Haberfield World War One Roll of Honour
(Albany Evans - James Heyes)
Evans, Albany Edwin
✞ Evans, Alfred John
Evans, C
Fane, Herbert William
Farlow, Herbert
Farlow, Leonard
Fenton, Charles William
Fetherston, Cecil Bede
Finlay, Matthew Watson
✞ Fletcher, Basil George Wellard
Fletcher, Cecil John
Fletcher, Wallis Mervyn (Dr)
Flood, John Andrew
Foot, Edward Charles
Foreman, Charles Leonard
Forsythe, Murray
Forsythe, William James
Foster, Harry Leslie Frank Barton
Fowler, Ross Robert William
Fowler, Selby Arthur Barry
Fowler, William
Frail, Herbert Mills
Frazer, Carr
✞ Frazer, Gordon
Frazer, W J
✞ Frost, William Osmond
Fysh, Charles Oakley
Gardiner, Allan Grindell
Garland, David William
Garling, Arthur Rushby
Garment, Frederick William
Garment, John Thomas
Garner, Alexander
Gibson, George Douglas
Gibson, Ivie Burcon
Gilkes, Arthur Ewart
Gilkes, Harry William
Giraud, Stanley Augustus
Gleeson, William John
Glossop, Willie
Godfrey, Stanley Cecil
Golding, Alfred Leslie
✞ Gombert, France Leon
✞ Gordon, Robert Hunter
Gors, Walter Uel Gervois
Graham, A
Graham, Frederick Arthur
Graves, Richard
Gray, Clement
Gribben, Harry St John
Gunn, Keith William
Gunn, Norman James
✞ Gunn, Oswald George
✞ Hackney, William Augustus
Hain, Arthur Mervyn
Hain, William James
Hamilton, E A
Hanley, James
Hannelly, Hubert Hilton
Hannon, Bernard Lachlan
Hannon, John Patrick Terrence
Hannon, William Robert
Hardwicke, R C
Hargreave, Wilfred James
✞ Harwood, Alfred Gordon
Harwood, Patrick John
Hawe, J F
Haydon, Raymond Henry
Hayes, Arthur
Haylock, Alfred Edgar
Haylock, Alan Percy
Helson, Ernest George
Helson, Robert Henry
Hemelryck, F V
Henderson, E
Henderson, George Donald
Henderson, Nelson John
Herps, Carlton Chaseling
✞ Herps, Claude Herbert Somerville
✞ Herps, Rupert Havelock
Heselden, Mark
Heyes, James Abraham
20th Infantry Battalion
Albany Edwin Evans
17 July 1890 - Walgett New South Wales
4 December 1953 - Walgett New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 6319
Religion: Church of England
World War I (20 May 1916 - 21 March 1919)
Albany Evans was born in Walgett New South Wales on 17 July 1890, the eldest of eight children to James Evans and Martha Mann.
Known as Ab, he enlisted at the Royal agricultural Showgrounds on 20 May 1916. He listed his occupation as machine expert. He was living at his mother’s address at Namoi Tressider Avenue Haberfield.
After initial training at Cootamundra NSW, he embarked from Sydney on 11 November 1916 aboard HMAT Suevic. The 20th Battalion arrived at Devonport on 30 January 1917.
He suffered a bout of pneumonia in March 1917, before proceeding to France on 2 May. He was admitted to the field hospital with a case of bronchitis on 2 October 1917. The illness was of a serious nature and he returned to England on 24 January 1918.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Carpentaria on 8 August 1918. He arrived in Australia on 4 October and was discharged on 21 March 1919.
Albany married Grace Fulmer in Narrabri in 1921. Grace passed away in 1968.
He passed away in Walgett NSW on 4 December 1953.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=1908071
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1068220/document/5494625.PDF
5th Field Artillery Brigade
Alfred John Evans
24 March 1897 - Alexandria New South Wales
15 November 1918 - Rouen France
Rank: Bombardier
Service No: 7577
Religion: Church of England
World War I (8 September 1915 - Died of Illness 15 November 1918)
Alfred Evans was born in Alexandria New South Wales on 24 March 1897, the eldest of four children to Alfred Evans and Esther Steele.
He enlisted at the National Park on 8 September 1915. A clerk, he gave his mother’s address at 18 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
As part of the 5th Field Artillery Brigade, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Persic on 18 November 1915.
On 11 March 1916 he received ten days field punishment after being absent from parade without permission. Shortly after, the unit proceeded to France where he was wounded on 30 July 1916. He was transferred back to England and was not released until 25 August.
Following a unit transfer, he proceeded back to France on 26 March 1917 where on 24 April he was promoted to bombardier.
On 1 October 1917 he was wounded a second time, but was back in action on 5 November. Apart from a brief period on leave, he continued in France until the end of the war.
On 7 November 1918 he reported to the 5th Field Ambulance suffering from influenza. He was transferred to the Australian General Hospital in Rouen France, where he would die from associated pneumonia on 15 November 1918.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=1908137
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1042682/document/5630351.PDF
St Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen France
8,348 Commonwealth graves
15 Australians died this day
Evans, C
The Virtual War Memorial lists Charles Shillaber Evans (SN 3836) of Ashfield who lost his life on 3 May 1917 and Cyril Eisle Evans (SN 927) of Croydon who lost his life on 20 May 1915. No connection to Haberfield was established.
https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/131414
https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/143145
13th Infantry Battalion
Herbert William Fane
18 May 1895 - Summer Hill New South Wales
8 January 1957 - Mosman New South Wales
Rank: Sergeant
Service No: 3041
Religion: Methodist
World War I (18 July 1915 - 18 October 1918)
World War II (8 April 1942 – 17 August 1944)
Herbert Fane was born on 18 May 1895 in Summer Hill New South Wales, the eldest of four children William Fane and Abigail Parker.
A butcher, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 18 July 1915. He gave his mother’s address at 165 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney NSW on 6 September 1915 aboard HMAT Ballarat with the 13th Infantry Battalion.
During his initial service at Gallipoli, he was transferred to the Australian General Hospital in Heliopolis on 18 December 1915 suffering from pleurisy.
Herbert transferred to the 45th Infantry Battalion on 17 March 1916. The unit proceeded to France, and on 23 April he was promoted to corporal.
On 14 August 1916 he was promoted to sergeant.
He was serving with the 10th Field Artillery Brigade when he was wounded on 1 October 1917 during a shell burst. Following his recovery he was transferred to the Weymouth Depot in England on 26 January 1918. His diagnosis was one of neurasthenia or shell shock.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Orontes on 10 March 1918, disembarking on 13 May. He was discharged on 18 October 1918.
Herbert married Myrtle Williams at St Oswald’s Haberfield on 31 December 1921. The reception was held at the Haberfield School of Arts. Myrtle passed away in 1930, and in 1932 he married Madeline Gillespie, who passed away in 1980.
He served in World War II between 8 April 1942 and 17 August 1944 with the 7th Battalion Volunteer Defence Corps.
Herbert passed away in Mosman NSW on 8 January 1957.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3547670
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4464691
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15970854
15th Reinforcements
Herbert Farlow
14 August 1899 - Ashfield New South Wales
1975 - Hillston New South Wales
Rank: Acting Corporal
Service No: 58565
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (20 May 1918 - 5 September 1919)
Herbert Farlow was born in Ashfield New South Wales on 14 August 1899, one of five children to Harry Farlow and Mary Walton.
He enlisted at Narrandera NSW on 20 May 1918. A station hand, he gave his mother’s address at 12 Marion Street Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Feldmarschall on 19 June 1918, disembarking in London on 26 August.
His initial training occurred in Codford England before joining up with the Australian Army Services Corps. Between 5 October and 25 November 1918 he was appointed acting Corporal, before reverting to private.
Herbert returned to Australia aboard HMAT Ceramic on 9 August 1919, arriving in Australia on 3 October 1919. He was discharged on 5 September 1919.
He married Ida Crisp at Rockdale in 1922. Ida passed away at Katoomba on 27 May 1972 shortly after their 50th wedding anniversary.
Herbert passed away in Hillston NSW in 1975.
His brother of Leonard also served during World War One. Both names appear on the Haberfield and St David’s Church Roll of Honour boards.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3548075
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9553218
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4464691
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15970854
4th Infantry Brigade Train
Distinguished Conduct Medal
Leonard Farlow
4 May 1893 - Leichhardt New South Wales
11 April 1979 - (Unknown)
Rank: Corporal
Service No: 1210
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (13 September 1914 - 25 February 1919)
Leonard Farlow was born in Leichhardt New South Wales on 4 May 1893, the eldest of five children to Harry Farlow and Mary Walton.
A milk carter, he enlisted at the Rosebery Park Camp on 13 September 1914. He gave his father’s address at 3 Martin Street Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney on 21 December 1914 aboard HMAT Port Macquarie. Leonard proceeded to Gallipoli in April 1915.
He was recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal whilst serving in Gallipoli. The commendation read -
“For conspicuous gallantry on 10th August, 1915, in Aghyl Dere (Dardanelles). While in charge of a convoy of 25 mules, and subjected to a heavy shrapnel fire, he succeeded in collecting and conducting to its destination another convoy, the conductor of which had been severely wounded. Several of the native drivers had also been hit, and the remainder had become demoralized. On his return journey, at the same spot, which was still under heavy shell fire, he caught and added to his already doubled convoy several stray mules from a third party, successfully escorting them to the outpost line, thereby saving considerable quantities of supplies. Driver Farlow has been previously brought to notice for bravery and devotion to duty.”
He was transferred back to Egypt on 25 October 1915, then to France on 1 March 1916.
On 4 April 1916 he was found guilty of insolent behaviour received seven days field punishment. The citation reads –
Insolent behaviour to a person subject to military law was guilty of an act of prejudice of good order and discipline in that he at the School of Instruction on April 1 and while on duty said to Capt Clarke in an insolent manner ‘I am driving the horse and am not blind,’ and also said to Capt Clarke ‘A Captain I believe.’
He was promoted to Lance Corporal on 7 October 1917 and Corporal on 29 September 1918.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Port Lyttleton on 23 October 1918, disembarking in Australia on 25 December. He was discharged on 25 February 1919.
On 13 May 1919 he received a gratuity of £20 as a result of his distinguished conduct award.
He married Vera Daley in Petersham in 1957. Vera passed away in 1969.
He passed away in 1979.
His brother of Herbert also served during World War One. Both names appear on the Haberfield and St David’s Church Roll of Honour boards.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3548079
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/25008845
49th Infantry Battalion
Charles William Fenton
1890 - Sydney New South Wales
(Unknown)
Rank: Private
Service No: 2650
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (26 June 1916 - 1 February 1920)
Charles Fenton was born around 1890.
He enlisted in Brisbane Queensland on 26 June 1916. A fireman, he gave his mother’s address at 26 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
As part of the 49th Battalion, he departed Sydney aboard HMAT Ceramic on 7 October 1916, disembarking at Plymouth on 21 November.
On 19 December 1916 he forfeited one days’ pay after being found to be A.W.L between 1am and 3.30pm that same day.
The unit proceeded to France on 28 December 1916. He reported sick on 30 July 1917 and on 11 August he was transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital.
At 3.30pm on 14 September 1917 he was reported as A.W.L from the Sutton Veny Depot and was not apprehended until 10pm on 11 October 1917. He was placed in detention for 26 days.
He faced a military court hearing on the charge of being absent from 23 December 1917 until apprehended on 12 June 1918. He was sentenced to one year and three months detention at HM Prison Lewes, but was discharged from Lewes on 16 December 1918. The unexpired portion of the sentence of 277 days was remitted.
He was again A.W.L between midnight on 25 March 1919 until 3.30pm on 27 March and forfeited six days’ pay. This occurred again between midnight on 22 August and 10pm on 23 August. On this occasion the penalty was forfeiture of pay for fifty days.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Ypiranga on 15 November 1919, arriving in Australia on 9 January 1920. He was discharged on 1 February 1920.
No information could be found regarding Charles’ date of death.
2nd Infantry Battalion
Cecil Bede Fetherston
31 January 1892 - Newtown New South Wales
18 July 1934 - Pennant Hills New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 5079
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (26 June 1916 - 1 February 1920)
Cecil Fetherston was born in Newtown New South Wales on 31 January 1892, one of two children to Gerald Fetherston and Mary Hart.
Websites have variations of the surname such as Fetherstone and Featherstone.
A wood turner, he enlisted at Liverpool on 12 January 1916. He gave his mother’s address at 126 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
With the 2nd Infantry Battalion’s 16th reinforcements, he left Sydney on 9 April 1916 aboard HMAT Nestor.
On 4 July he found to be A.W.L between midnight on 29 June and 11.11pm on 30 June. He forfeited one day’s pay and was confined to barracks for three days.
His unit proceeded to France on 25 July. On 10 August he was detached to the 3rd Canadian Tunnelling Unit, where he would serve until 25 October.
On 5 March 1917 he was transferred to Camberwell General Hospital in England suffering from diarrhoea.
He re-joined his unit in France on 15 August, and on 16 September he received a wound to his jaw.
On 28 April 1918 he was sentenced to six months imprisonment after being found to be A.W.L between 17 and 22 April. The sentence was suspended on 11 May.
He was charged with being in possession of a French civilian’s bicycle on 2 June and drunkenness on 3 June. He found not guilty of the first charge, but served 35 days’ imprisonment on the second.
He returned to Australia on aboard HT Boonah on 20 April 1919, disembarking on 11 June. Cecil was discharged on 26 July 1919.
He passed away in the Red Cross Hospital at Pennant Hills NSW on 18 July 1934.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3554422
13th Infantry Battalion
Wahn Germany
Matthew Watson Finlay
29 November 1887 - Glebe New South Wales
1959 - Five Dock New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 6736
Religion: Church of England
World War I (10 June 1916 -2 June 1919)
World War II (25 June 1942 - 11 September 1945)
Matthew Finlay was born in Glebe New South Wales on 29 November 1887 to Matthew Finlay and Mary Sexton.
He married Elsie Goddard in Sydney in 1915.
He enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 10 June 1916. A piano tuner, he gave his address as Ormonde Miller Street Haberfield.
Matthew embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Port Nicholson on 8 November 1916, arriving at Devonport on 10 January 1917.
His unit proceeded to France on 8 February 1917.
On 11 April he was reported as missing in action. Elsie and his mother were awarded pensions of £2 per fortnight.
The pensions were cancelled on 7 September 1917 when it was found that Matthew was a prisoner of war. Information was received that he had been captured and interned at Kriegsgefangenenlager Wahn (Wahn Prisoner of War Camp). He was repatriated to Ripon on 26 December 1918.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Derbyshire on 2 March 1919, arriving on 17 April. He was discharged on 2 June 1919.
On 25 June 1942, Matthew enlisted in Leichhardt NSW during World War Two. He served in the 9th Battalion Volunteer Corps until 11 September 1945.
He and Elsie were living at First Avenue Five Dock in 1958. He passed away in 1959.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3900755
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=6158964
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1045432/document/5633103.PDF
https://www.powmemorialballarat.com.au/prisoners-of-war/finlay-matthew-watson/
13th Infantry Battalion
Basil George Wellard Fletcher
8 October 1890 - Kingston New South Wales
11 April 1917 - Reincourt France
Rank: Captain
Service No: 26
Religion: Church of England
World War I (8 September 1915 - Killed in Action 15 November 1918)
Basil Fletcher was born in Kingston New South Wales on 8 October 1890, one of six children to John Fletcher and Emily Chaffe.
His place of birth is noted as Kingston and Kingstown NSW in different documents.
A clerk, he enlisted in Sydney on 6 September 1914. He gave his mother’s address at Seacombe 67 O’Connor Street Haberfield.
Prior to leaving Australia, he was promoted to sergeant on 2 October 1914.
As a member of the 13th Infantry Battalion, he left Melbourne on 22 December 1914 aboard HMAT Ulysses. The unit proceeded to Gallipoli on 12 April 1915. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant on 10 May. He was evacuated to the Malta Hospital Ship Gascon on 16 September suffering from neurasthenia.
On 20 January 1916 he was promoted to Lieutenant. He was in hospital in England on 29 February. Basil proceeded overseas to France on 23 September where he was promoted to Captain on 30 December.
He died in action on 11 April 1917 near Reincourt France and has no known grave.
Records from March 1919 show that the family was incorrectly informed on 13 June 1918 that Basil Fletcher may be a prisoner of war. This was corrected when news of his death was received. In a statement from Private Harry McDonald (SN 6294) on 8 February 1919 –
"I knew a Capt. Fletcher who was O.C. of “C” Coy, 13th Bn in which I was. On the 11th April 1917, at about 9.45am, I was standing about 20 yards from Captain Fletcher near Bullecourt. I saw a shell burst alongside Capt. Fletcher and I saw him fall over apparently hit seriously. I did not go over to see him. I was taken prisoner about five minutes afterwards, and I did not see him again. The Capt. Fletcher I knew was about 5ft 6 inches tall."
Other reports make mention of the fact that Basil was very well thought of by the men under his immediate command.
His mother was granted a pension of £2 per fortnight on 22 June 1917.
His name also appears on the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney’s Honour Roll.
