalion AIF on the 27th July 1915 and was transferred to the Depot School from the 11th October to the 11th November before attending Officer's School from the 11th November until the 12th December. Cyril was allocated to A Company 34th Battalion with the rank of Sergeant on the 23rd March 1916 , service number 61. He embarked with the 34th Battalion from Sydney on board HMAT A20 "Hororata" on the 2nd May 1916 and disembarked at Plymouth England on the 23rd June 1916.

HMAT A20 "HORORATA"

Cyril was promoted to Lieutenant on the 12th August 1916 and proceeded overseas when 34th Battalion left Larkhill on the 21st November and en trained at Amesbury for Southampton, embarking on the S.S "Arundel". The transport section left by S.S. "Princess Victoria". The Battalion arrived at Le Harve, France on the 22nd November 1916. Disembarkation commenced at 8:00am and the Battalion marched to No;1 camp on the Hill, arriving at 2:00pm. The men carried heavy loads, in some cases amounting to miniature Q.M.' Stores. The march over cobblestones was very tiring, notwithstanding the many route marches which had been carried out at Larkhill. However, after bathing their feet and receiving treatment, as well partaking of a good meal, some spent a comfortable night.

The following morning the Battalion moved to Le Harve Railway Station, leaving D Company behind. On arrival at the Station en training commenced at 8:00 am and the train left at 11:15 am. The journey was slow and occupied until 4:30 pm on the 24th. On arrival at Bailleul the men de trained and marched to Outtersteene. D Company arrived at 4:00 pm the following day. The Battalion rested here in billets for two days previous to taking over garrison duties in the Line at Armenties. The Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel. Malcolm St John LAMB. with the Adjutant, Company commanders, N.C.O's and Specialists went into the Line to inspect Trenches, Stores, Plans and to arrange for the taking over this Section of the line on the following day.

Wounded in Action on the 13th October 1917 where he received a Severe Gun Shot Wound to the Hand and was evacuated to be treated at the 14th General Hospital in Boulogne, France.

Family Information

Cyril was a single 21 year old Surveyors Assistant from Goulburn, N.S.W prior to enlistment. His parents Osman and Rose Edwards had 3 son's. Eric Charles Edwards born 1891 at Gundagai, NSW. Birth Cert:15615/1891. Cyril Osman Edwards born 1893 at Gundagai, NSW. Birth Cert:16179/1893. Keith Paul Edwards born 25/10/1899 at Bingara, NSW. Birth Cert:28728/1899. Cyril served during World War 2 enlisting at Paddington, N.S.W. Service No: N74549.

Brother; Lieutenant Eric Charles EDWARDS 34th Battalion AIF.

In 1931 Cyril was an Oyster Culturist. Cultivates and harvests beds of shellfish, such as clams and oysters: Lays out and stakes tide flats (ground beneath shallow water near shoreline). Piles up stone, poles, and mud, using farm tractor and hand implements to make dikes to control water drainage at low tide. Removes debris by hand and levels soil with tractor and harrow. Sows spat by hand or with shovel or sets out strings or baskets of shells onto which spat attaches. Covers seeded area with mixture of sand and broken shells or transfers seeded strings or baskets to growing area. Rigs net or star mop (mop of heavy rope yarn) and drags it over bed behind power boat to entangle and remove shellfish predators, such as crabs and starfish. Walks about bed at low tide, and scoops or digs shellfish and piles them onto barge or mud sled, using pitchfork or shovel. Packs shellfish, according to market specifications, in containers and returns small ones to bed. Poles barge to wharf at high tide or pulls it, using boat. Drags mud sled from bed, using tractor. May pour oil around bed and spread oil-treated sand over bed with shovel to form chemical barrier to shellfish predators. May reach from boat with rake-tongs and grope for shellfish by moving handles to open and close tongs. May supervise workers who cultivate and harvest bed. May negotiate with buyers for sale of crop. May be designated according to type of shellfish grown as Clam Grower (fishing & hunt.); Oyster Grower (fishing & hunt.).

Saturday 25th June 1898.

The Sydney Morning Herald.

THE PUBLIC SERVICE The "Public Service Gazzette" issued yesterday notices the following appointments and resignations. The Treasurer Messrs Henry Duncan BROWN inspector of tobacco factories and Dugald Stuart STUART inspector of distilleries and escise also, Minister for Lands Mr Glynn Sutherland Palgrave McFARLAND, assistant clerk of Petty Sessions, Lismore, to be also Assistant Crown Land agent at that place. Minister for Mines Mr George GEDDES to be Warden's Clerk and Baliff to the Warden's Court at Coramba; Mr Osman Adams EDWARDS Clerk of Petty Sessions at Grafton, to be Warden's Clerk, mining Registrar at Grafton.

