14th (Hunter River) Infantry Regiment

Lieutenant: Henry Joseph LAZER.

by

33rd BATTALION AIF

Lieutenant: Henry Joseph LAZER.

Born: 26th August 1894. Glen Innes, New South Wales, Australia. (No Birth Record)

Died: 24th March 1917. Killed in Action. Armentieres, France. 

Father: Isaak Lazer. 

Mother: Helana Lazer. (1859-31.10.1918) Died at Glen Innes, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:15420/1918.

INFORMATION

Henry Joseph Lazer served as a Lieutenant in the 13th Infantry Militia and the 14th Infantry "Hunter River" Militia and was still serving the the 13th Infantry when he enlisted with the AIF on the 7th March 1916 with the rank of Lieutenant to B Company 33rd Battalion AIF. 

Henry and the 33rd Battalion entrained to Sydney and disembarked from the Woolloomooloo Wharf in Sydney on board HMAT A74 "Marathon" on the 4th May 1916. The 33rd Disembarked at Devonport England on the 9th July and were marched in to the 9th Training Battalion at the Durrington Army Camp where the Battalion settled down to hard training, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and General Camp Routine. Later the Battalion moved to the No: 25 Camp and finished off their training, which included six days' battle practice and field work at the Bastard Trenches. 

Henry was treated by the New Zealand Ambulance for a Bomb Wound to his Right Knee and was admitted to the New Zealand General Hospital on the 17th August 1916. The next 3 months Henry remained in Hospital recovering from his injury before he has discharged to duty on the 10th November 1916. The 33rd were preparing for overseas deployment and Henry proceed overseas for France via Southampton on the the 21st November 1916 at 4:30 pm and travelled by paddle steamer ‘Mona Queen’ to France arriving November 22, 1916 at 7:00 am in Le Havre. The Battalion moved in to the No:1 Rest Camp just in time for the onset of the terrible winter of 1916-17.

S.S Mona Queen S.S. "MONA QUEEN"

  Henry was appointed Temporary Quartermaster on the 6th January 1916 

28th January 1917.

Enemy Operations

He showed more than usual activity with his artillery all day. He shelled the Battalion area more reliantly from 9:00am till about 4:00pm. At 9:15am he put 20 - 5.9 H.E and 10 - 77MM Shrapnel into vicinity of  c-28-b-1-4 doing no damage. Started at 9:30am at Sidiars Line which he shelled with 5.9 H.E. from 10:00am till 10:40am putting in about 50 shells and doing damage to some dugouts and considerable damage to both trenches and causing 4 casualties. 

(33rd Battalion War Diary)

Henry was Killed in Action on the 24th March 1917 at Armentieres France, and is remembered with honour and is commemorated in perpetuity by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission at the Cité Bonjean Military Cemetery, France

Cité Bonjean Military Cemetery

Family Information

Henry was a single 21 year old Shop Keeper who worked at I LAZER and SON General Store Keepers and Timber Merchants from Glen Innes New South Wales upon his enlistment with the AIF. 

14th Infantry "Hunter River" Hat Badge

Isaak and Helana Lazer, of Betts Rd., Merrylands, Sydney, New South Wales. Helen is buried at the Rookwood General Cemetery. Plot: Zone G Section 3 Grave 68

Military Records

 

Under Construction: 17/02/2026.

Private: 2637 Arthur Oliver PINFOLD.

by

34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 2637 Arthur Oliver PINFOLD.

Born: 1896. West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:13898/1896.

Married: 1919. West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:15353/1919.

Wife: Christina Jane Pinfold. nee: Doyle. (1902-1932) Died at West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:19395/1932.

Died: 10th June 1943. Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:11368/1943.

Father: John Job Pinfold. (1867-1948) Maitland Hospital, Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:21426/1948.

Mother: Prudence Agnes Pinfold. nee: Whitehouse. (1867-1949) Died at Kurri Kurri, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:29900/1949.

INFORMATION

Arthur Olive Pinfold enlisted with the AIF on the 15th August 1916 at Newcastle, N.S.W where he was allocated to B Company, Newcastle Depot Battalion at Broadmeadow on the 21st of August before he was marched in to the Rutherford Army Camp where he was allocated to the 5th Reinforcements 34th Battalion AIF.

Rutherford Army Camp, West Maitland.

Arthur settled down to army life at Rutherford before being taken to Farley Station for their journey by train to Sydney on the 16th of November 1916. Upon their arrival in Sydney they went into camp at the Royal Agricultural Show Ground for the night and the next day the embarked from Woolloomooloo Wharf on board HMAT A "Port Napier" for England. The reinforcements disembarked at Devonport England on the 29th January 1917 and were marched into 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. Arthur was admitted to the Fargo Military Hospital suffering from Influenza on the 10th February 1917. A week later after treatment he was discharged and returned to training at the Durrington Army Camp. A couple of months past and the reinforcements for the 34th proceeded overseas for France via Folkstone on the 25th April 1917.  

After proceeding overseas they disembarked the next morning and were marched into their billets before marching out to the lines where they were taken on in strength with the 34th Battalion on the 30th of April 1917. The Battalion was making preparation for their push at Messines. 

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 defence 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. 

Arthur was Wounded in Action on the 9th June 1917 during the Battle at Messines where he received a Gun Shot Wound to his Right Knee and was treated by the 9th Australian Field Ambulance before he was taken by Stretcher Bearers the the Casual Clearing Station for further treatment. Arthur was discharged and invalided to England on the 17th of June and was admitted to the Canadian Red Cross Hospital at Taplow, England. 

Arthur received further treatment for his wounds and after his rehabilitation was discharged to the n0: 2 Command Depot for his return to Australia. He embarked for Australia on board the "Port Darwin" returning to Australia on the 11th January 1918 and was discharged from the AIF as Medically Unfit for Active Service on the 17th July 1918.