His brother Cecil Fletcher also served during World War I and appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4007017
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1043836/document/5631505.PDF
Villers-Bretonneux Memorial France
10,982 memorials
820 Australian soldiers died this day
1st Infantry Battalion
Mentioned in Despatches
O.B.E (Military Division)
Cecil John Fletcher
1 December 1888 - Marrickville New South Wales
2 June 1955 - Mosman New South Wales
Rank: Captain
Service No: 4
Religion: Church of England
World War I (1 September 1914 - 23 September 1920)
World War II (8 May 1940 - 12 December 1949)
Cecil Fletcher was born in Marrickville New South Wales on 1 December 1888, one of six children to John Fletcher and Emily Chaffe.
A telegrapher at Sydney GPO, he enlisted at Randwick NSW on 1 September 1914. He gave his father’s address at Seacombe 67 O’Connor Street Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney on 20 October 1914 aboard HMAT Euripides, having been promoted to corporal on 1 September 1914. He was with the 1st Infantry Battalion.
His initial service was in Ismailia Egypt, where on 1 October 1915 he was promoted to sergeant. He was further promoted to staff sergeant on 20 January 1916. On 23 March 1916 he left Alexandria to join the British Expeditionary Force in Marseilles, and then on to Strazeele.
He attained the rank of 2nd Lieutenant on 28 April 1916.
His service continued in both France and Egypt, where he was appointed as the Senior Postal Officer. He was Mentioned in Despatches on 7 April 1918. On 18 November 1918, he was appointed Captain.
Whilst in France, he married Marie-Jeanne Beauchamps in 1918. Marie-Jeanne passed away in 1969.
He was appointed to the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (Military Division) on 3 June 1919 for valuable services rendered during the war.
From 26 June to 26 September 1919, he worked in the Central Telegraph Office in Glasgow Scotland. Apart from that outside employment, he was heavily involved in the repatriation of Australian soldiers.
He left England with his wife on 22 January 1920 aboard HMAT Feldmarschall, disembarking in Sydney on 8 February. His appointment was terminated on 23 September 1920.
There is no information as to how or why the first marriage ended, however it is interesting that his World War Two records show that she was living in Marseilles in 1949.
He remarried in 1947. His second wife was Ida King. This contradicts other records.
On 8 May 1940, he enlisted during World War Two. His service number was NX390. He was posted to the 1st Australian Corps HQ. Two interesting points came from his enlistment. He stated his date of birth as 1 December 1893, and he was still married to Marie-Jeanne.
During this time he served in Palestine and was promoted to Major on 23 April 1940, then Lieutenant Colonel on 1 September 1942. On 2 May 1942 he was again mentioned in dispatches in recognition of distinguished service between February and July 1941.
Between October 1943 and November 1945 he served in Port Moresby, Lae, Bougainville and northern Queensland.
He returned to Australia in 1946 but was later sent to Japan until late in 1948. He was discharged on 12 December 1949.
Cecil passed away in Mosman NSW on 2 June 1955.
His brother Basil Fletcher was killed in action in Reincourt France in 1917 and appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4007022
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4877068
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1068958/large/5380445.JPG
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1068958/large/5380446.JPG
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/232516292/25020513
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/232462692/24998794
2nd Australian General Hospital
Mentioned in Despatches
Wallis Mervyn Alfred Fletcher (Dr)
21 November 1887 - Forbes New South Wales
6 November 1954 - Haberfield New South Wales
Rank: Captain
Service No:
Religion:
World War I (21 October 1914 -24 September 1919)
Wallis Fletcher was born in Forbes New South Wales on 21 November 1887 to Joseph Fletcher and Kennedy Baird. His father died about five weeks later. His mother remarried and he would have six half-brothers.
Known as Mervyn, he was educated at Newington College. Mervyn later obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Master of Surgery at Sydney University.
He applied for his Commission on 21 October 1914. He gave his address at Stringbank O’Connor Street Haberfield.
As part of the 2nd Australian General Hospital unit, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Kyarra on 28 November 1914.
From January to November 1915 he served at the 1st Australian General Hospital in Heliopolis Egypt. Transferring to the 5th Australian Field Ambulance, his unit proceeded to Gallipoli and would remain until troops were evacuated.
He was admitted to the Lemnos Island Hospital on 21 December 1915 suffering from enteric fever. His temperature remained at 103 degrees Fahrenheit until 27 December 1915. On 26 January 1916 he was admitted to St Andrews Hospital Malta suffering from paratyphoid.
He did not return to the field until June 1916 when he re-joined his unit in France. On 24 November 1916 he was promoted to Major.
He was appointed as Regimental Medical Officer on 11 September 1917 whilst in Messines France. He was wounded at Bellewaarde Ridge at Ypres on 1 October 1917 but remained on duty. His actions resulted in his being Mentioned in Despatches on 5 October –
“For gallantry and devotion to duty at BELLEWAARDE Ridge, east of YPRES on Sept 29th 1917. The Aid Post was very heavily bombarded by H. E. shell and the M. O in charge and several other ranks were severely wounded. Major Fletcher at once took command and continued the dressing and evacuation of wounded without any delay. The bombardment lasted for 4½ hours during the whole time of which Major Fletcher was working with practically no cover of any kind.”
On 7 November 1917 he was Mentioned in Dispatches by Sir Douglas Haig for distinguished service and devotion to duty in the field during the period midnight 26 February 1917 and midnight 20 September 1917 –
“For consistently good work and devotion to duty during the period 26th February – 20th September 1917 in the capacity of Medical Officer of the 14th Battalion, He on all occasions distinguished himself by his untiring, skilful and excellent treatment of wounded under heavy shell fire.
At BULLECOURT on 11th April 1917 he was most noticeable than on other occasions, when casualties were tremendous and accommodation for the wounded was of a very scanty nature. He was untiring in his efforts and only left his station when all that could be humanely done, was done.
During the operations at MESSINES 9th/13th June 1917 he won the respect of all ranks for untiring energy and disregard of personal safety.”
From December 1917 until demobilisation he was second in command at the No 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Port Lyttleton on 23 October 1918, disembarking in Melbourne on 25 December.
His appointment was terminated on 25 February 1919.
He married Jeanie Middleton in Sydney on 24 September 1919. Jeanie died at their home at 97 Ramsay Street on 3 February 1947. This was the former office of the Haberfield Propriety Works. Dr Fletcher had operated his medical practice here since 1925. The house was late sold and is now a service station.
Mervyn passed away in Haberfield on 6 November 1954. His funeral was held two days later at St David’s Church. He is remembered by the Mervyn Fletcher Memorial Centre. A plaque facing Dickson Street reads -
"To commemorate the good works of Dr W. Mervyn Fletcher in this municipality over a period of 35 years, 1919 -1954."
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4007167
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1068732/document/5514667.PDF
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1068737/document/5515289.PDF
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1067985/document/5487524.PDF
5th Field Artillery Brigade
John Andrew Flood
1893 - Albury New South Wales
6 June 1972 - Turramurra New South Wales
Rank: Gunner
Service No: 15581
Religion: Methodist
World War I (6 December 1915 - 28 January 1920)
John Flood was born in Albury New South Wales in 1893, one of three children to Joseph Flood and Mary O’Brien.
He enlisted under the name Jack at Casula NSW on 6 December 1915. A clerk, he gave his parents’ address at Troubridge Dudley Street Haberfield.
Part of the 5th Field Artillery Brigade’s 5th reinforcements, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Ceramic on 14 April 1916.
The brigade moved to France on 21 August 1916. He had two bouts of illness, the first of which on 17 December was as a result of an attack of scabies. On 1 June 1917 he was admitted to hospital in Etaples suffering from bronchitis.
On 1 June 1918 he suffered a severe gas poisoning, and on 14 June he was transferred to the Princess Christian Military Hospital in London.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Orca on 19 February 1919, disembarking at Sydney on 3 April. He was discharged on 28 January 1920.
John married Margaret Kelly St Anne’s Church in Bondi NSW on 10 September 1928.
He passed away at Lady Davidson Hospital Turramurra NSW on 6 June 1972.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=4039243&S=1&N=25&R=0
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/224677803?searchTerm=john%20andrew%20flood
13th Infantry Battalion
Edward Charles Foot
1896 - Kangaroo Valley New South Wales
22 April 1955 - Petersham New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 5371
Religion: Church of England
World War I (14 January 1916 - 4 October 1916, 23 October 1916 - 19 January 1917)
Edward Foot was born in Kangaroo Valley New South Wales in 1896, one of four children to Horace Foot and Amy Davies.
He enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 14 January 1916. A collector, he gave his father’s address at Noela 13 Kingston Street Haberfield.
Part of the 13th Battalion, he departed Sydney on 9 April 1916 aboard HMAT Nestor.
He was admitted to the 3rd Australian General Hospital on 19 May suffering for rheumatism and swollen right foot and ankle. His medical report stated that he had two previous events of rheumatic fever, the first in 1913 and the second in September 1915.
As a result of acute recurrent rheumatism, he returned to Australia aboard HMAT Karoola on 5 July 1916, disembarking on 5 August.
He was discharged on 4 October 1916 as permanently unfit on account of his rheumatic history. Edward re-enlisted in Liverpool NSW on 23 October however he was discharged on 19 January 1917 at his own request.
He married Kathleen Adams in 1923.
Edward passed away in Lewisham in on 22 April 1955.
Edward’s service number is recorded as 5731 on the Australian War Memorial site.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: AIF Project
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3912801
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=6511789&S=1&N=8&R=0#/SearchNRetrieve/NAAMedia/ShowImage.aspx?B=6511789&T=P&S=8
1st Machine Gun Company
Charles Leonard Foreman
1887 - Stroud New South Wales
1 March 1947 - Five Dock New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 598
Religion: Methodist
World War I (17 July 1916 - 21 December 1919)
Charles Foreman was born in Stroud New South Wales in 1887, one of two children to Henry Foreman and Annie Hill. His mother died when he was five, and after his father remarried, he had one half-brother and three half-sisters.
He married May Loaney in Annandale NSW in 1911. May passed away in 1948.
He enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 17 July 1916. A tram conductor, he and his wife were living at 54 Northcote Street Haberfield.
Joining with the 1st Machine Gun Company, he embarked from Melbourne aboard HMAT Omrah on 17 January 1917. The ship arrived at Plymouth on 27 March.
After spending time at the Belton Depot at Grantham, the unit proceeded to France on 29 May. He spent a week in hospital with illness in August suffering from trench fever.
On 4 October he was wounded in action and did not return to his unit until 1 November. He was A.W.L from Billets between 9pm and 9.45pm on 2 November and forfeited four days’ pay.
Further time was spent in the field hospital in March and April 1918 as a result of bronchitis. Between 20 July and 17 August he was transferred to cookery school before re-joining his unit.
Following leave in January 1919 he reported to the Australian Army Postal Corps where he would serve until he returned to Australia aboard HMAT Port Sydney on 22 September 1919.
He arrived in Australia on 12 November and was discharged on 21 December 1919.
He passed away in Five Dock NSW on 1 March 1947. Records show both he and May were living at First Avenue at the time.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4019170
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15742282
Royal Australian Navy
Murray Forsythe
10 December 1883 - Summer Hill New South Wales
24 June 1970 - (Unknown)
Rank: Chief Petty Officer
Service No: 4253
Religion: Church of England
World War I (24 August 1914 - 20 August 1919)
Murray Forsythe was born in Summer Hill New South Wales on 10 December 1883, the eldest of three children to James Forsythe and Barbara Fisher.
He joined the Royal Australian Navy on 24 August 1914. King George V had granted the title Royal Australian Navy to the Commonwealth Naval Forces on 10 July 1911. Murray had previously served in the Royal Navy from 31 August 1905 for a five-year period.
A draftsman, he gave his parents’ address at 27 Stanton Road Haberfield.
His records have yet to be fully digitised by National Archives Australia. It appears from records available that he served on a number of ships, and at different naval bases including London.
His appointment ended on 20 August 1919.
Murray married Hilda Nettleton in Broken Hill NSW in 1920. Hilda passed away in Burwood NSW on 26 January 1968.
He appears on the Department of Public Instruction lists as a teacher of Mechanical and Engineering Trades Drawing at Broken Hill from 1923-47
Murray and Hilda were living in Randwick NSW in 1963. He passed away on 24 June 1970.
His name also appears on the Ashfield Bowling Club Roll of Honour.
His brother William Forsythe served during World War I and his name appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour.
Australian Flying Corps
No 4 Squadron
William James Forsythe
23 July 1886 - Summer Hill New South Wales
9 February 1967 - Hobart Tasmania
Rank: Private
Service No: 902
Religion: Church of England
World War I (11 December 1916 - 26 August 1920)
William Forsythe was born in Summer Hill New South Wales on 23 July 1886, one of three children to James Forsythe and Barbara Fisher.
He married Marjorie Golding in Tasmania on 29 October 1913.
An engineer, he enlisted in Hobart TAS on 24 October 1916. He and Marjorie were living in Hobart at that time. His father, as next of kin, lived at 27 Stanton Road Haberfield.
He joined with the Australian Flying Corp No 4 Squadron on 11 December 1916, and on 17 January 1917 he left Melbourne aboard HMAT Omrah. The ship arrived at Plymouth on 27 March.
He was assigned to the Penham Downs Depot, and then moved on 2 April 1917 to the Castle Bromwich at Birmingham.
On 13 June he was found guilty of neglecting to obey an order when on active service, and was confined to barracks for three days.
The unit proceeded to France on 16 December 1917. Between 26 May and 1 June 1918 he spent time in hospital in Rouen.
On 22 July 1918 he was found to refuse an order from a superior officer when on active duty. He was penalised with five days field punishment No. 2.
On 11 March 1919 he returned to Southampton Depot, and on 6 May 1919 he left aboard HMAT Kaiser-I-Hind, disembarking in Australia on 16 June.
He was discharged on 26 August 1920.
William passed away in Hobart TAS on 6 February 1967.
His name also appears on the Ashfield Bowling Club Roll of Honour. His brother Murray Forsythe served during World War I and his name appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour.
His name also appears on the Hobart Roll of Honour and the Lower Sandy Bay Roll of Honour.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4024461
Australian Army Services Corp
Harry Leslie Frank Barton Foster
5 November 1900 - Summer Hill New South Wales
22 December 1973 - Milton New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 14889
Religion: Protestant
World War I (15 May 1917 - 28 July 1919)
World War II (23 February 1940 - 7 May 1940)
Harry Foster was born in Summer Hill New South Wales on 5 November 1900 to Harry Foster and Annie Skinner.
An audit clerk in the NSW Railways, he enlisted in Sydney on 15 May 1917, giving a false age of 18 years and six months. In any case, his parents supplied a letter of consent to join the military. He gave his father’s address as 10 Deakin Avenue Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney on 31 October 1917 aboard HMAT Euripides, disembarking in Devonport on 26 December. Whilst en route to England, he joined the Australian Services Corps.
On 13 May he was found guilty of conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline in that he did fail to salute a commissioned officer. His penalty was two days field punishment No 2.
On 27 June he was found to be A.W.L between 0630 hours and 1530 hours the previous day. He served seven days field punishment No 2 and forfeited eight days’ pay.
On 15 July he was found to be absent from parade the previous day and was penalised with two days field punishment No 2. On each occasion penalties were determined by Major Victor Hennessy.
His unit proceeded to France on 12 October where he would serve until the war’s end. On 20 February 1919, he was admitted to hospital where he was diagnosed as suffering from furunculosis. He remained in hospital until 1 March.
He returned to hospital one week later suffering from boils on his neck.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Port Napier on 20 May 1919. The ship arrived on 5 July and he was discharged on 28 July 1919.
Harry married Jessie Robertson the Methodist Church in Croydon NSW on 29 August 1926. Jessie passed away in Burwood NSW in 1946. He married Gweneth Rabbits in Sydney the same year.
On 15 January 1929 he became a probationary constable in the NSW Police Force.
As a result of a motor vehicle accident on 7 June 1933, he was awarded £1,500 as damages for personal injury. He was riding a police cycle at the time and was involved in a collision with a motor vehicle.
On 23 February 1940 he enlisted during World War 2 in Paddington NSW. He was serving with the Provost Corps until he was discharged as medically unfit on 7 May 1940.
Records show he was living in Milton NSW in 1949.
Harry was living at New Street Ulladulla NSW when he passed away on 22 December 1973. Following a service at St John’s Sutherland NSW, mourners proceeded to Woronora Crematorium.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4019342
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5602793
2nd Australian Remount Unit
Ross Robert William Fowler
15 March 1875 - Campbelltown New South Wales
13 October 1937 - Dundas New South Wales
Rank: Trooper
Service No: 1291
Religion: Church of England
World War I (29 September 1915 - 17 June 1916)
Ross Fowler was born in Campbelltown New South Wales on 15 March 1875, the eldest of five children to George Fowler and Margaret Moore.
He married Rebecca Eagles in Liverpool NSW on 7 May 1892. The couple separated in April 1893. A bench warrant was issued for desertion by Picton police in January 1894. The marriage was dissolved by a NSW Supreme Court decree on 2 November 1897.
He was living in New Zealand where he married Margaret Barry in 1904. They remained in New Zealand until sometime in 1908, when he returned to Australia following the death of his mother. Margaret and Ross had a daughter Thelma on 17 March 1914, but she died in Haberfield on 13 June 1915.
He enlisted at Holsworthy on 29 September 1915. A driver, he was living with Margaret at Dorrita 45 Ramsay Street Haberfield. The house is stated as being on the corner of Marion Street.