Saturday 31 st December 1898.

The Sydney Morning Herald.

Mr Osman Adams EDWARDS C.P.S. Grafton, is gazetted a Magistrate of the Colony.

Cyril's British War Medal:41677 and Victory Medal:40449 to Lieut C.O.EDWARDS A.I.F. were acquired from Auction in April 2014 and are now in the Harrower Collection with his brothers War Medal. Cyril served during Ward War 2.

Military Records World War 1 Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction; 23/11/2013-03/01/2017.

Private: 1951 Bertie Robert WILSON.

December 22, 2020February 25, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

War Medal:52556 Victory Medal:51181 and RSL Badge: P3987 to 1951 PTE R WILSON 36BN AIF

36th BATTALION - 33rd BATTALION A.I.F.

Private: 1951 Bertie Robert WILSON.

Born: 1895. West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:4769/1895.

Married: 1920. Goulburn, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:13882/1920.

Wife: Myrtle D Wilson. nee: Peterson.

Died: 16th June 1951. Nyngan, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:23554/1951.

Father: John William Wilson. (1852-1934)

Mother: Susanna Wilson. nee: Ingram. (1852-1938).

INFORMATIONRobert "Bertie" Wilson enlisted with the 2nd Reinforcements 36th Battalion AIF on the 5th May 1916. Bertie was sent to the N.S.W. Signal School from the 9th of May until the 17th of August and embarked from Sydney onboard HMAT A15 "Port Sydney" on the 4th September 1916 and disembarked at Plymouth England on the 29th October 1916.

2nd Reinforcements leaving Farley Station, 3rd September 1916.The Battalion Reinforcements proceeded overseas for France via Folkstone on the 20th December 1916 and was Taken on in Strength with the 36th Battalion in the field on the 18th January 1917. Bertie was admitted to Hospital on the 9th of February suffering from a Blistered Left Heel for the next month and rejoined the Battalion on the 24th of February. Bertie was granted leave from Belgium to England from the 26th of January 1918 until the 12th of February 1918 He was treated by the 11th Australian Field ambulance on the 11th of March suffering from Scabies which was rampant in the Trenches at the time and rejoined the Battalion on the 19th of March 1918.

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: J 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. center (South of VILLERS-BRETONNEUX) for defense of the village. Moved at 11.55 am and arrived at position of readiness without casualty despite general shelling of the area crossed. Lieutenant: 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 RAOD, 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 Adjant 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.

36th Battalion War Diary

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 ther 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 Kents 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)

Bertie was 12th of April 1918 where he received a Gun-Shot Wound to his Right Thigh. Bertie was taken by stretcher bearers to the Casualty clearing Station before being admitted to the 9th General Hospital and embarked for England on the 2nd May 1918 where he was admitted to the Sutton Veny Military on the 3rd of May. Bertie recovered and was granted Furlo in July and was then marched in the no:1 Command Depot where he was transferred to the 33rd Battalion as the 36th had been disbanded.

36th Battalion's last Parade before being disbanded. 30th April 1918.Robert embarked from England for Australia with the 33rd Battalion on the 19th February 1919 onboard HMAT "Orca" and returned to Australia on the 9th of April and was discharged from the AIF on the 18th of May 1919.

Roberts War Medal:52556 Victory Medal:51181 and RSL Badge: P3987 to 1951 PTE R WILSON 36BN AIF were acquired by a private collector in 2010. They were acquired by me from a Dealer in Western Australia in December 2015 and are now in the Harrower Collection.

Family InformationRobert was a single 21 year old Labourer from 7 Septimus Street, Erskinville, N.S.W. upon enlistment.

Military Records World War 1 Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction; 14/05/2010-05/11/2020.

Private: 2916 Neville Dacre WILKINSON.

September 19, 2020February 25, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION AIF.

Private: 2916 Neville Dacre WILKINSON.

Born: 1899. Dubbo, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:11666/1899.

Died: 30th March 1918. Killed in Action Hagard Wood near Villers-Bretonneoux, France.

Father: John Dacre Wilkinson. (1863-19..)

Mother: Dolly Lydia Rebecca Wilkinson. nee: Jones.

