Captain Herbert John GEE MC, MiD

11^th Light Horse Regiment AIF

5^th Light Horse Regiment AIF (Attached)

by Robert Simpson

Herbert John Gee was born on 2^nd June 1877 in Oxford England. His birth was registered and a certificate issued on 15^th October 1877. He was a son to William Henry Gee (born in Egrove in Kennington, Berkshire in late 1844) and Elizabeth Sophia Plummer Allnutt (born in St Giles-in-the-Fields, London in mid-1844), who had been married on 26^th July 1870 in St Philip and St James Church of England in Oxford. William was a bookseller, living at High Street and Elizabeth was a spinster, living at Pheasant Road. His father Charles Gee was a gentleman and her father Moses Thomas Allnutt was a College Servant. Elizabeth was baptised in St Giles in the Field on 20^th April 1844. In the 1861 census, she was a Pupil Teacher and was living with her family in Oxford. By the 1871 census they were living at 15 Beef Lane Oxford and William was a Bookseller employing a porter and 1 apprentice. In the 1881 census they had moved to Hampton Poyle and had 7 children with them. During the 1891 census, Elizabeth was living with 6 children at St Giles. In the 1901 census William and Elizabeth were living with Alice and Frederick. William was a political agent and Frederick a butler. During the 1911 census, Elizabeth was living with Ernest and his wife Bertha at New Maldon, Surrey. Ernest was a assistant bookseller. William was living at 3 Southmoor Road Oxford and was a registration agent to do with politics. Elizabeth died and was buried on 3^rd February 1917 in Wolvercote Cemetery in Oxford. William was living at 45 Chalfont Road Oxford in the 1920’s. He died on died on 28^th January 1927 and was buried in the same grave as his wife on 31^st January 1927. Probate, on 27^th February 1927, went to Lizzie Gee and Alice Mary Allnutt Gee (spinsters) of over £264.

Their first-born child was William Henry Gee, who was born on 17^th April 1871 in Oxfordshire. He was baptised on 14^th May 1871 in St Mary the Virgin Church of England in Oxford. William matriculated at Merton College on 19^th October 1889 from Oxford high school. His note also records: “exhibitioner 89; HONOURS: – 2 classical mods. 91.” In the 1891 census, he was recorded as a visitor, with his father, at White Horse Hotel at Exford. By the 1901 census, he was a servant to Nicholas Toke (a Schoolmaster and something to do with army classes) and family as a Schoolmaster at Penfillan House in Folkestone. On 28^th August 1913, William embarked on the Sicilian at the Port of London to travel to Montreal Canada in 2^nd Class. He was a 41-year old schoolmaster. William joined the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force on 22^nd September 1914 at Valcartier as Private 25091 with the 13^th Battalion Canadian Infantry. (Originally he was with the 5^th Regiment Royal Highlanders of Canada from 17^th August). He gave his birth date as 17^th April 1875. He was a tutor and his next of kin was his father at Southwood Road Oxford. He had previous service with the Volunteer Oxford University Corps. He stated his age as 39 years and 4 months (actually 43 years old), he was 5 foot 6½ inches tall, chest measurement fully expanded 36½ inches with 3-inch range, his complexion was moderate dark with slight brown eyes and black, slightly grey hair. Church of England was his religious denomination. He had 4 vaccine marks on his left arm. The unit sailed on 4^th October 1914. William was reported wounded and missing on 22^nd -24^th May 1915. He was then officially reported as a POW at Gressen and was then sent to Lichtenhorst, Lager 1, Baraque 10, Soltan, Hannover. He had been capture at Ypres. William was released at Ripon on 27^th December 1918 and discharged in Canada on 27^th September 1919. His full service records are online. After his service, no other details can be found about him apart from an entry in red in his service records stating he died on 30^th August 1949.

Charles Frank Allnutt Gee was born on 25^th April 1873 in Oxford and was baptised on 25^th May the same year. In the 1891 census, he was living with his mother and was a bookseller’s assistant. By the 1901 census he was living at 53 Kellert Road Lambeth in a boarding house and still had the same occupation. He married Emily Rose Dunn (born 1875) on 18^th September 1905 in St Matthews Church Bristow. In the 1911 census, they were living at 50 Fairmount Road Brixton Hill. He was listed as a bookselling shop assistant. Herbert was also living with them. A 1918 directory has him living at 4 Percy Place Epsom Road Surrey. In WW1, he enlisted in the navy as L11370 on 14^th August 1918. He was 5 foot 6½ inches tall, had a chest measurement of 36½ inches, and had brown hair and eyes and a dark complexion. He served at Victory I as Off Std III from 14^th August 1918 to 26^th February 1919 and was discharged at shore on demobilisation. His conduct was very good and ability satisfactory. The 1919 electoral register has them living at the same place as in 1918. On 14^th March 1928 Charles left on the Aquitania at Southampton. His immigration visa was issued at Washington for him to go to New York as an old book expert from Great Britain. The 1939 register has them living at 39 Frenchay Road Oxford and he was a retired bookseller. He died in Oxford and was buried in the same grave as his parents on 31^st July 1944.

Lizzie Gee was born on 27^th May 1874 in Oxford and was baptised on 6^th June 1874 in St Mary the Virgin Church of England in Oxford. In the 1881 and 1891 census she was living at home. During the 1901 census she was a visitor at 8 Blackhall Road St Giles and was an elementary school teacher. In the 1911 census she was living with her father and 3 other children and she was an elementary Teacher with the Borough Council Education Committee. Lizzie was part of the City of Oxford Education Committee and the listing reads “St. Clement’s (infants), Bath street, built in 1873, for 190 infants ; Miss Lizzie Gee, mistress.” In 1915 she was the local secretary of the Benevolent & Orphan Fund of the National Union of Teachers. By the 1939 register she was living at 45 Chalfont Road Oxford and was a retired head teacher. She passed away on 28^th September 1956 in Oxford and had been living in her parents’ house. Probate to John Allnutt Howell retired surveyor and Frederick James Grimsdale solicitor was done on 18^th December with a value of £3471. She did not marry.

Alice Mary Allnutt Gee was born on 17^th January 1876 in Oxford. She was baptised in the same church on 13^th February 1876. In all census, she was living at home with the family and had no occupation. In the 1939 register she was living with Lizzie and was recorded as being incapacitated. She passed away on 24^th January 1954 at 45 Chalfont Road Oxford and her effects of over £558 went to Lizzie on 2^nd April. She did not marry.

Ernest Richard Gee was born on 15^th April 1878 in Oxford and was baptised in the family church on 13^th May 1878. In the 1881 and 1891 census he was living at home. By the 1901 census he was lodging at 5 Page Street in London and was an assistant. On 19^th April 1908 he married Bertha Ellen Hook (born 1882) in Putney St Mary Church. He was a bookseller and she had no occupation. Both were living at 95 High Street Putney. Her father Henry Hook had been a licenced victualler and was deceased. In the 1911 census they were living at Kings Avenue New Maldon Surrey, his mother was there visiting and Ernest was listed as a bookseller assistant. On 22^nd August 1914 they left Liverpool on the St Paul bound for New York, intending to live permanently there. Ernest’s occupation was bookseller. He filled out a World War I Draft Registration Card which showed he was living at New York City No 122. A Registration Card was filled out for Ernest on 12^th September 1918 which showed their permanent address was 141 East 26^th Street in New York. He was recorded as a white alien, whose present occupation was book salesman at Britanic at 225 5^th Avenue. Ernest had a medium height, slender build and had brown eyes and black hair. On 29^th July 1929, he arrived at Plymouth from New York on the Tuscania for a visit, staying at 24 Ryder Street St James London. He was still a bookseller. In the 1930 USA census they were living in Queens New York. He was 52 and she was 48 and Ernest was a dealer in rare books and Bertha was a bookkeeper in rare books office. By the 1940 census they were living at 52 Rolling Hill Road, Nassau, New York and he was still the owner operator of Rare Book Retail Store. After that it is not known what happened to them.

Frederick Scaife Gee was born on 19^th May 1879 in Oxford and baptised in the family church on 12^th June 1879 and was their last child. He was living at home in all the census from the 1881 to 1911 census. In the last 2 census he is listed as a Butler at Markham College. On 11^th August 1914 at Summertown Oxfordshire he married Dorothy Annis, a 26 year old spinster. Her father William had been a caterer but was deceased. In WW1 he served as a 2^nd Lieutenant in the RASC and was entitled to the British War and Victory medals. His service records are at National Archives UK under WO 374/26782 but are not online. In the Oxford University Roll of Service (1920) it has F S Gee matriculated in 1903 and was a Member of University OTC prior to 1915 and has a narrative of “1903 Gee. F. S., M.A. (May 1, 1917). 2nd Lieutenant Royal Army Service Corps E. Africa, 1918-19”. He applied for his medals and they were issued under issue voucher X/101 on 2^nd April 1925. They were sent to 38 Chalfont Street Oxford. By the 1939 register they were living at 34 Frenchay Road Oxford and he was a College Clerk. Dorothy passed away on 26^th August 1944 and was buried with her parents on 30^th August in Wolvercote Cemetery. In the late 1940’s he was still living at 34 Frenchay Road Oxford. Frederick died on 4^th September 1949 in the Radcliff Infirmary Oxford and was buried on 7^th September 1949 in Wolvercote Cemetery. Probate was granted on 10^th November to Harold Savigny Clemens solicitor and Michael de Gruchy Gribble medical student of just over £4000.

The 1891 census has Herbert living at 29 Southmoor Street Oxford with his mother and five other children. He was a scholar. In January 1891 he had entered the City of Oxford High School for Boys in George Street. After only 18 months there, he left and was apprenticed to W. F. Lucas & Co. in 1893.

Herbert attested for short service with the 15^th Hussars in London on 30^th August 1898 as Private 3836. He stated he was a British subject who had been born in Oxford, he was 21 years and 3 months old, was a workhouse-man and was still residing at home. Herbert had never been an apprentice, was not married, had not been imprisoned, served or been rejected and was willing to be enlisted in the Corps of Hussars of the Line. His physical description was height 5 foot 6¾ inches, weight 142 pounds, chest measurement from 35 to 37 inches and he had a fair complexion with brown eyes and hair. His religious denomination was Church of England. In the distinctive marks’ column was written “Eyebrows meet Tears head, Dots forearms”. The medical examination considered him fit and he was approved by the Chief Recruiting Officer on the same day. He was posted to the 15^th Hussars as a Private on 30^th August 1898, the date of which his service towards limited engagement reckons from, although the next line in his service records say he “Joined at Aldershot on 31.8.98”. He was granted 1 penny Good Conduct pay on 30^th August 1900. Herbert was appointed paid Lance Corporal on 19^th April 1902 and promoted to Corporal on 17^th October 1903. He then extended his service to complete 8 years with the Colours in accordance with the provisions of Army Order No. 66 of 1902 on 1^st April 1904. On the same day he was granted S. P. Class I with 7 pennies a day. He was permitted to extend his service to complete 12 years with the Colours on 31^st July 1905. Herbert was appointed paid Lance Sergeant on 4^th July 1907 and was promoted to Sergeant on 10^th August 1907. The next two entries which read “19^th Hussars Attached Para:1870 [IX] K. R. Sergeant 17.11.09” and “Section ‘D’ 15^th Hussars Enlisted on the 22^nd September 1910 Sergeant 22.9.10” have a line through them with nothing else stated. Herbert was discharged upon termination of his 1^st period of engagement as Sergeant on 29^th August 1910. His total service towards Engagement and Pension was 12 years. The Military History Sheet for Herbert showed he served at Home from 30.8.98 to 20.9.99 (1 year 22 days), India from 21.09.99 to 16.11.09 (10 years 57 days) and Home again from 17.11.09 to 29.08.10 (286 days). For certificates of education, he had 3^rd Class at Meerut on 25^th August 1900, 2^nd Class at Meerut on 6^th November 1902 and 1^st Class on 25^th September 1906. It stated his next of kin was his Father, William Henry Gee of 35 Southmoor Road Oxford. In 1899 the 15^th Hussars Regiment had embarked for India once more. They were stationed at Lucknow, and then Meerut, and remained in India for the next ten years before returning to England.

In the 1911 census Herbert was living with Charles and his wife at 50 Fairmount Road Brixton Hill. He was single, a commercial traveller selling typewriting accessories.

There is a record for the Medic leaving Liverpool, bound for Australia on 4^th May 1911 with a passenger Mr H H Gee, a traveller of adult age. If it is Herbert, it is not proven. An entry in New South Wales Passenger Lists for an unassisted passage for H J Gee showed he arrived in Sydney on the Wollowra on 27^th February 1913 from Melbourne. Again not sure it is him. Before enlisting he was a farmer, living at East Barron, Atherton in Queensland.

Colonel Spencer-Browne wrote a letter to Sergeant Gee at School of Instruction at Enoggera saying that Herbert thought he would not be going with the reinforcements and would not for some time. As he was commanding the Light Horse Brigade, he would make sure Herbert went and hoped it would be with a commission. He was “very proud to have in the command so well trained & so capable a soldier.” He added “you will greatly strengthen a squadron and I hope you see you all working in the positions where you can best serve our country.”

Herbert enlisted on 29^th December 1914 with a term of service for the duration of the war and 4 months He then applied for a commission in the AIF 11^th Light Horse Regiment on 15^th March 1915. He stated for educational qualifications he had been educated at Oxford High School and had passed Oxford and Cambridge Locals in 1892. For previous military service he had served 12 years with “Colors 15^th “The Kings” Hussars 5yrs Sgt 2½ Section D Reserve”. He was now a Private (Acting Sergeant) in the AIF. He had qualified at a competitive examination for first appointment as 2^nd Lieutenant on 12/13^th March 1915. For his present civil employment, he wrote Church of England to which someone else wrote “Religion?” Herbert stated his date of birth, age (both correct) and that he was a single British subject. He was single. His postal address was East Barron Atherton NQ and his next of kin was his father W H Gee of 7 Southmoor Road Oxford England. The examining Medical Officer noted he was 5 foot 7 ½ inches, weighed 10 stone 10 pounds and had a chest measurement of 39 inches and normal eyesight. He was appointed to the 11^th Light Horse Regiment on 1^st April 1915 and was appointed 2^nd Lieutenant on that day.

Sgt. H.J. Gee, one of the soldiers photographed in The Queenslander Pictorial, supplement to The Queenslander, 1915, published on 27^th March 1915.

Taken at Pinkenba, day of departure 17.6.15 Brisbane.

On 16^th June 1915, he embarked with B Squadron 11^th Light Horse Regiment at Brisbane on A30 Borda.

Lieut. H.J. Gee, one of the soldiers photographed in The Queenslander Pictorial, supplement to The Queenslander, 10^th July 1915.

A haircut in camp and two of his horses. He noted on the back that the “horse marked, was grazed on the Rump by a bullet in the last stunt & fell with me, being very rough ground”.

He embarked for the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force to Gallipoli from Alexandria on HT Marquette on 25^th August 1915 with the 11^th LHR.

Herbert reported for duty and was taken on strength of the 5^th Light Horse Regiment on 29^th August 1915. Another entry says he was attached.

He was wounded on 3^rd September 1915 (another record says bullet wound on 3.9.15 and another says wounded slightly). An entry in his service with the AIF says he was “Wounded and remained with unit”, with another stating he was not admitted to hospital.

The Kalgoorlie Western Argus (WA) of Tuesday 21^st September 1915 had on page 35 “THE GREAT WAR IN EUROPE SEVENTY-NINTH LIST. Perth, Sept. 17. The 79th casualty list, comprising West Australian casualties and those from other States whose next-of-kin reside in this State, was issued to-night as follows”, with an entry under “Wounded” which read “11^th Light Horse. Attached to 5^th Light Horse. – 2^nd Lieut. H. J. Gee (England).”

On 3^rd November 1915 he was promoted to Lieutenant with the 5^th LHR. He was also wounded on that day, but it was not reported, as noted in an “Extract confidential war diary”. A report on the Operations of Harris Ridge from 3^rd to 9^th November 1915 detailed work that was done to create new trenches to prevent the Turks “from occupying hard ground which would enable them to bring direct rifle fire on to the rear of the troops in Tasmania Post etc.” Over ensuing nights, the trenches were built and consolidated while under enemy fire. The Commander of the 5^th Light Horse wished “to draw attention to the service of the following officers and N.C.O’s during these operations” and included “Lieut. H.J. Gee. On the night of the second advance, this officer was in charge of one of the working parties. On Capt. Brundrit being killed and Lieut Johnstone, who was in charge of the working party on the new barricade being wounded Lieut. Gee took charge of their parties and handled them so that the work proceeded rapidly and smoothly.” In the History of the 5^th Light Horse Regiment on page 40 it reads: “The following Order was issued by the Corps Commander on the 8^th November: “The Army Corps Commander wishes to express his appreciation of the action of the 2^nd Light Horse Brigade in successfully advancing their position to Wilson’s Lookout, on Harris Ridge, between the 3^rd to 8^th November, 1915. The operation was skilfully planned and carried out with vigour and determination. General Godley congratulates the 5^th Light Horse, to whom the operation was entrusted, and to whose resource and gallantry the excellent result achieved is largely due. The enemy casualties in this engagement has been stated by prisoners to have reached a total of 500 killed and wounded. The following officers and N.C.O’s have been particularly brought to the Army Corps Commander’s notice” and the list included Herbert.