With the 2nd Australian Remount Unit, he departed Sydney aboard HMAT Orsova on 10 November 1915.
He embarked from Suez aboard HMAT Seang Bee on 29 April 1916. He was discharged on 17 June 1916 when the unit was disbanded as no longer being necessary.
He died in Dundas NSW on 13 October 1937. His death certificate states he was suffering from coronary thrombosis and myocardial degeneration.
His son, Selby Fowler also served during World War One.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4023811
Camel Corps
Selby Arthur Barry Fowler
10 November 1899 - Marrickville New South Wales
22 March 1973 - Westmead New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 2907
Religion: Church of England
World War I (8 February 1917 - 12 August 1919)
World War II (27 February 1941 - 7 November 1945)
Selby Fowler was born in Marrickville New South Wales on 10 November 1899, the eldest of four children to Ross Fowler and Margaret Barry.
A printer, he enlisted in Sydney on 8 February 1917. He gave his parents’ address at Dorrita 45 Ramsay Street Haberfield. The house is stated to have been on the corner of Marion Street.
The unit embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Boorara on 10 May 1917, disembarking at Suez on 20 June.
The Camel Corps served in Moascar, Abbassia and Ismailia until war’s end.
On 15 February 1918 he would spend twelve days in hospital suffering from dermatitis before re-joining his unit.
On 23 December he received two days field punishment No 2, after being found guilty of not complying with an order given by a superior officer whilst on active service. This was followed by a similar charge on 28 December, with the penalty on this occasion being 28 days’ field punishment No 2.
On 9 July 1919 he forfeited nine days’ pay after being found to be A.W.L between 1100 hours on 4 April and 1200 hours on 8 April.
He left from Kantara Egypt on 24 July 1919 aboard HMAT Dongola, disembarking in Australia on 28 August. He was discharged on 12 August 1919.
He married Gladys Burke at St Thomas’ Parramatta NSW on 2 June 1923. Gladys passed away in 1983.
Selby was a tram conductor when he enlisted in the RAAF during World War Two on 27 February 1941. As a corporal, he served at the Bradfield Park Station HQ. He was discharged on 7 November 1945.
He passed away at Westmead NSW on 22 March 1973.
His father Ross Fowler also served during World War One.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4023814
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9557547
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4589309
20th Infantry Battalion
William Fowler
20 August 1889 - Queen’s Park England
28 July 1967 - Cronulla New South Wales
Rank: Sergeant
Service No: 4408
Religion: Baptist
World War I (13 August 1915 - 28 September 1918)
William Fowler was born in Queen’s Park, London England on 20 August 1889, one of nine children to George Fowler and Anne Griffiths.
He emigrated to Australia, arriving in Sydney on 4 June 1912.
A labourer, he enlisted in Dubbo New South Wales on 13 August 1915. He gave his address as Valinda 19 Kingston Street Haberfield.
With the 20th Infantry Battalion, he departed Sydney on 9 March 1916 aboard HMAT Nestor, arriving at Port Said on 14 May.
On 14 July 1916 he was reprimanded for neglect of duty as sergeant on guard. This led to him reverting to the rank of corporal, although he would move between the two ranks throughout his service.
From 9 October until 21 October, he attended the Lyndhurst School of Bombing.
Whilst serving in France he received gunshot wounds to his right ankle and left knee on 2 May 1917. He was returned to England on 9 July and admitted to the 1st London General Hospital.
On 1 February 1918 whilst convalescing, it was determined that he had developed ankyloses as a result of his wounds. He returned to Australia on 29 March 1918 aboard HMAT Balmoral Castle and was discharged as medically unfit on 28 September 1918.
He married Clarisa Wade in Newcastle NSW on 20 October 1920. Clarisa passed away in September 1959.
He passed away in Cronulla NSW on 28 July 1967.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4023837
17th Infantry Battalion
Herbert Mills Frail
15 October 1888 - Marylebone England
7 January 1936 - Randwick New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 1544
Religion: Church of England
World War I (20 April 1915 - 13 September 1919)
Herbert Frail was born in Marylebone England on 15 October 1888 to Charles Frail and Elizabeth Mills. Herbert had a brother and three half-siblings.
Some records show that he married Louisa Hill in England in 1910. She passed away at Redfern New South Wales in 1921. He left London on 18 April 1912 aboard the Orient liner Orsova.
On 20 April 1915 he enlisted at Liverpool NSW. A carter, he was living with Louisa at Roka Hawthorn Parade Haberfield.
Along with other members of the 17th Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Themistocles on 12 May 1915, arriving in England on 13 August.
He was wounded on the Gallipoli Peninsular on 28 August 1915 and returned to Heliopolis. Following his recovery he served in Egypt until 29 July 1916.
He was attached to the Australian Auxiliary Hospital in Southall England where he would serve as staff, and on 19 June 1918 was admitted to the same hospital for four days as a result of influenza.
Herbert returned to Australia aboard HMAT Castalia, disembarking on 1 June 1919. He was discharged 13 September 1919.
He married Dorothy Moseley at Marrickville NSW in 1921. Dorothy passed away in 1962.
Herbert passed away in the Randwick Military Hospital on 7 January 1936.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4033105
56th Infantry Battalion
Carr Frazer
1887 - Newcastle upon Tyne England
14 July 1973 - Lincolnshire England
Rank: Private
Service No: 2167
Religion: Church of England
World War I (14 March 1916 - 16 January 1920)
Carr Frazer was born in Newcastle upon Tyne on 18 March 1888, one of eleven children to John Frazer and Ann Atkinson. He was almost two years old when the family emigrated to Australia, arriving in Brisbane Queensland in 1890.
A tally clerk, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds on 14 March 1916. He gave his father’s address at Meldon 39 Boomerang Street Haberfield.
Along with other members of the 56th Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Port Sydney on 4 September 1916, disembarking at Plymouth on 29 October.
The unit left for France on 23 December 1916. On 2 April 1917, he received a gunshot wound to his left arm. Following initial treatment in Rouen, he was transferred back to England and admitted to the 1st Southern General Hospital in Birmingham.
He returned to his unit in France on 16 October 1917.
On 25 April 1918 he was poisoned as a result of a mustard gas attack, and on 29 April he was invalided to England. He returned to France on 19 September.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Orita on 23 June 1919, disembarking on 9 August. He was discharged on 16 January 1920.
In 1935 he was still living at 39 Boomerang Street Haberfield, prior to moving to Queensland.
He left for England in 1960, and on 15 April 1961, he married Jessie Gold at St Swithin’s Church in Lincoln, Lincolnshire England. Jessie passed away in 1986.
He passed away in North Hykeham, Lincolnshire England on 14 July 1973.
His brother Gordon Frazer also served during World War One and lost his life in Pozieres France in 1916. His name appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour as Fraser, G.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4019946
1st Infantry Battalion
Gordon Frazer
1887 - Newcastle upon Tyne England
18 August 1916 - Pozieres France
Rank: Private
Service No: 699
Religion: Church of England
World War I (8 September 1915 - Killed in Action 15 November 1918)
Gordon Frazer was born in Newcastle upon Tyne England in 1887, one of eleven children to John Frazer and Ann Atkinson. He was two years old when the family emigrated to Australia, arriving in Brisbane Queensland in 1890.
He enlisted at Randwick New South Wales on 28 August 1914. A fitter’s labourer, he gave his father’s address at Meldon 39 Boomerang Street Haberfield.
As part of the 1st Battalion he departed Sydney aboard HMAT Afric on 18 October 1914, disembarking at Alexandria.
Whilst serving in Gallipoli, he was transferred to Lemnos on 11 July 1915 suffering from persistent headaches and failing sight. He was further transferred to Malta on 28 August. He embarked for England on 19 September.
On 13 December 1915, he was found to be A.W.L between 26 November and 13 December. He received 24 day’s detention and forfeited 18 day’s pay.
The unit proceeded to Alexandria, arriving on 5 March 1916, then to France on 28 March.
On 28 April 1916 he received a gunshot wound to his foot, and did not return to service until 12 July. He returned to France on 25 July 1916, re-joining his battalion on 3 August.
He was killed in action at Pozieres on 18 August 1916. He has no known grave.
His brother Carr Frazer also served during World War One and his name appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour. Gordon served in the 1st Battalion with fellow Boomerang Street resident Robert Douglas.
His surname is incorrectly listed as Fraser on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4033886
Villers-Bretonneux Memorial France
10,982 memorials
188 Australian soldiers died this day
Frazer, W J
The Virtual War Memorial lists William John Frazer (SN 59028) of Ourimbah. No connection to Haberfield was established.
23rd Infantry Battalion
William Osmond Frost
13 December 1890 - Redfern New South Wales
9 October 1917 - Ypres Belgium
Rank: Lieutenant
Service No:
Religion: Church of England
World War I (8 September 1915 - Killed in Action 15 November 1918)
William Frost was born in Redfern New South Wales on 13 December 1890, one of two children to Arthur Frost and Elizabeth Watkins.
He enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 27 January 1916. A bank clerk, he gave his address as 101 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
He spent time at Duntroon School between 26 April and 20 June 1916, before moving on to the Cootamundra Depot. On 12 September 1916 he received his commission as 2nd Lieutenant, and it was confirmed on 19 December 1916.
As part of the 17th reinforcements of the 23rd Battalion, he left from Sydney on 31 October 1916 aboard HMAT Argyllshire and disembarked at Devonport on 10 January 1917.
The unit proceeded to France on 27 April 1917, and then on to Passchendaele Belgium.
On 20 August 1917 he was promoted to lieutenant.
William was killed during the Battle of Passchendaele on 9 October 1917. A report from Pte Thomas Heard (SN 5608) stated that William was shot through the shoulder and chest.
He was buried at the Buttes New British Cemetery Polygon Wood.
As late as June 1921 his mother was still attempting obtain his medals and photos of the gravesite.
He is also remembered on the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney Honour Roll.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4001251
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1045383/document/5633054.PDF
Buttes New British Cemetery Polygon Wood Belgium
2,108 Commonwealth graves
373 Australian soldiers died this day
Australian Army Pay Corps
Charles Oakley Fysh
28 April 1893 - Armadale Victoria
1959 - Burwood New South Wales
Rank: Corporal
Service No: 1932
Religion: Church of England
World War I (10 June 1915 - 23 March 1920)
Charles Fysh was born in Armadale Victoria on 28 April 1893, one of four children to Benjamin Fysh and Emily Oxenham.
A grocer, he enlisted at Liverpool New South Wales on 10 June 1915. He gave his parents’ address at Glenuna 12 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
As part of the 18th Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Runic on 9 August 1915. Soon after arrival, he was admitted to the Infections Hospital at Choubra Cairo on 27 September 1915. He was suffering from parotitis and was not discharged until 28 October.
He joined the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force and on 13 November 1915 proceeded to Gallipoli.
He returned to Alexandria on 9 January 1916 and proceeded to Marseilles France on 25 March 1916. Charles remained in France until 2 January 1917 when he was admitted to the No 2 Auxiliary Hospital Southall suffering from trench feet.
He returned to duty and on 5 February 1917 and was attached to the Australian Army Pay Corps.
On 20 October 1917 he was transferred to the Asylum Hospital suffering from diphtheria. He would later transfer to the Joyce Green Convalescent Hospital and the 3rd Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford.
He re-joined the Pay Corps unit on 8 January 1918. After being promoted to corporal on 1 March 1918, he transferred to the Administration HQ two months later.
On 12 June 1918 he was admitted to the No 1 Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Harefield with catarrhal jaundice (hepatitis). He was discharged on 9 July 1918, returning to duty at the Administration HQ.
Between 4 June and 4 September 1919 he was granted leave to attend the British School of Telegraph.
Whilst overseas he married Lily MacDonald at St Gabriel’s in London on 30 September 1919. He and Lily left for Australia aboard HMAT Lucie Woermann on 5 December 1919, disembarking at Sydney on 23 January 1920.
He was discharged from military duty on 23 March 1920.
It appears that Charles and Lily divorced in 1934. Charles was involved in a libel case in 1935 whilst acting as the welfare officer at Randwick Military Hospital.
Records show he was living in Newtown in 1958, and he passed away in Burwood in 1959.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4001680
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/131286764?searchTerm=charles%20oakley%20fysh
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/99242020?searchTerm=charles%20oakley%20fysh
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/229208459?searchTerm=charles%20oakley%20fysh
9th Machine Gun Company
Allan Grindell Gardiner
24 April 1893 - Green Meadows New Zealand
2 November 1974 - Tauranga New Zealand
Rank: Corporal
Service No: 666
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (20 November 1916 - 26 April 1919)
Allan Gardiner was born in Green Meadows New Zealand on 24 April 1893, one of eleven children to Ralph Gardiner and Maria Grindell.
He enlisted in Sydney New South Wales on 20 November 1916. He was living at Llanrylin 5 Tressider Avenue Haberfield.
The 9th Machine Gun Company embarked from Melbourne on 21 June 1917 aboard the HMAT Suevic, disembarking in Liverpool on 26 August.
On 29 August 1917 he was transferred to the 33rd Battalion and reported for training at the School of Instruction in Kandahar Afghanistan on 3 December. He re-joined his unit on 18 January 1918.
The unit proceeded to France on 5 February 1918 where on 30 March he received a gunshot wound to his left leg. He was admitted to the 9th Australian Field Ambulance.
He was wounded a second time on 17 April 1918. Suffering from a gas attack, he was admitted to the 9th Australian Field Ambulance before being transferred to the 9th General Hospital in Rouen France on 19 April. He found his way to the Norfolk War Hospital in Norwich England on 22 April.
After his discharge on 15 May 1918 he served at the No 4 Command Depot before returning to France on 17 July.
He was wounded a third time on 31 August 1918, receiving a gunshot wound to his left elbow. He was admitted to the 15th Australian Field Ambulance before being transferred to the Whitecross Hospital in Warrington England on 4 September 1918.
Following his discharge on furlough on 23 December 1918, he reported to the No 1 Command Depot Sutton Veny on 6 January 1919.
He returned to Australia on 7 February on 1919 aboard HMAT Lancashire. He disembarked in Melbourne on 24 March and was discharged on 26 April 1919.
Allen married Violet Shaw in Gisborne New Zealand on 28 January 1920. Violet passed away in 1983.
Some records show his first name as Allen.
He passed away in Tauranga New Zealand on 2 November 1974.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4036813
1st Field Artillery Brigade
David William Garland
1894 - Glebe Point New South Wales
1959 - Chatswood New South Wales
Rank: Sergeant
Service No: 4606
Religion: Church of England
World War I (14 April 1915 - 7 September 1916)
David Garland was born in Glebe Point New South Wales in 1894, the eldest of three children to William Garland and Lucretia Jones.
A bank accountant, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 14 April 1915. He was living at 11 Barton Avenue Haberfield.
He was promoted to Provisional Sergeant on 19 April 1915 and would maintain that rank throughout his service.
A member of the 1st Field Artillery Brigade, he left Sydney on 10 August 1915 aboard RMS Persia. Upon arrival, the unit proceeded to the Gallipoli Peninsula. On 21 October he suffered a gunshot wound to the left arm and buttock and was transported to hospital in Malta.
On 13 November 1915 he was invalided to England aboard the HS Morea and admitted to the 3rd General Hospital in London.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Euripides on 24 June 1916, arriving in Melbourne on 5 August.
He was awarded a War Pension on 2 August, and discharged on 7 September 1916 as a consequence of medical unfitness.
David married Sylvia Saunders at St Saviour’s Cathedral in Goulbourn on 24 April 1918.
He passed away in Chatswood NSW in 1959.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4036913
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/99019877?searchTerm=david%20william%20garland
19th Infantry Battalion
Arthur Rushby Garling
8 October 1897 - Mudgee New South Wales
12 December 1981 - Longueville New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 3524
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (11 October 1915 - 11 March 1917)
Arthur Garling was born in Mudgee New South Wales on 8 October 1897, the eldest of five children to Percival Garling and Margaret McSpadden.
An optician, he enlisted at Holsworthy NSW on 11 October 1915. His parents lived at Avon 14 Winchcombe Avenue Haberfield.
Known as Russ, he embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Berrima on 12 December 1915.
On 23 March 1916 the unit left for France. He was admitted to the 26th General Hospital on 21 May suffering from a pleural effusion. He was then transferred to the Kitchener Hospital in London on 10 June as his health declined due to pleurisy and anaemia.
He returned to Australia on 31 August 1916 aboard the New Zealand hospital ship Marama, arriving on 17 October. He was discharged as medically unfit on 11 March 1917.
On 13 September 1917 he was a warded a pension of £3 per fortnight, later amended to 30/- per fortnight.
He married Alma Kendall at St Stephen’s Church in Sydney on 10 October 1925. Alma passed away in 1994.
Arthur gave evidence in a medical conspiracy case in 1932, and was later involved in a libel case in 1937.
Arthur enjoyed a life in pharmaceuticals as well as the entertainment industry. He was also a well-known Rotarian.
He passed away at Longueville NSW on 12 December 1981.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4036951
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/117817035?searchTerm=russ%20garling
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/16251301?searchTerm=arthur%20garling
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/133537407?searchTerm=arthur%20rushby%20garling
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/16893256?searchTerm=arthur%20rushby%20garling
1st Field Artillery Brigade
Frederick William Garment
1888 - Bathurst New South Wales
13 December 1961 - Tennant Creek Northern Territory
Rank: Private
Service No: 4386
Religion: Church of England
World War I (9 March 1915 - 16 February 1917)
Frederick Garment was born in Bathurst New South Wales in 1888, one of five children to William Garment and Rebecca Nicholls.