INFORMATIONNeville Dacre Wilkinson enlisted 6th Reinforcements, 33rd Battalion AIF on the 10th of November 1916 and left Sydney on board HMAT A72 "Beltana" on the 25th of November 1916. Neville was posted to A Company No: 2 Platoon. Neville was promoted to the rank of Acting Sergeant as he held the rank of 2nd Lieutenant with 43a Senior Cadets prior to enlistment with the AIF. He disembarked at Devonport England on the 29th January 1917 and reverted back to the ranks as a Private on the 31st of January but was again appointed Acting Sergeant on the 1st of February. Neville was marched in from Training School at Tidworth on the 26th of March and reverted to the rank of Private on the 26th of March. He proceeded overseas for France via Folkstone on the 3rd of May 1917 and was marched in to Estaples the next day. He was marched out to the front on the 21st of May 1917 and was taken on in strength. The 33rd were preparing for a push at Messines.

Neville was Wounded in Action on the 7th June and was treated for Shell Shock and was treated by the 9th Australian Field Ambulance who evacuated him to the 4th Stationary Hospital at Arques. Neville rejoined his unit on the 23rd of June 1917 but was treated on the 26th of July by the 2nd Australian Casualty Clearing Station with a Disability before being transferred to the 20th General Hospital at Camiers. He embarked for England on the 7th August on board the Hospital Ship "Essequibo".

Hospital Ship "Essequibo"Neville was admitted to the Southwalk Military Hospital suffering from Diarrhea and remained in Hospital until his discharge on the 27th of September where he was granted Furlo from the 27th September until the 11th October 1917. He reported to London Headquarters on the 11th of October and was marched in to the No:2 Command Depot for overseas deployment . On the 1st February 1918 Neville was again heading overseas for France via Southampton and was marched in to Rouelles the next day. He was marched out to the front on the 4th of February and Taken on in Strength on the Front Line with the 33rd Battalion on the 5th of February 1918.

30th March 1918.

9:30 am: weather wet, Battalion left CACHY and marched to BOIS LE ABBE, where they bivouaced in readiness to go forward as Counter attack troops. "B" Teams were sent to BLANGY-TRONVILLE. Battalion moved up as support Battalion to 33rd Battalion AIF who were attacking on north side of BOIS DE HANGARD and LANCERS WOOD. Battalion moved West and South of CACHY when approaching BOIS DE HANGARD advanced in Artillery formation. Battalion halted just north of BOIS DE HANGARD in position of readiness to support 33rd Battalion AIF.

6:00 pm: About 6:00 pm A Company 34th Battalion was detailed to go forward to report to Commanding Officer 33rd Battalion AIF who were on left flank of attack. In moving up A Company extended into 4 lines of skirmishes and laid down with cover fire from line near 33rd Battalion Headquarters. Officer Commanding A Company Captain: Telford Graham GILDER went forward to reconnoiter 33rd Battalion's line. B Company 33rd Battalion was found to have suffered heavy casualties and enemy were still holding the top of ridge. It was therefore decided to attack enemy's position on ridge.

34th Battalion Diary

Neville was Killed in Action and was one of these casualties on the 30th March 1918 at Hangard Wood.

VILLERS-BRETONNEUX WAR MEMORIAL

13th June 1918.

Informant: Lance Corporal: 118 Francis Michael McGRATH Private: 2916 Neville Dacre WILKINSON was a Lewis Gunner, A Company No2 Platoon and was killed on the Saturday afternoon in Easter Week, and not on March 3rd, it was near Villers Bretonneux and we were counter attacking and three of them took the Lewis Gun to a little opening in a copse. Private: 2165 Ralph HOPE A Company No: 2 Platoon was firing first and was shot through the head in a minute and then Private: 5073 Frederick Singleton MARTIN A Company No:2 Platoon tried and he was shot through the head too almost immediately and then Private: 2916 Neville Dacre WILKINSON A Company No:2 Platoon went and tried to use it and he was shot through the head at once and killed instantly. The Boche had got a Machine Gun on them. The Sergeant Major saw the mess they were in and tried to get up to them but was shot through the stomach before he got near and it was so hot there the Stretcher Bearers had to drag him back 40 yards before they could get him on a stretcher to see to him. I was close to and saw it all. We dug in then but were not able to get near to recover their bodies. His Christian name was Neville and he was a Sydney chap. A very good lad only 21 or so.

No:1 Command Depot Sutton Veny.

21st February 1919.

Informant; Lance Corporal: 2917 Victor Thomas WHATLEY "Described Private: 2916 Neville Dacre WILKINSON was about 5ft 6 inch high fairly stout build, medium complexion aged about 21. Father a Bank Manager and lived at Darlinghurst Road. Informant states that they both belonged to A Company 2nd Platoon. On 30th March 1918 being Easter Saturday, the Battalion was in action at Hangard Wood. They hopped over at 4:00 pm. About an hour later, before they got their objective which was a line of trenches the other side of the Wood, Wilkinson was killed outright by a bullet in the head. Informant was about 20 yards away and saw him just after he was hit. Wilkinson was on his hand and knees when hit and his position was not altered after he was struck. He was taken away after dark and buried somewhere in the vicinity of Cachey, but informant did not know exact place. According to informant Wilkinson was a well liked chap".