A note dated 30^th November 1915 has a list of names submitted that were worthy of immediate recognition, but they were “returned, the Army Corps Commander not being prepared to forward them at present. They will, however, be forwarded later” and the list included Lieutenant Herbert J Gee.

In the evacuation of Gallipoli, Herbert was to leave on the night of 19^th-20^th December 1915 in B.3 Party under Major H H Johnstone.

Herbert wrote to his sister Lizzie (he called her Phil in the letter), replying to a letter she had sent him and thanking her for the good news about their mother. He also said he had sent them some money to help out and would continue to do so. Herbert asked is he could have the address for an Arthur Gee, who was also on the peninsula and must have been related, so he could catch up with him. He talked about “they were getting a lot of Turkish Deserters coming in & find they are having a rotten time. Badly clad & short rations to say nothing about frost bite and flooded trenches.” The snow and cold weather were the worst he had experienced. He asked if she had heard anything from his friend Best. Best had sent him a letter saying he had enteric fever and was in Netley Red Cross Hospital in isolation. Herbert asked is she could bring him down to Oxford as he intended to marry his sister, but he had said nothing to him about her (and wanted his sister not to either). He said they “thoroughly understand one another” and gave a description of her being “tall blue grey eyes & about Millie’s colour & a young 33, a lady & a real good sort”. He talked about another friend Whitfield being invalided from the peninsula. Both had been married before they went.

On 21^st March 1916 he was transferred to 11^th Light Horse Regiment from the 5^th at Maadi. Another entry says on the 22^nd he was marched out of camp from the 5^th LHR to re-join the 11^th LHR and was taken on strength on re-joining and was posted to B Squadron at Heliopolis.

He was marched into G.T.&E.B.D. at Tel-el-Kebir on 26^th April 1916 and then marched into 11^th LHR on 1^st July 1916 at Moascar.

In August 1916 near Mushalfat the 11^th Light Horse commenced an attack which was met with a heavy counter-attack on the right flank. During this action, “The horses of Lieutenant Gee’s troop, a troop which was fighting dismounted on the extreme right flank, were stampeded by shell fire just before the order to retire was received, and as a result this troop leader and his men were forced to escape on foot. Theirs was a narrow escape and indeed an unenviable experience. There were brief moments of doubt when it was thought that the whole troop would either be annihilated or captured.”

His Mention in Despatches appeared in the London Gazette 1^st December 1916 on page 11808 at position 3

On 25^th April 1917 Base Records sent his father a letter saying Lieutenant Herbert John Gee had been Mentioned in Despatches in London Gazette 29845 on 1^st December 1916, page 11808 at position 3, for conspicuous services rendered. “In accordance with final paragraph of the Despatch dated 1^st October, the following are mentioned for distinguished services rendered during the period of General A. J. Murray’s Command of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force.” The Officer Commanding the 11^th Light Horse Regiment recommended Lieutenant Herbert John Gee for a Military Cross. The action for which he was recommended was “For leading his troops in a bold and skillfull manner and driving back the Turks from a position from which they would enfilade the advance of the 4^th ALH Bde and capturing 10 prisoners. In conjunction with Lieut Farlour’s troop he then charged a Turkish trench and captured 50 prisoners. This action cleared the frank of the Brigade from enfilade fire.” Another recommendation includes the date of 19^th April 1917 and adds “Also on the 4^th July at Point 96 for conspicuously good work done whilst in command of two troops “13” Sqdn he never hesitating & with great dash & determination pushed ahead his screen forcing a large body of the enemy who were occupying a strong position in front to retire thereby allowing important observational work in rear to be carried out. This officer held on to the position he occupied notwithstanding heavy shell and rifle fire. (Mentioned in Despatches Nov & Dec 1916 and 13.10.16)”

Herbert was marched out to a school of instruction on 8^th August 1917 at Marakel and he passed the 29^th Hotchkiss course as a qualified instructor on 18^th August. He was marched back in from the school at Zeitoun. On 15^th September 1917 he went to a rest camp at Port Said from 11^th Light Horse Regiment and marched back into the unit on 5^th October 1917.

On 1^st November 1917 he was promoted to Captain.

In Supplement to the London Gazette of 1^st January 1918 on page 51 at position 29 – Lt. Herbert John Gee, L. Horse R. is listed as being awarded the Military Cross. His Mention in Despatches was recorded in the London Gazette of 12^th January 1918 on page 804 at position 26.

Herbert wrote out his will, which was dated on 18^th January 1918 according to a certified true copy issued by the Officer Commanding Records at Australian headquarters Egypt. In it he stated he bequeathed all of his estate “to Absolutely my second Sister. Alice Mary Allnutt Gee 7 Southmoor Road Oxford England”. The witnesses were L S Alexander, a School Teacher at Ayr and A Y Bartam, a Station Hand at Townsville. He marched out and was struck off strength. On 26^th January 1918 Herbert was taken on strength of the 4^th Light Horse Training Regiment from the 11^th LHR and on 2^nd February 1918 he was seconded to 11^th Light Horse Training Squadron.

A letter was posted to Miss L Gee of 7 Southmoor Road Oxford from Herbert, dated 21^st March 1918. Herbert had written the letter on the 20^th at Moascar. He apologised for not having written for so long and said he was taking his turn with their training regiment for 3 months before returning to the regiment, which had seen no action while he was with the training regiment. The “Duke of Connaught pinned my Military Cross on me the other day & will in due course be forwarded on to the Pater.” It was awarded at Belah on 18^th January 1918. He was fit and appreciated the comforts of being in a stationary cap after so much trekking, but said he would be glad to get going again. He had done a will and everything was to go to Alice, but she did not need to know. The Military Cross was forwarded to his father on 7^th August 1918.

The Daily Herald in Adelaide of Saturday 30^th March 1918 in page 3, under the heading “HONORS FOR ANZACS” had an entry under Military Cross for Lieutenant Herbert John Gee.

Herbert ceased to be seconded to 11^th Light Horse Squadron and resumed Regimental duty on 27^th April 1918 (11^th LHR). From the 4^th Light Horse Training Regiment, Herbert was marched in to the 11^th Light Horse Regiment and taken on strength at Moascar on 2^nd May 1918.

From “The Australian Imperial Force in Sinai and Palestine, 1914-1918”, by Henry Somer Gullett, on page 730 “The mean little mud village of Semakh stands on the southern edge of the Sea of Galilee, about a mile east of the outflow of the Jordan.” Brigadier General William Grant had heard some German and Turks had been set up a to prepare a strong rear-guard defence of the town from a message dropped from an aircraft. Before dawn on 25^th September 1918 a regiment and two squadrons of the Australian 4^th Light Horse Brigade attacked. The assault began with a mounted cavalry charge, which was unique as it was the only one carried out during WW1 in the dark and across country, which had not been previously reconnoitred. It ended two hours later after close quarter fighting in the village and the railway station. There was fierce fighting with bayonets and swords, from room to room in the railway buildings, before the town was captured.

Many Turks and Germans were concealed in railway trucks and carriages, with most inside the buildings, at the railway station in Semakh, a small town on the southern shore of Lake Tiberias (the Sea of Galilee). A and B Squadrons of the 11^th Light Horse attacked after being fired on, charging over the open ground before the village. “A hot fire-fight developed at revolver range, and for more than an hour the struggle was stationary. But some Australian machine-gunners, who with the remaining squadron had been ordered round to the east and south-east by Grant, made it impossible for the Germans to hold the windows of the buildings, and so substantially reduced the enemy’s fire. At dawn the two squadrons rushed in on the concealed enemy. The fighting was bitter and bloody. The garrison, outnumbering the Australians by two to one, and made up largely of Germans, had, in addition to their extraordinary position and machine-guns, an ample store of hand-grenades. They fought with exceptional boldness and stubbornness, their courage stimulated by an abundance of rum. But the Australians would not be denied. While the squadron on the east was fighting among earthworks and railway carriages, (Major James) Loynes’ men, rushing from their cover, battered in the doors of the main station building, and entering one by one, followed the Germans and Turks in the darkness from floor to floor and room to room with the bayonet. Captain W.F. Whitfield, Captain H.J. Gee, and Lieutenant F.G. Farlow were killed in this fighting, but there was no pause in the struggle until the whole of the enemy force was destroyed or captured.” (As from the above book p. 733).

From the History of the 11^th Light Horse Regiment on page 133 was this description: “At one stage Major Costello’s troops were menaced by an enemy 12 pounder gun firing at point blank range, and while attempting to silence this gun Captain Gee was killed.”

On the back is written “Samakh Station. Where German machine Gunners opened fire after hoisting white flag, killing 3 officers & 9 men of the 11^th Australian Light Horse”.

Another picture of the Station and on the back it also says “The A.L.H. were lining the Ledge.”

The cross has Herbert’s name and Captain W F Whitfield (Wesley Frank Whitfield), possibly the friend mentioned in the letter above to his sister, and Lieutenant F G Farlow MC.

Pictures of graves showing Sea of Galilee.

Herbert had cousins who served in the war; 662 Private Arthur Gee, who joined the 11^th Battalion at Kalgoorlie (with his brother Edward who was killed on Gallipoli) and was discharged in 1916, and then was a farmer in New Zealand.

On 6^th May 1918 Base Records sent Mr W H GEE of 3 Southmoor Rd Oxford a letter saying they “had much pleasure in forwarding hereunder copy of extract from Supplement No. 30450 to the “London Gazette,” dated 28^th December, 1917, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by the undermentioned member of the Australian Imperial Force.” “HIS MAJESTY THE KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the undermentioned award for distinguished service in the field. Dated 1^st January, 1918.” The Military Cross had been awarded to Lieutenant Herbert John Gee.

Base Records sent a letter to his father at his usual address on 11^th June 1918, a copy from the Second Supplement 30474 to the London Gazette, dated 14^th January 1918 for a Mention in Despatches. “The following despatch has been received by the Secretary of State for War from General Sir Archibald Murray K.C.B., late Commander-in-Chief, Egyptian Expeditionary Force: – “In accordance with the concluding paragraph of my despatch, dated 28^th June, 1917, I have the honor to submit herewith the name of the undermentioned, whose name I wish to bring to your notice for gallant or distinguished conduct in the field, or for other valuable services: – Lieutenant H. J. Gee, M.C.””

CWGC recorded that H J Gee MC died on 25^th September 1918 as a Captain with the 11^th Australian Light Horse and is buried in Haifa War Cemetery. In a record about his Military Cross it records the London Gazette entry as “LG:30450/1 Jan 1918” and adds “KIA (Captain) Semakh, Palestine 25 Sep 1918 aged 41. Farmer from Brisbane. Born Oxford 2 Jun 1877.” Herbert was struck off strength on the same day. He is buried in Haifa War Cemetery in Israel in Plot B. 62. A record for location of graves says Captain H J Gee was buried in Semakh Military Cemetery at the South end of the Lake of Galilee on the Railway, Palestine. On 26^th 9^th 1918 he was buried by Chaplain J West at the gravesite at Semakh Military Cemetery in Grave 1, reference map 1/63360 Sheet IV. 2. 16d-3-6. A piece of paper in his service records state he was in Grave 99 M.55/404 on 19^th October 1923. Another record adds re-interred in Haifa Military Cemetery Palestine.

A telegram was sent to his father on 28^th September 1918 advising him that Herbert had been killed and a letter was following. The letter stated he had been killed and further details would be forwarded when received. Another telegram on 5^th October 1918 was headed OHMS Buckingham Palace and read “To H. Gee Esq. 3 Southmoor Road Oxford. The King and Queen deeply regret the loss you and the army have sustained by the death of Capt. H. J. Gee in the Service of his Country. Their Majesties truly sympathise with you in your sorrow.” It was sent by the Keeper of the Privy Purse.

The Northern Miner of Charters Towers on Wednesday 20^th November 1918 in page 3 under “Roll of Honor” in Casualty List No. 442 from Brisbane on 18^th November said that list was released that night and contained the names of 273 Queenslanders and included under “Killed In Action” Captain Herbert John Gee, England.

On 23^rd December 1918 the District Paymaster in Brisbane wrote to Base Records in Melbourne asking “RE the late Captain Herbert J. GEE, “B”/11^th Light Horse. (M.C.) I shall be gland if you will kindly furnish me with a certificate of death when same is available in connection with the abovenamed deceased Officer who was Killed in Action on 25/9/18.” Their reply on 3^rd January 1919 stated he was killed in action but no record was available. They added “Cable No. C.E.B.C. 1216, from the Commandant A.I.F. Headquarters dated Cairo 26^th September 1918, confirmed by mail from the Commandant A.I.F. Headquarters dated Cairo, 1^st October 1918.”

A letter was sent to Miss L Gee of 7 Southmoor Road Oxford by P J Bailey (Lieutenant-Colonel Percival John Bailey DSO served with the 11^th Light Horse) on 22^nd February 1919 from Tripoli Syria, and said “Major Costello has just shewn me your letter. Please allow me to add my condolences in the loss of your brother and our old friend “Dick” Gee. It is hardly possible for me to convey to you how much we miss him from our little circle. Sept 25^th was a sad day for us when we lost some of our best pals. “Old Dick” as he was always known was the same year in & year out, cheery & energetic and one of the hardest cases a fellow would ever wish to meet. Officers of all units knew the 11^th because somewhere or other they had met & spent a happy time with Gee.” He went on to say he met him after enlistment and gave him charge of a squad and he was one of the first selected to be commissioned. Previous training, knowledge and ability was of great service to the unit. “He had been in so many tight corners & dangerous jobs that he really felt that the bullet was never made that could injure him. His confidence & daring inoculated into his Squadron. Such an utter disregard for personal danger that no task was too severe for them.” He sympathised with her loss as they missed him as well, “but would ask you to be comforted by the fact that his work has been well & honourably done and that his life was most heroically given in the stiffest fight of the Campaign.”

Base Records sent a letter to W H Gee Esq. 3 Southmoor Road Oxford on 20^th March 1919 saying “With reference to the report of the regrettable loss of your son, the late Captain , H. J. Gee M.C., 11^th Light Horse Regiment, I am now in receipt of advise which shows that he was killed in action on 25^th September, 1918, and was buried on the 26^th idem in Semakh Military Cemetery, Semakh, Grave No. 1. The utmost care and attention is being devoted where possible to the graves of our officers and men. It is understood that photographs are being taken as soon as is possible and these will be transmitted to next-of-kin when available. These additional details are furnished by direction, it being the policy of the Department to forward all information received in connection with deaths of members of the Australian Imperial Force.”

Mrs Arthur Earl of “Emoh Ruo” Ascot Street Brisbane sent a letter to Base Records in Melbourne on 29^th March 1919 saying “I noticed in the advertisement for next of kin the name of Captain H. J. Gee. His next of kin are his father, brothers & sisters, who live at 7 Southmore Road Oxford, England. His Father is steward of the estate of Viscount Valencia so please give instruction for them to be notified to what you were applying for. I as a personal friend of the family have taken the liberty of answering the ad & thank you in anticipation”. Base Records wrote back saying “In reply to your communication of 29^th ultimo, I have to state no advertisement from this office has been inserted in the press in regard to the late Captain H.J.Gee, M.C. 11^th Light Horse Regiment. The address of the next-of-kin is correctly recorded here.”

A receipt was sent back to Officer Commanding AIF Kit Store, 110 Greyhound Road Hammersmith London from Alice Gee of 7 Southmoor Road Oxford on 14^th March 1919 for the effects of the late Captain H J Gee MC 11^th LHR AIF in package D/S48880, which they received the next day. She signed for more effects on 8^th March 1919, D/s48889, which they received on the 10^th. A final set of effects was received by her on 8^th May 1919 (D/S 49921) and received back to Kit Store on 9^th May.

Lieutenant-Colonel P J Bailey wrote to Lizzie on 25^th May 1919 from Mausura Egypt. He thanked her for her letter and was disappointed he was not on leave in England with some of the regiment, to meet her. He went on to say they were still waiting for demobilisation, which had been delayed due to the Egyptian troubles. He included a two-page poem with the letter, which was written “by one of the section boys who was attached to our Unit at the time of the Semakh fight. It is a simple little lot of verses but very expressive of the actual event. I prize it very much and hope you will like it.” He went on to say “The awful price we paid that early morn. How Bravely our boys fought & how gallantly our N.C.Os & Officers led them in the face of an overwhelming fire.” The poem is 29 verses long and is included in the book below.