"Horseshoe Bend Medal"

THE PRESENTATIONS

“Before the medals were presented, Mr. C.J. Mannall (chairman) said the Horseshoe Bend Welcome Home Committee had been giving a welcome home to all the Horseshoe Bend heroes who had returned, and these welcomes would never be forgotten. “He thought it a pity that similar welcome homes had not been given to other soldiers of the Maitland area. “But the Horseshoe Bend committee decided that the returned men should have something given to them to commemorate the heroic part they had played in the war and decided to present each man with a gold medal. “These medals were very unique. “ Each had a horseshoe in the center with the monogram of the recipient, the name of the returned soldier to whom it was presented, and an inscription stating by whom and what it was presented for and each was surmounted by a crown, and attached by a green ribbon to a gold pin for the purpose of attaching to the coat.”

(The HSB Honour Roll lists a H. and L.A. Mannall K.I.A.)

- One of the recipients of the medal was Private: 81 Reginald James HACKETT, 34th Battalion, who had his right arm amputated above the elbow after being wounded at Messines, June 7 1917. Less than two months after being awarded the medal he killed himself with a revolver. He lived with Miss Soorley in Cohen Street.

- A medal to Major (Dr) J.J. Hollywood, living in the “extended area” of Horseshoe Bend. 

- A medal to Nurse Dorothy Feneley and the HSB committee “were honoured and had the privilege of welcoming home one of their brave nurses.” A very important historical record of WWI. 

(By Peter Bogan; Sept. 7, 2014)

It is not known how many medals were commissioned but the Roll of Honour from the Horseshoe Bend Infants school lists the names of sixty four men, thirteen K.I.A, leaving fifty one to return home.

Horseshoe Bend Honor Roll

(Horseshoe Bend, Maitland. Cynthia Hunter, Maitland City Council, 2000)

(By Peter Bogan; Sept. 7, 2014)

Horseshoe Bend Roll of Honour

There were 6 men who served with the 34th Battalion AIF and 7 who served with the 35th Battalion AIF from the 64 names on the Horseshoe Bend Honour Roll.

Family Information

Samuel served for 4 years with the Senior Cadets and 2 years with the 14th (Hunter Valley) Regiment prior to his enlistment with the AIF. Samuel was a single 20 year old Carpenter from 44 Carrington Street West Maitland, N.S.W. (Horseshoe Bend) and worked for Wyllie and Elliott of Newcastle.  

Cousin: Private: 6085 William PINFOLD. 21st Battalion AIF

Cousin Private: Private: G. ORMAN.  AIF 

Brother in Law. Lance Corporal: 550 Samuel Sidney SENIOR. 35th Battalion AIF. 

 

Maitland Weekly Mercury (NSW : 1894 - 1931), Saturday 25 February 1922, page 16

WEST MAITLAND COURT

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20. (Before Major F. C. W. Crane.)

ALLEGED MALICOUS DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

Oswald Sellers was charged with on or about January 1 1922, maliciously damaging a fence, the property of John Job Pinfold. Mr Weekes appeared for the prosecution and Mr. J. R. Carlton for the defence John Job Pinfold, who resides in the Horseshoe Bend, said  he went away from his residence on New Year's Eve and returned a few days later.

He found on his return that the picket fence on his property two doors from his residence was damaged. A post was broken off at the ground, and the rails I were also broken . There were some  palings pulled off and scattered about. Two were still missing. The one produced was from the fence. He saw by the papers and heard in the court room that Sellers had something to do with it. He spoke to Sellers about the matter. He made a proposition that if  Sellers put the fence in order nothing i more would be heard about it. Sellers refused to do so. The repairs would cost 'about £3/10/.— To Mr Carlton. The post the farthest away from West Maitland was broken off. In his opinion the fence was not in a decayed condition. Daniel Sharp a miner, residing  in the Horseshoe Bend, stated that early on the morning of January 1 he saw Sellers pull a paling off Pinfold's fence. 

To Mr Carlton. His eyesight was not too bad. Jane Ann Sharp, wife of the previous witness, deposed that she saw Sellers walking along the street with a paling in his hand, but she did not see him pull it off the fence. Minnie Beatty of 71 Carrington Street, stated that she saw five men pulling Pinfold's fence down. Sellers was one of them, and he pulled a paling off afterwards. Defendant detailed his movements on the night in question and denied taking any part in pulling down the fence at Mullard's residence, owned by Pinfold. He did not pull a paling off, and took no part in any disturbance . Herbert Greedy stated that he was in Carrington Street when Sellers and Morris came alone that night. After speaking for a while Sellers left and went home. Pinfold's fence was down when witness arrived. Albert Henry Morris carter residing in James  Street gave similar evidence. Keith R. Buxton stated that he saw the fence of Mullard's place being pulled down by a crowd. Sellers came along after that and went home after speaking to him. Witness lived opposite Mullard's residence. To the Magistrate: There were between 20 and 30 in the crowd. The hearing was adjourned until Monday next.

Trove

Christina Jane Pinfold (1902-1932) - Arthur Oliver Pinfold (1896-1943) East Maitland Cemetery

Maitland Mercury (NSW : 1939 - 1955), Tuesday 20 April 1948, page 3

Died After Breaking Shoulders

A man who broke both his shoulders In two falls within a fortnight last month died at Maitland Hospital late yesterday afternoon. He was 81-year-old, Mr. John Job Pinfold, of 44 Carrington-Street Horseshoe Bend. Mr. Pinfold was admitted to Maitland Hospital on March 25 with a broken right shoulder when he fell near his home. He had then been discharged from hospital only nine days after having broken his other shoulder In a fall at his home.