A storekeeper, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 9 March 1915. He states his address as Howick Street Bathurst NSW; however his brother John Thomas Garment gives his address as 160 Alt Street Haberfield. This may be the only connection to the suburb.
A member of the 1st Field Artillery Brigade, he left Australia aboard HMAT Berrima on 26 June 1915.
The unit left Alexandria on 23 March 1916 and proceeded to France. Whilst in Marseilles he received five days field punishment No 2 for absenting himself from the 0715 parade.
On 6 August 1916 he was admitted to hospital in Rouen France and was diagnosed as suffering from valvular disease of the heart. He was transferred to England on 16 October where he was admitted to the 1st Australian Hospital.
He returned to Australia aboard the HMAT Wiltshire on 15 November 1916 and was discharged on 16 February 1917.
He passed away in Tennant Creek Northern Territory on 13 December 1961.
His name also appears on the Bathurst Public School Roll of Honour.
His brother John Thomas Garment also served during World War One. John’s name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4028177
Field Company Engineers
John Thomas Garment
10 May 1899 - Bathurst New South Wales
21 May 1924 - Bathurst New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 421761
Religion: Church of England
World War I (26 November 1917 - 5 September 1919)
John Garment was born in Bathurst New South Wales on 10 May 1899, one of five children to William Garment and Rebecca Nicholls.
An electrical engineer, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 26 November 1917. He gave his father’s address at 160 Alt Street Haberfield.
With other members of the Engineering Field Companies he left Sydney aboard HMAT Runic on 22 March 1918, disembarking in London on 24 May.
He was found to be A.W.L between 2400 on 3 September and 1730 on 6 September 1918. He received fourteen day’s field punishment No 2 and forfeited seventeen days’ pay.
The unit proceeded overseas on 4 October 1918 to the Australian General Base Depot in Rouelles France.
Between 26 March and 26 June 1919 he was approved for non-military employment, during which time he worked for Smith, Major and Stevens Ltd of Northampton England. He was found to be very efficient and workmanlike by his employer.
During his service time he had a number of hospital stays resulting from influenza.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Ulysses on 22 July 1919, disembarking on 5 September 1919.
He passed away on 21 May 1924.
Although no mention could be found in military records, Ancestry.com entries record his death as a result of gassing he received during the war. Family obituaries state that he was in poor health from the date of his return.
His brother Frederick William Garment also served during World War One and his name appears on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board. Strangely though, his name doesn’t appear in any of the obituaries.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4028178
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9560163
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/159129641?searchTerm=john%20thomas%20garment
2nd Infantry Battalion
Alexander Garner
1893 - Ashfield New South Wales
12 September 1944 - Rozelle New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 6985
Religion: Church of England
World War I (30 October 1916 - 19 September 1919)
Alexander Garner was born in Ashfield New South Wales in 1893.
A motor mechanic, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 30 October 1916. He was living at 5 Kensington Road Summer Hill.
A member of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, he left Sydney aboard the HMAT Benalla on 9 November 1916, disembarking at Liverpool England on 9 January 1917.
On 28 April he qualified as an Assistant Instructor at the Chiseldon Gas School. At the Non Commissioned Officer’s School he received a distinguished qualification in anti-gas.
He then attended the Musketry School in Tidworth on 2 July, gaining a 1st class qualification with a fair working knowledge of the Lewis Gun.
On 4 December the unit proceeded to France.
Alexander was wounded in action on 16 March 1918 as a result of a gas attack. He was a victim of a second gas attack on 23 August. He was admitted to the base hospital.
He was then transferred to Exeter aboard HMAT Grantully Castle, having been diagnosed with nephritis.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Dongala on 15 July 1919 and was discharged on 19 September 1919.
Alexander married Clarice Connelly in Mittagong in 1925. Clarice passed away in 1975.
He passed away in Rozelle NSW on 12 September 1944.
At this stage no connection to Haberfield has been established. Similarly records show no indication as to the second initial ‘G’ that appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4028187
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9560164
20th Infantry Battalion
George Douglas Gibson
14 March 1896 - Balmain New South Wales
1962 - Ashfield New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 6102
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (29 June 1916 - 12 January 1920)
World War II (25 July 1940 - 2 July 1941)
George Gibson was born in Balmain New South Wales on 14 March 1896, the eldest of three children to Robert Gibson and Wilhelmina Watkins.
A cabinetmaker, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 29 June 1916. He gave his parents’ address at Warren 64 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield.
The unit embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Ascanius on 25 October 1916, arriving at Devonport on 28 December.
He was admitted to hospital in Bulford on 19 January 1917 suffering from scabies and was discharged on 22 March. The unit proceeded to France on 25 June 1917.
He was wounded on 16 April 1918 as a result of shell shock and was admitted to the Base Hospital in France. He did not return to duty until 31 August 1918.
A report of the incident on 2 April 1918 stated that the unit had been subject to shelling for five hours. The report stated that a large shell land within six to eight feet of him and another within ten yards. He was partially buried for almost an hour before his recovery by fellow soldiers.
He was granted leave in France on 8 February 1919, but failed to return. A court ruled him to be an illegal absentee on 22 February 1919 and he was apprehended on 26 March.
In May 1919 he suffered a bout of pneumonia before marrying Grace Lambert at All Soul’s Church in Marylebone England on 10 June 1919. Grace passed away in 1974.
George and Grace returned to Australia aboard HMAT Katoomba on 5 August 1919, disembarking on 25 September 1919. He was discharged on 12 January 1920.
On 25 July 1940 George enlisted in Paddington NSW during World War Two. George and Grace were living at 60 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield. He served in the 16th Garrison Battalion until he was medically discharged on 2 July 1941.
He passed away in Ashfield in 1962.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5038608
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9550382
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=5600603&S=1&N=4&R=0#/SearchNRetrieve/NAAMedia/ShowImage.aspx?B=5600603&T=P&S=3
20th Infantry Battalion
Ivie Burcon Gibson
9 November 1895 - Redfern New South Wales
2 January 1970 - Ryde New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 3112
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (14 August 1915 - 6 June 1917)
Ivie Gibson was born in Redfern New South Wales on 9 November 1895, the eldest of five children to Ivie Gibson and Harriet Thomas.
Known as Bert, he enlisted at Holsworthy NSW on 14 August 1915. He gave his address as 14 Barton Avenue Haberfield.
The unit embarked from Sydney on 20 December 1915 aboard HMAT Suevic.
On 18 May 1916 he was taken on strength with the 56th Infantry Battalion before leaving for France.
He received gunshot wounds to both thighs on 19 July and was taken to the No 14 General Hospital at Wimereux France. On 21 July he boarded HS Cambria and was transported to the 1st Birmingham War Hospital.
As a result of the seriousness of his wounds, he embarked for Australia aboard HMAT Kanowna on 12 September 1916, arriving on 31 October. He was discharged as medically unfit on 6 June 1917.
On 7 June 1917 he was granted a pension of £3 per fortnight.
He married Dorothy Park in Burwood NSW in June 1924. Dorothy passed away in 1950.
Ivie passed away in Ryde NSW on 2 January 1970.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5033029
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9550397
27th Reinforcements
Arthur Ewart Gilkes
22 March 1900 - Waverley New South Wales
22 August 1956 - Haberfield New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 67869
Religion: Church of England
World War I (18 April 1918 - 26 December 1918)
Arthur Gilkes was born in Waverley New South Wales on 22 March 1900, one of seven children to Arthur Gilkes and Emily Gibson.
A paper stationer, he enlisted at the East Sydney Recruiting Depot at Darlinghurst NSW on 18 April 1918. He gave his father’s address at 26 Kingston Street Haberfield.
The 27th Reinforcements left Sydney on 2 November 1918 aboard HMAT Medic.
The troopship was recalled as the war had ended during the journey. He returned to Australia on 12 December 1918, disembarking in Melbourne VIC. He was discharged on 26 December 1918.
On 21 January 1924 he made an application under the War Service Homes Act for a housing grant. Whether the application was accepted is not known.
He married Lois Sutherland in South Melbourne Victoria on 19 June 1926. Lois passed away on 8 February 1987 at Penrith NSW.
Records show that he and Lois were living in Coburg VIC in 1937, but had moved to Haberfield in the early 1940s.
He passed away in Sydney Hospital on 22 August 1956. At the time he was living at 22 Rawson Street Haberfield.
His twin brother Harry Gilkes enlisted on the same day and has the service number 67870. Both left aboard HMAT Medic on 2 November 1918.
Arthur’s father was one of Sydney’s main producers of block printed wallpaper and friezes in his Camperdown factory.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5100588
https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=0CAIQw7AJahcKEwjI04PIudj_AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAg&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhdp-au-prod-app-innerwest-yoursay-files.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com%2F4616%2F5455%2F6713%2Fef052fdc81729a8f9b788965926f2e43_Web_Haberfield_Conservation_Study_1988_v1.pdf&psig=AOvVaw3mm-8Au2JpiDqYHTJIo8hS&ust=1687576935525161&opi=89978449
27th Reinforcements
Harry William Gilkes
22 March 1900 - Waverley New South Wales
28 April 1977 - Haberfield New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 67870
Religion: Church of England
World War I (18 April 1918 - 23 December 1918)
Harry Gilkes was born in Waverley New South Wales on 22 March 1900, one of seven children to Arthur Gilkes and Emily Gibson.
A stenciller, he enlisted in Sydney on 18 April 1918. He gave his father’s address at 26 Kingston Street Haberfield.
The 27th Reinforcements left Sydney on 2 November 1918 aboard HMAT Medic. He returned to Australia on 12 December 1918, disembarking in Melbourne VIC. He was discharged on 23 December 1918.
The troopship was recalled as the war had ended during the journey.
He married Dorothy Irvine in Ashfield NSW on 9 November 1938. Dorothy passed away in Haberfield in 1991.
Apart from a short period in the late 1940s, Harry lived his whole life in Haberfield and passed away there on 28 April 1977. At that time he was living at 20 Kingston Street. His funeral service was conducted at St Oswald’s Haberfield.
His twin brother Arthur Gilkes enlisted on the same day and has the service number 67869. Both left aboard HMAT Medic on 2 November 1918.
Harry’s father was one of Sydney’s main producers of block printed wallpaper and friezes in his Camperdown factory.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5100595
https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=0CAIQw7AJahcKEwjI04PIudj_AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAg&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhdp-au-prod-app-innerwest-yoursay-files.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com%2F4616%2F5455%2F6713%2Fef052fdc81729a8f9b788965926f2e43_Web_Haberfield_Conservation_Study_1988_v1.pdf&psig=AOvVaw3mm-8Au2JpiDqYHTJIo8hS&ust=1687576935525161&opi=89978449
1st Field Company Engineers
Stanley Augustus Giraud
5 October 1882 - Lambeth England
13 May 1952 - Balmain New South Wales
Rank: Sapper
Service No: 203
Religion: Church of England
World War I (3 September 1914 - 7 July 1916)
Stanley Giraud was born in Lambeth, Surrey England on 5 October 1882, and the eldest of three children to George Giraud and Ellen Kerry.
In 1899 he was employed in the Agriculture Branch of the NSW Department of Mines and Agriculture.
A surveyor, he enlisted in Sydney on 3 September 1914. He gave his father’s address as Shirley 55 Rawson Street Haberfield.
With the 1st Field Company Engineers, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Afric on 18 October 1914. Upon arrival in Alexandria, he joined the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force and proceeded to Gallipoli.
As a result of a gas attack at Gallipoli, he was transferred to the St Ignatius Hospital in Malta on 20 November where he was diagnosed as suffering from nephritis. Further tests confirmed increased albumin in his urine and constant headaches.
On 5 February 1916 he was transferred to the 1st Auxiliary Hospital in Cairo. He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Argyllshire on 7 March 1916 and was discharged on 7 July 1916.
Stanley returned to the Public Service and by 1932 had risen to the position of Deputy Valuer-General in the Department of Valuer General. In 1934 he was appointed as the Land Resumption Officer to the Government.
Trove contains numerous articles regarding Stanley’s tenure at the Department of Valuer-General. He retired on 4 April 1947.
He passed away in Balmain NSW on 13 May 1952.
It appears that his name is incorrectly recorded on the AIF Project and Virtual War Memorial websites as Gerand.
His military records show his name as Giraud, as do various Ancestry.com family records.
His name is incorrectly listed on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board as Girand.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5099261
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/229203999?searchTerm=stanley%20giraud
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/224765673?searchTerm=stanley%20giraud
6th Light Horse Regiment
William John Gleeson
1897 - Sydney New South Wales
1938 - Bentleigh Victoria
Rank: Private
Service No: 3238
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (22 March 1916 - 16 July 1919)
William Gleeson was born in Sydney New South Wales in 1897 to Thomas Gleeson and Mary Quirke.
A storeman, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 22 March 1916. He gave his mother’s address at Mena St David’s Road Haberfield.
A member of the 6th Light Horse Regiment, he departed from Melbourne VIC on 10 May 1917 aboard HMAT Boorara and disembarked at Suez on 20 June.
On 4 July he was admitted to hospital in Moascar with the Mumps before being transferred to the Base Hospital in Cairo. He was discharged on 20 August.
On 29 September 1917 he reported to the Light Horse Regiment School of Instruction, which he followed with a signalling course. He was taken on strength by the 6th Light Horse Regiment on 9 February 1918.
He received a gunshot wound to his left leg on 4 April 1918 during the Mesopotamian campaign, returning to the field on 20 April.
He forfeited one day’s pay on 27 April after being found out of bounds.
Following return to battle, he was detached to the School of Cookery on 15 June before serving out the war in Moascar.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Madras on 27 June 1919. He was discharged on 16 July 1919.
William passed away in Bentleigh Victoria in 1938.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5099827
1st Infantry Battalion
Willie Glossop
1891 - Barnsley England
1962 - (Unknown)
Rank: Private
Service No: 5491
Religion: Church of England
World War I (31 January 1916 - 21 November 1917)
Willie Glossop was born in Barnsley, Yorkshire England in 1891.
A blacksmith’s assistant, he enlisted at Casula New South Wales on 31 January 1916. He gave his mother’s address at Mossgiel 48 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield.
Part of the 1st Battalion, he left Sydney on 14 April 1916 aboard HMAT Ceramic. After arrival at Suez, the unit proceeded to Marseilles on 29 June 1916, where he was taken on strength with the 53rd Battalion on 25 July.
He would continue serving in France until 15 January 1917 when he was admitted to hospital with scalded feet. There is little detail regarding the injury, but he was transferred to the 1st Southern General Hospital in Birmingham on 31 January.
He was further transferred to the 3rd Auxiliary Hospital in Dartford on 11 May 1917.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Pakeha 28 August 1917, disembarking on 27 October. He was discharged on 21 November 1917 as medically unfit.
There is conflicting information as to his family connections.
Willie passed away in 1962, possibly in Balmain NSW.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4770003
Army Services Corp
Stanley Cecil Godfrey
4 March 1898 - Petersham New South Wales
21 August 1985 - Roseville New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 14893
Religion: Church of England
World War I (10 May 1917 - 11 December 1919)
Stanley Godfrey was born in Petersham New South Wales on 4 March 1898, one of four children to John Godfrey and Emma Bateman.
A clerk, he enlisted in Sydney on 10 May 1917. He gave his parent’s address at Beacon Grange Kingston Street Haberfield.
He left Sydney on 31 October 1917 aboard HMAT Euripides, disembarking at Devonport on 26 December 1917.
There is little detail in his service records, although it appears he saw service in England before proceeding to France to assist with repatriation.
He returned to Sydney on 12 July 1919 aboard City of Exeter, disembarking on 26 August. He was discharged on 11 December 1919.
On 23 November 1933 he married Edith Campbell at St Andrews Church Summer Hill. Edith passed away in 1994.
He passed away in Roseville NSW on 21 August 1985.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4770321
5th Machine Gun Company
Alfred Leslie Golding
3 December 1868 - Sydney New South Wales
30 October 1937 - Gosford New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 415
Religion: Church of England
World War I (3 January 1914 - 22 November 1917)
Alfred Golding was born in Bathurst Street Sydney New South Wales on 3 December 1868, one of six children to John Golding and Selena Byers.
Some records show that he married Mary Folkard in Sydney in 1895.
Records show that he held the liquor licence for Golding’s Park View Hotel in Myrtle Street Sydney in 1897. This is presumed to be the same person.
The Government Gazette of 13 May 1904 states that Alfred declared himself bankrupt. In a newspaper article from 24 June, Alfred attributed his insolvency to his struggling business and gambling habits.
He remarried on 3 January 1914 to Ethel Keeble at Christ Church North Sydney NSW.
A window dresser, he enlisted at the Royal agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 16 May 1916. He gave his address as Prospect Road Summer Hill NSW. Another document in his records states his address as 32 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield.
He left Melbourne Victoria aboard HMAT Port Lincoln on 20 October 1916 with other members of the 5th Machine Gun Company. Disembarking in Sierra Leone, he transferred to HMAT Ulysses sailing on 5 December and reached Devonport on 28 December.