Base Records in Melbourne on 7^th October 1919 sent a Form of Commission in the regular forces of the British Army to his father W H Gee at 7 Southmoor Road Oxford. He was also sent the booklet “Where the Australians Rest”. Both of his Mention in Despatches certificates were sent in 1920 to his father. The Memorial Plaque and Scroll was sent to his father on 21^st December 1922.

His father filled out the particulars required for the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial and put “Herbert John Captain M.C.” for his full name and rank. He was connected with Brisbane, born in Oxford England and died on 25^th September 1918 in Palestine aged 43. His calling was wholesale flannelette goods in London Wall, London. Oxford High School was his school. Herbert came to Australia when he was 33 years old. For previous service he joined the 15^th Hussars when he was 21, served with them for 12 years, 5 years as Sergeant and 11 years in India. He also wrote that “his 4 brothers (1 Canadian) 1 American and two from home took part in the war also 6 cousins (2 Australians) of which 2 were killed and 1 incapacitated”. William Henry Gee was living at 45 Chalford Road Oxford at the time of filling out the form.

Alice Mary Allnut Gee was sent a letter about a pension in 1919, to start from 5^th December 1918 that was 40 shillings a fortnight, and included back payment to that date. She also received his account from the Public Curator which amounted to over £400.

His name is located at panel 8 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial. Herbert John Gee’s name will be projected onto the exterior of the Hall of Memory on:

Tuesday 09^th April 2019 at 11:55pm

Sunday 21^st July 2019 at 3:25am

Thursday 05^th September 2019 at 9:24pm.

St Margaret’s Church Oxford also has a memorial to him online – http://www.oxfordhistory.org.uk/war/stmargaret/gee_herbert.html They also remember him on a plaque in the Old Boys’ High School, George Street (below left) and on the war memorial outside St Margaret’s Church in North Oxford (next 2 photos).

Herbert is in a book titled 47 Men of North Oxford which mentions the attack on Semakh and him being killed there. It also goes on to say that there was a possibility that he got married and had a child in England while he was on leave. There is nothing in his service record to indicate a trip to England at any stage, and in his will, done in 1918, he left everything to a sister. If he was married, why would he do that? Also there is no documentation in his service record stating a marriage. The only way to confirm it would be to purchase the marriage or birth records. There was a Herbert John Gee living with Eleanor Mary Emma Gee (married July 1916 in Lambeth) in Finsbury in the 1919 roll. They are also listed in the 1939 register in London. He was born in 1884 according to that register, so not the same person. There are also a few Herbert J Gee’s who served in the British army in WW1. The author also mentions Herbert was awarded a bar to his Military Cross which is incorrect.

This book is held by the museum and contains his awards, commission, pictures and letters discussed in the story.

His Victory medal was inscribed and issued by Australia House along with a large oak leaf. The Commandant at AIF Headquarters was sent his 1914-15 Star and British War Medals.

His medals are Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal with oak leaf.

ANZAC Biographies

On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women

whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

406 Lance Corporal Herbert Stanley BACK

15^th Battalion AIF

by Robert Simspon

His picture in Queenslanders who fought in the Great War, with story on page 5: “BACK, Herbert Stanley, Private, No. 406, 15^th Battalion. Son of Frederick Back and Teresa Ann Back, of Granville, Maryborough. Enlisted in September, 1914. Trained in Brisbane, and sailed for Egypt in December, 1914. He completed his training in Egypt, and went to Gallipoli. Was at the landing of 25^th April, 1915. He was wounded on the 9^th May, 1915, and sent to hospital. He subsequently returned to Gallipoli in July, 1915, and was killed on the 8^th August, 1915.”

Herbert Stanley Back was born on 8^th September 1893 in Maryborough Queensland, a son to Frederick Thomas Back and Teresa Ann Linton. Frederick had been born on 18^th September 1853 in Southampton Hampshire England, a son to William Back (1820-1871) and Sarah Wakeford (1822-1861). William was an auctioneers’ clerk. Teresa had been born on 8^th August 1865 in Liverpool Lancashire England. Her father Edward was a baker. From a biography on Findagrave: – “Frederick, was a seaman and signed up to sail the SS Silver Eagle to Australia in 1882. The ship departed Plymouth on 11 February 1882 with Teresa Ann Linton and her sister Elizabeth aboard as ‘free’ passengers. It arrived in Maryborough on 7 June. The entire crew of the ship were unhappy with their contracts and deserted. Three seamen were arrested and sentenced to three months jail in Maryborough. Frederick hid out at the nearby Gayndah Hotel for a month but was arrested and charged with desertion. He appeared in the Maryborough Magistrates Court on 14 August 1882 but as there was no appearance of a prosecutor he was discharged.” They married in Maryborough on 18^th August 1883. He seemed to have dropped his middle name in the electoral rolls, just being listed as Frederick Back in rolls from 1905 to 1925, being a carpenter and then a storekeeper (by the 1912 roll) in Granville. He was also listed in various directories as “store, Granville, Maryboro”. Later ones also add Commonwealth Bank and Post Office. Frederick passed away on 24^th February 1935 and was buried in Maryborough Cemetery, in Monumental K plot 383 on 25^th February 1925. His entry in the Maryborough Cemetery records show his religion was Church of England, he was a retired storekeeper living in Granville, aged 88 years and 5 months, from England, Reverend J Elliott was the officiating minister and he died of mitral regurgitation, senility and cardiac failure. In the 1937 roll, Teresa was still living in Granville, but by the 1943 roll, she had moved to 126 Cheapside Street, doing home duties, and lived there until she passed away on 15^th May 1956 and was buried with Frederick. Her entry in the Maryborough Cemetery register shows her denomination was Church of England, she had been doing home duties at 126 Cheapside Street, she had been born in Liverpool, Lancashire England and was aged 90 years and 9 months. Reverend A E Taylor was the officiating minister, she was buried on 16^th May, and she died of Cerebral anoxia, peripheral circulatory failure, apoplectic. All their children attended East Maryborough State School, which was later to be called Granville State School. Bert Back’s school enrolment began on 31^st August 1898.

They had nine children:-

Louisa Edith Back was born on 8^th March 1884 in Maryborough. She married Patrick Horace McLeod on 9^th August 1905 in Queensland. In the 1926 electoral roll, they were living at 35 Sheriff Street Paddington Brisbane and he was an engine driver. They were still living at the same address and had two children, Frederick John McLeod born in 1906 and Isabella Teresa McLeod born in 1909. Patrick had been born in Sydney on 17^th February 1876 and he died on 20^th July 1938. His funeral was the next day and he was buried in Toowong Cemetery. Louisa died on 16^th May 1963 in Brisbane.

Arthur William Back was born on 12^th November 1885 in Maryborough. He married Bertha Beasley on 11^th April 1907 in Queensland. He is recorded in 1910 as being a Queensland Railway Employee. His father did persuade him from joining up, unlike some of his other brothers. Bertha died on 13^th May 1958 in Rockhampton and is buried in North Rockhampton Cemetery in Methodist Sec 12 Row 11 Grave No 34. In the 1963 electoral roll he was living at the corner of Alexandra and Medcraf streets Park Avenue in Rockhampton and was a railway employee. Arthur died on 30^th September 1970 and is buried with his wife in Norman Gardens. Their son, Roy Reginald Back served in WW2 as Q113328 then QX51577, enlisting in North Rockhampton on 12^th April 1943 and was discharged on 21^st January 1946 as a Sergeant in the 11^th Field Ambulance. His service record has not been examined or opened yet. He died on 27^th November 1984 and is buried with his parents.

Robert James Back was born on 22^nd October 1887 in Maryborough. In the 1919 electoral roll he was living at William Street Granville and was an iron worker. He married Gladys May Ammenhauser on 5^th September 1923 in Queensland. A son, Ronald Edward Back was born in Maryborough on 3^rd May 1924. He is listed in record sets of Queensland School Pupils for 1929, 1936 and 1937. Ronald appears in the Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser for exams: –

Saturday 21 January 1939, page 7

JUNIOR PUBLIC EXAMINATION

2713 FULL-TIME CANDIDATES PASSED LIST OF DISTRICT SUCCESSES

BRISBANE, Friday. — The results of the Queensland University Junior Public examination were announced to-day. The number of entries received was 3642. Of this number 3405 were full-time students entered for regular selections of subjects from approved secondary schools and colleges. The remaining 237 were evening students, private study students, or students taking a limited number of subjects for other than junior certificate purposes. Conditions for Junior certificates have been fulfilled by 2713 of the full-time candidates, that is, approximately 80 per cent, of those who sat, and 109 candidates, that is, about 42 per cent of the others who sat, have qualified for certificates or passed in the smaller selection of subjects for which they entered.

STATE HIGH AND INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS

Back. Ronald Edward. 1C, 9B. 10C. IIC. 12C. ISC.

Saturday 13 January 1940, page 9

OVER 80 PERCENT; PASS JUNIOR EXAMINATION

DISTRICT SUCCESSES

BRISBANE, January 12. — The Queensland University Junior Public examination results were announced to-day. The number of entries received was 3678. Of that number 3019 qualified for Junior certificates (approximately 82 per cent.). Of the remainder 79 sat for a limited number of subjects for other than Junior certificate purposes, and 45 of these were successful in the subjects for ‘which they sat.

STATE HIGH AND INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS – BACK. Ronald Edward. IB 3B 10B 11B 12C 13C 14B (EC1).

He served in WW2 as Q137395 and 426966. The Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser of Wednesday 23^rd June 1943 in page 2 had: “SOCIAL L.A/c. R. Back, R.A.A.F., has returned to Bundaberg after spending leave here.” He married Ruby Myrtle ? In the 1954 to 1963 electoral rolls they were living at 18 Jardine Street Kedron and he was an airline pilot. By the 1968 roll, they had moved to 6 Luckins Street Aspley and he was a pilot. Three of the family was also living there, Robert James had no occupation, Pamela Ann was a teacher and Gladys May was doing home duties. Robert died on 3rd April 1970 and is remembered at Albany Creek Memorial Park. Gladys died on 25^th February 1985 and her ashes are in Albany Creek Memorial Park Cemetery & Crematorium in wall 3, section 17. Only Ronald, Ruby and Gladys were there in the 1980 roll. Ronald passed away on 16^th July 2007 in Brisbane.

His WW2 service records have now been opened but are not online until access is paid for. He has two service records: –

TITLE: BACK RONALD EDWARD : Service Number – Q137395 : Date of birth – 03 May 1924 : Place of birth – MARYBOROUGH QLD : Place of enlistment – MARYBOROUGH QLD : Next of Kin – BACK ROBERT SERIES: B884 CONTROL SYMBOL: Q137395 ITEM BARCODE: 4448863 LOCATION: Canberra ACCESS STATUS: OPEN DATE OF ACCESS DECISION: 07/MAR/19

And

TITLE: BACK RONALD EDWARD : Service Number – 426966 : Date of birth – 03 May 1924 : Place of birth – MARYBOROUGH QLD : Place of enlistment – BRISBANE : Next of Kin – BACK RUBY SERIES: A9300 CONTROL SYMBOL: BACK R E ITEM BARCODE: 5380376 LOCATION: Canberra ACCESS STATUS: OPEN DATE OF ACCESS DECISION: 07/MAR/19

He also has some other records which are open in Brisbane, but not online: –

Allotment Ledger, Pay Ledger and History Cards for Queensland Army Personnel – Back Ronald Edward, Citation NAA: J1204, Q137395

And

Pay History and Allotment Cards relating to Discharged Member of RAAF – Back Ronald Edward, Citation NAA: BP751/1, 426966

From the WW2 Nominal Roll, he enlisted in the Australian Army on 26^th May 1942 in Maryborough. His next of kin was Robert Back and he was living in Granville on enlistment. He was discharged on 25^th August 1942 as Private Q137395 with 1 MD Trg Dep AAOC and he enlisted with the RAAF on 26^th August 1942 in Brisbane. His service number was 426966 and his next of kin was Ruby Back. He was discharged on 28^th November 1945 as a Flying Officer with 4 Communications Unit.

An article in the Chronicle on Tuesday 23^rd June 1942 under the heading Personal read: “For the second time within a week the employees of the Chronicle gathered yesterday to bid farewell to a fellow workmate who has volunteered for service in the armed forces. Yesterday afternoon the opportunity was taken to make a presentation to Mr. Ron Back, who is leaving with tonight’s draft for camp, whence he will be transferred into the R.A.A.F. On behalf of the staff tributes were paid to Mr. Back’s sterling qualities, demonstrated during his association with the Chronicle, by Messrs. W. Eadie (manager), H. H. Dunn (director), G. L. Wilson (editor) and R Lowe (foreman). Mr. Back suitably responded.” Another article under Personal read: “Sergeant Pilot Ron. E Back received his “wings” at a Queensland flying school on Wednesday, and has been posted to an embarkation depot to await embarkation overseas. Sergt. Pilot Back, who is the only son of Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Back, Granville, was serving his apprenticeship in the composing room of the Maryborough Chronicle when he enlisted with the R.A.A.F. He has since been stationed at flying schools in Queensland and New South Wales. He expects to leave Maryborough next Wednesday for a southern depot. The Chronicle staff and his many friends cordially congratulate him on winning his “wings” and sincerely wish him “good flying” wherever he goes.”

A letter was written to Pilot Officer R E Back from Corporal Frederick Anderson Kleine VX145522, Private Basil John Doyle NX125006 and Private John Andrew Kendray VX123912 from Battalion HQ 2/2 Australian Infantry Battalion in New Guinea on 14^th March 1945. They wrote: “We would like to express our appreciation of your fine efforts on our behalf by a daily paper service here. We’ve just about given away all thoughts of obtaining papers sent from our home states and if it wasn’t for a few little angry men up the road well for all we know the armistice might be signed. Thanking you once again and wishing you many many moons of comfortable flying. We remain yours sincerely F A Kleine (Hamilton Vic) B J Doyle (Cessnock NSW) J A Kendray – Richmond Vic P.S. What about dropping off a couple of blonds and a bottle of plonk!”. It was sent to the Officers Mess at Archerfield Brisbane. A Courier-Mail article also talked about dropping papers to New Guinea with a soldier writing to a member of an aircraft crew: – “Believe me, you couldn’t do anything which would be more appreciated by us. Getting an Australian newspaper the same day as printed was thought to be impossible, but we hadn’t reckoned with your very thoughtful act. I’d like you to see one of the papers after everyone has finished reading it. By the time the last one gets it the print has nearly worn off.” Another letter was sent to him by Private VX11176 Harold Richard Merton of A Company 2/1^st Field Ambulance on 13^th March 1945 also thanked him for dropping off newspapers and how thankful they were. The day before they had received a Maryborough Chronicle and as he was from Queensland, he was very interested to read it. He also asked if Ronald landed at Mackay, as that was where he was from. Harold also mentioned he had a sister at the Women’s Hospital in Brisbane (Sister Con Merton) and would Ronald visit her. He gave a description of where they were and asked if he could address a couple of papers to A Company ADS Patients and if he could give his address to Jean Walters who worked at Rowes Café in Edward Street. His nickname was “Snow”.

Letter posted to Ronald with drawing by F Kleine.

Frederick Ernest Back was born on 2^nd November 1889 in Maryborough.

On 19^th August 1914 in Maryborough, Frederick joined the AIF in the 9^th Infantry Battalion. He was given the service number 292 which was changed to 533. As a boilermaker, he had been apprenticed to Walkers for 6 years. Frederick previously had 4½ years’ service in the Naval Brigade before resigning. He was 24 years old, 5 foot 7 inches tall, weighed 147 pounds, had a chest measurement of 34½ to 37 inches and had a sandy complexion with blue eyes and reddish hair. He embarked with the 9^th Battalion at Brisbane on HMAT SS Omrah on 24^th September 1914. He survived the landing on Gallipoli, and on 19^th May 1915 a shell dislodged sandbags which fell and crushed his knees. He ended up with synovitis of both knees. He sent a pre-formed letter to his sister Miss Eva Back c/o Mrs O’Connell, Crewkerns, Bowen Terrace, Brisbane on 22^nd July 1915 which read: – “I am quite well. Letters follow at first opportunity. I have received no letter from you for a long time.” In November 1915, at a medical examination his right knee had much fluid and could not be flexed and his left knee showed grating on movement. He was totally incapacitated. After being sent back to Australia he was discharged and given a pension. His medical file, M5718 BACK, Frederick Ernest – Service Number – 533 is at Brisbane and is open but not online. Frederick was entitled to the standard WW1 trio.