Trove

Maitland Mercury (NSW : 1939 - 1955), Tuesday 20 April 1948, page 4

FUNERAL

PINFOLD.—The Relatives and Friends of  Mrs J. J. Pinfold are respectfully invited to attend the Funeral of her dearly beloved Husband, JOHN JOB PINFOLD  to move from his residence, 44 Carrington-Street, West Maitland, TOMORROW (Wednesday) MORNING, at 11 o'clock for interment, in the Methodist Cemetery, Rutherford.

FRY BROS, N.D.F.D.A. Funeral Directors, 154 West Maitland.

PINFOLD.- Friends of Mrs. A. Seinor, Mr and Mrs. S. Seinor, A.O. Pinfold (deceased), Mr and Mrs. P. Hall Mr. and Mrs  J. O. Pinfold, Mr and Mrs. R. W. Pinfold and Mr and Mrs:- W. McLennan and Families are respectfully invited to attend the Funeral of their dearly loved Father, Father in Law and Grandfather, JOHN JOB PINFOLD, to move from his late residence, 44 Carrington Street, West Maitland, TOMORROW (Wednesday) MORNING, at 11 o'clock for Interment in the Methodist Cemetery, Rutherford.

FRY BROS, N.D.F.D.A. Funeral Directors. 

PINFOLD—The Officers and Members of Loyal Good  Design. lodge No. 10, M.U.I.O.O.F. are invited to attend the Funeral of the late BRO. J. J. PINFOLD. For particulars see family notice, H. T. ECKFORD, Noble Grand A. M. THOMSEN Financial Secretary. 

Trove

Maitland Mercury (NSW : 1939 - 1955), Saturday 24 July 1948, page 3

DIED AFTER BREAKING BOTH ARMS

A verdict of death from natural causes was returned by the deputy coroner (Mr E.C. Scarlett) when he inquired into the death of John Job Pinfold, 81 of Carrington-Street, West Maitland, on April 19 . Dr. J. J. Hollywood said that Pinfold fell near his home on March 13 and fractured his right shoulder. He was admitted to Maitland Hospital and discharged on March 20. On March 25 and fell again and  fractured his left shoulder. Death was caused by the fracture of both humeral and cerebral thrombosis heart failure. Nurse Ita Mary Lantry, of Maitland Hospital, said Pinfold died about 3 pm on April 19.

Trove

John Job Pinfold (1867-1948) - Prudence Agnes Pinfold nee Whitehouse (1867-1949)

Rutherford Cemetery, New South Wales.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 26/01/2026-06/02/2023.

Lieutenant: 1287 Richard Morgan GENGE.

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33rd BATTALION AIF

Lieutenant: 1287 Richard Morgan GENGE

Born: 18 October 1895. Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:33938/1895.

Wife: Dorothy May Genge. nee: Gambling. (1897-1953) Died in Middlesex, England. 

Married: 30th January 1919. Hackney, London, England. Marriage Cert ME6957.

Died: 1st December 1991. Middlesex, England. 

Father: Charles William Genge. (1867-1947) Died at West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:12455/1947.

Mother: Dorcas  Genge. nee: Marsh. (1867-1948) Died at West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:13977/1948.

INFORMATION

Richard Morgan Genge Born on 18 October 1895 in Maitland, NSW to Charles William Genge & Dorcas Marsh. At age 18, he was serving as 1st Lieutenant in B Company (West Maitland - East Greta - Dungog Kurri Kurri) with the 14th (Hunter River) Infantry, Richard was preparing to attend the Royal Military College, Duntroon when on the outbreak of war he instead offered his services to the Imperial Force. Immediately as the Army Camp at the Armidale Showground opened he was appointed to Instructional Staff as a Lieutenant & began duties preparing the men.

In January 1916, he began training the men of the 33rd Battalion and being anxious to go on active service but under the age for a commissioned rank in the AIF, he enlisted direct into the 33rd as 1287 Private on 7 April 1916. Due to his experience however, the Commanding Officer soon appointed him as a Platoon Sergeant in D Company & shortly after completion of initial training in Armidale the Battalion moved to Maitland, where they concentrated with the rest of the 9th Brigade.

On 3 May 1916, they entrained for Sydney where they embarked upon HMAT (A74) Marathon. Bound for Egypt, they were diverted to England while en route arriving at Devonport on 9 July, they moved to Larkhill on Salisbury Plain where they underwent five months of intense training with the 3rd Division to prepare them for the rigours of war with British Expeditionary Force on the Western Front - During this time Richard also attended a "Potential Officers Course" at the Tidworth Camp Officer Training School.

A month later they embarked for France, split amongst HMHS Hunslet & SS Mona's Queen, arriving at Le Havre on 22 November. After arriving in France, they moved by rail to Bailleul then marched to the front & occupied a section of the line around Armentières. Assigned to a "nursery sector" for the next month, they rotated between occupying the forward trenches & undertaking training courses as they were introduced to life on the European battlefield.

Although they gained some experience of combat over Christmas when they launched raids against the German lines, their first major battle did not come until mid-1917, by which time the focus of British operations had shifted to the Ypres sector in Belgium.