On 13 February 1917 he transferred to the 3rd Machine Gun Company at Perham Downs. The company proceeded to France on 29 June. Alfred returned to England on 2 August, assigned to permanent base duties.
Alfred left for Australia aboard HMAT Pakeha on 3 September, disembarking on 25 October. He was discharged on 22 November 1917.
He passed away in Gosford NSW on 30 October 1937.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Ashfield & District Historical Society
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4770618
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/226408438?searchTerm=alfred%20leslie%20golding
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/100597382?searchTerm=alfred%20leslie%20golding
17th Infantry Battalion
France Leon Gombert
29 April 1887 - (Unknown)
28 August 1915 - Gallipoli Turkey
Rank: Lieutenant
Service No:
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (30 April 1915 - Killed in Action 28 August 1915)
Buttes New British Cemetery Polygon Wood Belgium
2,108 Commonwealth graves
373 Australian soldiers died this day
France Gombert was born on 29 April 1887, one of nine children to Eugene Gombert and Alice Dubois.
He was appointed as a pupil teacher in 1903 at Birchgrove Public School prior to moving to Leichhardt Superior Public School. He graduated from University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Arts in 1908, and secured a cadetship as a draftsman with the Department of Lands.
At the time of enlistment, he was working as Staff Surveyor in Forbes.
He applied for a Commission on 30 April 1915, and used his sister’s address of Bretaque 3 Rawson Avenue Haberfield.
He departed from Sydney on 12 May 1915 aboard HMAT Themistocles. After initial training in Alexandria, the unit proceeded to Gallipoli, landing on the peninsula on 20 August.
Following are extracts from a biography on Virtual War Memorial site -
As Second Lieutenant in charge of No 4 platoon of A Company, France Gombert was responsible for overseeing the garrison duty that the Battalion was initially assigned at Gallipoli. However, a week later the Battalion was pitched into its first major battle as part of an assault to take the summit of Hill 60.
Second Lieutenant France Gombert lead one of the two attack platoons of the Seventeenth. The men of these platoons had been given only a brief description of their part, whilst their officers had little opportunity to reconnoitre the position.
After the initial three waves (14th, 15th & 16th Battalions) had suffered heavy casualties, it was the Seventeenth's turn to go over the top. But the trench was so deep and narrow men found it difficult to extricate themselves from the trench, with many shot as they attempted to crawl onto the parapet.
The history of the Seventeenth Battalion records that "eagerly the men of A Company scrambled or were 'legged' up to the parapet and mingled with surviving elements of the preceeding lines. Gombert, a promising young officer, was killed almost immediately."
The attack was over in a few minutes, it never got properly going due to the ill-prepared nature of the assault, in the face of point-blank fire, which made the task almost hopeless from the start. A Company paid a heavy price, with four killed including Gombert, 25 wounded and 37 missing.
His death was later confirmed as having occurred on 28 August 1915. He has no known gravel.
Both parents pre-deceased France. His eldest sister Renee was the recorded contact. However, due the practice of requiring the eldest male contact, France’s medals were not obtained by his family until 1926.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4770753
https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/51805
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/164071276?searchTerm=france%20gombert
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/100279726?searchTerm=france%20gombert
20th Infantry Battalion
Robert Hunter Gordon
28 December 1889 - (Unknown)
12 November 1916 - Gueudecourt France
Rank: Lieutenant
Service No:
Religion: Church of England
World War I (14 June 1915 - Killed in Action 12 November 1916)
Thistle Dump Cemetery High Wood, Longueval France
196 Commonwealth graves
50 Australian soldiers died this day
Robert Gordon was born on 28 December 1889. Some records show that he may have been born in India. There is no record of his birth in NSW.
He married Dora Richards in Ashfield in 1915. Dora passed away on 8 June 1950.
A wool classer, he applied for a Commission on 14 June 1915. He gave his address as 147 Ramsay Street Haberfield, noted as the tram terminus.
Part of the 20th Battalion, he left Sydney on 19 June 1915 aboard HMAT Kanowna. Shortly after arrival, the unit proceeded to Gallipoli on 16 August.
He was admitted to the 16th Station Hospital on 21 August 1915 suffering from enteritis, returning to duty on 28 August. He was again admitted to hospital on 29 September with a similar illness.
He was transported to Alexandria on 5 October 1915, and then England on 21 November where he was admitted to the 21st General Hospital on 5 December.
Following his discharge from hospital he undertook a course of instruction in bombing on 31 May 1916. The unit proceeded to France on 29 July where on 28 October he received his appointment as a lieutenant.
On 12 November 1916 he was killed in action in France during the Battle of Gueudecourt. Pte Alfred Davis (SN 458) stated that Robert was struck in the forehead by a whizz bang, a slang term for a light shell fired from small calibre gun. He died instantly and was buried about a half hour later.
Pte Davis himself lost his life at Amiens on 15 July 1918.
Dora was granted a pension of 70/- per fortnight on 21 January 1917. Their son, Robert Edwin Gordon received a pension of £1 per fortnight on the same day. According to the military records they were living at Beltana 3 Turner Avenue Haberfield.
His memorial plaque wasn’t available to the family until January 1923.
6th Field Ambulance
Walter Uel Gervois Gors
1894 - Orange New South Wales
2 August 1970 - Mona Vale New South Wales
Rank: Lance Corporal
Service No: 17556
Religion: Church of England
World War I (17 May 1916 - 21 March 1920)
Walter Gors was born in Orange New South Wales in 1894, the eldest of three children to Carl Gors and Frances Bates.
A municipal clerk, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 17 May 1916. He gave his mother’s address as Wiltana 119 Alt Street Ashfield.
Other records show at the time he was living at 3 Winchcombe Avenue Haberfield.
He left Sydney on 14 June 1917 aboard HMAT Hororata, disembarking in Liverpool England on 26 August.
He proceeded to France where he was taken on strength with the 6th Field Ambulance on 8 October 1917. On 4 May 1918 he was admitted to the same hospital suffering from trench fever.
On 6 May he was transferred to the 3rd General Hospital in Le Treport, before convalescing in Havre from 14 May until he re-joined his unit on 1 June.
He was admitted to the 3rd Australian General Hospital at Abbeville France on 18 November 1918 suffering from influenza. He returned to his unit on 13 January 1919 where he was detached to the 20th Casualty Clearing Station on 25 January.
Following his appointment as Lance Corporal on 1 May 1919, he was marched out for return to Australia. Nursing staff boarded the HT Takada and embarked for Australia on 18 July 1919, arriving in Melbourne on 7 September.
He was discharged on 21 March 1920.
Walter married Jessie Ebdon on 26 March 1923 at St Thomas’ Church North Sydney NSW. Jessie passed away in 1977.
He passed away in Mona Vale NSW on 2 August 1970.
His second name is incorrectly recorded in some records as Nel. Whilst his mother lived in Ashfield, other records show his address as Winchcombe Avenue Haberfield.
Walter kept a diary of his service during the war. It is kept in the Northern Beaches Library.
He later worked for the Warringah Shire for thirty-one years, serving as Town Clerk from 1945 to 1950. Walter Gors Reserve in Dee Why was named in his honour.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4787636
https://northernbeaches.recollect.net.au/nodes/view/595#idx2540
https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/library/your-library/news/story-walter-gors-anzac-hero
Graham, A
The Virtual War Memorial lists 67 soldiers with the surname Graham and first initial A. Cannot identify. More information needed.
Railway Unit
Frederick Arthur Graham
1866 - Durham Lead Victoria
5 September 1944 - Haberfield New South Wales
Rank: Lieutenant
Service No: 86
Religion: Methodist
World War I (5 January 1917 - 23 September 1919)
Frederick Graham was born in Durham Lead Victoria in 1866 to Francis Graham and Mary Gibbons.
Information on Ancestry.com indicates that his mother died when he was one year old and as a result was fostered out to the Minto family.
He married Annie Scot in Ballarat VIC in January 1887; however the marriage ended in 1902.
Frederick remarried in Drummoyne NSW in 1912 to Anna Faulks . Anna passed away in 1954.
A locomotive driver, he enlisted in Sydney on 5 January 1917. His address was Beaumaris 94 O’Connor Street Haberfield. At the time of enlistment it appears that he stated his age as 44 years when in fact he was 50 years of age.
A Warrant Officer, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Wiltshire on 7 February 1917, disembarking at Devonport on 11 April.
On the day of his arrival he was marched in to the 1st Australian Railway Section, and proceeded to France with the unit on 14 May 1917.
On 4 June 1918 he was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant, and then Lieutenant on 4 September. At war’s end he remained in France until 2 May 1919 when he returned to England with his unit.
He left England aboard HT Konigin Louise on 21 June 1919 and disembarked in Sydney on 16 August.
His appointment was terminated on 23 September 1919.
Records show that he and Anna were still living at 94 O’Connor Street Haberfield when he passed away on 5 September 1944.
His name also appears on the Ashfield Bowling Club Roll of Honour.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4669324
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/225480194?searchTerm=frederick%20arthur%20graham
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/113866310?searchTerm=frederick%20arthur%20graham
55th Infantry Battalion
Richard Graves
1889 - Riverstone New South Wales
22 February 1921 - Croydon New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 3801
Religion: Church of England
World War I (27 August 1917 - 12 December 1919)
Richard Graves was born in Riverstone New South Wales in 1889, the eldest of six children to John Graves and Rebecca Lewis.
He married Sylvia Russell in Sydney in 1912. Sylvia passed away in 1940.
A dairyman, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 27 August 1917. He and Sylvia were living at Waveney 1 Wolseley Street Haberfield.
Members of the 55th Battalion departed Sydney on 31 October 1917 aboard HMAT Euripides, disembarking in Devonport on 26 December.
He received 20 days detention following arrest for being A.W.L on Port of Spain on 3 December 1917.
On 1 April 1918 the unit proceeded to Calais France where he was taken on strength with the 55th Battalion on 24 April 1918.
He reported to hospital with tonsillitis on 18 May 1918, re-joining his unit one week later. On 4 September 1918 he served 20 days field punishment No 2, having been found guilty of being A.W.L between 27 and 31 August.
He suffered a bout of diarrhoea and was hospitalised on 13 September 1918. There is a medical report on his being gassed on 22 September leading to dyspnoea on exertion with headaches.
On 23 September 1918 he received seven days confined to barracks and forfeited three days’ pay after being found in town without a pass. He was held in the safe custody compound.
He returned to his unit before being transferred to the Australian Services Corps 2 December 1918 where he was appointed as a driver.
He continued in that role until 28 May 1919 when he returned to England.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Boorara on 6 July 1919, arriving on 28 August. He was discharged on 12 December 1919 as medically unfit.
According to information on Ancestry.com he passed away in Croydon NSW on 22 February 1921. An inquest determined the cause of death to be self-administered poison whilst temporarily insane.
A further tragedy occurred on 21 September 1921 when Richard and Sylvia’s only child Norman died after being hit by a motor vehicle.
Richard is one of approximately 1,000 soldiers who died within five years of the armistice.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4671527
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/28083824
2nd Australian General Hospital
Clement Gray
20 October 1877 - Cambridgeshire England
7 January 1933 - Northbridge New South Wales
Rank: Hon. Captain
Service No:
Religion:
World War I (21 November 1914 - 25 May 1915)
Clement Gray was born in Cambridgeshire England on 20 October 1877, one of two children to William Gray and Ellen Stonebridge.
Entries in Ancestry.com indicate that he married Margaret Maughan in Sussex England on 12 October 1899. There is no information as to how this marriage ended.
He married Adelaide Fletcher in Manly New South Wales in 1909. Adelaide, known as Blanche passed away in Roseville NSW in 1962. The marriage ended in 1917.
A pharmacist, he gave evidence before the Pharmaceutical Board in 1912 during an investigation into moving pharmacy closing hours to 6pm.
Clement applied for a commission on 21 November 1914. He was living with his wife at Gwelo 138 Bland Street Haberfield.
He departed Sydney on 28 November 1914 aboard HMAT Kyarra. There is little information on his service records. He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Suevic, disembarking on 25 May 1915.
An article in the Catholic Weekly on 5 July 1917 states that he purchased a pharmacy in Crows Nest NSW.
Clement married Elizabeth Clatworthy in 1918. Elizabeth passed away in 1972.
Correspondence on 18 March 1920 shows that as a result of a Court of Inquiry conducted in Egypt, he was given the opportunity to resign his position. Further correspondence on 6 April 1920 states that whilst a gazettal on 30 April 1915 indicates he resigned his Commission, nothing more is known.
Clement was involved in a court hearing after a man attempted to obtain cocaine by deception from his chemist business. Frederick Dangar was fined £250.
He passed away on January 1933 in Northbridge NSW.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4663200
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/72451376?searchTerm=clement%20gray%20chemist
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/221965999?searchTerm=clement%20gray%20chemist
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/106084119?searchTerm=clement%20gray
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/72451376?searchTerm=clement%20gray%20chemist
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/192353619?searchTerm=clement%20gray%20chemist
2nd Australian General Hospital
Harry St John Gribben
25 June 1870 - Sydney New South Wales
4 August 1938 - Ryde New South Wales
Rank: 2nd Lieutenant
Service No: 278
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (21 November 1914 - 25 May 1915)
Harry Gribben was born in Sydney New South Wales on 25 June 1870, one of two children to John Gribben and Susan Camroux.
He married Agnes Pasley at St John’s Church Cairns Queensland on 31 October 1908. Agnes, known as Maud, passed away in 1944.
A storekeeper, he enlisted in Liverpool NSW on 23 February 1915. He was living with Maud at 131 Dalhousie Street Haberfield.
The 18th Battalion departed Sydney aboard HMAT Ceramic on 25 June 1915.
On 9 October 1915 he was appointed 2nd Lieutenant whilst serving on the Gallipoli Peninsula. He returned to Alexandria on 9 January 1916, then to France on 17 March.
On 13 July 1916 he was subject to a court martial along with 2nd Lieutenant John Harrison. They were subject to two charges –
1st Charge - Behaving in a scandalous manner unbecoming the character of an officer and a gentleman, in that he, on the 30th June 1916 at 52 Erquingham Road Erquingham created a disturbance and refused to leave the premises when requested to do so by the proprietor.
2nd Charge – Conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline, in that he, on the 30th June 1916 at 52 Erquingham Road Erquingham created a disturbance and refused to leave the premises when requested to do so by the proprietor.
Prior to the release of the findings of the court martial, he was wounded on 7 August 1916, receiving a haematoma on his left thigh.
Both men were found guilty of the first charge and not guilty of the second charge. On 2 September 1916 he was tried by General Court Martial and cashiered. He also lost his seniority.
As a result of his service injury, the punishment of cashiering was remitted.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Mashobra on 11 January 1917 and his appointment was terminated on 22 March 1917.
The HT Mashobra was later torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean on 15 April 1917.
He passed away in Ryde NSW on 4 August 1938.
Only his surname appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4711327
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/39417720?searchTerm=harry%20st%20john%20gribben
7th Field Artillery Brigade
Keith William Gunn
21 November 1896 - Marrickville New South Wales
13 July 1955 - Ashfield New South Wales
Rank: Gunner / Driver
Service No: 36616
Religion: Church of England
World War I (18 February 1917 - 16 September 1919)
Keith Gunn was born in Marrickville New South Wales on 21 November 1896, one of four children to David Gunn and Eliza Strong.
A law clerk, he enlisted in Sydney NSW on 18 February 1917. He gave his father’s address at Myola 26 Walker Avenue Haberfield.
Members of the Field Artillery Brigades left Sydney on 5 November 1917 aboard HMAT Port Sydney, disembarking at Suez on 13 December. From there the unit transferred to Southampton England on 5 January 1918.
Whilst in Heytesbury, he was found to overstay leave between 6am on 7 March until 8.45pm on 8 March. He was confined to barracks for seven days, and forfeited two days’ pay.
On 23 September 1918 he suffered a severe wound to his right leg, and was admitted to the Birmingham General Hospital. It was determined on 27 November that the injury should be classified as accidental.
On 9 January 1919 he was found to be A.W.L between 2359 on 4 January and 2200 on 7 January. He forfeited five days’ pay.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Nevasa on 5 March 1919, disembarking on 23 April. He was discharged on 16 September 1919.
Keith married Madeline Mahony in Sydney in 1924. Madeline, known as Madge passed in away in Ashfield NSW on 6 May 1954.
He survived his wife by twelve months, passing away in Ashfield NSW on 13 July 1955.
His name also appears on the Marrickville Chapel Street Junior Technical School Roll of Honour.
Some records state his name as William Keith Gunn.
His brothers Norman and Oswald Gunn also served. Oswald lost his life in France on 15 October 1918. Their names appear on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4380090
4th Infantry Battalion
Military Medal
Norman James Gunn
30 June 1894 - Marrickville New South Wales
11 May 1969 - Burwood New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 2828
Religion: Church of England
World War I (30 September 1915 - 14 May 1919)
Norman Gunn was born in Marrickville New South Wales on 30 June 1894, one of four children to David Gunn and Eliza Strong.
A clerk, he enlisted in Liverpool NSW on 20 January 1915. He gave his father’s address at Myola 26 Walker Avenue Haberfield.
Members of the 4th Battalion left aboard HMAT Argyllshire from Sydney on 30 September 1915.