No:4 Australian General Hospital, Randwick.

Neville's Memorial Plaque was acquired in October 2008 and is now in the collection. His plaque was first issued on the 5th of February 1923 to his brother Staff Sergeant: 1781 Roy Dacre Wilkinson. 3rd Australian Field Ambulance, AIF.

Memorial Plaque

Mirror (Sydney, NSW), Sunday 16 March 1919, p4

WOMAN CHARGED WITH SENDING MALICIOUS BLACKMAILING LETTERS SEQUEL TO THE HARRY LESTON MYSTERY IN COURTThree weeks ago the Mirror referred to the case of a woman who had written letters to mothers making allegations against their morality. Other letters were received by women who had lost sons at the war. They all were signed "H. Leston"' and caused him, as well as those to whom they were posted, the keenest distress.

FIVE SUMMONSES ISSUED.Detectives Ferguson and McKnight have had the matter in hand and at the Central Summons Court on Wednesday Agnes Beard, a woman about 35 years of age, appeared before Mr. Burton Smith, S.M., on five charges of sending defamatory letters. One of the charges accuses the defendant of writing to Mary Louisa Agatha Pascall, of Heath street, Randwick, wife of Alfred Rankin Pascall a defamatory letter concerning Harry John Joseph Xavier Daly, commonly known as Harry Leston. DEMAND FOR £20.

The letter was in the following format. 135 Castlereagh-street. (opp. Sunday Times Office)

11/3/'18

Dear Madam, Unless you send me the sum of £20 within four days I shall inform your husband of our former intimacy. He may be surprised to learn that you were my mistress for two years.

Yours, etc. H. LESTON.

There were two informations sworn against the defendant in respect to this letter. Two others referred to a similar letter forwarded to Alice Olga Marie Rothery, of Nangar, Bay-road, North Sydney, the wife of Surtees Rotbery.

"SCANDAL OF DEEPEST DYR."The fifth information alleged that the following letter was sent by defendant to Lydia Rebecca Wilkinson, of Eagles-field, Darlinghurst -road, Darlinghurst, wife of John Dacre Wilkinson, concerning her son, Neville Dacre Wilkinson:— 135 Castlereagh-street, (opp. Sunday Times Office),

22/4/'18.

Dear Madam, Allow me to inform you that your son, lately reported killed, though young, was still a scoundrel of the deepest dye. He induced my mistress to leave my apartments, and after stealing her jewels, abandoned her. He enlisted merely to escape my vengeance. Unless you send me the sum of £20 within four days I shall have his infamy published in Truth.— Yours, etc., H. LESTON.

CASES ADJOURNED FOR MONTH. When the cases were called Mr. Kidston (of the Crown Law Department), who appeared for the prosecution, applied for a remand for a month. He said that an important witness was in Melbourne and it was desired that he should be in attendance. Mr. E. R. Abigail, who appeared for the defendant, consented to the postponement. The heating, therefore, was adjourned until April 9, 1919. The blackmail letter received by Neville’s mother was the one printed by the media

Family InformationNeville was a single 19 year old Bank Official upon enlistment and served as a 2nd Lieutenant with the 43a Senior Cadets. His parents John and Lydia Wilkinson were married in 1895 at Dubbo, N.S.W. Marriage Cert:12411/1895 and had 5 children, 4 boys and 1 girl. Harold Dacre Wilkinson born 1891 at Sydney, N.S.W. Birth Cert:121/1891. Roy Dacre Wilkinson born 1892 at Cootamundra, N.S.W. Birth Cert:11553/1892 and died in 1966 at St Leonards, N.S.W. Death Cert:16897/1966. John Darce Wilkinson born 1895 at Dubbo, N.S.W. Birth Cert:12411/1895 and died in 1977. Death Cert:5914/1977. Neville Dacre Wilkinson born 1899 at Dubbo, N.S.W. Birth Cert:11666/1899 and died in 1918, France. Vera M Wilkinson born in 1901 at Dubbo, N.S.W. Birth Cert:12336/1901.

Military Records World War 1 Records

Under Construction; 25/10/2008-20/12/2016.

Private: 1877 Robert Charles MILLER.

March 27, 2022February 25, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION A.I.F.

Private: 1877 Robert Charles MILLER.

Born: 4th July 1882. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:24978/1882.

Died: 28th March 1939. Petersham, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:14735/1939.