Wounded in action (first) - On 5 November while occupying the trenches at L'Epinette, Richard was WIA (details not stated) though remained on duty

The Battalion was involved in the Battle of Messines (Ploegsteert Wood) 7-14 June 1917 where, despite suffering around 200 casualties from Allied gas-shells that had dropped short, they went over the top at the appointed hour & after skirting a large crater caused by a mine explosion, secured their objective. After the battle, they remained at the front holding the ground they had gained, enduring almost constant shelling. The 33rd's casualties amounted to 92 killed in action or died of wounds & 260 wounded; the heaviest they would suffer for the entire war

Richard was appointed 2nd Lieutenant on 14 July & re-allocated to command a section in B Company

On 1 October, Richard marched out to England for Regimental duty with 9th Training Battalion. Owing to being unwell upon arrival in England, he failed to report for duty until 4 October. Due to this he was tried by General Court Martial & found guilty. As punishment, he was to take rank & precedence in Unit, Corps & in the AIF as if his appointment to 2nd Lieutenant is dated 3/11/1917 - He was also severely reprimanded & forfeited a total of 33 days' pay

Richard returned to France, rejoining the Battalion at Le Touquet on 29 November & was re-allocated to A Company

The following year as the Germans launched a major offensive (German Spring Offensive) the Battalion was thrust into the line in a desperate attempt to hold the front of the vital railhead of Amiens

From 30 March to 5 April 1918 the Battalion fought in the First Battle of Villers-Bretonneux, where flanking movements by British Cavalry & Australian infantry from the 33rd & 34th Battalion's helped consolidate the Australian gains. The 33rd lost 21 officers (Commander, Padre & Medical Officer included) as well as 250 other ranks

At the end of the month they amalgamated with the 36th Battalion as part of a general re-organisation of the AIF, necessitated by heavy casualties & falling recruitment, which saw the disbandment of three battalions – the 36th, 47th & 52nd, in order to reinforce others

Wounded in action (second) - Richard was promoted to Lieutenant on 12 April & WIA five days later during the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux when, at about 0400 the enemy commenced very heavy bombardment of gas shells, obtaining direct hits on A Company's billets, penetrating into the cellars where the men were asleep, gassing a number before respirators could be adjusted – The bombardment lasted the whole day but was most intense between 0400 & 1300. During the bombardment, the Battalion's casualties were 16 Officers (including Richard), 26 NCO's & 268 OR's

Richard was subsequently evacuated to England for recovery & rejoined the Battalion at Camon on 1 July

Wounded in action (third) - He went on to fight with the Battalion during the Hundred Days Offensive at Accroche Wood & Road Wood near Peronne where on 30 August he was again WIA suffering a GSW to the neck as A & C Companies were attacking Germans who were holding Berlingtots Trench & Marriers Wood – He was again evacuated to England for recovery

After recovering from wound he was transferred to No.1 Command Depot at Sutton Veny on 12 November where he was involved in demobilising the troops as they returned from the front

During his time in England he met Miss Dorothy May Gambling of Stamford Hill & on 30 January 1919, he & Dorothy were married at the Raleigh Memorial Church on Albion Road in Stoke Newington, Hackney

On 10 May Richard embarked for return to Australia arriving in Sydney on 1 July where his appointment in the AIF was terminated on 16 August – It is unclear if Dorothy returned with him, though notes in his service record state he returned to Australia on board the Wahehe (family ship)

Richard emigrated to the United Kingdom on 1 November 1921 & with Dorothy, celebrated the birth of their daughter Mollie Genge in 1925

A 1939 census records him as living in Middlesex with the occupation of cabinet maker / manufacturer - It would appear that he took over his wife’s family business

Dorothy passed away in 1953 at Wood Green, Middlesex, however Richard went on to live a long life, remaining in Middlesex until he passed away in 1991 at the age of 96

When purchased, it was mentioned that he had service in England during WW2 with the " Auxiliary Territorial Services" - Further researching this, it appears to be a MRS. Robina Mair Genge (née Leishman) serving in the Women's Force of the Auxiliary Territorial Services with rank of Subaltern

Jim Cole: July 2025.

War Medal: and Victory Medal: to Lieut R.M. GENGE AIF Wrist Bracelet engraved to Lieut R.M. Genge

War Medal: 43321 to LIEUT. R.M. GENGE. A.I.F.

Victory Medal: 42388 to LIEUT. R.M. GENGE. A.I.F.

Richard's War Medal:43321 and Victory Medal:42388 to Lieut R.M. GENGE AIF Wrist Bracelet engraved to Lieut R.M. Genge was acquired in July 2025 from the Jim Cole Collection and is now in the Harrower Collection.

Family Information

Richard was a single 20 year old Student from 8 Denman Street, West Wallsend upon his enlistment with the AIF. He was serving as 1st Lieutenant in B Company with the 14th (Hunter River) Infantry with Captain: Clarence Smith JEFFRIES.V.C. (1st Lieutenant E Company 14th Infantry) 

His parents, Charles William Genge was born in 1867 at Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:13230/1867 to Morgan and Margaret Genge. and his mother Dorcas Marsh was born 8th September 1867 at Maitland New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:11595/1867 to Frederick and Mary Marsh. 

Richards Parents Charles and Dorcas Genge were married in 1890 at West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:4690/1890 and has 5 children. Marjorie Genge born 1891 at West Maitland, N.S.W. Birth Cert:20798/1891 and died 1977 in Wollongong, N.S.W. Death Cert:16557/1977. Richard Morgan Genge born 1895 West Maitland, N.S.W. Birth Cert:33938/1895 and died 1991. Middlesex, England. Beatrix Genge born 1897 at West Maitland, N.S.W. Birth Cert:13776/1897 and died 1965 at Maitland, N.S.W. Death Cert:32345/1965. Eva Genge Born 1899 West Maitland, N.S.W. Birth Cert:31888/1899 and died West Maitland, N.S.W. Death Cert:13196/1900. Mary Genge born 1902 at West Maitland, N.S.W. Birth Cert:13668/1902 and died 1902 at West Maitland, Death Cert:14498/1902.

Charles was Cremated at Newcastle Memorial Park and had his ashes delivered to be buried at Sandgate Cemetery with his parents Richard and Margaret Genge at Sandgate Cemetery.

Charles William Genge (1867-1947) Sandgate Cemetery

Dorcas was the Daughter of Frederick n Mary Akhurst/Mother of six children with her husband Charles.