He was taken on strength with the 56th Battalion on 7 March 1916. On 30 August he was found to have overstayed leave from midnight on 28 August until 2pm on 29 August. He was confined to barracks for three days and forfeited one days’ pay.
On 25 October 1916, he was found to be A.W.L between 6.30am on 21 October and 8am on 24 October. He forfeited seven days’ pay.
He then transferred to the 21st Field Artillery Brigade on 26 October 1916.
On 20 March 1917 the unit proceeded to France. On 5 April 1918 he was found to have absented himself without leave between 8 March and 11 March. He received 15 days field punishment No 2 and forfeited 19 days’ pay.
He was awarded the Military Medal on 15 September 1919. The citation read –
“For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Villers Carbonnell on the evening of the 29th Aug., 1918. As the Battery was withdrawing from action a sudden heavy barrage was placed on the position. The N.C.O. in charge of a gun team was severely wounded, and Dvr GUNN, who was driving lead, had both his horses killed. He immediately uncoupled the dead horses and taking charge withdrew his gun from a very difficult position. His coolness and courage undoubtedly saved further casualties to personnel and team and damage to the gun.”
He returned to Australia aboard HT Suffolk on 12 April 1919, disembarking on 5 June. He was discharged on 14 May 1919.
Electoral records show that in 1935 he was living at 34 Walker Avenue Haberfield.
Norman married Lucy Easy in Ashfield NSW in 1936. Lucy died in 1941.
He passed away in Burwood NSW on 11 May 1969.
His name also appears on the Marrickville Chapel Street Junior Technical School Roll of Honour.
His brothers Keith and Oswald Gunn also served. Oswald lost his life in France on 15 October 1918. Their names appear on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4380100
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1068493/document/5505673.PDF
3rd & 33rd Infantry Battalion
Oswald George Gunn
19 September 1895 - Marrickville New South Wales
15 October 1918 - At sea
Rank: Private
Service No: 1454 / 60219
Religion: Church of England
WW I (4 January 1915 - 9 September 1916, 22 April 1918 - Died of Illness 15 October 1918)
Hollybrook Memorial Southampton England
1,900 Commonwealth graves
21 Australian soldiers died this day
Oswald Gunn was born in Marrickville New South Wales on 19 September 1895, one of four children to David Gunn and Eliza Strong.
In the Police Gazette of 27 April 1910 he was listed as missing. The facts of the report are unknown.
He enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 4 January 1915 and was given the service number 1454. An apprenticed engineer, he gave his mother’s address as Myola 26 Walker Avenue Haberfield.
With the 3rd Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Seang Bee on 11 February 1915. Shortly after arrival in Alexandria, the battalion embarked for Gallipoli on 5 April.
On 14 June he was admitted to Valetta Military Hospital in Malta, having suffered a gunshot wound to his left forearm. He was transferred to the Military Hospital in Fulham England on 12 September.
He had a compound fracture of the radius and required five operations to remove lead and repair the bones. After discharge from hospital on 18 December, he served in the No 2 Command Depot in London.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Suevic on 11 March 1916. He arrived in Australia on 22 April and was discharged as medically unfit on 9 September 1916.
He re-enlisted on 22 April 1918, and left Sydney aboard HMAT Bakara on 4 September. He was appointed Voyage Only Corporal.
On 10 October he was admitted to the ship’s hospital suffering from pneumonia. He died on 15 October 1918 and was buried at sea the next day. He was one of four soldiers to die on that voyage.
He is remembered at the Hollybrook Memorial Southampton England. His name also appears on the Marrickville Chapel Street Junior Technical School Roll of Honour.
His brothers Norman and Keith Gunn also served. Their names appear on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4380102
https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwj6_-vNieL_AhXZR2wGHZhoBeMQFnoECAwQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fww1austburialsuk.weebly.com%2Fuploads%2F4%2F9%2F7%2F8%2F4978039%2Fgunn_oswald_george.pdf&usg=AOvVaw34JRdDIonx4a0GMKvEi5ry&opi=89978449
13th Infantry Battalion
William Augustus Hackney
1891 - Bowral New South Wales
22 November 1918 - Abbeville France
Rank: Lance Corporal
Service No: 6528
Religion: Church of England
World War I (16 March 1916 - Died of Illness 22 November 1918)
Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension
1,754 graves (WW1) 384 graves (WW2)
8 Australian soldiers died this day
William Hackney was born in Bowral New South Wales in 1891, the eldest of four children to Alexander Hackney and Mary Hook.
He enlisted at the Sydney Sports Ground on 16 March 1916. A salesman, he was living at 7 Parramatta Road Summer Hill.
He originally enlisted as a single man; however his records were updated when he married Haidee McDonnell at St Andrew’s Summer Hill on 5 August 1916. Haidee married Adam Carlisle Buchan in 1920.
On 7 October 1916 he embarked on HMAT Ceramic, disembarking at Plymouth on 21 November.
On 28 November 1916 he was admitted to hospital in Dartford with appendicitis, but was back with his unit on 20 December 1916.
The unit left Southampton for France on 22 May 1917. He suffered a bruised ankle on 1 July and on 5 July was admitted to hospital with haemorrhoids. He was back in hospital with a septic thumb on 28 July and did not return to his unit until 31 October.
Whilst in France on 26 October 1918 he was appointed Lance Corporal.
He was admitted to the 4th Australian Field Hospital suffering from influenza on 10 November 1918. Three days later he was sent to the 3rd Australian General Hospital in Abbeville France, having developed bronchopneumonia.
He succumbed to bronchopneumonia and died on 22 November 1918.
William is buried at the Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension.
No direct connection to Haberfield was found. However, his stated address at 7 Parramatta Road Summer Hill is interesting in that the odd numbers were on the Haberfield side.
His death is not recorded on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4345893
4th Infantry Battalion
Arthur Mervyn Hain
4 March 1896 - Cooma New South Wales
1 November 1973 - St Leonards New South Wales
Rank: Acting Sergeant
Service No: 7761
Religion: Church of England
World War I (5 October 1915 - 19 March 1916, 5 June 1917 - 8 October 1919)
Arthur Hain was born in Cooma New South Wales on 4 March 1896, one of eight children to William Hain and Isabella Shaw.
Prior to enlisting he was working in the NSW Department of Lands as a cadet draftsman in the Local Land Board Office.
Arthur enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 5 October 1915. He gave his father’s address at Naroma 169 Bland Street Haberfield.
He joined the 9th Field Company Engineers, but was discharged on 16 March 1916 at his father’s request.
He re-enlisted in Orange NSW on 5 June 1917. With the 4th Battalion, he embarked from Melbourne on 28 February 1918 aboard HMAT Nestor. The battalion disembarked in Liverpool on 20 April.
On 3 May he was appointed acting sergeant.
On 15 July he was found guilty of the offence –
Neglect to the prejudice of good order & military discipline in that he failed to hand over Guard orders to his relief.
He was severely reprimanded by Major D R Brown and reverted back to the rank of private.
The unit proceeded to France that same day.
On 17 July 1919 he was found guilty of the offence AWL from 2359 on 14 July until 0800 on 17 July. He forfeited six days’ pay.
He returned to Australia aboard HMAT Suevic on 23 July 1919, disembarking on 10 September. He was discharged on 8 October 1919.
Following his discharge he returned to the NSW Department of Lands in the Closer Settlement Branch in Orange NSW.
He married Clara Darnley at All Soul’s Leichhardt NSW on 17 April 1920. Clara passed away in 1999, aged 103. His brother William married Clara’s sister Lizzie at the same church three years later.
He passed away in St Leonards NSW on 1 November 1973.
His brother William Hain also served during the conflict. Both names appear on the Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4266450
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/144338944?searchTerm=arthur%20mervyn%20hain
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/226911449?searchTerm=arthur%20mervyn%20hain
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/227338007?searchTerm=arthur%20mervyn%20hain
17th Infantry Battalion
William James Hain
17 August 1898 - Cooma New South Wales
28 January 1972 - St Leonards New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 6808
Religion: Church of England
World War I (7 May 1917 - 18 July 1919)
William Hain was born in Cooma New South Wales on 17 August 1898, one of eight children to William Hain and Isabella Shaw.
He enlisted in Sydney on 7 May 1917. A warehouseman, he gave his father’s address at Naroma 169 Bland Street Haberfield.
The unit embarked from Sydney on 16 June 1917 aboard HMAT Beltana, disembarking in Plymouth on 25 August 1917.
Following training in England the unit proceeded to France on 27 December 1917. He reported to hospital sick with some debility on 15 March 1918, and was discharged to his unit on 6 April 1918.
There was a further period of illness between 2 and 19 June when he was suffering from influenza.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Miltiades on 20 June 1919, disembarking on 8 August. He was discharged on 18 July 1919.
He married Lizzie Darnley at All Soul’s Leichhardt NSW on 17 March 1923. Lizzie passed away in 1979. His brother Arthur married Lizzie’s sister Clara at the same church three years earlier. Lizzie had resigned from her job with Department of Education four days earlier.
A claim was lodged for repatriation benefits on 24 June 1966, but no further details were found.
He passed away in St Leonards on 28 January 1972.
His brother Arthur Hain also served during the conflict. Both names appear on the Haberfield Roll of Honour Board.
His name also appears on the Sydney Technical High School WW1 Roll of Honour.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4266427
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/225021948?searchTerm=lizzie%20darnley
Hamilton, E A
The Virtual War Memorial lists Ernest Alexander Hamilton (SN 457), but no Haberfield connection could be established. More information needed.
18th Infantry Battalion
James Hanley
24 November 1891 - Paddington New South Wales
22 August 1952 - Leichhardt New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 6562
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (15 January 1917 - 2 June 1919)
World War II (16 November 1939 - 30 October 1944)
James Hanley was born in Paddington New South Wales on 24 November 1891, the eldest of three children to Edward Hanley and Mary Burns.
He married Ivy Crago at Burwood NSW on 11 September 1915. Ivy passed away in 1933. She was the older sister of the Crago brothers who served during the war. The Crago family lived at 4 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield.
A piano tuner, he enlisted in Sydney on 15 January 1917. His address was 4 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield.
The unit embarked from Sydney on 17 February 1917 aboard HMAT Wiltshire, disembarking at Devonport on 11 April. The unit proceeded to France on 10 September.
He reported sick on 18 September, returning to the field on 29 October.
He suffered further illness on 7 December 1917, and on 13 December was transferred to England. He was discharged from hospital on 1 February 1918.
On 19 February 1918 he was found guilty of the offence of failing to attend guard duty and was confined to barracks for five days.
James returned to France on 9 April 1918 where on 30 May he suffered a gas attack. He was sent to the field hospital and did not return to his unit until 17 July.
On 11 August 1918 he was re-admitted to hospital suffering from pleurisy. He was repatriated to England and did not return to active duty.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Plassy on 17 March 1919. He was discharged on 2 June 1919.
James enlisted during World War 2 on 16 November 1939, serving with the No 2 Australian Garrison Battalion which was stationed at Sydney’s North Head. He was discharged on 30 October 1944.
He passed away in Leichhardt NSW on 22 August 1952.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4255229
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5604142
Field Company Engineers
Hubert Hilton Hannelly
10 April 1891 - Euchareena New South Wales
14 May 1960 - Burwood New South Wales
Rank: Driver
Service No: 18685
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (23 October 1916 - 5 April 1920)
Hubert Hannelly was born in Euchareena New South Wales on 10 April 1891, the eldest of four children to Hubert Hannelly and Margaret Lynch.
A stock and station agent, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 23 October 1916. He gave his father’s address at Stuart Town NSW. He also stated his postal address as Henley Dudley Street Haberfield.
He left Australia aboard HMAT Anchises on 8 August 1917, disembarking in Liverpool on 2 October 1917.
After training in Southampton the unit proceeded to Rouelles France on 27 April 1918, where he would serve until war’s end.
On 7 March 1919 he was admitted to hospital suffering appendicitis. Following his hospital discharge, he was detached to the AIF Headquarters in London on 27 March 1919.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Megantic on 9 January 1920, disembarking on 27 February 1920. He was discharged on 5 April 1920
He married Adeline Diehl in Waverley NSW on 4 December 1931. Adeline passed away in 1974.
He lodged a claim for Repatriation Benefits on 17 June 1952.
It appears he studied singing for nine months whilst in England, but was forced to relinquish his studies due to bronchitis and enlarged tonsils. The Commission of Inquiry found no record of him relinquishing his studies. The Commission was not impressed that he was allowed to take up singing whilst the army was paying for his training. Records show he commenced singing lessons on 14 July 1919.
There is no record as to the outcome of the claim.
Electoral records show he and Adeline were living at 62 Rawson Street Haberfield in 1958.
He passed away in Burwood NSW on 14 May 1960.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4255564
Z Company Light Horse (Liverpool)
Bernard Lachlan Hannon
8 June 1898 - Junee New South Wales
31 December 1960 - Manly New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: N92195
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (17 September 1918 - 19 November 1918)
World War II (29 April 1942 - 30 September 1945)
Bernard Hannon was born in Old Junee New South Wales on 9 June 1898, one of seven children to Robert Hannon and Mary Gerhard. Some records show his date of birth as 8 June and 15 June.
Known as Barney, he enlisted in Sydney on 17 September 1918. A labourer, he gave his father’s address at 90 Waratah Street Haberfield.
He was discharged on 19 November 1918 as a consequence of the war’s end.
He married Alice Hanks in Wagga Wagga NSW in 1924. Alice passed away on 14 May 1954.
On 29 April 1939 he wrote requesting details of his discharge. Three years later during World War Two he enlisted in Manly NSW on 29 April 1942. He was assigned to the No 24 Battalion Volunteer Defence Corp where he performed part-time duty until 30 September 1945.
His son, John Robert Hannon enlisted on 2 February 1943 and served as a leading aircraftsman until 22 February 1946.
He passed away in Manly Hospital NSW on 31 December 1960.
Bernard’s name does not appear on the AIF Project or Australian War Memorial websites.
His name also appears on the Ashfield Bowling Club Roll of Honour.
His brothers John and William Hannon also served during World War One. Their names appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Railway Unit
John Patrick Terrence Hannon
22 March 1896 - Old Junee New South Wales
24 March 1960 - Ryde New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 1954
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (15 January 1917 - 26 March 1919)
John Hannon was born in Old Junee NSW on 22 March 1896, one of seven children to Robert Hannon and Mary Gerhard.
Known as Paddy, he was a railway employee and enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds on 15 January 1917. He gave his father’s address at 1 Barton Avenue Haberfield. His address is stated as 90 Waratah Street Haberfield in other records.
Members of the railway unit embarked from Melbourne on 11 May 1917 aboard HMAT Ascanius, disembarking at Devonport on 20 July.
On 5 September 1917 the unit proceeded to France. He reported sick to hospital on 15 October 1917, re-joining his unit six days later.
He was admitted to the field hospital on 5 June 1918 suffering from P.O.U. (pyrexia of unknown origin). He was transferred to Boulogne, then Havre. Following his discharge on 18 July, he was assigned to the Australian General Base Depot in Rouelles on 6 August.
He was transferred to England on 26 August 1918 suffering from valvular disease of the heart. He was recommended for discharge with the disease termed as Effort Syndrome.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Sardinia on 13 October 1918, disembarking in Australia on 27 December. He was discharged on 26 March 1919.
He married Alice Smith in Ashfield NSW on 8 July 1922.
Electoral records show that in 1958 he and Alice were living at 26 Yasmar Avenue Haberfield. Paddy was a long-time member of the Haberfield-Five Dock-Abbotsford RSL Sub-branch.
He passed away on 24 March 1960 near Field of Mars, Ryde NSW.
His name incorrectly appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board as Hannon, P J.
His brothers Bernard and William Hannon also served during World War One. Their names appear on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
John’s name also appears on the Ashfield Bowling Club Roll of Honour.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4255626
13th Infantry Battalion
William Robert Hannon
4 July 1894 - Junee New South Wales
10 May 1953 - Petersham New South Wales
Rank: Lance Corporal
Service No: 4314
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (8 July 1916 - 28 August 1919)
William Hannon was born in Old Junee New South Wales on 4 July 1896, one of seven children to Robert Hannon and Mary Gerhard.
A farmer, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 8 July 1916. He gave his mother’s address as 1 Barton Avenue Haberfield.
The 29th Infantry Battalion reinforcements left Sydney aboard HMAT Afric on 3 November 1916, disembarking in Plymouth on 9 January 1917.
On 16 March 1917 the unit proceeded to France.
On 2 October 1917 he reported sick to hospital where it was determined he was suffering from scabies. This was changed to impetigo on 10 October and he was transferred to the base hospital in Rouelle.
Following his recovery he was transferred to the Australian Infantry Base Depot in Havre on 27 February, where he would serve until war’s end.
On 21 December 1918 he was appointed temporary Lance Corporal.
On 15 March 1919 he reported to hospital suffering from a paralysis of the face.
William left England aboard HT Ormonde on 16 June 1919, disembarking in Sydney on 4 August. He was admitted to the Disembarkation Hospital at Victoria Barracks on 5 August 1919, before being discharged on 28 August 1919.
He married Grace Munro in 1921, and Electoral Records show they were living at 109 Waratah Street Haberfield in 1943.
William passed away in Petersham on 10 May 1953.