Father: William Miller. (1845-1925)

Mother: Mary Ann Miller. nee: McKinlay. (1846-1930)

INFORMATIONRobert Charles Miller enlisted with the 2nd Reinforcements D company, 33rd Battalion AIF. Robert enlisted at the Armidale Show Ground on the 26th January 1916 and left Sydney on board HMAT A74 "Marathon" on the 4th of May 1916 disembarked at Plymouth on the 29th October 1916. Robert proceeded overseas for France from Folkstone England on the 4th of February 1917.

7th June 1917.

THE BATTLE OF MESSINES

The 3rd Australian Divisions first major offensive was at Messines Ridge on the 7th June 1917. The Australian 3rd Division was a part of the II Anzac Corps which was allotted to the first assault. The 25th New Zealand, 3rd Australian Division with the 4th Australian Division in reserve. The 4th Division were battle hardened troops who had fought many major battles. The 3rd Australian Division were having problems getting to the "jump off" point. The day before the 9th and 10th Infantry Brigades were bombarded by German Gas-Shells around Hill 63 and Ploegsteert Wood. Many of the Aussies were not wearing gas masks, but despite this they pressed on even though they received 500 casualties.

They made it to the "jump off" point but only just with some of the men from the 9th and 10th going straight over the top without stopping. The mines went up and the attack commenced behind a protective barrage. The II Anzac Corps were attacking on the right with their objective being the southern shoulder of the ridge which included Messines, the Dover and St Yves areas as far south to the east of Ploegsteert Wood.

Major General Sir John MONASH's 3rd Division had to contend with a tricky 3 mile approach out of Ploegsteert Wood and after the German gas attack, but they were not deterred. The 9th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General: Alexander JOBSON and the 10th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General W R NICHOLL had just made the jumping off point but some of the men did not stop, going straight into the assault from the approach march.

Their objective lay between St Yves and the Douve. The mines at Trench 127 and Trench 12 at Factory Farm were laid to aid this task. The explosions erupted a few seconds before zero hour and created craters of 200 feet in diameter, completely obliterating the German defense line as the 9th and 10th Infantry Brigades went over the top. The mine crates forced the 9th and 10th Brigades to veer to the left and right which caused some confusion with the main assault. It is testimony to the quality of training that every man knew the ground, tasks and objectives so well.

Private: 1804 John CARROLL 33rd Battalion, rushed the enemy's trench and bayoneted four of the German occupants. He then noticed a comrade in difficulties and went to his assistance, killing another German. He then attacked single handed a German Machine Gun Team, killing all three of them and capturing the gun. He later rescued two of his comrades who had been buried alive by German Shell Fire, and in spite of heavy shelling and machine gun fire he dug them out alive and saved them from certain death. John was awarded the Victoria Cross.

The German forward zone was completely engulfed and taken by the main assault. The two supporting battalions of each brigade then passed the leading battalion to continue the advance. The men were constantly re-supplied and the ridge was taken. There were many German prisoners taken during the offensive. The 3rd Division was well ahead with the 9th Infantry Brigade pushing on beyond Grey Farm, and on the right the 10th Infantry Brigade were veering left towards Septieme Barn north of Douve.

The German resistance was heavy but was generally brushed aside by tanks and artillery before the infantry had to become too involved. The 4th Bavarian Divisions Artillery had made little impact, but as the day wore on the 3rd Division and later the 4th Australian Division received many casualties from German artillery. (70% of all casualties during WW1 were from artillery).

By 9:00am nearly 6 hours after the assault began the Germans were in disarray, but there was a major problem as the Australians received less casualties as anticipated and when ordered to dig into the ridge they had so many men, that some could not find shelter. the 35th battalion were dug in around Seaforth Farm.

The second phase of the operation was to take the Oosttaverne Line. The 3rd Australian Division would now be in reserve with the 4th Division attacking. The 9th Infantry Brigade (33-34-35-36Bn) were near Thatched Cottage facing Warneton. The river Lys was to their right and the Ploegsteert Wood was now behind them.

Once their objectives were taken the troops consolidated. A barrage to stop and counter attack was shortened and caught three battalions which had to retire. By 9:00 pm this part of the Oosttaverne Line was abandoned. At 10:45 pm General: Alexander John GODLEY ordered the 3rd and 4th Divisions to retake it. This they did by the early hours of the 8th of June.

The Battle for Messines Ridge during May-June 1917 saw 35 officers and 1,631 other ranks loose their lives.

9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.

33rd Battalion. AIF	8 Officers	382 Other ranks
34th Battalion. AIF	10 Officers	378 Other ranks
35th Battalion. AIF	5 Officers	431 Other ranks
36th Battalion. AIF	9 Officers	421 Other ranks
9th Machine Gun Company. AIF	2 Officer	17 Other ranks
9th Light Trench Mortar Battery.	1 Officer	2 Other ranks

Field Dressing Station, Messines 07/06/1917

FIELD DRESSING STATION, MESSINES 7th June 1917.