Dorcas was Cremated at Newcastle Memorial Park and had her ashes delivered to be buried at Rutherford Cemetery with two of her children Eva n Mary

Dorcas  Genge (1867-1948) Rutherford Cemetery, Section 1B Plot 26

Eva Genge (1899-1900) - Mary Genge (1902-1902) Rutherford Cemetery, Section 1B Plot 26

Beatrix Genge (1897-1967) was Cremated at the Newcastle, Memorial Pak, Beresfield. Her ashes was scattered at, Loggia 12/2 Q/102

Marjorie Hain nee: Genge (1891-1977) - E.R Sergeant: 3540 Hubert Clarence Hain (1892-1961) 1st Light Horse. WW1

Wollongong Memorial Gardens

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 23/07/2025-26/07/2025.

Lieutenant Colonel: Clifford Russell RICHARDSON

by

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.

Corporal: 4471 Sydney Thomas RATCLIFFE.

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1st BATTALION - 13th BATTALION AIF

Corporal: 4471 Sydney Thomas RATCLIFFE

Born: 1896. Redfern via Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:6817/1896.

Died: 12th November 1916. Died of Wounds whilst Prisoner of War in German Hands.

Father: Richard Ratcliffe. 

Mother: Elizabeth Ratcliffe.

INFORMATION

Sydney Thomas RATCLIFFE served with the 14th Hunter River Infantry prior to his enlistment with the AIF and was a member of the 1911-12 Senior Cadet Champion Team under Lieutenant: James Clement BURGES. + French Master, East Maitland High School, N.S.W. (Captain and Commanding Officer 14th Infantry 1911-1916) Captained the Winning Company, Senior Cadets,  Brigade Championship, 1911-12, 1912-13.

Senior Cadet: Sydney Thomas RATCLIFFE. 14th Infantry Battalion. 1911-1912 Senior Cadet Brigade Champions.

1911-1912 Senior Cadet Brigade Cloth Patch

Sydney enlisted with the AIF on the 9th September 1915 at Holdsworthy via Liverpool New South Wales and was allocated to the 14th Reinforcements 1st Battalion AIF. Sydney commenced his training at the Liverpool Amy Camp and entrained to Sydney before embarking on board R.M.S. "Osterly" with the rank of Acting Sergeant on the 15th January 1916. Sydney disembarked in England and went in to Training Camp before proceeding overseas for France where he was taken on in strength with the 13th Battalion on the 4th March 1916. Sydney was promoted to the rank of Corporal on the 26th August and was reported as Missing in Action on the 29th August 1916. 

Reports from the Red Cross in Germany confirmed that Sydney was Wounded in Action and was in German Hands as a Prisoner of War on the 12th November 1916.

4th January 1919.

Prisoner of War - Died

Corporal: 4471 Sydney Thomas RATCLIFFE "Came into Hospital at Gottingen with a severe thigh wound. He was attended by a capable doctor, bur underwent an operation and never recovered. I was moved from this Hospital. Two good English orderlies were in attendance, but the food was bad. Lance Corporal: 1781 Wisbey Harrington SINCLAIR 28th Battalion AIF was in the same ward and could probably give fuller information". 

Informant. Lance Corporal: 2637 John MAY. 5th Battalion AIF.

London.

7th January 1919.

Prisoner of War

Corporal: 4471 Sydney Thomas RATCLIFFE Died 13th September 1916 at Gottingen Hospital from wounds. Cause of death:- Mortification of Right Leg which had been amputated above the knee. Buried with Military Honours Gottingen Cemetery. Nearest Relative (Aunt) Mrs J. Spires. 7 Halldorrah Grove, Lark Lane, Sefton Park Liverpool, England. 

He arrived with us on the same transport 7th August. He was in my barracks, he suffered a great deal of pain. Amputated Right Leg. I attended the operation. The Doctor_ Dr Gregory Rueper, thought a great deal of the English and did all he could. He used to clean things every day. The food was the best German food I saw. Medical treatment was splendid. 

Sergeant: Bruce DRAYTON.

London.

Niederzwehren War Cemetery, Germany.

Sydney is buried at the Niederzwehren Cemetery, Niederzwehren, Stadtkreis Kassel, Hessen, Germany. VII C.9

GIVE UNTO HIM O LORD ETERNAL REST

Family Information

Sydney was a single 21 year old Clerk upon his enlistment with the AIF. Sydney had served for 3 years with the 14th Infantry Senior Cadets prior to his enlistment. His parents lived at 12 Beckman Street, West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. 

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 12/04/2023-05/06/2023.

Private: 1088 Benjamin James COULSON

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34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 1088 Benjamin James COULSON

Born: 27th February 1894. Muswellbrook, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:22974/1894.

Died:  21st December 1920. Brentwood Hospital, Muswellbrook, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:20015/1920.

Father: Samuel George Coulson. (1858-11/1944) Died at Hornsby, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:24716/1944.

Mother: Amy Ada Coulson. nee: Smithers. (1865-1937) Died at Muswellbrook, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:18301/1937.

INFORMATION

Benjamin James Coulson enlisted with the 34th Battalion AIF on the 2nf February 1916 at the Rutherford Army Camp at West Maitland where he was allocated to D Company. On 1st May 1916, 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, 2nd May 1916 the men embarked on the transport HMAT A20 "HORORATA" and sailed at 4:00 pm".

HMAT A20 Hororata

H.M.A.T. A20 "HORORATA

Battalion disembarked at Plymouth at 1:00 pm and en trained during the afternoon for Amesbury, arriving at midnight and marching to hutments at No: 1 Camp, Larkhill. Here the Battalion settled down to hard training, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and General Camp Routine. Later the Battalion moved to the No: 25 Camp and finished off their training, which included six days' battle practice and field work at the Bastard Trenches.