He is recorded in the 1916 electoral roll as a boilermaker, living at Granville. Frederick married Louise Marie Muller on 27^th December 1919. In 1921 he was listed as a Queensland Railway employee. He died on 25^th August 1924 in Rockhampton. The Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser of Wednesday 27^th August 1924 on page 8 has his obituary: “

The death occurred in Rockhampton, on Monday, of Mr. Frederick Ernest Back, formerly of Granville. About a fortnight ago deceased, who was employed at the Rockhampton railway workshops, as a boilermaker, sustained an injury to one of his hands while engaged at his work. The wound appeared to be healing, but septic poisoning supervened, and proved fatal. The remains were last night brought to Maryborough from Rockhampton by the mail train, by which Mrs. Back and family, accompanied by the Boiler maker’s Society, Rockhampton, were passengers. The remains, upon arrival here, were removed to the residence of deceased’s parents, at Granville. The late Mr. Back was a native of that place, and served his apprenticeship at Walkers Ltd. Deceased was amongst the first to enlist at the out-break of the Great War, and upon his being wounded, at Gallipoli, in August, 1915, was invalided home. Subsequent to his return he was employed at Walker’s for some time, and then re-moved to Rockhampton, where he had received an engagement at the railway workshops. The late Mr. Back was president of the Rockhampton Boiler-makers’ Society, and also a member of the P.A.F.S.O.A. Deceased leaves a sorrowing wife (nee Miss Miller, formerly of North Street, Maryborough), and two children, Stanley and Vera Back, to mourn their sad loss. One brother, Herbert Stanley, was killed on 8^th August 1915. The other brothers are Arthur William (railway workshops, Rockhampton), Robert James (shipyards, Maryborough), and Reginald Henry (residing at Granville). There are four sisters, Mrs. H. McLeod and Mrs. P. Desmond (Brisbane), Mrs. P. Buettel (Granville) and Miss Ruby Back (Granville). The funeral will leave the residence, of the parents at Granville this afternoon at 2.30 o’clock and the cortege will cross at the ferry at three o’clock. The boilermakers of Walkers Ltd. will attend in a body as a mark of respect to their late comrade.”

Frederick was buried in Maryborough Cemetery in Monumental J plot 167 on 27^th August 1924, with Louise Marie Back who was buried there on 11^th June 1959. His record in the Maryborough Cemetery register shows his religion was Church of England, born in Maryborough, he was a boilermaker living in Rockhampton, was married and aged 34 years, Reverend J Elliott was the officiating minister, and he died of a foreign body in his hand for 14 days, tetanus and exhaustion. Kirk & Son were the funeral directors.

Picture in The Queenslander and in Queenslanders who fought in the Great War, with entry that reads: “BACK, Frederick Ernest. Private No. 533, 9^th Battalion. Born and educated in Maryborough, Queensland. Son of Frederick Back and Teresa Ann Back, of William Street, Granville, Maryborough. Enlisted on August 19^th, 1914, and left with the First Expeditionary Forces for Egypt, where he completed his training. On the 25^th April, 1915, he landed at Gallipoli with the Third Brigade. He was badly wounded in August, 1915, and returned to Australia, medically unfit and was discharged.” The same picture was also in a newspaper article which reads: “PRIVATE F. E. BACK One of the Famous 9^th, who on his return from the front recently was tendered a cordial welcome by the Granville (Maryborough) Young Men’s Society. His brother Private Bert Back, met his death on active service, and a token of sympathy was presented to his mother by the residents of the district. The Rev. Hamlyn Harris presided at the function, at which a gold medal and purse of notes was also presented to Private F. E. Back.”

Eva Elsie Back was born on 8^th October 1891 in Maryborough. She married Patrick John Desmond on 8^th December 1917 in Queensland. Patrick had been born in 1891 in Fortitude Valley. He enlisted for service in WW1 on 30^th December 1915 in Brisbane. He was aged 22 years and 10 months, was 5 foot 4 inches tall, weighed 130 pounds, had a chest measurement from 32 to 36 inches and had a fair complexion with grey eyes and fair hair. His religious denomination was Roman Catholic. His eyes were fine, he had 4 vaccination marks on the left arm and a scar over his body (Scald) and a small tattoo on his left arm. He was posted to 10^th Depot Battalion from 30^th December 1915 to 16^th January 1916 and then to 7^th AFA from 16^th to 21^st January 1916. Patrick then deserted with a Court of Enquiry being set up at Rifle Range Camp Enoggera by order of the Camp Commandant 1^st Military District for the purpose of enquiring into alleged illegal absence and illegal absence in kit of Private Desmond Patrick of C Company 10^th Depot Battalion transferred to A Company 34^th Service Battalion. Witnesses were examined and it was established that he and some of his kit were still missing. An arrest warrant was issued on 1^st March 1916. What happened after that is not known, but he appears in the 1921 electoral roll at 618 Leichhardt Street Fortitude Valley as a carter. In the 1934 electoral roll, they were living at 16 Symes Street Fortitude Valley where she was doing home duties and he was a carter. Patrick died on 25^th December 1955. She died on 22^nd July 1966 and is buried in Lutwyche Cemetery in Brisbane with Patrick.

Ethel Daisy Back was born on 18^th July 1895 in Maryborough. On 5^th April 1920 she married Percy Buettel in Queensland. Percy had enlisted in the 9^th Infantry Battalion AIF on 29^th August 1914 as a Signaller in Maryborough. He was a natural born British subject of 19½ years old. His trade was telephonist and his father George lived at Keith Street Maryborough. He was now serving with the Signallers in the 4^th Infantry. Percy was 5 foot 7 inches tall, weighed 130 pounds, has a chest measurement of 31 to 34½ inches and had a dark complexion with brown eyes and hair. His religious denomination was Methodist. There was a scar on the back of his left calf. He embarked on 24^th September 1914 on HMAT Omrah. He landed on Gallipoli on 25^th April 1915. Percy was appointed Lance Corporal on 29^th July 1915. On 25^th September 1915 he had pyrexia, was transferred to Malta on 1^st October 1915 and was sent to England on the 9^th. He re-joined the battalion on 9^th March 1916. Percy was promoted to Corporal on 30^th November 1916 and promoted to Sergeant on 8^th March 1917. He was posted to 4^th Pioneers on 3^rd January 1918 in the field. He was sent to a hospital as sick on 17^th February and re-joined his unit on 4^th March 1918. After being sent to England in October, he was returned to Australia for special leave on 23^rd October 1918. Percy was discharged on 26^th February 1919 in the 1^st Military District. His medals are 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals. He also applied for a Gallipoli Medallion. They were living at William Street Granville in the 1927 Directory. By the 1943 electoral roll they had moved to Cairns and he was a postal assistant. In the museum file for R E Back is a 1948 clothing ration card for P Buettel of 199 Sheridan Street Cairns. They were still there in the 1958 electoral roll with the same occupations. In the 1963 electoral roll they were living at 212 Pallas Street and Percy had no occupation. Percy died on 19^th April 1979 at Fairhaven Retirement Village in Maryborough. Ethel died on 3^rd July 1993. They are buried in Maryborough – Garden of Rest ix Plot 1114.

Teresa Ruby Back was born on 16^th August 1897 in Maryborough. In the 1919 electoral roll she was living at William Street Granville with her parents and was listed as doing home duties. She married Hans Albert Olsen on 18^th June 1927 in Queensland. In the 1977 electoral roll, they were living at 126 Cheapside Street and he was a labourer. Hans died in 1986. Teresa died on 22^nd December 1994 and is buried with Hans at Maryborough – Garden of Rest ix Plot 1722.

Reginald Henry Back was born on 29^th October 1899 in Maryborough. By the 1963 electoral roll, he was living in Brisbane at 66 Granston Street Windsor and was working as a carpenter. The 1963 electoral roll is the first one having him living with Catherine Florence Back, so he may have married later on in life. He died on 16^th May 1985.

The Maryborough Chronicle of 23^rd October 1913 had a long article on a court case. In the case “Thomas Thomas summoned Bertie Back and Ernest Eckhart for trespassing on his enclosed property without lawful excuse.” Herbert said he went to the paddock as Mr Deacon had offered them some money to find his horses. After a lot of discussion by both sides, the judge said “It appeared to him they were being made scapegoats by the man Deacon.” He fined both of them a list of costs or default 48 hours in the Maryborough lock-up.

Herbert filled out his attestation paper to enlist for service abroad with the Australian Imperial Force on 17^th September 1914 with the 15^th Battalion. The 15^th Battalion AIF was raised from late September 1914. Three-quarters of the battalion were recruited as volunteers from Queensland, and the rest from Tasmania. It formed the 4^th Brigade with the 13^th, 14^th and 16^th Battalions and was commanded by Colonel John Monash. The Queensland and Tasmanian recruits were united when the battalion trained together in Victoria. The Maryborough Chronicle of Friday 18^th October 1914 had an article which said that the quota for the Wide Bay and Burnett district for the 2^nd contingent of the AIF was 90 and the response from Maryborough was particularly good, with 21 submitting themselves and 18 passing. One of the list was Herbert Stanley Back of Granville. Their father, Frederick, said “I did my damnest to stop Bert but he was too strong-headed”.

He was originally given the service number 410, but that was changed to 406. He stated he was a natural born 21 year old British subject, born in Granville. For trade or calling, he wrote “Bottler”. He had never been an apprentice, nor was he married. His next of kin was Mrs F Back of Granville, Maryborough Qld. Another form has father Mr F Back, P.O. Granville. Herbert had no conviction or dishonourable discharge, nor had he been previously rejected from service. He took the oath on the same day. Herbert was 21 years old, 5 foot 9½ inches tall, weighed 147 pounds, had a chest measurement of 34 to 36 inches, and had a dark complexion with brown eyes and hair. His religious denomination was Church of England. He had his medical examination on the same day and was fit for active service. On 24^th September 1914 the Commanding Officer of the 15^th Battalion appointed him to the battalion as part of the 4^th Infantry Brigade AIF at Enoggera. Crime CM Form A4 was filled out for a charge against Private H S Back 15^th Battalion on 26^th October 1914 at Enoggera Barracks, with the offence being “neglect of duty” noted by two witnesses. The punishment that was awarded was that he was admonished by the CO of the 15^th Battalion on 27^th October.

On his active service form, 406 Private Herbert Stanley Back was in No 3 Company 15^th Battalion AIF enlisted, his service reckoned from 20^th September 1914 and was for the duration of the war and longer if required. Bert wrote a letter to his sister Eva on 6^th December 1914 at the Broadmeadows Expeditionary Force Encampment on Church of England (Home Mission) Tent stationary. He wrote (with errors): “Just a few lines to let you know I am still in the land of the living & having a good time. Well Eva we arrived safely after a most enjoyable trip. The sienes coming down was beautiful especially the blue mountains they are worth looking at we stopped in Sydney for about 4 hours & marched down the streets & got into Mel on Thursday at 4 oclock & we got a great welcome from the lads it is a fine camp there are 15000 of us hear now from all over Australia & we are leaving any time between the 14^th & 20^th of this month. They want us to get away before Christmas. The worst of it is they wont give us any leave to go ins or Mel & they know if they don’t get us away before Christmas they will have very little hope of keeping us in until after the holidays. We break camp nearly every night & go into Mel it is only 12 miles & we can get in for 6d in the motor cars we got caught the other night & there was 500 of us up before the beat but we got off with a caution. I got a photo taken of all the lads in our tent so I will send you one in a day or two I got a letter Mother of Friday she said Bob is going to Rockhampton for Christmas & taking Ruby with him. The change will do her good but Mel is the place you ought to see it is a bit different to Bris I tell you Eva if you had about 3 months down here it would open your eyes but you want plenty of money we are getting 1 bob a day more since we left Bris & I cant save a penny. Well Eva I think I will close as I want go into Mel after dinner so hoping this finds you well & happy as it leaves me as present. I am as ever Your loving Brother Bert. It is very cold down hear we have to wear our over coats in the day at times. Address Pte H. S. Back No 406 C Company 15 Bat Broadmeadows Mel”.

As part of C Company in the 15^th Battalion, Herbert embarked on HMAT A40 Ceramic on 22^nd December 1914 at Melbourne. The embarkation roll records his service number as 410. He was paid 5 shillings a day. After a brief stop in Albany, Western Australia, the battalion proceeded to Egypt, arriving in early February 1915. When the 4^th Brigade arrived in Egypt, they became part of the New Zealand and Australian Division. He proceeded to join the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force on 12^th April 1915 for Gallipoli, arriving at Mudros harbour at Lemnos and practicing disembarking for the next 10 days. The 4^th Brigade landed at ANZAC late in the afternoon of 25^th April 1915 after disembarking from the Seeang Bee after it anchored at Anzac Cove at 4pm. Most of C Company was taken off the ship at 10am the next morning by the destroyer HMS Usk which was shelled on the way in, but only some sailors were injured. After transferring to pontoons and landing, they moved forward in file up Shrapnel Gully to a point behind Courtney’s Post where Battalion Headquarters was. They moved up and were waiting to advance. After some confusion they advanced only to be told to retire, where they re-grouped and dug in.

Herbert sent a letter to his sister Eva from Heliopolis Camp on 7^th April 1915 which read (as written): – “I received your very welcome letter only a few minutes ago & was very pleased to hear from you. I would sooner get a letter than my pay & I have only had one letter from home since I have been hear & I can tell you I am very disappointed when the mail comes every week & there are none for me. I hope you do as you say write every week even if it is only a few lines it cheers a fellow up a bit. I have been writing home every week since I have been hear hear but Eva this will be the last one as we are going right into the very heaviest of the fighting soon. We leave on Friday night for Alexandria to embark for Constantinople or somewhere near & by what the officers tell us it is going to be one of the biggest undertakings that as ever been attempted as the dardanelles is the biggest fortified place in the world & I can tell you straight out that there will we dam few of us come back my Company & another has been picked to represent the 15 Battalion & I can tell you I am very proud of it & there is one thing Eva if ever I do come back we will have a medal that will be an honour to wear but some of us will never see Australia again & if I am one of them it cant be helped but I intend to do my bit because as you know yourself I would sooner die that bring any disgrace on Mother & dad. I am sending you this little present to remind you of me. I have still got the watch you gave me & will keep it until I die. I sent Mother & the girls a present last week & Mrs Heath &Til also so they will have something to think of me by because I have no idea of ever seeing them again. Well Eva I met Fred & I can tell you we had a good time togeather but he left hear about a month ago & I havn’t heard anything of him since I don’t know where he has gone he is looking well & having a good time but he never writes home. I was always on to him to write but he is just the same as he always was puts everything off & then he never doses it. I have had a good look around Egypt since I have been hear & if I come back I will tell you all about it. I have been out & had a good look around the Pyramidies & the buried City & I went & the the ruined City with Napoleon destroyed you wouldn’t believe it but the place is just as he left it you can even see some of the cannon balls stuck in some of the brick wall it is wonderful & then I went & seen the palace where Moses was picked up in the rushes on the nile & other place which I will be able to tell you better about than I am on paper. Well Eva I will close now as I am on duty all night what ever you do write as often as you can & tell Mother to do the same. I wont be able to write any more now as when we leave hear we wont be allowed to only a card saying I am still alive or dead but it don’t matter much I would rather come back with something to be proud of or I wont come back at all. I will register this parcel so make sure you get it as I didn’t register Mother or Lil as the post office was shut when I sent them. Will say good bye for the last time with love from your loving brother Bert (What ever you do tell my Mother not to worry) xxxxxxxxx” The first page also has written in the top corner “I am enclosing a medal with my number & name of my regiment. I want you to send it to on to dad it will be something for him to think of me with Good bye X”

On 30^th April the Turks launched a fierce attack at a position on Courtney’s Ridge occupied by RMLI. They entered the front line but were driven out by a brilliant counter-charge. Men in a nearby sandbag shelter which was sheltered from Turkish machine gun fire kept up continuous fire on the Turks. As this was so intense, an attacking party was sent to deal with them. The men there were finally compelled to only shoot in turn, as they risked death each time. They were under the command of Sergeant Denis Taylor and included Private H S Back. Bert was credited with 70 hits. C Company was relieved from Quins Post on 5^th May. On 9^th May C Company moved from the trenches to Monash Valley and bivouaced on the side of Popes Hill. An attack from Quinn’s Post was organised with Sergeant Bob Hunter picking most men from Maryborough for his party. They crawled up late at night and then rushed the trench which caused the Turks to flee after a short fight. “Bert Back was shot through the shoulder, but he was quite unwilling to leave the fighting.” On 13^th May 1915, Herbert was wounded in the left shoulder. He was transferred to No 17 Australian General Hospital ex Lutzow with a wound to the left shoulder on that date. A report from the Brigade Major was noted in his service records as being reported missing on Gallipoli on 21^st May 1915. On 6^th June 1915 he was transferred to Mustapha and admitted to the 17^th Australian General Hospital on the 14^th. He was admitted to the Convalescent Hospital there on 23^rd June and returned to duty on 25^th June 1915, re-joining his battalion on 19^th July 1915. Base Records sent his mother a note advising her that he had been wounded and more information would follow when they were notified.