Nueve Eglise was the billeting area for the battle-weary remnants of the 33rd Battalion, when finally they were relieved from Messines on June 12th 1917.

Robert was Wounded in Action on the 9th June 1917 and returned to Australia on the 8th of April 1918.

Family InformationRobert Charles Miller was a Clothier from Brown Street, Armidale, N.S.W. upon enlistment.

Robert's Victory Medal:51531 to PTE 1877 R C MILLER 33BN AIF was acquired from a Medal Dealer in Queensland in February 2006 and is now in the collection. His British War Medal: was sold at auction in April 2009 to a private collector who made 40 bids to secure it. This would have been the first group that I would have re-united, but I was unsuccessful to add to his Victory Medal in the Harrower Collection.

Armidale War MemorialPrivate: 1877A James Wood 36th-33rd Battalion AIF.

Military Records

(Australian National Archives)

Under Construction: 21/02/2007-07/03/2022.

Private: 466 Reuben Herbert KING.

May 29, 2023February 25, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION A.I.F.

Private: 466 Reuben Herbert KING.

Born: 25th November 1879. Uralla, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:8954/1879.

Married: 1932. Bingara, New South Wales. Marriage Cert:164/1932.

Wife: Alice Eliza King. nee: Holliman. (1891-19..)

Died: 25th January 1954. Bingara, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:6626/1954.

Buried: Bingara Central Cemetery. Row J Plot 29

Father: John Alfred King. (1845-1926) Died at Bingara, New South Wales, Australia.

Mother: Catherine King. nee: Campbell. (1849-1933) Died at Bingara, New South Wales, Australia.

INFORMATIONReuben Herbert King enlisted with B Company 33rd Battalion AIF on the 28th of January 1916 and was an original member of the Battalion. He left Sydney on board HMAT A74 "Marathon" with his two brothers on the 4th of May 1916.

He disembarked with the battalion at Plymouth, England on the 9th of July 1916. Reuben was admitted to hospital (sick) on the 1st of November 1916 and taken on strength to the 13th Training Battalion. He proceeded overseas to France on the 15th of February 1917 and on the 17th marched in the 3rd A.D.B.D Estaples. On the 18th of April he re joined his battalion.

Reuben was again admitted to the 9th Field Ambulance, suffering from (Debility) on the 8th of July 1917 and re joined the 33rd battalion on the 20th of July. On the 20th of August he was admitted to the 11th field ambulance suffering (Debility) and was transferred on the 23rd to the 58th General Hospital at St Omer (Sick), and transferred to the 13th Convalescent Hospital at Trouville on the 6th of September 1917.

He was discharged from Hospital on the 2nd of November 1917 to Base as Trouville, and marched to the 3rd A.D.B.D at Rouelles and embarked for England, classified P, Base and was marched into No:2 Com, Depot ex France. Reuben left England on board "Balmoral Castle" on the 1st of February 1918 and disembarked in Sydney on the 28th of March 1918. Reuben was discharged Medically Unfit on the 1st of May 1918 (Chronic Rheumatism).

His British War Medal:44401 and Victory Medal:43406 PTE 466 R H KING 33 BN AIF and Gold Tribute Fob were acquired from Bristol in England in August 2005 and are now in the Harrower Collection.

Gold Tribute Fob was presented by Residents of Bingara to a Bingara Soldier of the Great War "HIS COUNRTY CALLED HE ANSWERED"

Gold Tribute Fob to a Bingara Soldier

Bingara Cemetery

Reuben Herbert King's Grave. Bingara Central Cemetery.

FAMILY INFORMATIONReuben was a single 36 year old Farmer from Bobby Whitlow, Bingara, New South Wales upon enlistment. Reuben enlisted with his 2 brothers. Private: 465 William KING 33rd Battalion AIF and Private: 467 George Thomas KING. 33rd Battalion AIF who was Killed in Action

St Paul’s Rd. Hemel Hempstead, England. Christmas Day. Alice and Walter Holliman, sister Alice Eliza King nee Holliman.

Alice Eliza Holliman embarked from London on board the S.S. "Baradine" on the 22nd April 1926 as a single 34 year old from 17 Summerleaze, Hillfields Park, England. She married Reuben Herbert King in 1932 at Bingara, New South Wales. After Reubens death Alice returned to England.