34th Battalion marching through Amesbury

34th Battalion marching through Amesbury

The 34th Battalion left Lark hill 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 8:00 am and the Battalion marched to No;1 camp on the Hill, arriving at 2:00 pm. 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.

On the 6th February 1917 the 34th Battalion relieved the 36th Battalion in the Houplines Sector. Patrols only occupied Listening Posts as the nights were very bright and moonlit. The Battalion's Trench Mortars put over a large quantity of shells, to which Fritz replied vigorously with "Minnies" and "Pineapples" but very little damage was done. Enemy planes were active over our Lines, but the Australian Aircraft drove him back. Air fights were frequent now. Also there was quite a lot of Anti-Aircraft firing, but no planes were brought down. Enemy Planes dropped bombs on our Sector and Working Parties, while his Working Parties were dispersed by the Brigades 18 Pounders. "Minnies an "Pineapples" caused damage to our Trenches and Brigades Artillery did likewise to the enemy placements.

34th Battalion War Diary

Benjamin was Wounded in Action; 1st occasion on the 6th February 1917 where he received Gun Shot Wounds to his Neck and Chest and was treated to the 10th Australian Field Ambulance before he was evacuated to the 2nd Australian Casualty Clearing Station for further treatment.

On 3rd August 1917 the Battalion marched out to billets at Bleue via Bailleul Road. The billets were comfortable in old farms, but the rain continued and the roads were mostly under water. On the 5th a Brigade Church Parade was held and General: William Riddell BIRDWOOD informally inspected the men. On the 6th August the Battalion marched to Aldershot Camp. Whilst here Working Parties were supplied to dig a Corps Line in front of Messines. This entailed a long march to and from work, mostly under Shell Fire.

34th Battalion War Diary

Benjamin was Wounded in Action; 2nd occasion on the 11th August 1917 where he received a Gun Shot Wound to his Left Ankle and was invalided to England where he was admitted to the Netly War Hospital. After Benjamin was discharged from Hospital he embarked for France on the 3rd January 1918 and was marched into the Lines ant Taken on in Strength with his unit.

On the 14th July 1918 the Battalion "B" Team was cancelled and all the men were utilized in the Line, including the Bandsmen. Major: Harry Lambert Edward Dixon WHEELER. re joined the Battalion whist here. The Front Line Posts were gradually being connected and dugouts built, but the ground having a bed of chalk and stone, the digging was very strenuous.

34th Battalion War Diary

Benjamin was Wounded in Action; 3rd occasion on the 16th July 1918 where he received a Gun Shot Would to his Left Arm and was invalided back to England on the 19th of July 1918 and was admitted to Hospital. Benjamin was discharged and embarked from England on the 18th December on board the "Aeneas" for Australia and was discharged from the AIF on the 24th March 1919.

Benjamin's War Medal:42166 and Victory Medal:41292 to 1088 PTE B.J. COULSON. 34 BN. AIF and Returned from Active Service Badge were sold to a private bidder in December 2021 and as an under bidder was unable to secure for the Harrower Collection.

Family Information

Benjamin was a single 22 year old Miner from West Maitland, N.S.W. upon his enlistment with the AIF. He was serving with the 14th Infantry. (Hunter River). Benjamin was accidently killed in a mine accident at the Muswellbrook Mine and was pronounced dead at the Brentwood Hospital at Muswellbrook on the 21st December 1920.

Benjamin James COULSON (1894-1920)

Amy Ada Coulson. nee: Smithers. (1865-1937)

Samuel George Coulson. (1858-1944)

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 21/12/2021-07/01/2022.

Private: 2521 Clarence Leslie BIRD.

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34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 2521 Clarence Leslie BIRD.

Born: 1898. Morpeth via East Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:32441/1898.

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

Father: Frederick John Bird. (1870-1952)

Mother: Maude Adeline Bird. nee: Jory. (1875-1960)

INFORMATION

No.2521 Clarence Leslie BIRD was a 19 year old Farmer from East-Maitland in NSW when he enlisted in the AIF for a second time on the 28th of July 1916. A previous enlistment on the 1st of January 1916 had seen him discharged from the Recruit Training Camp at Broadmeadow, on the 25th of January, as being “underage”. He nominated his Father as next-of-kin and his Mother as sole beneficiary of his Will.
He embarked from Australia as a member of the 5th Reinforcements to the 34th Battalion on board the S.S. ‘Napier’, which sailed from Sydney on the 17th of November 1916 and disembarked at Devonport in England on the 29th of January 1917. On arrival the Reinforcements were taken by train to Salisbury-Plain in Wiltshire where they marched in to the 9th Training-Battalion at Durrington.
On the 2nd of February 1917 he reported sick and was admitted to Fargo Military Hospital, diagnosed with Influenza. He was discharged from hospital on the 22nd.
On the 29th of May 1917 he deployed from England across to France, marching in to the 3rd Australian Division Base Depot at Havre. On the 16th of June he marched out to the front and was taken-on-strength by the 34th Battalion AIF (Maitland’s Own), at ‘Ploegsteert Wood’ on the 19th. The Battalion was at that time undergoing training, reorganization, and resting (baths, etc), after ‘Messines’.
On the 7th of August 1917 he again reported sick and was admitted to the 50th Casualty Clearing Station, suffering from ‘scabies’. On the 4th of September he was transported by Ambulance-Train to the French Coast where he was admitted to the 2nd Canadian General Hospital. On the 14th of September he was discharged to the 3rd Australian Division Base Depot at Havre.
On the 23rd of September 1917 he again marched out to the front, and rejoined the 34th Battalion on the 25th.
He was with the 34th Battalion on the 12th of October 1917 for the start of the unsuccessful attack on ‘PASSCHENDAELE’. After briefly holding the 2nd Objective the 9th Brigade was forced to withdraw almost to the starting point of the attack, and as the battle-field could not be held, many of the dead and wounded could not be recovered. After this battle he was officially reported as MISSING-IN-ACTION.
On the 5th of February 1918 the Battalion received a report from the 50th Division Burial Officer, stating that the remains of Private C.L.BIRD had been located and buried at Map-Reference 28.NE.D.17.b.9.6 (which was halfway between the start-point and the Battalions 1st Objective). His fate was then amended to KILLED-IN-ACTION.
Unfortunately, due to his grave being damaged or destroyed, his burial was never found by the Graves Services Unit. Subsequently he was listed as having ‘No Known Grave’.
He is commemorated on the ‘Australian Roll of Honour’ at the Australian War Memorial, on the ‘East Maitland War Memorial’, and on the 34th Battalion Panel on the ‘Menin Gate’ at Ypres in Belgium, amongst the 54,000 men ‘missing - with no known grave’.
Menin Gate War Memorial
His Mother received a War-Pension of £1 per fortnight from the 3rd of January 1918.