Herbert was appointed Lance Corporal on 20^th July 1915.

From May to August, the 15^th Battalion was heavily involved in establishing and defending the front line of the ANZAC beachhead. In August, the 4^th Brigade attacked Hill 971. The hill was taken at great cost although Turkish reinforcements forced the Australians to withdraw. When C Company was put into the attack, they ran into a barrage of Turkish machine gun fire. Herbert was killed in action on Gallipoli on 8^th August 1915. It was recorded in the Brigade Major’s report on 16^th August.

https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1339322 – is the war diary of the 15^th Battalion.

The form for Field Service, Report of death of a soldier, had entered on it that 406 Private Herbert Stanley Back of 15^th Battalion AIF was killed in action on 8^th August 1915 on the Gallipoli Peninsula. The report was made by the Brigade Major on 16^th August 1915. No details of a will were recorded. The form was signed by Major Cyril T Griffiths OC Australian Records Section on 4^th October 1915 at Alexandria.

A letter written to him, addressed as Private H. S. Back No, 406 C. Company 15 Battalion 4^th Brigade 2^nd Australian Expedition In action Dardanelles Europe” was presumably returned as a Lieutenant had written on it “Killed” and in red pen is someone’s initials and the date 29-2-16.

There are a couple of entries in his records that state there was no personal effects in kit. A copy of his service records were made for war pension on 29^th September 1915.

The Secretary of the General Gordon Lodge No 24 PAFSOA wrote to The Secretary, Department of Defence in Melbourne on 20^th October 1915 saying: “Re Death of H.S. Back. It having come to the knowledge of this lodge, that one of its members (H.S. Beck) has been killed at the Dardanelles. I wrote to Major Pendlebury, Defence Dept Brisbane, asking for Certificate of death – and I am now in receipt of a reply referring me to your Department. My Lodge would therefore esteem it a favour if you would be kind enough to forward me a Certificate of the death of the above H.S. Back in order that certain claims on this Society, may be presented, and amount paid over to the parents of the deceased Soldier by this Lodge. Thanking you in anticipation of same at an early date.” It was received by the Defence Department on 25^th October 1915 and passed on to Base Records who received it on the 26^th. Formal acknowledgement was sent on the same day. It included a paper which stated “No. 410 Private Herbert Stanley Back, 15^th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force. was killed in action Gallipoli 8th August 15. Cable No. M.F.C. 14602, from the Officer Commanding Intermediate Base, dated Alexandria, 3^rd September 1915, and confirmed by Army Form B 104-52.” Also was included a letter from Captain J McLean of Base Records acknowledging their letter and enclosing the certificate of report of his death.

A newspaper article read “The Late Trooper H. S. Back. A memorial service to the late Trooper H. S. Back, who was killed in Gallipoli on 6th September, was held at the Anglican Church, Granville, on Sunday. Sergt-Major Thetford and about 10 soldiers attended as representatives of the military forces. The church was crowded, nearly every family in Granville being represented. The Rev. Hamlyn-Harris conducted the service, and preached an appropriate sermon. Mr. Oxlade officiated at the organ, and played the “Dead March at Saul,” at the end of the service.”

His sister also placed some entries in newspapers under Roll of Honour: – “BACK.- Sacred to the memory of my dear brother, Private H. S. Back, late 15^th Battalion, killed in action at the Dardanelles, 8^th August, 1915. Inserted by his loving sister, Eva E. Desmond.” and “BACK.- In loving memory of my dearly beloved brother, H. S. Back (Bert), Q.M.S., killed in action, Dardanelles, 8^th of August, 1915. “Death found him fighting.” Maryborough papers please copy. Inserted by his loving sister, Eva.” Another entry read: – “BACK.- In loving memory of my dear nephew, H. S. Back (Bert), Q.M.S., killed in action, Dardanelles, 8^th of August, 1915. “He sleeps in a soldier’s grave.” Maryborough papers please copy. Inserted by his loving Auntie Lizzie, Sydney.”

The Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser of Saturday 29^th April 1916 had on page 11

““THE PUBLIC CURATOR ACT OF 1915.” Section 64. In the Estate of HERBERT STANLEY BACK, late of Maryborough, member A.I. Forces, deceased. ALL Creditors and others having claims against this Estate are hereby required to send them, with particulars, on the forms provided, to the Clerk of Petty Sessions at Maryborough, or direct to the Public Curator, Treasury Buildings, Brisbane, on or before the Twenty-first day of June, 1916. Accounts not rendered by the date lined may be rejected. All moneys payable to the above estate may he lodged to the credit of the Public Curator’s account at any Queensland Government Savings Bank, or paid to the Clerk of Petty Sessions Maryborough.”

Also published on Thursday 3^rd August 1916 in page 7 of the same paper was: – “TRANSMISSION BY DEATH. “REAL PROPERTY ACTS OF 1861 and 1877.” NOTlCE is hereby given that application has been made for the Registration of Transmission of Title to the Lands hereafter mentioned. Particulars of such application are given below, and any person desiring to oppose must do so by lodging Caveat on or before the day specified at the Office of the Registrar of Titles in Brisbane. Name of Deceased Proprietor. Herbert Stanley Back, late Granville near Maryborough. Date of Death. — 1915, 8 August. Name of Claimant. — Teresa Ann Back of the same place, wife of Frederick Back, storekeeper. Description and Situation of Land. Subdivisions 16 and 17 of section 8 suburban allotments 66 and 67, country of March, parish of Maryborough. Estate Claimed to be Transmitted.- Fee simple. Particulars of Will or Otherwise. Will dated 19 September, 1914. Date within which Caveat may be Lodged.-1916, 5 September J. MITCHELL, Registrar of Titles. Registrar of Titles’ Office, Brisbane, 29th July, 1916.”

On 9^th August 1920, Base Records in Melbourne wrote to Mrs F Back of Granville, asking her “It is noted that you are registered on the records of the late No. 410 Private H.S. Back, 15^th Battalion, as next of kin/relationship not stated but, it is desired to learn whether the above named has any nearer blood relations than yourself living. If so, I shall be obliged if you will furnish me with their names and addresses in the following order of relationship. Thanking you in anticipation of the favour of an early reply.” The list in order was “Father or Mother or Eldest Brother or Eldest Sister.” She returned it and wrote in the space available “Mrs F Back Mother of late Herbert Stanley Back 406 (not 410) as above 15 Battalion Teresa Ann Back Wife of F Back Aug 16/1920”.

His 1914-15 Star was sent to the Commandant 1^st Military district on 30^th September 1920 and his British War Medal was sent there on 15^th July 1921.

On 3^rd February 1921 the pamphlet Where Australians Rest was sent to his mother.

Frederick Back signed for the Memorial Scroll and King’s Message for Herbert on 5^th August 1921, Base Records receiving the receipt on 11^th August. They had been sent to him on 28^th July. The Memorial Plaque and King’s Message for Herbert was signed for by his father on 1^st April 1922, Base Records receiving the receipt on 10^th April. They had been sent to him on 22^nd March 1922. Frederick Back signed for the Victory Medal for 406 Lance Corporal H S Back 15^th Battalion on 23^rd October 1922 and Base Records received the receipt on 28^th October. It had been sent on 16^th October 1922. The Chronicle on 26^th April 1922 reported on a tribute to the Anzacs with “an impressive service” in the town hall. Church ministers attended and ran the program, including a speech by “Evangelist Anderson” where he talked about the landing and the “Australian nation was born on the slopes of Gallipoli.” He went on to talk about “Mother England” and the “Immortal Anzacs” whose “name became famous in many lands.” He went on to say that justice had been served and about the sacrifice of the multitudes, not just the men, but women as well. A list of men who had died or were killed during the war was then read and included Herbert Stanley Back. “A minute’s silence was observed after which the Benediction was pronounced. “The Last Post,” was sounded by Mr H Crane, and the service concluded.”

On 12^th January 1926 a register order form for Lone Pine Memorial was sent. He is remembered on the Lone Pine Memorial at Gallipoli, Turkey on Panel 45.

A letter from Base Records in Melbourne to Mrs T Back, Post Office Granville, Maryborough Qld, dated 26^th January 1926 said: “With reference to your recent application, it is noted you have remitted the sum of 2/6d. in payment of two copies of the Register of the Lone Pine Memorial, Gallipoli, and I have to point out that the cost of these publications is 3/- per copy. Presumably, it was your intention to apply for two copies of the 1923/4 Annual General Report of the Imperial War Graves Commission which are sold at 1/3d. each, but as these contain no particular reference to your son, the late No.406 L/Corporal H.S. BACK, 15^th Battalion, I should be glad to learn your definite wishes in the matter before taking steps to comply. Meanwhile your remittance is being retained, and an acknowledgement will be forwarded on receipt of your further advice.” On 2^nd February 1926, Teresa Back replied, saying: “Inclosed you will find Postal notes to the value of 3/6 balance due for two copies of the register of the Lone Pine Memorial. I am sorry I made the mistake in Sending the Sum of 2/6- which Please excuse. kindly forward copies at your convenience & oblige”. Some notes recording invoices for the payments were written on the letter and the two registers were posted on 10^th February 1926. The 2 cemetery registers were actually despatched on 12^th February 1926 as recorded in his service records. She also filled out the particulars required for the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Museum but did not add any other details apart from those already known. She also added that Herbert attended East Maryborough State School.

On 6^th March 1968, a form was filled out by Arthur William Back of cnr Alexander and Margaret Streets Park Avenue Rockhampton Qld 4701. Declaring he was the eldest brother to 406 Herbert Stanley Back of the 15^th Battalion, he was applying for his Gallipoli medallion and stating he was the person who should be entitled to it. He signed the form and D C Back witnessed it. The form was returned to Central Army Records Office in Melbourne and they received it on 8^th March 1968. Arthur had previously sent a letter to The Secretary, Department of Army in Canberra asking: “I would like to make an application for an Anzac Badge or Badges that my brother would have received if he had not been killed at Gallipoli. I am the eldest brother in our family and I am the surviving next of kin. I am sending you all the particulars that I can find and hope that this is sufficient for your need. Name : BACK, HERBERT STANLEY Private No. 406 15^th Battalion. Enlisted in September, 1914, trained in Brisbane, sailed for Egypt in December, 1914, completed his training in Egypt and went to Gallipoli. He was wounded on 9^th May, 1915, and sent to hospital. He subsequently returned to Gallipoli in July, 1915 and was killed on 8^th August, 1915.” The letter was received on 26^th February 1968 and passed onto Army Records, who received it on the 29^th.

His name is located at panel 74 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial. Herbert Stanley Back’s name will be projected onto the exterior of the Hall of Memory on:

Wednesday 17^th April 2019 at 2:12am

Sunday 7^th July 2019 at 9:31pm

Friday 4^th October 2019 at 9:34pm

A memento from Burrum Shire to Mrs and Mrs Back for Herbert.

Gallipoli memorial Panel 45

Granville State School memorial

Picture of Herbert. Plaque says Private H S Back. 15^th Battalion Queensland Killed in action Dardanelles 8^th August 1915.

ANZAC Biographies

On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women

whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

With thanks to Kay Youngberry for some information and photos.

Major Charles George GORDON

2^nd Battalion AIF

by Robert Simpson

“Studio portrait of Major (Maj) Charles George Gordon, 2nd Battalion, of Inverell, NSW, formerly of Kingstown, Ireland. A grazier prior to enlisting in May 1914, he embarked from Sydney on board HMAT Suffolk (A23) on 18 October 1914. Maj Gordon was killed in action at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915. He was 45 years of age.” From AWM

Charles George Gordon was born in Kingstown, Dublin, Ireland (now called Dun Laoghaire) on 7^th November 1869. One transcription of Irish birth records has the year as 1868, but as it has the same FHL Film Number of 101176, so with another Irish birth record and all other records showing 1869, it must be a mis-transcription. He was also baptised there. His parents were Robert Green Gordon and Annie Rutherford McCooke who had been married on 20^th January 1868 in Rathdown Ireland. An article in The Belfast Newsletter of 22^nd January 1868 under Marriages reads “Gordon and McCooke – January 20, at Monkstown Church, by the Rev. J. T. Peacock, Robert G Gordon Esq., R.N., H.M.S. Royal George, to Annie Rutherford, daughter of Alex. McCooke, Esq., Monkstown.” Robert had been born on 16^th July 1842 in Leith, Midlothian, Scotland, a son to John Gordon and Elspet Green. John was Customs & Excise Officer at Leith. With his common name, it is not possible to find more on him. He may have died between the 1841 and 1851 census as Elspet is listed as head of the house in the 1851 roll, and in the 1871 census his wife’s occupation is listed as H M Customs (widow). Elspet was baptised in 1799 and died at Charlestown of Aberlour on 12^th May 1880. Probate of her estate of over £3000 was granted in 1880. Robert was appointed Assistant Paymaster with the Royal Navy on 9^th December 1858. In the 1861 census Robert was in the Mediterranean, an 18 year old clerk on the 32 gun HMS Doris. HMS Doris (1857) was a wood screw frigate launched in 1857 and sold in 1885. Robert took a Navy Pension in 1875. He died on 8^th September 1876 at Georgetown, Demerara. Demerara was a county of British Guiana from 1838 to 1966 and is now part of the country of Guyana. Robert was a Plantation Overseer and a note from the Moray Scotland Local Heritage Index says he worked on Highbury Plantation at Berbice and was a brother of George Gordon. George (born 1824) had been Assistant Surgeon in the RN, retired in 1868 and died in 1874. There was also six sisters born between George and Robert. Annie had been born in Ireland about 1851. In the 1901 Wales census, she was listed as a widow, a Lady Superintendent at St Margaret’s Home in Cardiff. After that it is not known what happened to her. They also had a daughter, Elsie Maude Gordon, born 6^th January 1871 in Kingstown, Dublin. She married Doctor Harold Augustus Engelbach (born 1871) on 9^th June 1898 in South Africa. He was a medical doctor (graduating 1895 at Dublin University and was registered on 5^th March 1895 in Ireland). Their address in the 1903 UK Medical Register was Upington, Gordonia, B.B., South Africa. In the 1905 and 1910 Medical Directory Harold was Medical Officer at various places of Correction and was District Surgeon at Cape Town. By the 1920 directory he was with the South African Police as an Inspector of Anatomy. Harold died on 24^th June 1924 in Cape Town and Elsie died on 7^th September 1931 in Cape Town South Africa.

Due to his common name, it is not possible to establish when Charles came to Australia. A Mr C G Gordon departed London on SS Austral, bound for Sydney and arriving there on 27^th June 1889; so this could be a possibility. On 15^th March 1893 he married Janet Mary Evelyn Gunther. Janet had been born in 1869. They married in St John’s Church Parramatta according to the rites and ceremonies of the Church of England. His birth place was listed as Scotland and hers as Parramatta. Charles was listed as a Mining Engineer, aged 24, living at Katoomba and Janet was aged 23, living at Parramatta. His parents were listed as Robert Green Gordon (Paymaster RN) and Annie Rutherford McCook; and her parents were listed as William James Gunther (Clerk in Holy Orders) and Mary Jane Willis, who married on 7^th July 1868. William married them as the Officiating Minister. Janet was the eldest of six children to them. William James W Gunther was born in 1870, Arthur Patteson Theo Gunther was born in 1872, Edith Gwendolen Gunther was born in 1877, Cyril Maynard Gunther was born in 1879 and Norman S Gunther was born in 1883, all in Parramatta.

William has an article in The Australian Dictionary of Biography – http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/gunther-william-james-3680 .

A picture of Janet Mary Evelyn Gunther

Australian Town and Country Journal of Sydney on Saturday 25^th March 1893 in page 34 had under WEDDING FAVORS:

“A very pretty wedding took place in St. John’s Church, Parramatta, on Wednesday, March 15, when Miss Evelyn Günther, oldest daughter of the Ven. Archdeacon Günther, was united to Mr. Charles Gordon, of Katoomba. The church was decorated with ferns and white roses, bridal cups, and anemones, and arches of white roses and waving ferns, while above the communion rails was suspended a horseshoe of maiden hair ferns and white anemones. The ceremony was performed by the bride’s father, assisted by the Rev. Canon Kemmis, uncle to the bride. The church was crowded with spectators till there was scarcely standing room, and there was a very large number of guests present, among whom were the Hon. Edward and Mrs. Knox, Mrs. Griffith, Mrs. and the Misses Shepherd Smith, Mrs. and Miss Bettington, Mr., Mrs. and Miss Budge, Mrs. Acton Dawson, Mr. and Mrs. Bodenham, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Massey, Dr. and Mrs. Harris, Dr. and Mrs. Brown, Mrs. and Miss O’Reilly, Judge and Mrs. Docker, Mr. and Mrs. George Wickham, and Miss Gaden. The bride wore a beautiful dress of plain rich White satin, made empire fashion, with a very long train and large puff sleeves; a Brussels net veil, a spray of jessamine in her hair, and carried a lovely bouquet of white lilies and roses. Her brother, Mr. William Gunther, gave her away. The bridesmaids, Misa Winnie Günther and Miss Knox, wore a combination of salmon pink and pale green, with black hat with trimmings to match. The groomsmen were Mr. Dixon and Mr. Arthur Gunther, and Mr. Arthur Massey presided at the organ. After the ceremony the guests repaired to the parsonage, whore the breakfast was served in a marquee erected in the grounds, and in the dining-room. The young couple, followed by the good wishes of their friends, took the express for Melbourne, where they are to spend their honeymoon before taking possession of their home in Katoomba. There was a very large display of presents, many of which wore both handsome and costly.”