His brothers Bernard and John Hannon also served during World War One. Their names appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
William’s name also appears on the Ashfield Bowling Club Roll of Honour.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4255630
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9519711
Hardwicke, R C
The Virtual War Memorial lists Clifton Ronald Hardwicke (SN 5830) of Leichhardt and Reginald Alfred Hardwicke of Hillgrove (Sn 19090) as the closest matches. No connection to Haberfield was established.
3rd Infantry Battalion
Wilfred James Hargreave
3 February 1900 - Hay New South Wales
1967 - (Unknown)
Rank: Private
Service No: 2844
Religion: Church of England
World War I (29 June 1915 - 2 July 1919)
World War II (23 September 1940 - 10 March 1941, 11 March 1941 - 17 May 1943)
Wilfred Hargreave was born in Hay New South Wales on 3 February 1900 to William and Susan Hargreave.
A driver, he enlisted in Liverpool NSW on 29 June 1915. He gave his father’s address as Felton 52 Stanton Road Haberfield.
He was 15 years and four months of age when he enlisted. On his enlistment application he stated his age as 18 years and four months.
He left Sydney on 30 September 1915 aboard HMAT Argyllshire, and on 6 January 1916 was taken on strength with the 3rd Battalion at Kel-el-Kebir.
The unit proceeded to Marseilles France on 26 June 1916 where he was found guilty of the offence of conduct to the prejudice of good order and military disciple when he gave a wrong name and number. He received ten days field punishment no 2.
On 27 May 1917 he reported to the 6th Australian Field Hospital suffering from gonorrhoea. He was transferred to the 39th General Hospital in Havre where he remained until 31 July. After re-joining his unit, he attended the 2nd Army Cookery School between 12 and 27 October 1917.
On 22 November 1917 he was detached to the Australian Divisional Base Depot after it was found that he was under age. Five days later he was transferred to the 1st Australian General Hospital in Rouen France.
On 8 January 1918 he was found guilty of being in town without a pass on 6 January and was confined to camp for seven days. He also forfeited two days’ pay.
On 27 May 1918 he was found guilty of being absent from Tattoo at 10pm and absent from his quarters between 25 and 26 May. He forfeited one days’ pay.
On 11 June 1918 he was found guilty of conduct prejudice of good order and military discipline in that he was in the town of Rouen on Sunday 9 June 1918 improperly dressed, and when spoken to by an officer displayed great insolence and defiance of authority. He received seven days field punishment No 2.
He re-joined the 1st Australian General Hospital on 17 June 1918 and on 9 October he was found guilty of wilfully causing damage to the property of a French citizen on 2 October. He forfeited ten days’ pay.
He returned to England on 20 November 1918 and prepared to return to Australia. On 21 March 1919 he left England aboard HMS Kildonain Castle, disembarking in Sydney on 9 May. He was discharged on 2 July 1919.
He enlisted during World War Two on 23 September 1940 and served until 10 March 1941. During that time he served at the Eastern Command Staff and School at Duntroon.
He re-enlisted on 11 March 1941 and served with the 2/3 Australian Casualty Clearing Station until 17 May 1943. During this time he saw service in the Middle East.
The photo is from World War Two enlistment papers.
He passed away in 1967. The death was registered in Newtown NSW.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=4968837&S=1&N=36&R=0
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5599243
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4615272
20th Infantry Battalion
Alfred Gordon Harwood
11 February 1897 - Hobart Tasmania
10 July 1918 - Villers-Bretonneux France
Rank: Private
Service No: 4139
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (16 March 1916 - Killed in Action 22 November 1918)
Thistle Dump Cemetery High Wood, Longueval France
196 Commonwealth graves
50 Australian soldiers died this day
Alfred Harwood was born in Hobart Tasmania on 11 February 1897, one of four children to Thomas Harwood and Theresa Hawthorne.
A labourer, he enlisted at Warwick Farm NSW on 24 August 1915. He gave his mother’s address at Rawson Street Haberfield. A previous address at Maria Empire Street was crossed out.
He left Sydney aboard HMAT Orsova on 11 March 1916. On 14 April he reported to hospital in Suez suffering from bronchitis.
After service in Abbassia, the unit proceeded to France on 11 September 1916. He suffered a bout of laryngitis on 16 December which required hospital treatment.
On 11 January 1917 he was admitted to the 15th Australian Field Hospital with trench feet and three days later was invalided to England. Following discharge from hospital he served in various camps and depots in England before returning to France on 10 October.
On 25 October 1917 he was found guilty of being A.W.L between 2300 on 9 September and 1100 on 10 September. He was confined to camp for five days and forfeited one days’ pay.
Alfred was killed in action near Villers-Bretonneux on 10 July 1918. Sgt Harry Ashton (SN 158) stated that he was shot by a sniper.
He was buried in Crucifix Corner Cemetery at Villers-Bretonneux France.
His mother did not receive his medals until May 1923.
Alfred’s death is not recorded on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
His brothers Thomas (SN 2580) and Patrick (SN 4140) also served during World War One. His brother Patrick also appears on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board as Harwood, J.
Thomas may have lived in Rozelle, but there appears to be no connection to Haberfield.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4738505
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1044366/document/5632035.PDF
20th Infantry Battalion
Patrick John Harwood
1 April 1894 - Hobart Tasmania
18 February 1950 - Rozelle New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 4140
Religion: Roman Catholic
World War I (29 11 October 1915 - 8 May 1919)
Patrick Harwood was born in Hobart Tasmania on 1 April 1894, one of four children to Thomas Harwood and Theresa Hawthorne.
A labourer, he enlisted at Holsworthy NSW on 11 October 1915. He gave his mother’s address at Rawson Street Haberfield. A previous address at Maria Empire Street was crossed out.
He left Sydney aboard HMAT Orsova on 11 March 1916.From Alexandria he left for Marseilles on 25 May 1916.
On 29 July 1916 he suffered shell shock concussion and was taken to hospital in Boulogne. From there he was transferred to Colchester Hospital in England on 9 August 1916.
He was released on 16 October 1916 and reported to Perham Downs.
On 19 June 1917 he was found guilty of being A.W.L from 4 June until he was apprehended on 13 June. He was confined to camp for seven days and forfeited fifteen days’ pay.
On 25 June he returned back to France to join his unit, where on 20 September he received gunshot wounds to his shoulder, thigh and face.
Two days later he was repatriated to the Norfolk and Norwich War Hospital and remained there until 9 November. After a short furlough he reported to the Weymouth Depot on 23 November.
On 19 January 1918 he was found guilty of disobeying an order of a NCO and was confined to barracks for five days.
He returned to France on 8 March. On 22 August he was found to be A.W.L on 21 August. He was admonished and forfeited one days’ pay.
He was admitted to hospital on 27 August with a fever and was released on 2 November.
On 28 December he was found guilty of being A.W.L between 9 and 18 December. He forfeited 42 days’ pay and was given 21 days’ detention.
Patrick left England aboard HT Ceramic on 25 January 1919, arriving in Melbourne on 14 March 1919. During the journey he spent one week in hospital with influenza.
He was discharged as medically unfit on 8 May 1919.
He married Agnes Hoffman in Balmain NSW in 1923. Agnes passed away in 1990.
Patrick passed away in Rozelle NSW on 18 February 1950.
He is shown on the Haberfield Roll of Honour board as Harwood, J.
His brothers Thomas (SN 2580) and Alfred (SN 4139) also served during World War One. His brother Alfred lost his life in France on 10 July 1918 and his name appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Thomas may have lived in Rozelle, but there appears to be no connection to Haberfield.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4738539
https://www.centenaryofanzac.tas.gov.au/history/shared_stories/private_patrick_harwood
Hawe, J F
The Virtual War Memorial lists a John Frederick Hawe who served during World War Two. National Archives of Australia lists John Hawe (SN 13901), but no Haberfield connection. More information needed.
https://vwma.org.au/explore/people?commit=Search&given_names=j+f&service_number=&surname=hawe&utf8=%E2%9C%93
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=4768813&S=1&N=18&R=0#/SearchNRetrieve/NAAMedia/ShowImage.aspx?B=4768813&T=P&S=1
8th Field Artillery Brigade
Raymond Henry Haydon
2 February 1898 - Woollahra New South Wales
14 March 1970 - West Granville New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 36620
Religion: Church of England
World War I (16 February 1917 - 30 July 1919)
Raymond Haydon was born in Woollahra New South Wales on 2 February 1898, one of seven children to Henry Haydon and Elizabeth Lamont.
A shop assistant, he enlisted in Sydney on 16 February 1917. He gave his father’s address at Boxmoor 13 Wolseley Street Haberfield.
He left Sydney aboard HMAT Port Sydney on 5 November 1917, disembarking at Suez on 12 December. In January 1918 he left for England where he would continue training at Heytesbury.
On 7 May 1918 he proceeded to France where he was stationed oat the Australian Government Base Depot in Rouelles. He was taken on strength with the 8th Field Artillery Brigade on 29 June and remained in the unit until war’s end.
Apart from a brief illness in January 1919, he served in various administrative capacities until his departure on 3 July 1919. He returned to Australia aboard the HT Prinze Hubertus, disembarking on 26 August.
He was discharged on 30 July 1919.
Records show that Raymond was living at 13 Wolseley Street Haberfield in 1936 with his wife Sarah whom he had married in Ashfield NSW that same year. They moved sometime after that date. Sarah was known as Sadie and passed away in 1992.
He passed away in West Granville NSW on 14 March 1970.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4769279
8th Field Artillery Brigade
Arthur Hayes
1 February 1893 - Manchester England
(Unknown)
Rank: Sapper
Service No: 22304
Religion: Wesleyan
World War I (19 November 1917 - 18 December 1919)
Arthur Hayes was born in Manchester England on 1 February 1893.
A fitter and grinder, he enlisted in Sydney on 19 November 1917. He gave his address as 7 Empire Street Haberfield.
He left Sydney aboard HMAT Persic on 21 March 1918, disembarking in London on 24 May. Originally assigned to the Engineer Reinforcements, he was admitted to the ship’s hospital on 16 May suffering from influenza.
On 21 May 1918 he was placed in detention for 24 hours for failing to wear a life belt whilst aboard the ship.
Upon arrival, the unit shipped out to France where he would serve until war’s end. On 6 January 1919 he was taken on strength with the 3rd Australian Veterinary Hospital.
He was given leave from 8 May until 8 August to attend a course of instruction in mechanical dentistry with Hobson and Payne of Hulme Manchester.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Pakeha on 6 October 1919, disembarking in Melbourne on 25 November. He was discharged on 18 December 1919.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4769344
55th Infantry Battalion
Alfred Edgar Haylock
23 April 1882 - Gunbar New South Wales
9 July 1954 - Balmain New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 3484
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (14 October 1916 - 29 August 1919)
Alfred Haylock was born in Gunbar New South Wales on 23 April 1882, one of six children to Abner Haylock and Elizabeth Hargreaves.
There was a family dispute in 1910 regarding station property dealings and use of funds for private purposes.
A business agent, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 14 October 1916. He gave his mother’s address at 126 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield. His mother later moved to 46 O’Connor Street Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Anchises on 24 January 1917, disembarking at Devonport on 27 March. After time in a training battalion, the unit proceeded to France on 12 October 1917, where he would remain until war’s end.
He was granted leave form 28 March to 27 June 1919 to work on the farm of William Carter in Derbyshire.
He failed to report for duty at the expiry of leave and was deemed A.W.L between 10am on 12 July and 3pm on 14 July. He forfeited nine days’ pay.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Argyllshire on 1 August 1919, disembarking on 22 September. He was discharged on 29 August 1919.
He married Vera Levinga in 1920. Vera passed away in 1980.
Alfred passed away in Balmain NSW on 9 July 1954.
His name also appears on the Gunbar District Roll of Honour and the Gunbar Presbyterian Church Roll of Honour.
His brother Alan Haylock also served during the war and his name appears Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4769844
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=9532582
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/237993628?searchTerm=alfred%20haylock
4th Infantry Battalion
Alan Percy Haylock
24 October 1889 - Hay New South Wales
27 August 1971 - Ryde New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 5127
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (14 October 1916 - 29 August 1919)
World War II (9 April 1942 - 13 July 1943)
Alan Haylock was born in Gunbar New South Wales on 24 October 1889, one of six children to Abner Haylock and Elizabeth Hargreaves.
A farmer, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 4 January 1916. He gave his sister’s address at 126 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield.
He embarked from Sydney aboard SS Makarini on 1 April 1916.
On 22 July 1916 he was admitted to the 3rd Canadian General Hospital in Boulogne suffering from diarrhoea. He returned to hospital on 19 August suffering from dysentery and proceeded to England aboard HS West Australia on 19 August.
He spent further time in Fovant Military Hospital from 29 November 1916 suffering from influenza before returning to duty.
On 3 May 1917 he received a gunshot wound to the right buttock and spent time in the 2nd Southern General Hospital. He was discharged on 11 August to convalesce in Bulford England.
He was found to be A.W.L from 18 September until 1 October and was confined to camp for fourteen days. He also forfeited 28 day’s pay. He proceeded to France on 2 November 1917. He was A.W.L on 5 November and forfeited three day’s pay.
On 8 March 1918 he received a gunshot wound to the left foot. After discharge from hospital on 5 June he spent time in the base depot. He later returned to France and took part in repatriation matters.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Orita on 23 June 1919, disembarking on 9 August. He was discharged on 24 January 1920.
During his service he married Janet Harkness at the Carlisle Presbyterian Church in England on 13 September 1917. She did not return to Australia with him, and the marriage ended in divorce in June 1921.
He married Lucy Hatherly in Marrickville NSW in 1922.
On 9 April 1942 he enlisted in Mendoran NSW during World War II. Alan served with the 25th Battalion Volunteer Defence Corps. He was discharged on 13 July 1943 due to his inability to attend parade.
Alan’s enlistment papers state his wife’s name as Lila.
He passed away in Ryde NSW on 27 August 1971.
His name also appears on the Gunbar District Roll of Honour and the Gunbar Presbyterian Church Roll of Honour.
His brother Alfred Haylock also served during the war and his name appears 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4769842
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=6145309
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/169183024?searchTerm=alan%20haylock
17th Infantry Battalion
Ernest George Helson
12 July 1896 - Camperdown New South Wales
14 May 1964 - Coogee New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 1204
Religion: Baptist
World War I (1 March 1915 - 19 October 1919)
Ernest Helson was born in Camperdown New South Wales on 12 July 1896, one of three children to Charles Helson and Rosina Gold.
A storeman, he enlisted in Liverpool NSW on 1 March 1915. He gave his mother’s address as Hastings Cottage Rawson Street Haberfield.
Part of the 17th Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Themistocles on 12 May 1915.
Upon arrival in Egypt, the unit proceeded to Gallipoli on 16 August 1915. On 29 August he received a gunshot wound to the buttock and admitted to hospital in Malta. From there he was transported to England on 16 October.
On 28 February 1916 He was found to be A.W.L and received 72 hours detention and forfeited one day’s pay.
On 30 March he was found to be A.W.L from hospital between 25 and 29 December. He received 120 hours detention and forfeited five day’s pay.
On 14 April he was confined to barracks for six days after being absent from tattoo. He would also receive fourteen day’s detention when found to be absent from the isolation hospital.
He was in hospital at Bulford between 30 June and 3 August, and shortly after received fourteen day’s detention for A.W.L. He was readmitted to Bulford Hospital on 16 August for a period of 35 days.
He would spend further time in hospital between 24 February and 14 April.
On 13 November 1917 he was confined to camp for eight days, having been A.W.L between 4.30pm on 9 November and 12.15pm on 12 November.
On 2 July 1918 he was charged with –
1) A.W.L between 17 and 26 November 1917.
2) Being in possession of a false pass.
3) Stealing - (alternative – receiving).
4) Escaping from custody 3 January 1918.
5) Deserting His Majesty’s Service from 6 February to 13 June 1918.
He was found guilty of all charges and sentenced to two year’s detention under International humanitarian law. The sentence was confirmed but commuted to two years detention. On 5 July 1919 the unexpired portion of the sentence was remitted and he returned to Australia aboard HT Norman, disembarking in Sydney on 20 August. He was discharged on 19 October 1919.
On 2 November 1922 a request was made for war service medals. It was determined that –
Owing to his unsatisfactory war record combined with the fact he did not re-join his unit after being sentenced to two years detention on 2 July 1918, Pte Helson forfeits any claim to the award of war medals.
He married Lucy Wright in Petersham on 5 April 1924. Lucy passed away in 1967.
He passed away in Coogee NSW on 14 May 1964.
His brother Robert Helson also served during World War One. His name also appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5314739
1st Infantry Battalion
Robert Henry Helson
22 January 1891 - Glebe New South Wales
26 July 1960 - (Unknown)
Rank: Lance Corporal
Service No: 6021
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (7 March 1916 - 28 June 1919)
World War II (28 October 1940 - 14 January 1946)
Robert Helson was born in Glebe New South Wales on 22 January 1891, one of three children to Charles Helson and Rosina Gold.
A piano mechanic, he enlisted at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds in Sydney on 7 March 1916. He gave his father’s address at Hastings Cottage Rawson Street Haberfield.
Part of the 1st Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Wiltshire on 22 August 1916, disembarking at Plymouth on 13 October.
The unit proceeded to France on 14 December 1916.
He was admitted to hospital on 4 February 1917 with scabies. He was also found to be suffering from catarrh. After treatment in Boulogne, he re-joined his unit on11 April.