John and Catherine King had 10 children, 7 boys and 3 girls. John Ernest King born 1875 at Tamworth N.S.W. Birth Cert:19975/1875 and died in 1915 at Bingara, N.S.W. Death Cert:11978/1905. James Alfred "Alf" King born 1876 at Tamworth, N.S.W. Birth Cert:7049/1876. George Thomas King born 1878 at Armidale, N.S.W. Birth Cert:7738/1878 and died in 1917 at Messines, Belgium. Reuben Herbert King born 1880 at Armidale, N.S.W. Birth Cert:8954/1880 and died 1954 at Bingara, N.S.W. Death Cert:6626/1954. Arthur Edgar King born 1882 at Bundarra, N.S.W. Birth Cert:25375/1882 and died in 1960 at Inverell, N.S.W. Death Cert:11809/1960.

Catherine King. nee: Campbell. (1849-1933)

1933. Obituary Notice for Catherine King. nee: Campbell.

22nd April 2024.

I was invited as a guest speaker to the Grand Opening of the Bingara War Museum.

Bingara War Memorial Museum 22/04/2023

What can we and future generation do to ensure our veterans names and their deeds are remembered. It has been said they we die twice. The first time is when we take our last breath and the second time is when our name is spoken for the last time. Projects such as the Bingara War Museum will help to ensure that our veterans names and their deeds are not forgotten.

When the name Bingara is mentioned, I think of “B Company” 33rd Battalion AIF. The composition of the 33rd Infantry Battalion was on a district basis. "A Company" was from Armidale and Tamworth, "B Company" was from Walcha, Uralla, Barraba, Bingara and Manilla. "C Company" was from Narrabri, Moree and Inverell and "D Company was from Glen Innes, Guyra and Tenterfield.
The AIF Database records that out of the One Hundred and Fifty (150) men who gave 'Bingara' as their address: Eighty Four (84) of them joined the 9th Brigade Battalions, with seventy eight (78) of those going to the 33rd Battalion (New England's Own aka the Northern Battalion).

At least 44 men from the Bingara District served with B Company 33rd Battalion AIF were original members of the Battalion during the Great War. They were from places called, The Plain Horton River-Box Hill- Murtonvale Topwater- Barracks Creek-Myall Creek- Garambeel- Spring Hill- Pine Hill- Pine Ridge- Mountview- Bobby Whitlow- Murvey – Boughheel Station- Mount Rodd- Annandale -Horton River- Keera- Green Bend Copeton- Bindi Elcombe- Wilga Farm- Middle Crossing- Castlemaine Halls Creek.

Many of whom worked together, were fathers, sons, brothers and brothers’ in law, uncle's, cousins and best friends. And it was these men that had the sad duty to write reports giving the circumstances of the death of a Bingara Soldier.

15th October 1917

Informant; Private: 376 Edgar Auston BROOKS I knew a man called George Thomas KING. who was in B Company and I think No:8 Platoon. His number was a low one something like 467 and he was one of the original men. He was cook in B Company. Before joining up he was a shearer from Bingara, N.S.W. He was a man about 40 with a dark complexion and dark moustache and about 5 ft 10. He was killed by a shell falling on the cook-house on the 27th of July at Messines. I saw his body afterwards buried close to where he was killed and a cross was put up over his grave with his name, number and regiment.

No 2 Station Hospital, Boulogne.
Home Address: Keera Street, Bingara.

16th November 1917

Informant; Private: 432 Henry Herman HARTOG. He was killed near Messines. I saw George Thomas KING killed and buried close to Messines in the 9th Brigade Cemetery. I saw his grave and a cross up. I knew him well, came from Australia with me.

Harefield, England. Ward: 3
Home Address: Faithful Street, Bingara.

Private: 467 George Thomas KING is remembered with honour and is commemorated in perpetuity by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission at the Bethleem Farm West Cemetery, Messines, Belgium.
George King enlisted with his 2 brothers Reuben Herbert King and William Edwin King all from Bobby Whiltow, Bingara. Reuben died on the 25th of January 1954 and William on the 16th of September 1958, both rest in the Bingara Cemetery. Rueben’s wife Alice Eliza King, returned to England after his death and William’s wife, Elsie May King, whose maiden name was Hartog was the sister of Herman Henry Hartog who was an informant to Private: George King’s death in 1917.

Sadly, on the afternoon of the 10th of May 1961, Henry Herman Hartog was found lying in a woolshed a few hundred yards from his residence. He also rests in the Bingara Cemetery.
There are many stories about Bingara Soldiers, I have mentioned but a few. In 2005, as a Military Researcher and Collector, I acquired a pair of World War One Medals and a Gold Fob from England. The medals are engraved to PTE 466 R H King 33BN AIF and the gold fob was presented by the Residents of Bingara in the Great War to a Bingara Soldier, Private R H King 33rd Battalion. They were from the Estate of the late Alice Eliza King of Hempstead, England.