The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate of Parramatta on Saturday 18^th March 1893 in page 4 also had an article on the wedding and noted “Old St. John’s was crammed to suffocation on Wednesday afternoon last, the occasion of the marriage of Miss Gunther, daughter of the incumbent, to Mr. Gordon, an Englishman occupying some position in connection with the mines at Katoomba.” The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser of Saturday 25^th March 1893 on page 632 had the wedding notice: “GORDON— GUNTHER. — March 15, at St. John’s Parramatta, by Ven. Archd. Gunther, assisted by Rev. Canon Kemmis, Charles G. Gordon to Evelyn Gunther.”

Charles and Janet had a son, registered in 1903 in Bingara, New South Wales. Charles Patrick Gordon was baptised at St John’s Parramatta on 30^th January 1904, with a birth date listed as 23^rd September 1903. Charles George and Janet Mary Evelyn Gordon were living at Bingara and Charles was listed as a Gentleman. Charles Patrick was baptised by his Grandfather, W J Gunther. In 1934 he married Margaret G Genge at Burrowa New South Wales. The 1935 electoral roll for 1935 has Charles living at 31 Hugh Street Singleton NSW and he was a Medical Practitioner. The Sydney Morning Herald of Thursday 19^th June 1986 had an entry in Deaths: “GORDON, Charles Patrick. – June 15, 1986. (M.B B.S.), suddenly at home, dearly beloved husband of Rita, father of Bruce, grandfather of David, Malcolm and Neil (deceased). Privately cremated.” Who Rita was is not known.

By the 1930 electoral roll, Janet was living at 259 Walker Street, North Sydney, doing home duties; with Charles Patrick Gordon a student. In the 1931 roll, she was living by herself at the same address. Same for the 1933 record, but in the 1934 roll, she had moved to 235 Walker Street. In the 1935 roll, she had moved to 3 Bennett Street, Neutral Bay and had the same details in the 1936 and 1943 rolls. Janet died on 27^th July 1948 and was listed in Victoria Wills & Probate as a widow. Probate was granted on 28^th June 1949 and showed her resident state was NSW. Her will, number 343529, showed her to be a widow, late of Singleton. In her will it stated she was living at Neutral Bay. She appointed her son, Charles Patrick Gordon as sole executor and trustee. To her daughter in law, Rita Gordon, she left £100, and niece Mary Graeme Gunther she left £50. The rest she left to her son. The will was signed and dated 6^th December 1935. Her estate was over £13000.

Charles was a Councillor and President of the Macintyre shire before the war. He appears in a Graduation List which shows him as Captain on 3^rd August 1908 with the 5^th Light Horse. As Area Officer for 13B, he issued programs and instructions for parades, which appeared in local papers. Charles had been appointed temporary Area Officer from 5^th Light Horse on 1^st November 1910 for the training area of Inverell. Previously, he was with the 4^th Brigade, 13^th Battalion. The Inverell Times in March 1911 had a large article on the inspection of the Inverell Squadron 6^th Australian Light Horse by Captain Logan, a Staff Officer. He made a speech and gave a presentation to Captain Gordon, who had commanded the squadron for about 4 years and talked about his energy, hard work and efficiency with them. He was presented with a compass from the Squadron. The speech continued with some banter, applause and cheers.

In the 1913 electoral roll, they were living in Henderson Street Inverell, Charles listed as a stock and station agent and Janet doing domestic duties. He appears in the Regimental Lists for 1^st January 1914 in the 2^nd Military District, 5^th Light Horse (New England Light Horse, which was allied with King Edward’s Horse) as Area Officer and Captain. They had 3 squadrons; A at Tenterfield, Glen Innes and Guyra, B at Armidale, Tamworth and Manilla and C at Inverell, Moree and Narrabri.

Captain Charles George Gordon filled out his attestation paper for service abroad in the Australian Imperial Force on 22^nd August 1914. He was to serve with B Company 2^nd Battalion. The 2nd Battalion was among the first infantry units raised for the AIF. He was a natural born British subject, born in Kingstown Dublin. Charles was a 44 year-old grazier who was married. His next of kin was Mrs Janet M E Gordon of Inverell. He had no convictions, dishonourable discharges nor been rejected from service. He had served 8 years with the Militia in the New South Wales Highlanders and was Area Officer 13B. The oath was taken at Kensington, Sydney on 30^th August 1914 and signed by Lieutenant-Colonel George Braund, Commanding Officer of the 2^nd Battalion, 1^st Infantry Brigade AIF. His description was aged 44 years and 8 months, height 6 foot 3 inches, weighed 15 stone, had a chest measurement of 40 to 44 inches and had a fair complexion with blue eyes and fair hair. His religious denomination was Presbyterian. Charles had 8 vaccination marks. He passed his medical examination on the 30^th as well. His date of appointment was recorded on his Record of Officers’ Service form as 27^th August 1914 in Gazette No. 66/1914. His application for a commission in the 2^nd Battalion 1^st Infantry Brigade Australian Imperial Force form was signed on 19^th September 1914. It stated his religion was Presbyterian, he had been educated at English Public School (Rothes). His military qualifications and previous military service were stated as 2^nd Lieutenant 12^th February 1906, Lieutenant 30^th April 1907, Captain 3^rd August 1908, appointed Area Officer 1^st November 1910, Regiment 5^th Light Horse (New England Light Horse). His present civil employment was grazier and stock station agent. He was born on 7^th November 1869 and was 44 years and 10 months old. Charles was a married British subject, living at Inverell NSW. His next of kin was Janet M. E. Gordon of Inverell (later changed to 259 Walker Street North Sydney as on a pension slip). Charles was certified by a Medical officer and his physical features were noted as being 6 foot 3 inches tall, chest measurement of 40 to 44 inches, weighed 15 stone and had normal eyesight. His Commanding Officer and District Commandant signed the form, recommending Charles to the Battalion in B Company as Captain.

The Inverell Times of Tuesday 18^th August 1914 on page 2 under the heading Local Volunteers had “Captain C. G. Gordon, Area Officer, received the following wire from headquarters on Friday afternoon: “Take immediate steps to enrol volunteers for the Expeditionary Force. Area medical officers to be instructed to carry out medical inspection. Those passed as fit, to hold themselves in readiness to proceed to Sydney when ordered. In selecting men, half of such must be in their 20th year; then those serving with the colors; the remainder should be trained men who have already served. Preference lo be given to men who have served in the last five years, and who are single.” All intending to enrol should make immediate application, personal if possible, to Captain C. G. Gordon, Orderly Room, Otho-street, Inverell.”

In the North Western Courier (Narrabri) of Friday 28^th August 1914 in page 2 was a story headed “MORE MEN FROM NARRABRI” which read: “Another scene of enthusiasm amid freewell greetings was seen last night on our railway platform, when Captain C. G. Gordon, erstwhile the popular area officer of this district, left by the mail train with nine more men who will join the company to which he has been appointed captain in the overseas force. Captain Gordon arrived here on Tuesday night from Inverell, and recruited all day Wednesday getting 18 applications from men who had passed the doctor.”

The North Western Courier (Narrabri) of Wednesday 2^nd September 1914 in page 4 had: “Presentation to Captain Gordon. Captain Gordon, who returned from Sydney for a few days in connection with the recruiting service, was presented with a handsome silver liquor flask at the Moree station on Thursday last by his brother officers, amongst whom were Major Crane and Lieutenants W. Brown, Crowe, McMillan, Corporal Woollett, Trooper Blake, and a number of Moree cadets were present. Major Crane made the presentation on behalf of the Moree Unit, the flask bearing the Inscription, “To Captain C. G. Gordon, from the members of the C.M.F., Moree, upon his leaving for the front, August 20th, 1914.” He said that feelings of pride and pleasure were felt by the local boys on hearing their Captain had been selected for service. Captain Gordon was taken by surprise by the presentation. He thanked his comrades, but could not adequately express his feelings on the occasion. He knew he was, leaving with the most kindly feeling of officers and men towards him. Were they afforded the opportunity, the boys of Moree would acquit themselves with honor. Three cheers rang out as the Captain left.” Charles left at the Inverell Railway Station with 5 volunteers on 19^th August 1914.

Military Order 531 of 1914 has a list of the Precedence of Officers in the AIF, which includes Captain C G Gordon as 25 in the list of Captains.

Charles embarked on 18^th October 1914 on HMAT Suffolk A23 at Sydney, sailing at 4.30 pm. In the nominal roll, he was listed with B Company 2^nd Infantry Battalion, a 45-year old grazier from Inverell. He was married, with Mrs Janet M E Gordon of Inverell being his next of kin. His religion was Presbyterian, he enlisted on 27^th August 1914 and his previous service was with 5^th Light Horse. Charles was paid 22 shillings 5 pence a day before embarkation and after embarkation, of which 12 shillings 6 pence was allotted to Australia, his net rate was 17 shillings 6 pence and 5 shillings was deferred. They disembarked at Egypt on 18^th December 1914. They trained at the camp at Mena. He was promoted to Major on 1^st January 1915 and appointed Company Commander for A Company 2^nd Battalion on the same day. He was supposed to be in charge of a trip on 1^st February 1915, but it was postponed.

A23 TSS Suffolk in 1914, signed by original Officers – C G Gordon top right.

Officers of the 2nd Battalion, being dismissed after a parade. Identified from left to right are: Major Charles George Gordon (mounted) from Inverell, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915); Lieutenant Thomas Kennedy Westbrook from Randwick, NSW (killed in action in France on 7 May 1917); Captain (Capt) Leslie James Morshead from Ballarat, Victoria (later Lieutenant Colonel); Capt Clifford Russell Richardson from Armidale, NSW (later Major); Lieutenant (Lt) Eric Martin Solling from West Maitland, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915); Lt George Sidney Cook from Baulkham Hills, NSW; Lt Norman Leonard Rex Griffin from Double Bay, NSW; Capt Gordon Townshend Wallack from Sydney, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 19 May 1915); Lt Garnet Wollesly Brown from Ashfield, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli between 6 and 8 August 1915); Lt Harold Pryor Barton from Botany, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 23 May 1915); Lt Harold Leslie Nash from Tamworth, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli between 6 and 9 August 1915); Lt Frederick George Smith from Newcastle, NSW (died of wounds at Gallipoli on 8 May 1915); and Lt John Henry Francis Pain from North Sydney, NSW.

The North Western Courier (Narrabri) on Friday 19^th March 1915 on page 2 had an article titled “MAJOR GORDON. The following has been, received from Major C. G. Gordon. Mena Camp, dated 11^th February: — Still here and working hard on the desert. The Turks’ shooting season unfortunately has not started yet, but we have hopes that it will soon. Am very fit and well. Have lost over a stone in weight, and am as hard as nails – not so much weight for one’s horse to carry – as I march on foot a great deal. J — Moree “Examiner.””

On 25^th March, Charles was one in a list of officers that were recommended for promotion. He was one of two officers selected for training the Reinforcement Battalion on 30^th March.

He embarked to join the MEF at Alexandria on Derfflinger A10 for the Gallipoli Campaign on 5^th April 1915, arriving at Mudros in the morning of the 8^th. There they practiced disembarking and landing on a beach. At the landing at Gallipoli on 25^th April, the 2^nd Battalion was part of the second and third waves to land.

In Charles Bean book “The Story of Anzac” on the landing day, 25^th April 1915, he wrote that the “end of Russell’s Top was “seriously threatened.”” If the Turks took it they would be in the rear of some Battalions, so Major Scobie was instructed to take two companies (including Charles’ company) from the 2^nd Battalion to there. Charles led on immediately after the 1^st Battalion, moving partly through Monash Valley. “Gordon led his company up the head of that valley on to The Nek. He took out his map, settled his position on it, and began to organise his troops for the advance. He was a fine, tall, square-shouldered man and without fear. He was speaking to his men, when he fell shot through the head.” His company attached itself to another group and went over Baby 700, where during the afternoon it was involved in heavy fighting on the crest. They fought over the summit backwards and forwards for 5 times. Charles was one of many officers killed that day.

Charles was buried at the Gallipoli peninsula, it is not known where.

His Army Form B103 Active Service record is only one page, and says Cable 330 on 25^th April 1915 says he was “Killed in Action” at Gallipoli on that date. Another copy of that form says “Confirmed Afb213 on 2^nd May 1915. The last entry on that page says no trace of grave site on 17^th July 1917 at Alexandria.

The Inverell Times of 27^th April 1915 on page 4 had an article on the Macintyre Shire Election, stating “The vacancy in the Macintyre Shire Council, caused by the resignation of Major C. G. Gordon, is exciting keen competition.”

In Evening News (Sydney, NSW) of Wednesday 5^th May 1915 on page 5 under the title “THE HONOR ROLL. N.S.W. OFFICERS. WHO THEY ARE.” Included an entry for Major Gordon. “Major C. G. Gordon was the area officer at Inverell, the district to which he belonged, before he went away. Although he left Australia as an infantry officer, he received all his regimental training, before taking over the area with the Light Horse. He was born in 1869, and in 1906 was appointed second-lieutenant in the 6^th Light Horse, in which he rose to the rank of captain two years later. In 1912 he was transferred to the 5^th (New England) Light Horse, a regiment which is allied with the King Edward’s Horse.” His picture was also included.

The North Western Courier (Narrabri NSW) had an article on 5th May 1915 in page 3 on the “Death of Major Gordon. Word has been received that Major C. G. Gordon has been killed in action at the Dardanelles. Major Sir Charles George Gordon, Baronet, was an Englishman by birth, and after coming to Australia married Miss Gunther, daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, of this state. He had only one son, now Sir Patrick Gordon, about 12 years of age. He came to Inverell about 15 years ago. He was a partner in a diamond mine in the Inverell district, and was a large buyer of diamonds when the mines were in full swing. Afterwards he took up grazing pursuits, which he left to follow up his military work. About eight years ago he accepted a commission as a Lieutenant in the old N.S.W. Mounted Rifles, afterwards becoming Captain in the same Corps. In 1910, at the commencement of the present compulsory service, he accepted the position of area officer for the Area 13 B with the rank of captain, which position he held until his departure with the First Expeditionary Forces. During his term as Area Officer he had occasion to visit Narrabri frequently, and was widely known and respected. The public of Narrabri would remember him by the powerful assistance he rendered at the last Military Sports here, and also by his interesting letters which have appeared in the “Courier” periodically. At the outset of the war he was amongst the first to volunteer his services, and was at once accepted and placed in command of B Coy. 2nd Batt. (Lieu.-Col. Braund) 1st Infantry Brigade (General Bridges). It was in this company that a number of the Narrabri volunteers were posted. After a short period in camp his ability was rewarded by promotion to the rank of major. In civil life Major Sir Charles Gordon held many prominent public positions in his home town, Inverell. The news of his heroic death will bring sorrow to his many friends and admirers throughout the North West, and when full particulars are to hand no doubt it will be found that he died as he would have chosen, leading his men to victory. Narrabri, in common with other towns of the North West will mourn the loss of a good citizen and an officer who was honoured, loved, and respected by the men under his command.”

Sydney Morning Herald of Thursday 6^th May 1915 on page 9 had the following in Personal Notes: “MAJOR GORDON. Major Charles George Gordon was born in 1869. As second lieutenant he was appointed to the 6th Australian Light Horse in 1906, getting promotion to lieutenant the following year. He received his captaincy in 5th (New England) Light Horse in 1912. He was area officer of the Inverell district at the commencement of the war, and his nearest relations reside in that district. MOREE, Wednesday. Profound regret is expressed at the death of Major Gordon, who was so well and favourably known here.” He was also mentioned in The Argus of 6^th May 1915 with a similar article.

Inverell District Honor Board- Inverell is believed to be the first town in NSW to establish a Roll of Honor listing those who took part in the Great War. The Mayor, Ald. J. F. O’Connor, promoted the idea in October 1914. By early January 1915, the Municipal Council had adopted the plan in order to give public recognition to the district’s young men; to also help promote enlistment and to preserve their names for future generations.

The Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW) on Thursday 6^th May 1915 on page 14 had a list under “Further Casualties. New South Wales. Killed in Action.” which included Major C. G. Gordon, Second Battalion, Inverell, N.S.W. The Tamworth Daily Observer of the same day on page 2 had “Major C. G. Gordon, whose death in action at the Dardanelles is reported today, was area officer at Inverell, and also officer commanding the local squadron of Light Horse. He was of Scotch parentage and came out to Australia as a young man, engaging in mining pursuit at Lucknow, near Orange. Later he came to Copeton diamond fields when the boom was on and acted as accountant to the diamond mining company. Ultimately he came to Inverell as stock and station agent, combining that business with military duties. He married a daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, of North Sydney, and is survived by a widow and boy, ten years of age. The late officer held a Scottish baronetcy in his own right, though the fact was not generally known.” The Barrier Miner of Broken Hill also had an article on that day, “Police Inspector Miller stated this afternoon that he was well acquainted with Major G. C. Gordon, who was listed to-day as having been killed in action. Inspector Miller added: “He was the officer commanding the Light Horse Regiment in the Inverell district, which position he resigned to become area officer, with headquarters at Inverell, and which included Moree, Narrabri, and other important places. He was a splendid man in every respect, and there was no one more popular in that part of the country. He was of Scotch birth and of aristocratic descent. In Inverell he took part in all public movements. He was a great, big, handsome fellow 6ft. high, and as gentle and loveable as it was possible for a man to be. I am sure all Inverell will be in deep mourning over his loss.””

A letter from Area Officer 57A to District Headquarters on 7^th May 1915 was referred on to Base Records on the 13^th and stated: “A woman living in this town has brought to me the attached newspaper cuttings claiming to be the widow of the Officer mentioned therein. She states that she & her husband have been separated for 2 years. She asked me to make enquiries in order to ascertain the true facts of the case. I am writing direct in order to save time & would be glad if you would communicate with me on the matter at your convenience.” The newspaper cutting had the heading “Major C. G. GORDON, 2^nd Battalion. Relatives reside at Inverell, N.S.W.” and said “Major C. G. Gordon was a company commander in the 2^nd Battalion. He was formerly an area officer in New South Wales. He had seen active service previously, having fought in the Matabele war and in South Africa. He possessed the Queen’s medal, with five clasps. He was a popular officer, and was noted for his particularly fine physique. Before the war he was attached to the 5^th (New England) Light Horse. He was the son of a British Naval Officer, and was educated at Cheltenham and Edinburgh. He leaves a widow and one child.” No records can establish his pre-WW1 service.

In the Moree Gwydir Examiner and General Advertiser (NSW) of Friday 7^th May 1915 on page 2 in Obituaries was “Major C. G. Gordon, late of Inverell, was the area officer for the 13th regiment, and the Light Horse. He was about 54 years of age, and for a number of years was in charge of the Moree district. The deceased was known throughout the North west for his genial manner and was a universal favorite in Moree and district. When the war wire came through on Wednesday morning the news spread over the town like wild fire and universal regret was expressed. The late Major — (more generally known as Captain) — leaves a widow and one child. At yesterday’s meeting of the Boolooroo Shire Council Cr Jardine referred to the death of Major Gordon, stating that he had been President of the McIntyre Shire Council from the start and took a keen interest in everything that related to Local Government. As an area officer he could not be excelled, as he obtained the confidence of the trainees from the moment they entered the ranks and was on good terms with everyone of the numerous cadets who came under his eye. On the motion of Cr. Jardine a resolution of condolence with the widow was passed.” On the same day in the Inverell Times on page 5 in an article on the Inverell P & C under the title “CONDOLENCE” was: “On the motion of Mr. Maidens, seconded by Mr. Fowler, the secretary was instructed to write a letter of condolence to the parents of Lieutenant Anderson and to the wife and relatives of the late Major C. G. Gordon. The motion was carried in silence, the committee standing.”

In the Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate of Parramatta on Saturday 8^th May 1915 in page 6 was an entry “Major C. G. Gordon, who was killed with so many other Australian officers at the Dardanelles, married at St. John’s, Parramatta, Evelyn, the eldest daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, then incumbent of the parish. They had been living at Inverell, but since he took up active military duties Mrs. Gordon and her son (who is 10 years of age) have been living at North Sydney.”

The Glen Innes Examiner of 10^th May 1915 had a note on the death of Major Gordon and added he “was well known in Glen Innes, having visited here during picnic race and polo carnivals.”

Under the heading “War Notes”, the Richmond River Herald and Northern Districts Advertiser of Tuesday 11^th May 1915 in page 3 had “Major C. G. Gordon, who was killed at the Dardanelles, was an area officer at Newcastle, and a Scottish baronet, though he never assumed the title. He married a daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, of North Sydney, and is survived by a widow and son ten years old.”

The Inverell Times of Friday 28^th May 1915 had on page 2 under “MUNICIPAL COUNCIL.” An entry under “CORRESPONDENCE. Letter from Mrs. E. Gordon, widow of the late Major C. G. Gordon, acknowledging kindness and sympathy of Council in her bereavement. — Received.”

The Singleton Argus (NSW) of Saturday 8^th May 1915 on page 3 had an article titled The Dardanelles – Some of the Killed with an entry “Major Charles George Gordon was 45 years of age, and in command of A Company, 2^nd Battalion (New South Wales). He left Australia as a Captain, but had since received promotion. Prior to leaving for the front he was an area-officer in charge of Inverell. Major Gordon was one of the finest specimens of Australian manhood in the Australian Army. He was well known throughout the Inverell district for his unusual stature and strength, as well as for his daring. He was an area officer, and received promotion in Egypt.”

A note from Alexandria on 17^th June 1915 had Major C G Gordon 2^nd Battalion AIF, as recorded in Cable M.F.A. 330, was killed in action on Gallipoli on 25^th April 1915 with Pay Book not to hand. A handwritten note on the top says “Amended report forwarded to Hdqrs AIF & Secty Dept of Defence 10/5/16”. It originally had 25^th May 1915 as the date killed. His Report of Death of a Soldier to be forwarded to the War Office (Army Form B.2090A.), done on 17^th June 1915, was filled out with the incorrect death date altered and it was signed by Lieutenant F Scougall for O.C. Records Section Australia, for A.A.G. G.H.Q. 3^rd Echelon M.E.F. A letter was also sent to The Secretary, Department of Defence in Melbourne on 24^th July 1916, confirming the correct date of death and sending an amended copy of the army form. A copy of the original form in his service records has “cancelled see amended B2090A”. A copy of that form issued at Alexandria on 10^th May 1916 included that the burial date and place was “not reported” and by whom reported was “not stated”. His will was not yet to hand.

The Richmond River Herald and Northern Districts Advertiser (NSW) of Friday 18^th June 1915 in page 5 had under “War Notes” an entry “Major Gordon, of Inverell, was the first man to land at Gallipoli, though he never reached the shore. He sprang out of the boat, into the water, and was wading to the beach when he was shot down.”

A letter from Peter Bowling in the Orange Leader of 3^rd July 1915 on page 8 said “We were marshalled on the beach with shrapnel simply making the air seem alive with missiles. General Walker said ‘Take off your packs lads, and up you go.’ We went and had not gone far when the bullets got very thick. Men were dropping fast. We got to the top of a hill and found a bit of shelter in a Turkish trench, but the leaden hail was worse than ever. Major Gordon stood up and yelled for us to come on. They were his last words; he fell and laid still. We went on with the bayonet. The Turks would not wait to discuss it. We got into another bit of a trench.”

Major Leslie Morshead wrote to Mrs R Richardson on 19^th July 1915 and the letter was published in the Armidale Express of 3^rd September 1915 saying: “And poor old Major Gordon, C.G. and I were great chums. …. All told, 12 officers were killed and 12 wounded. Things are not the same with us now.”

Jones and Jones Solicitors of Sydney sent The Secretary, Military Defence Department in Melbourne a letter on 15^th July 1915, stating they were “acting for the Executrix of the Will” for Charles and required “a Certificate of Death by the military authorities in duplicate for probate purposes”. They also noted that Charles “was killed in action about the 25^th April 1915 at Gallipoli.” Base Records replied on 20^th July and included two certificates of the death of “Major C.G.Gordon 2^nd Battalion, 1^st Australian Division.” It stated he was “killed in action at the Dardanelles, (No record available) between 25^th and 28^th April 1915.” It referred to “Cable No. M.F.C.1145 from the Officer Commanding, Intermediate Base, dated Alexandria 3^rd May 1915 and confirmed by Army Form B 104-52.”

A copy of Form Z3 in his service record was filled out on 17^th July 1915 in New South Wales and stated that Janet Mary E Gordon of 259 Walker Street North Sydney, widow, was granted £116 per annum from 29^th April 1915 and Chas Patk. Gordon, son, was granted £13 per annum from the same date, by the Deputy Commissioner of Pensions in Sydney.

In a letter published in the Evening News (Sydney) on Monday 19^th July 1915 on page 6 from “Private Alf Isackson, of A Company, 2^nd Battalion, A.I.E.F. writing to Moree from the hospital at Alexandria” added “When the order came to reinforce on the left we were left on our own. To tell the truth, we were led right into hell. When we got the order to return from the left there was only two of us left alive from our platoon. It was terrible to see all my brave mates dead. Major Gordon and all the other officers with us were killed.”

The Sydney Morning Herald of Thursday 12^th August 1915 had on page 7 an article headed “AT THE HOSPITAL.” In the article it went on to say “Another of those who took part in that first day’s landing was Quartermaster-sergeant B. G. Donald, of the 2nd Battalion.” Later on in that paragraph it read: “Poor Major Swannell and Major Gordon were killed close to me in that great charge. I want to tell everyone that our officers were magnificent. They didn’t know the meaning of the word fear, and their men would have followed them anywhere had they asked them. They didn’t get behind the men and drive them like the German officers do the Turks; they led their men always, and made the pace a hot one, too.”

A certificate was also filled out on 2^nd September 1915, headed Australian Imperial Expeditionary Forces, which read “This is to Certify that, according to the records, Major Charles George Gordon, 2^nd Battalion, 1^st Australian Division was killed in action at the Dardanelles, at (No record available) on (No record available) 19 .The official notification of the above is contained in Cable No. M.E.C. 1145 from the Officer Commanding, Intermediate Base, dated Alexandria, 3^rd May, 1915, and confirmed by Army Form B 104-52.” Military Order 279 of 1915 has him listed in Officers killed in action at the Dardanelles as Major C G Gordon 2^nd Battalion, killed 25-28.4.15.

Major Moreshead wrote a letter which was published in the Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser on Friday 3^rd September 1915 in page 4: “Major L. J. Morshead, who was a Lieut. when he enlisted, and a master of the staff of the Armidale School, writes to Mrs. Rsl. Richardson from “The Trenches, Dardanelles,” under date July 18, as follows: I have not heard from Major Richardson. He has forgotten me. I know he is in England, and that his wound is healing well. We thought he had lost his arm, and were greatly delighted when we heard that it was saved. He was a Briton on the landing day, and all are very proud of him. I look forward to the time when I shall be able to congratulate him on his winning the well-deserved honor of the Military Cross, and his promotion to Major. You’ll be surprised to hear that I, too, got my “majority.” We have been twelve weeks in the trenches without a rest. Most battalions have been spelled, but I suppose we’re paying the price of being an efficient and reliable regiment. I don’t mean to infer that other battalions are not up to the mark. Yes, we suffered heavily. The poor old Colonel has gone. The whole regiment continually mourn his loss, and personally I lost a kind and honorable friend. And poor old Major Gordon. C.G. and I were great chums. Concannon went down to it like a man. I wrote to his widow some time before I got your letter. I miss Dave Heugh most of all; he was always so bright and cheery—an optimist of optimists. His was a personality I shall ever remember. All told, twelve officers were killed, and twelve wounded. Things are not the same with us now. It is all so very sad. And yet, Mrs. Richardson, we are by no means downhearted, nor are we despondent. When we move forward we shall repeat our work of those first three days. We have won a great reputation, and are still holding to it. We have a very fine line. General Birdwood says it is the best in the Army Corps. I gave your remembrances to Major Scobie and Captain Stevens, both of whom are with us again, but Wallack and Barton have joined the great majority. I am deeply grateful to you for having my name on the Cathedral prayer list. We know you are all thinking of us, and our hope is that you are not worrying. I am speaking generally, of course. A soldier looks upon death as a very different thing from what the civilian does—it is more a question of passing on. He is a very different person, perhaps not fundamentally from what he was in peace, and it is well that he is. There are no pleasures or joys in war, and there is no romance, but the feeling of doing one’s duty and trying to make good more than compensates.”

The Moree Gwydir Examiner and General Advertiser on Friday 24^th September 1915 had on page 2: “To-night’s meeting at the School of Arts is to be of a special character, as the memorial tablet to the late Major Gordon will be unveiled prior to being erected in the Principal’s room at the Superior Public School. Mr. Zlotkowski, President of the P. and C. Association, at whose instance the tablet was obtained, will deliver an address, and the audience will be asked to stand for a moments silence to show their respect for the dead. Rev. H. G. Whalan will also speak during the evening, and the usual musical programme will be gone through.”

The Armidale Chronicle of Wednesday 13^th October 1915 on page 3 had a section called “From Our Exchanges” and included “Word has been received from the Marquis de Bucy that Major Gordon has been buried in a separate grave at Gallipoli (says the Narrabri “Courier’). This grave is still in the danger zone. Lance-Corporal O’Brien also intimates that Quinn’s Post should have been called Gordon’s Post, as Major Gordon was the first man to reach there, and the first man to fall.”

In the New South Wales Will Books it records his date of death wrongly as 28^th April 1915 and that he was a Military Officer from Katoomba NSW. His will number was 69653. He had written the will on 13^th January 1897, in which he stated he was a Military Officer, late of Inverell and that he left everything to his wife and appointed her executrix. Probate of the will was granted on 26^th July 1915 and stated that it was granted “to Janet Mary Evelyn Gordon of North Sydney the sole Executrix”. “Testator was killed in Action between the 25^th and 28^th April 1915. Estate sworn at £11=18=0”.

Mrs C G Gordon of 259 Walker Street North Sydney wrote a letter to the Minister of Defence on 27^th July 1915, asking if they would facilitate the return of “officers’ personal belongings” as she had heard her husbands’ effects were at Base Store in Alexandria and she would like them to be returned to her. Base Records replied to her on 6^th August, saying they had advised her on 24^th July what was happening. She had written another letter to Base Records on 28^th July 1915 which said “I am writing to ask if you could tell me how Major C G Gordon, 2^nd Battalion, 1^st Infantry brigade, met his death in Gallipoli. I was notified of his death as having…” there the page stops and no other pages are in his service records. Base Records replied to that at that time they only had the cable from Alexandria saying he had been killed and that when they had received official confirming documents stating “date, place, etc.” they would advise her. His personal effects would be taken over by Thomas Cook and Son to send to next of kin or any directions in his will or directions.

On 5^th May 1916, Janet signed a receipt for a consignment from Egypt from Thomas Cook that had been on the Argyllshire for six packages that were the effects of the late Major C G Gordon. Their number and descriptions were 7135 one leather trunk, 7185 one canvas bag, 7190 one valise, 7193 one kit bag, 7208 one valise and 7256 one kit bag. She signed it on 5^th May 1916 as E Gordon.

A list of his possessions was made as shown below.

On 27^th July 1918, the pension of £13 per annum paid to Charles Patrick Gordon was amended to £1 per fortnight and was backdated to 29^th April 1915.

In October 1918, a letter sent to Mrs J M E Gordon Inverell NSW, was then sent to Courthouse Chambers Gunnedah and Victoria Barracks Paddington, before being returned to Secretary of Defence (War Museum) in Melbourne, marked with “unable to trace return to sender”.

Base Records in Melbourne sent Mrs J M E Gordon of Inverell NSW a note on 9^th October 1919, but due to her address change it was redirected, as later written on the note. It said they were sending her his “form of Commission which has been issued by the British War Office covering the appointment of your husband, the late Major C.G. Gordon, 2^nd Battalion, as a temporary Captain in the regular forces of the British Army. This refers to first appointment to Commission, and not to his later rank.” His Form of Commission receipt form was signed by his wife on 12^th December 1919. His 1914-15 Star was issued on 20^th August 1920.

Charles was listed in Ireland, National Roll Of Honour 1914-1921, with his entry showing Charles George Gordon was born in Kingstown, County Dublin (Records) in 1870 and was killed in action on 25th April 1915, aged 45. He was a Major in the 2nd Battalion AIF and is remembered on Lone Pine Memorial wall 16. The record also says under Supplementary information “Son of Robert and Annie Gordon; Husband of Janet M E Gordon. Native of Kingstown, Ireland.” Under Newspapers is “The Irish Times, April 25, 1919. In Memoriam. In proud and loving memory of Major Charles George Gordon (Charlie), Australian Imperial Army, killed in action, at Gallipoli, soon after the terrible landing on the 25th April, 1915.”