On 20 April 1917 he was appointed Lance Corporal. After leave early in January 1918, he returned to his unit on 23 January.
On 17 March he suffered a gas attack, and on 26 March was transferred to hospital in England. He was admitted to the 3rd Australian Hospital in Dartford. He re-joined his unit and served in France until war’s end.
On 12 February 1919 he was admitted to Fulham Hospital with bursitis. One month later he was back in hospital with tonsillitis.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Aeneas on 31 May 1919, disembarking on 12 July. He was discharged on 28 June 1919.
Robert married Hannah Nicol in Marrickville NSW in 1919.
He was sworn in as a Justice of the Peace on 25 April 1931.
On 28 October 1940 Robert enlisted in Paddington NSW during World War Two. He served in the Camp Quartermaster’s Staff at Ingleburn until discharge on 14 January 1946.
Robert passed away in Sydney on 26 July 1960.
His brother Ernest Helson also served during World War One. His name also appears on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5314741
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5681893
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/124182107?searchTerm=robert%20henry%20helson
Hemelryck, F V
See Francis Van Hemelryck (SN 6638)
Henderson, E
The Virtual War Memorial lists 35 soldiers with the surname Henderson and initial E. The 1913 Electoral Roll shows Ewart Gladstone Henderson of Hawthorne Parade, but there is no WW1 record.
Source: St David’s Church Haberfield
https://vwma.org.au/explore/people?commit=&given_names=e&history_events.conflict_id=2&service_number=&surname=henderson&utf8=%E2%9C%93
4th Field Ambulance
Mentioned in Despatches
George Donald Henderson
2 July 1881 - Forest Lodge New South Wales
21 November 1954 - Hamilton New South Wales
Rank: Staff Sergeant
Service No: 981
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (19 October 1914 - 24 March 1916)
George Henderson was born in Forest Lodge New South Wales on 2 July 1881, one of four children to William Henderson and Margaret Donald.
He married Ivy Oliphant in Tamworth NSW on 8 March 1911. Ivy passed away on 17 April 1951.
A chemist, he enlisted in Broadmeadow Victoria 19 October 1914. He an address c/- Mrs Oliphant in Hawthorne Parade Haberfield. This is most likely Ivy’s mother.
He left Melbourne VIC aboard HMAT Berrima on 22 December 1914 with other members of the 4th Field Ambulance.
The unit proceeded to Gallipoli Turkey on 12 April 1915. He received a bullet wound to his left shoulder on 10 August and was evacuated to Mudros. He was transferred to England aboard Aquitania four days later and admitted to the 3rd London General Hospital.
George was Mentioned in Despatches by General Sir Ian Hamilton on 11 December 1915 for conspicuous service.
His injury was not responding to treatment, and at his own request the decision was made to return George to Australia. He left for Australia on 12 December aboard HMAT Star of England, disembarking on 29 January 1916.
George was discharged on 24 March 1916.
He passed away in Hamilton NSW on 21 November 1954.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Ashfield & District Historical Society
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Gallery151/dist/JGalleryViewer.aspx?B=5339131&S=1&N=53&R=0#/SearchNRetrieve/NAAMedia/ShowImage.aspx?B=5339131&T=P&S=53
https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R1542387
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/25009252
20th Infantry Battalion
Nelson John Henderson
23 December 1892 - Redfern New South Wales
1 December 1929 - Turramurra New South Wales
Rank: Lance Sergeant
Service No: 3137
Religion: Presbyterian
World War I (5 September 1915 - 23 August 1919)
Nelson Henderson was born in Redfern New South Wales on 23 December 1892 to James Henderson and Sarah Mark.
A clerk, he enlisted at Holdsworthy NSW on 5 September 1915. He gave his mother’s address at 2 Denman Avenue Haberfield. His father James passed away on 28 October 1915. James Henderson was the owner of Henderson’s Sweets at Haymarket.
With the 20th Battalion, he left Sydney aboard HMAT Suevic on 20 December 1915.
He was taken on strength with the 56th Battalion in Tel-el-Kabir on 16 February 1916. On 8 April he was admitted to the 14th Field Ambulance with pyrexia of unknown origin. He re-joined his unit on 14 April.
On 18 June the unit proceeded to France. He was admitted to the 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Station on 11 August as a result of a gunshot wound to his left knee. He was transferred to England and admitted to Bradford War Hospital on 18 August. He was discharged to duty at the Perham Downs Command Depot on 8 September.
He was marched into the No 4 Command Depot at Wareham on 10 January 1917. He was found to be A.W.L between 9am 25 April and 9am 28 April. He received seven day’s field punishment No 2 and forfeited ten day’s pay.
During a brief stint with the 63rd Battalion he was promoted to corporal on 13 June. There was a further promotion to Lance Sergeant on 11 September before returning to the 56th Battalion on 19 September. The unit proceeded to France on 14 October.
On 25 February 1918 he was admitted to the Red Cross Hospital in Christchurch with trench fever. He was discharged to furlough on 2 April. He received a promotion to temporary Company Sergeant Major on 27 May before reverting to Temporary Sergeant on 14 June.
He proceeded to France on 10 July, re-joining the 56th Battalion in the field. On 23 August he was admitted to the 1st Australian Field Ambulance with shrapnel wounds to the face. He was discharged the same day.
Nelson was wounded on a third occasion on 1 October when he received shrapnel wounds to his leg. After initially being admitted to the 132nd Field Ambulance, he was transferred to the 6th General Hospital in Rouen, and finally the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital in Dartford England on 13 November.
Nelson was discharged on 15 November and reported to the No 4 Command Depot at Hurdcott on 29 November.
He suffered a bout of influenza on 20 February 1919.
He was granted leave without pay form 21 March to 20 June to return to Australia for family reasons. He returned aboard SS Venture at his own expense, disembarking in Sydney on 1 July. He was discharged on 23 August 1919.
Nelson married Grace Rimgay in 1920. Grace passed away in 1961.
Grace wrote to Base Records on 26 May 1929 on behalf of her husband to claim his war medals. The long delay had been caused by the fact that he was now a pensioner as a result of tuberculosis and other matters had been left unattended. There was also a delay as there was no record of his marriage in base records.
He passed away on 1 December 1929 while in Lady Davidson Hospital at Turramurra NSW as a result of tuberculosis.
His name does not appear on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Source: Inner West 15000
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5338776
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15621738
6th Light Horse Brigade
Carlton Chaseling Herps
1886 - Windsor New South Wales
6 January 1933 - Marrickville New South Wales
Rank: Private
Service No: 613
Religion: Church of England
World War I (15 December 1914 - 11 July 1917)
Carlton Herps was born in Windsor New South Wales in 1886, one of ten children to Matthew Herps and Caroline Chaseling.
He married Isabel Simpson in Waverley NSW in 1910.
A mechanic, he enlisted at Holdsworthy NSW on 15 December 1914. He gave his mother’s address at 37 Rawson Street Haberfield. His mother Caroline passed away on 31 May 1915.
As a member of the 6th Light Horse Brigade, he embarked from Sydney aboard HMAT Bakara on 22 December 1914.
On 15 May 1915 as part of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force he proceeded to Gallipoli. On 25 July he was admitted to the Clacton Hospital suffering deafness. He was then transferred to Cairo.
On 13 August he was transferred to the 2nd Light Horse Brigade HQ in Maadi.
He reported to hospital in Abbassia on 4 February 1916 suffering from mumps. He re-joined his unit on 27 February following his discharge.
On 16 December 1916 he was appointed acting corporal. The rank was confirmed on 28 April 1917.
He was attached to the Australian HQ where he was assigned to the Postal Corps. He was admitted to the 54th Casualty Clearing Station on 2 June 1917 where it was determined he had defective vision.
He returned to Australia aboard HT Port Sydney on 11 July 1917.
He passed away in Marrickville on 6 January 1933.
His brothers Claude and Rupert also served during the war. Both lost their lives. All three names appear of the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5476729
36th Infantry Battalion
Claude Herbert Somerville Herps
1877 - Windsor New South Wales
17 September 1917 - Rouen France
Rank: 2nd Lieutenant
Service No: 1657
Religion: Church of England
World War I (14 July 1915 - Died of Wounds 17 September 1917)
St Sever Cemetery Rouen France
3,082 Commonwealth graves
48 Australian soldiers died this day
Claude Herps was born in Windsor New South Wales in 1877, one of ten children to Matthew Herps and Caroline Chaseling.
He married Amy Hooworth in Petersham NSW on 25 April 1906. Amy passed away on 27 October 1907, apparently during or just after the birth of their daughter Amy.
A bookkeeper, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 14 July 1915. He gave his sister’s address at 37 Rawson Street Haberfield. His mother Caroline passed away on 31 May 1915.
He left Australia aboard HMAT Benalla on 1 May 1916, disembarking in Plymouth on 9 July.
His unit proceeded to France on 21 November 1916, where he was admitted to the 9th Australian Field Hospital on 19 December suffering from diarrhoea. He re-joined his unit on 25 December 1916.
On 7 February 1917 he was appointed 2nd Lieutenant and attached to the 36th Battalion.
He received a gunshot wound to his left foot in Belgium on 21 July 1917. He was taken to the 11th Australian Field Hospital, then the 2nd Australia Casualty Clearing Station. He was transported to the 8th General Hospital in Rouen France on 23 July 1917.
Red Cross reports show that Claude had three operations on his foot. During the first two, bone fragments were removed.
During the third operation, his foot was amputated on 16 September. Although he appeared to be recovering, he died on 17 September 1917.
He was buried at the St Sever Cemetery in Rouen France.
His sister Elfreda had been advised of the wounding on 7 August 1917, with the notification stating that the wound was mild.
On 22 November 1917, his sister Gladys was granted a pension of 30/- per fortnight. This was increased by 25/- per fortnight with the death of Rupert Herps (see next biography).
His brother Raymond received a letter from the Imperial War Graves Commission on 13 December 1924 stating that a copy of the register of the St Sever Cemetery could be purchased for 3/-.
His brothers Carlton and Rupert also served during the war. All three names appear of the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
Rupert lost his life during the war three weeks after Claude.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5476730
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1040111/document/5627781.PDF
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/102891946?searchTerm=claude%20herbert%20herps
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/14906728?searchTerm=claude%20herbert%20herps
30th Infantry Battalion
Rupert Havelock Herps
February 1896 - Windsor New South Wales
8 October 1917 - Polygon Wood Belgium
Rank: Sergeant
Service No: 1561
Religion: Church of England
World War I (16 March 1916 - Died of Wounds 22 November 1918)
Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery Belgium
9,901 Commonwealth graves 883 other nationalities
48 Australian soldiers died this day
Rupert Herps was born in Windsor New South Wales in February 1896, one of ten children to Matthew Herps and Caroline Chaseling.
A store clerk, he enlisted at Liverpool NSW on 11 July 1915. He gave his sister Gladys’ address at 28 Rawson Street Haberfield. His mother Caroline passed away on 31 May 1915.
He left Australia aboard HMAT Beltana on 9 November 1915, disembarking in Suez on 11 December.
Whilst serving in Ismalia, he was admitted to the Australian Casualty Clearing Station on 3 February 1916 with the condition known as ganglion. He was discharged to duty on 5 February.
He was found to be A.W.L at the Ferry Post between 1600 and 1730 on 12 May 1916. He received two days’ field punishment No 2.
On 16 June the unit left for France where on 24 July he was appointed Lance Corporal. More promotions followed on 19 October 1916 (Corporal), 2 November 1916 (temporary Sergeant) and 2 February 1917 (Sergeant).
On 27 September 1917 whilst fighting in Polygon Wood Belgium, he received a gunshot wound which penetrated his chest and was admitted to the 2nd Canadian Casualty Clearing Station.
He died as a result of his wounds on 8 October 1917. Rupert was buried at the Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery in Belgium.
On 20 December 1917, his sister Gladys was granted a pension of 25/- per fortnight. This was in addition to the 30/- per fortnight with the death of Claude Herps (see previous biography).
His brothers Carlton and Claude also served during the war. Rupert lost his life during the war three weeks before his brother Claude.
All three names appear of the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5476732
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15749687
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/232447798/25002263
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15749687?searchTerm=rupert%20havelock%20herps
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/15735105?searchTerm=rupert%20havelock%20herps
2nd Field Squadron Engineers
Mark Heselden
January 1884 - Sidcup England
9 August 1959 - (Unknown)
Rank: Sapper
Service No: 17979
Religion: Church of England
World War I (2 March 1917 - 11 July 1919)
Mark Heselden was born in Sidcup Kent England in January 1884, one of eleven children to Mark Heselden and Frances Staples.
He married Ethel Thompson at the Parish Church in Foots Cray England on 16 June 1903. Ethel petitioned for divorce in 1916.
The NSW Police Gazette of 6 August 1913 states that an inquiry has been made by Edith Heselden of East York listing Mark Haselden as a missing person. The variation of the spelling may have been used in other documents. Ethel passed away in 1981.
There is no information regarding his arrival in Australia, however he married Frances Eamens on 12 April 1913 at St Michael’s Surry Hills. It would appear he was still legally married at that time.
Frances Eamens was the half-sister of George Eamens who lost his life in Armentieres France on 11 August 1916. Frances passed away in 1969.
A plasterer, he enlisted in Sydney on 2 March 1917. He gave his address as 54 Chandos Street Ashfield.
He left Sydney aboard HMAT Port Sydney on 9 May 1917, disembarking at Suez on 20 June.
On 1 May 1918 he was admitted to hospital suffering from concussion after falling from a horse whilst in action. He was transferred to the 14th Australian General Hospital at Port Said on 10 May. After convalescing in the Rest Camp, he returned to duty on 14 August.
On 17 September he was admitted to the 26th Stationary Hospital in Ismalia suffering from ringworm, returning to duty on 21 December.
He left Cairo aboard HT Dorset on 29 April 1919, disembarking in Sydney on 9 June. He was discharged as medically unfit on 11 July 1919.
Notification of the concussion injury was sent to his mother Frances Heselden at 49 Hawthorne Parade Haberfield, thus the connection.
Electoral records show that in 1958 he and his mother were living at 117 Bland Street Ashfield.
Mark passed away on 9 August 1959. His passing was registered in Ashfield NSW.
His name is incorrectly recorded as Haseldene, M on the 1914-19 Haberfield Roll of Honour board.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5476915
116th Howitzer Brigade
James Abraham Heyes
11 April 1893 - Manchester England
26 August 1946 - Leichhardt New South Wales
Rank: Gunner
Service No: 29089
Religion: Church of England
World War I (18 May 1916 - 18 September 1919)
James Heyes was born in Manchester England on 11 April 1893, one of seven children Thomas Heyes and Alice Dewhurst.
The family migrated to Australia in 1912, leaving London on 9 July aboard Beltana.
He enlisted at Marrickville NSW on 18 May 1916. A small goods manager, he gave his father’s address at Quiros 154 Ramsay Street Haberfield.
He departed Sydney aboard HMAT Aeneas on 2 October 1916, disembarking at Plymouth on 19 November.
James proceeded to France on 8 January 1917, where on 21 January he was taken on strength with the 116th Howitzer Brigade, part of the 21st Field Artillery Brigade.
He reported to the 6th Australian Field Ambulance on 12 March suffering from scabies, re-joining his unit on 28 March.
On 29 April he was admitted to the 35th Australian Field Ambulance with a contusion to the leg. He re-joined his unit on 13 May.
He was admitted to the 16th United States General Hospital at Treport on 6 October suffering from synovitis of his right knee. On 29 October he re-joined his unit in the field.
On 5 May he was admitted to the 9th Australian Field Ambulance having fractured a finger. He would re-join his unit on 29 June.
He was marched out for return to Australia on 14 April 1919, and left aboard HT Ormonde on 16 June. James disembarked in Sydney on 4 August and was discharged on 18 September 1919.
He passed away in a repatriation cottage in Leichhardt on 26 August 1946.
According to a letter written by his brother on 8 November 1946, he was unable to manage his own affairs from the time he returned from service.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5481874
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/232895148?searchTerm=james%20abraham%20heyes
Sources
AIF Project https://www.aif.adfa.edu.au/index.html
Ancestry.com https://www.ancestry.com.au/
Australian Nurses in World War 1 http://ausww1nurses.weebly.com/co.html
Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/
Australian War Memorial (Glossary) https://www.awm.gov.au/learn/glossary
Commonwealth War Graves Commission https://www.cwgc.org/
His Majesty’s Transport Ships https://alh-research.tripod.com/ships_lh.htm
Inner West 15000 https://www.leichhardt5000.com.au/
National Archives Australia https://www.naa.gov.au/explore-collection/defence-and-war-service-records
Department Veteran Affairs (Nominal Rolls) https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/ww2
Prisoner of War Memorial Ballarat https://www.powmemorialballarat.com.au/
Trove https://trove.nla.gov.au/
Virtual War Memorial https://vwma.org.au/
St David’s Haberfield 150 Years (Vincent Crow © 2020)
Tours of Haberfield Past and Present Part One (Vincent Crow © 2002)
Tours of Haberfield Past and Present Part Two (Vincent Crow © 2007)
Tours of Haberfield Past and Present Part Three (Vincent Crow © 2010)
Preserving Their Names 1914-18 - Ashfield History No 22 (Ashfield & District Historical Society / Ann O’Connell © 2020)