Bill Durrant: September 2021.

Sympathy Card from Mr and Mrs Bird.

Ancestry.com

Family Information

Clarence was a single 19 year old Farmer from East Maitland, N.S.W. upon his enlistment with the AIF. He was still serving with the 14th Infantry Hunter Valley.

Grave of Frederick and Maude Bird. Sandgate Cemetery, Newcastle, N.S.W.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 07/09/2021-18/09/2021.

Lance Corporal: 2301 Harlie Muir ECKFORD.

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34th - 13th BATTALION AIF

Lance Corporal: 2301 Harlie Muir ECKFORD.

Born: 1895. West Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:33898/1895.

Died: 24th September 1917. Killed in Action. Belgium. 

Father: Alick William Henry Eckford. (1859-1942) 

Mother: Emily Augusta "Dot" Eckford. nee: Brackenreg. (1858-1944)

INFORMATION

Harlie Muir Eckford enlisted with the AIF at Maitland Showground on the 26th June 1916 and was marched in the the Rutherford Army Camp were he was allocated to the 4th Reinforcements 34th Battalion AIF. Harlie served with the 14th Infantry (Hunter River) with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Harlie embarked with the Reinforcements on board HMAT A30 "Bords" from Sydney, N.S.W. on the 17th October 1916 and disembarked at Plymouth, England on the 9th January 1917. 

The Reinforcements were marched in to the Durrington Army Camp at Larkhill with the 9th Training Battalion where he was promoted to Acting Sergeant on the 25th January 1917. Harlie was marched out from Hut number 11 on the 9th May 1917 and proceeded overseas for France and disembarked at Estaples on the 10th of May 1917.  The next day Harlie was promoted to A/Extra Regimental Sergeant but reverted back to Private when he was transferred to the 13th Battalion on the 25th May 1917. 

Harlie went into action with the 13th Battalion and was promoted to Lance Corporal on the 4th September and was Killed in Action as he was going into the lines.

6th March 1918.

Informant: Private: 2033 William WILLIAMS. A Coy 13th Battalion AIF. "I saw ECKFORD killed by a shell which burst as we were going into the line about 9 or 10 o'clock at night and wounded a couple of others. He was buried at the spot between China Walk and the hop over line (an old German Line, Battalion Headquarters). A cross was made in the trenches and put up.

Hut 20 Westham, England.

Menin Gate War Memorial

 

Family Information

Harlie was a single 21 year old Mercer from 15 Cross Street, West Maitland, N.S.W. upon his enlistment with the AIF. 

Saturday, 30 April 1881.

"ECKFORD-BRACKENREG-At St. Paul's, West Maitland, by the Rev. John Shaw, Alec. W.H., eldest son of George Eckford, of Edithville, South Park, to Emilie Augusta (Dottie), fourth daughter of Charles John Brackenreg, West Maitland".

Private: 745 Alfred DIFFORD.

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34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 745 Frederick "Alfred" DIFFORD.

Born: 1895. Stockton, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:16648/1896.

Married: 1931. Kurri Kurri, New South Wales, Australia.

Wife: Fanny Shannon Difford. nee: Nelson. (1896-1960)

Died: 1983. Weston, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:100808/1983.

Father: William Difford. (1856-31/10/1916) buried at Kurri Kurri Cemetery.

Mother: Emily Sophia Difford. nee: Bird. (1864-1908)