So it is with great pleasure that I can return Private: Rueben King’s medals and his gold fob, back to the residents of Bingara and have them displayed in the Bingara War Museum where they belong, because he was a Bingara Soldier from the Great War. “His Country Called He Answered”.

Lest We Forget

David Harrower ACM
22nd April 2023
Bingara New South Wales
Australia.

Bingara Historical Society Grand Opening War Museum 22nd April 2023

Bingara Historical Society and Museum.

Military Records World War 1 Records

Under Construction: 18/11/2006-28/02/2022.

Private: 5025A George Henry GREEN.

October 15, 2021February 25, 2017 by David Harrower ACM

War Medal:48432 to PTE 5025 G.H. GREEN 35 BN AIF

17th BATTALION - 33rd BATTALION A.I.F.

Private: 5025A George Henry GREEN.

Born: 16th February 1895. Hargraves, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:5438/1895.

Married: 1923. Rylstone, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:17115/1923.

Wife: Olive Eileen Green. nee: Baker. (1902-1970)

Died: 22nd October 1935. Rylstone, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:1119/1935.

Father: James Wilson Green. (1851-1926)

Mother: Susannah Green. nee: Peck. (1865-1912)

INFORMATIONGeorge Henry Green enlisted on the 18th of November 1915 and was sent to the Lithgow Depot Camp for 2 months before being transferred to the Bathurst Depot Camp on the 18th of January. George was attached to the 13th reinforcements 17th Battalion on the 10th of March and left Sydney on board HMAT A55 "Kyarra" on the 5th of June 1916 and disembarked at Plymouth, England on the 3rd of August 1916.

George was marched into the 5th Australian Training Battalion where he remained until proceeding overseas from Southampton for France on the 21st of November. George was not in France for long before he was admitted to the 5th General Hospital in Boulogne suffering from Bronchitis and was invalided back to England and admitted to the Military Hospital at Edmonton suffering from Acute Mastoiditis. After George was operated on and granted furlo George was transferred to the 61st Battalion when he was charged CRIME Absent from Military District Classification Parade, 9:30 am 7/03/1917 till 5:00pm 8/03/1917. AWARD Admonished by Lieutenant Caul, forfeit 2 Days Pay.

George proceeded overseas for France on the 19th of September 1917 and was Taken on Strength to reinforce the 33rd Battalion in France. George remained with the 33rd and served for the next 6 months in the thick the fighting in France before being Wounded in Action receiving Gun-Shot wounds to the Left Arm and left Buttock and he was treated at the 14th General Hospital at Boulogne, France before being evacuated to England where he was admitted to the 5th General Military Hospital at Edmonton where he was operated on.

George received treatment on the 9th of March 1918 to his Left Extended Forarm just below the elbow and his left Abduction Muscles of the Thigh were treated. He was not out of the action for long as he proceeded overseas from Folkstone for France on the 5th of May and was sent straight back into the front line where he remained and was reported Missing in Action on the 11th of August during and advance on the German line, he was reported Not Missing the next day, he may have go lost in the attack and was pick up by another company and went with them before returning to his own company? but he was not out of the action as he was again Wounded in Action 2nd occasion but this time he was Gassed and was evacuated to England where he was treated at the Royal Victoria Hospital at Netley.

This was the last action George would see as he was returned to Australia on the 8th of January 1919 with the 35th Battalion. George was a 20 year old single Labourer from Hargraves, via Mudgee prior to enlistment, he was also a member of the Hargraves Rifle Club.

George's British War Medal:48432 to PTE 5025 G.H. GREEN 35 BN AIF was acquired in January 2004 and is now in the Harrower Collection.

Private: 5024B Albert John GREEN. 33rd Battalion AIF.

Family InformationJames and Susannah Green were married at Penrith, N.S.W. in 1887, Marriage Cert: 6224/1887 and had at least 6 children?. James Green born 1890 in the Centrel Cumberland, N.S.W. Birth Cert:10441/1890. Alfred Grenn born 1893 at Hargraves, via Mudgee, N.S.W. Birth Cert: 23790/1893. George Henry Green born 1895 at at Hargraves, via Mudgee, N.S.W. Birth Cert: 5438/1895. Albert John Green born 1898 at at Hargraves, via Mudgee, N.S.W. Birth Cert: No Record Listed. Frederick E Green born 1903 at at Hargraves, via Mudgee, N.S.W. Birth Cert: 5021/1903. Percy F Green born 1905 at at Hargraves, via Mudgee, N.S.W. Birth Cert:35491/1905.

Military Records World War 1 Records