INFORMATION

No.745 Alfred DIFFORD was one of four brothers to serve during WW1, and one of two that would serve in the 9th Australian Infantry Brigade.
He was almost 20 years old and working as a Labourer at Weston in NSW when he decided to enlist in the AIF on the 17th of January 1916.On the 21st of March 1916 at Rutherford-Camp he was allocated to “C” Company of the 34th Battalion.
He embarked as a member of ‘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 Battalion now became part of the 9th Infantry Brigade (33rd, 34th, 35th, and 36th Infantry Battalions, 9th Machine-Gun Company, and the 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery), of the 3rd Australian Division (9th, 10th, and 11th Infantry Brigades). It would spend the next couple of months training hard on Salisbury Plain to learn all the methods of fighting Trench-Warfare.
They 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 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.
· On the 23rd of October he was charged with the offence: “Absent Without Leave from midnight 20/10/16 to midnight 22/10/16”. As punishment he was awarded 3 days of Field-Punishment No.2 and forfeited 2 days pay.
Also on the 23rd of October, he reported sick and was admitted to Bulford Hospital, suffering from V.D. After 35 days of medical treatment and loss-of-pay, he was released from medical care.
On the 21st of November 1916 the 34th Battalion had deployed across from England to France as part of the 9th Brigades entry onto the Western Front. The 9th Brigade soon moved into the trenches near the village of Armentieres.
On the 13th of December 1916 reported sick and was admitted to the Fargo Military Hospital with ‘Influenza’. He was released five days later.
On the 16th of January 1917 Alfred finally deployed across to France, but on the 31st of January he again reported sick and was admitted to hospital with ‘gastritis’. He was released a fortnight later.
On the 19th of May he reported sick with ‘Cellulitis’ and was admitted to hospital, being released halfway through the following month.
He was with the 34th Battalion for the unsuccessful attack on PASSCHENDAELE on the 12th of October 1917.
On the 4th of April 1918, during the ‘’1st BATTLE OF VILLERS-BRETONNEUX’’ he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION, suffering a slight shrapnel wound to his left foot. He was invalided across to England on the 11th of the month and was admitted to the Shorncliffe Military Hospital, at Shorncliffe in Kent.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate (NSW 1876 - 1954) Wed 1 May 1918
On the 21st of June he was released to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford, and on the 24th of June was discharged to the No.3 Command-Depot at Hurdcott.
· On the 10th of August 1918 he was charged with: “AWL midnight 1/8/18 till 9:30 6/8/18”. The charge was DISMISSED.
He was returned to Australia on board the ‘Somali’ in December 1918, arriving back in Australia on the 14th of February 1919. He was discharged from the AIF on the 29th of March 1919, as medically unfit.

(Bill Durant: November 2019)

26th June 1918.

Informant: Private: 745 Frederick "Alfred" DIFFORD. "Private: 453 Robert HENNESSEY was in C Company. I did not see the casualty, his body being found at Ypres by two Tommies about a month after being killed, but I do not know the names of these two men. His disc was forwarded to Battalion Headquarters. I cannot give any further details further, nor can I refer to anyone. 

3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital, Dartford, England.

Family Information

Alfred was a single 19 year old Labourer from Fifth Street, Weston N.S.W. upon enlistment with the AIF. He was still serving the the 14th Infantry Regiment.

27 Feb 1913 • Presbyterian Church, Weston, New South Wales, Australia

Wedding Portrait of Herbert Robert Difford and Elsie Francis Green. Alfred standing middle rear next to his father William.

Private: 63 Herbert Robert DIFFORD. 35th Battalion AIF. Colliery Shunter. 7th Street, Weston, N.S.W.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 15/11/2019.

Private: 831 Albion MASON

by

34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 831 Albion MASON.

Born: 1897. Adamstown via Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.

Married: 11th February 1922. Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia. 

Wife: Elizabeth Annie Mason. nee: Hope. (1901-1987)

Died: 11th September 1995. 

Father: Albion Mason. (1867-1955)

Mother: Harriot Louisa Mason. nee: Elderton. (871-1957) 

INFORMATION

No.831 Albion MASON was an 18 year old Labourer from Aberdare in NSW when he enlisted in the AIF at West-Maitland on the 31st of December 1916. He was still serving with the 14th Infantry Regiment (Militia), under the ‘Universal Training Scheme’, at the time of his enlistment.

He embarked from Australia as a member of “C” Company of the 34th BATTALION (Maitland's Own) on the 2nd of May 1916, on board the HMAT (A20) ‘Hororata’. 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 Battalion now became part of the 9th Infantry Brigade (33rd, 34th, 35th, and 36th Infantry Battalions, 9th Machine-Gun Company, and the 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery), of the 3rd Australian Division (9th, 10th, and 11th Infantry Brigades). It would spend the next couple of months training hard on Salisbury Plain to learn all the methods of fighting Trench-Warfare.

They 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 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.

He was with the Battalion on the 21st of November 1916 when the 34th Battalion deployed across from England to France as part of the 9th Brigades entry onto the Western Front. The 9th Brigade soon moved into the trenches near the village of Armentieres.

On the 6th of June 1917, during the attack on ‘Messines Ridge’ he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION, suffering a bullet wound to his leg. He was evacuated by the 9th Australian Field Ambulance and admitted to the 2nd Australian Casualty Clearing Station at Trois-Arbres. He was then admitted to the 3rd General Hospital at Boulogne. On the 17th of July he was released from hospital to the 3rd Australian Division Base Depot.

• Offence - On the 27th of July 1917 he was charged with “Conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline in that he left fatigue on the incinerator without obtaining leave to do so”. He forfeited 2 days pay as punishment.

On the 10th of August 1917 he rejoined the 34th Battalion.

He was with the 34th Battalion for the unsuccessful attack on ‘Passchendaele’ in Belgium, on the 12th of October 1917.

He was granted English-Leave from the 21st of January 1918 until he rejoined the 34th Battalion on the 6th of February 1918.

In late March of 1918 the 9th Infantry Brigade was rushed south to ‘the Somme’, in response to a huge new German Offensive (known by the Germans as Operation Michael), and used as a mobile formation being thrown in to strengthen the line wherever needed.

On the 4th of April 1918, during the ‘1st Battle of Villers-Bretonneux’, he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION suffering a bullet wound to his right arm. On the 7th he was transferred across to England and the following day was admitted to the Kitchener Military Hospital.

On the 15th of April he was transferred to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital and was granted a furlough for the period 4th - 18th of May 1918. Unfortunately, he did not report back at the allocated time.

On the 21st of May he was charged with: “London, Absent without Leave – 10:30 a.m. 18/5/18 until 10:20 a.m. 21/5/18”. He was found guilty and forfeited 9 days pay.

He was returned to Australia in September 1918 arriving in Melbourne on the 17th of November. He then travelled overland to Sydney.

He was discharged from the AIF on the 17th of March 1919.

Abermain Public School Honour Roll

(Bill Durant: May 2019)

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 17/05/2019-03/06/2025.