Janet filled out the form for the Roll of Honour of Australia in the Memorial War Museum, filling in some of the details. She did not fill in where he went to school, other training, when he came to Australia and any other service. She gave her details as J M E Gordon, widow of 259 Walker Street, North Sydney.

On 25^th February 1921 his British War Medal was sent to the Commandant of the 2^nd Military District. Where the Australians Rest pamphlet was sent to his wife on 3^rd February 1921. The Memorial Scroll and King’s Message for him was sent to his wife on 24^th June 1921 and she signed for them on 7^th July. His Victory Medal was sent to his widow on 21^st July 1922 by registered post and signed for by his wife on the 27^th. Mrs J M E Gordon was sent his Memorial Plaque on 1^st December 1922 and she signed for it on 18^th April 1923 with her mother signing as witness. The register order form for Lone Pine Cemetery was dispatched on 24^th February 1926 and the cemetery register was dispatched on 6^th March 1934.

Inverell WW1 cenotaph- Funds for the memorial were raised after Anzac Day in 1924.

In 1990, the Moree Family History Society wrote to CARO in Melbourne, stating that the RSL there had a plaque to Major Charles George GORDON 2^nd Battalion AIF. It was a timber-mounted brass plaque which said ‘This tablet is erected to the memory of Major Charles G. Gordon Late Area Officer of this District who was killed in action at the landing of the Australian troops at Gallipoli peninsula April 25th 1915’. They wanted to know more about him and what the wording meant and also asked a few other questions. It had been found in the storeroom of a local school. Research they had done also noted he was in the 1910 Gwydir electoral roll with Janet, residing at Beldornie as a grazier. A book on Inverell history, ‘World of Its Own’ by Elizabeth Wiedemann stated “Captain C. G. GORDON had a company of volunteers training regularly under him and some of them were the first to leave with him…. The first Inverell fatalities, including Charles GORDON (promoted to major) third in command of the 2nd Battalion …. died on the day of the landing.’ In their reply, CARO gave information on his birth, wife, civil employment, previous military service, commission in the AIF, embarkation, service, his death, son and medal entitlement.

In a biography on him from the Kurrajong Re-Enactment Committee it mentions that he “had also served during the Boer War in South Africa, receiving the Queen’s Medal with five clasps.” They also record that he “had also served in the Matabele War in South Africa before coming to Australia.” He has not been found in any medal rolls. They also add that his name is on the Inverell Cenotaph and his name is for the first tree planted at the top of the hill in the park beside Glen Innes Road. 215 trees were planted in 1919 to remember those who had died in WW1 from Inverell.

He is listed on the Lone Pine Memorial, final resting place unknown. Name listed on Panel 16 of the Memorial.

His medals are 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals. An ANZAC Commemorative Medallion was also issued, presumably to his son. The museum just has his 1914-15 Star and Memorial Plaque.

ANZAC Biographies

On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women

whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

2^nd Lieutenant Norman James GREIG, CC

7^th Battalion AIF

by Robert Simpson

“Pre-war studio portrait of Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Norman James Greig, 7th Battalion. A resident master at Scotch College prior to enlistment, 2nd Lt Greig embarked with the 3rd Reinforcements from Melbourne on HMAT Runic on 19 February 1915. Whilst serving at Gallipoli he was killed in action on 17 July 1915. Divisional Order 80 read “GALLANT CONDUCT recorded by the Lieutenant General Commanding: – “during an attack on German Officer’s Trench, when covering the retreat of his party, which was safely effected through his gallant action.” For this action he was awarded a Corps Complimentary. It was recorded on 1st August 1915 in his service record. Base Records in Melbourne sent a copy of an extract of the Order to his father on 25th January 1916 and noted in the letter that it was recorded in Australian Military Order 733. Having no known grave, he is commemorated on the Lone Pine Memorial, Gallipoli.” – From AWM.

Norman James Greig was born in Daylesford Victoria on 10^th January 1891, with his birth registered in 1891 under the name Norman James Thomas Greig. It seems that that is the only time Thomas appears in his name; it appears he has two registration forms, both under registration number 2447, one with Thomas listed and one without. His parents were David Greig and Jane Agnes Harper, who had been married in Victoria in 1889. Their marriage was recorded in the Ovens and Murray Advertiser of Beechworth, Victoria on Saturday 21^st December 1889 on page 6: “MARRIAGE. GREIG— HARPER. — On the 28th ult. at Independent Church, Beechworth, by the Rev. W. Currie, of Surrey Hills, David, third son of James Greig, of Albert Park, to Jane Agnes (Jeannie), second daughter of Robt. Harper, of Beechworth.” David may have been born in South Melbourne in 1862, but as he has a common name it has to be confirmed. David was the Bank Manager of the Bank of Victoria in Penshurst, as recorded in Australian electoral rolls from 1905 to 1928. In all they had 7 children. Norman was the first born, then Robert Charles Gordon Greig was born in 1893 in Bendigo, Isobel Florence Greig was born in Bendigo in 1896, Edith Constance Greig was born in 1900 in Terang, Harry Douglas Greig was born there in 1903 and David Lindsay Greig was born in Penshurst on 15^th May 1909.

A couple of articles on them were in Penshurst Free Press on Friday 17^th December 1909 on page 2 under:

“Notes and Comments.

Mr D. Greig, manager of the local branch of the Bank of Victoria, left Penshurst for two or three weeks’ holiday on Wednesday evening. Mr Symons is the relieving officer.”

Also on Friday 29^th July 1910 on page 2

“Personal. — Mr Norman Greig, son of Mr David Greig, manager of the local branch of the Bank of Victoria, has been successful in obtaining a position as resident junior master in Scotch College, Melbourne. This is highly creditable for such a young man, and is a position requiring a considerable amount of learning, tact and integrity. All who know him wish him success.”

The Bank of Victoria building in Penshurst is now heritage listed: https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/23232

The Sydney Morning Herald has an article on Penshurst: https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/penshurst-20040208-gdkqvr.html , and in it refers to walking around the town and “Continue north along Martin St to Cox St. On the south-eastern corner is the former Bank of Victoria (1876) which is now a private residence. To the rear is a weatherboard house dating from c.1860.”

Norman was listed in the 1912, 1913 and 1914 electoral rolls as living at Scotch College, East Melbourne where he was a teacher. Founded in 1851, Scotch College has been educating boys for over 160 years. Notable people who studied there include John Monash. Norman also appeared with the same details in the 1916 electoral roll.

Scotch College Diamond Jubilee badge. From AWM.

The school has a Memorial website – https://www.scotch.vic.edu.au/ww1/indexc.htm and a Honours and Awards website – https://www.scotch.vic.edu.au/ww1/indexh.htm , but Norman is not mentioned in the second.

Isobel married Godfrey William Windsor in 1936 in Victoria. In the 1977 electoral roll, she is listed as Isabel Florence Greig, of 5/245 Burke Road Glenroy and had no occupation. She passed away on 7^th December 1977 in Glen Iris, Victoria. Probate was granted on 31^st March 1978, and her occupation was listed as widow.

Edith Constance Greig was living with her parents in the 1924 electoral roll, doing home duties. She married Henry William Stansfield in 1925 in Victoria. In 1935, Henry, Edith and their daughter Rosemary Sutherland aged 2 left England on Baradine for Melbourne. The record shows him to be a grazier. She died on 17^th September 1988 in Queenscliff Victoria and is buried at Barrabool Hills Cemetery in Geelong in Plot HGH-RG-21-100-2. Probate was granted on 2^nd August 1989 with her occupation listed as widow.

Harry Douglas Greig was living at Wangaratta in the 1931 Sands Directory. In the 1934 electoral roll, he was living at the Bank of New South Wales in Horsham as a bank official. He died on 1^st July 1993 in East Kew. Probate was granted on 16^th November 1993 and showed his occupation as a retired Bank Manager.

David Lindsay Greig married Mabel Annie Williamson (born in 1916 in Victoria) in 1940 in Victoria. In the 1931 and 36 electoral rolls he was living with his parents at 5 Scott Grove Henty and was a Chemist. He served in WW2 as N377810, joining on 10^th March 1942 in Canberra. His next of kin was Mabel. He was discharged on 5^th October 1944 as a Corporal with the Volunteer Defence Corps 21^st Battalion PTD. It appears that at some time they moved to the ACT, possibly before 1942 and after marrying, as by the 1943 roll, they were living at 14 Forrest Lodge, Forrest, and he was a chemist. In the 1949, 1954 and 58 rolls, they were living at 6 Ovens Street Griffith and he was listed as a pharmacist. He died on 22^nd August 1968 (according to a family tree). There is a record for a David Lindsay Greig dying in Australian Capital Territory on 23^rd August 1968 with registration number 20006023, but unfortunately no parents are listed to clarify if it is him (but it is good possibility it is him).

Robert Charles Gordon Greig enlisted in 2^nd Reinforcements 22^nd Battalion on 3^rd May 1915. He was a natural born British subject and he stated he was 21 years on 8^th September 1914 (so his birthday must have been 8/9/1893). Robert was a clerk and gave his Father as next of kin, whose address was originally written as Bank of Victoria Queenscliff and was later changed to Commercial Banking Company of Sydney at Penshurst. Robert had previous service with the 17^th Light Horse for 6 months at Rochester. He enlisted at Rochester and then reported to Sturt Street Depot on the 5^th. His description was age 21 years 8 months, 5 foot 4 inches tall, weighed 138 pounds, had chest measurement of 36½ to 37½ inches and he had fair complexion with blue eyes and light brown hair. Presbyterian was his Religious Denomination. Robert had no vaccination marks and had a mark on his back where he was kicked by a horse. He was given number 1679 and was with AIF Depot from 3^rd May 1915 to 11^th June 1915, the with 2^nd Reinforcements 22^nd Battalion as a Private from 12^th June 1915 to 23^rd August 1915 and a Lance Corporal with 22^nd Battalion from 24^th August 1915 to 28^th October 1916. He was then transferred to 6^th Infantry Machine Gun Company as a Private from 29^th October 1916 to 12^th April 1917, before being promoted to a Lance Corporal. The 1915 and 1916 electoral rolls show he was a clerk at Rochester. He proceeded to join the MEF at Gallipoli on 30^th August 1915. He had dysentery on 28^th September 1915, going from 6^th Field Ambulance to 1^st ACCS to HS Glenart Castle on that day. He was admitted to 21^st General Hospital at Alexandria on 4^th October and was sent to England on Salta on 1^st November 1915. On 25^th July 1916 he embarked for France from Rolleston and joined the 22^nd Battalion on 10^th August 1916. Robert was awarded a Military Medal on 20^th October 1916. Another entry says it was awarded In the Field on 18^th September 1916. He had scabies on 23^rd April 1917, returned to his unit from the hospital on 5^th May before returning to the hospital with trench fever on the 11^th and being discharged to duty on the 16^th. He was killed in action in Belgium on 9^th October 1917. His recommendation for the MM by GOC 6^th Australian Infantry Brigade read: “22^nd Battalion. 1679 L/Cpl Robert Charles Gordon GREIG. For plucky work in charge of Brigade carrying parties by day and night to the front line at POZIERES and MOQUET on the 26^th August 1916. He distinguished himself by his coolness and determination under fire, at times extremely heavy, and succeeded in getting his loads delivered regularly and at the appointed hours, thanks to his excellent example.” It was recorded in the London Gazette of 21^st October 1916. In his service record is a piece of paper which says: Extract from folder of photo of Memorial Cross for 1679 Lance Corporal R C G Greig 6MGC and that the Memorial Cross was erected at Perth China Wall Military Cemetery in plot 5 row M grave 3; yet he is remembered on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial on Panel 31. A record on CWGC shows a list of erected crosses found with no remains and they were re-erected at the above cemetery. There was two names on the cross, the other being 145 Lance Corporal H L Deslands who was killed on the same day as Robert. The map reference where the cross was found was given as H.23.b.3.7. His father was sent a picture of the grave, Memorial Scroll and Plaque (which had surname Grieg and was fixed after being returned) and his medals. His will was held by his father at the bank. Probate for his will was granted on 6^th March 1918 at Penshurst. His medals were Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals.

The Hamilton Spectator in Victoria had on Tuesday 19^th January 1915 on page 4:

“COMMISSION IN AUSTRALIAN FORCE

Lieutenant Norman J. Grieg, son of Mr. David Grieg, manager of the Bank of Victoria at Penshurst, has been successful in obtaining a commission in the 3rd battalion infantry reinforcements, now in camp at Broadmeadows and will sail with the next Australian contingent. Lieutenant Grieg was until recently a master at the Scotch College, Melbourne, which position he relinquished to join the colours. He is a well-known athlete, being a first-class tennis and hockey player, a member of the University team, and has figured for several years past in intercolonial contests on behalf of this State.”

In his Application for a Commission in the Australian Imperial Force, Norman James Greig stated his educational qualifications were 1^st year Arts and Education and he passed Junior and Senior Public Schools. He had 10 years with Senior Cadets 64^th Infantry for previous Military Service. He had qualified at a competitive examination for first appointment as 2^nd Lieutenant on November 1912. His present civilian employment was Resident Master at Scotch College. He was born 10^th January 1891, was a British Subject, was single and his religion was Presbyterian. His postal address was Scotch College East Melbourne and his next of kin was his father, David Greig, Bank of Victoria Penshurst. The medical certificate showed he was 5 foot 8½ inches tall, had a chest measurement of 35 inches, weighed 11 stone and had normal eyesight in both eyes. He was appointed as 2^nd Lieutenant on 16^th January 1915. Norman embarked with the 3^rd Reinforcements of the 7^th Battalion at Melbourne on HMAT A54 Runic on 19^th February 1915. The 7^th Battalion had been raised in Victoria by Lieutenant-Colonel H. E. “Pompey” Elliott. In the embarkation roll he was listed as a 24-year old 2^nd Lieutenant. No occupation was listed and he was single. David Greig, father, of Bank of Victoria Penshurst was his next of kin. He was serving with the 64^th Infantry AMF when he enlisted. His pay was 15 shillings a day.

Norman joined the 7^th Battalion at Gallipoli on 8^th May 1915. He was one of two officers as reinforcements on that day. Ten days after they landed on Gallipoli on 25^th April, the 2^nd Brigade (which included the 7^th Battalion) was transferred to Cape Helles to help in the attack on Krithia. While there they captured little ground, but the Brigade lost a third of its’ strength. Returning to ANZAC on 16^th and 17^th May, they helped in defending the beachhead. Their war diary on 25^th May noted the sinking of the Triumph and that it rained hard in the afternoon. On the 29^th, they were involved in sapping and some men who were experienced miners were on duty at Courtney’s Post. In June they had training and work parties as usual. They were camped on the left side of Razor Back Ridge. On the 11^th, they moved to Walker’s Road opposite Braund’s Hill. In early July they relieved the 8^th Battalion in the trenches. The Turks shelled them on the 3^rd, but no casualties. On 4^th July they blew in an enemy sap opening from German Officers Trench. This resulted in heavy enemy fire for about 20 minutes. On the 5^th they repaired damage to the trenches and the next day they rifled enemy loopholes vigorously, which resulted in the Turks bombarding them, so they had to repair trenches that night. The next couple of days was more of the same. On the 9^th they ascertained that the Turks were trying to enter the gap that had been blown in their works. The area was bombarded by the Australians on the 9^th and the Turks were still in the end of the trench. A sandbag parapet was done 20 feet from the tunnel end and the engineers started protective saps. On the 10^th, an explosive charge was placed beyond the barricade in the tunnel and fired. A party followed and cleared out the crater and formed a new barricade. There was no sign of the Turks, but voices were heard during the night. The Turks shelled the area but to no effect. On the 11^th a Turkish attack there was repulsed. An attempt to blow up the Turks sap head opposite D21, but the gun cotton burnt away instead of exploding. On the 12^th, the war diary has a note that 2^nd Lieutenant Greig was missing (originally written in with wounded officers, but then crossed out).

His father wrote to Base Records on 20^th June 1915 from Bank of Victoria Penshurst, saying “I have a Son at present fighting on the Dardanelles – could you tell me if the address – 3^rd Reinforcements 7^th Battalion Australian Imperial Force Egypt. The address I have been using while he was in Egypt, would be sufficient & would letters be forwarded if possible.” Their reply on 25^th June 1915 noted his address should be “2^nd Lieutenant N. J. Greig, 7^th Battalion, 3^rd Reinforcements, 2^nd Infantry Brigade, 1^st Australian Division, Alexandria, Egypt.”

On 10-12^th July 1915, he was listed as missing (also recorded as 11-13^th). His service records show some confusion as to what happened to him, one record stating he was killed in action and the next stating the Battalion did not confirm that report but stated he was missing. It was being investigated and a reply was urgently needed. The next entries in December 1915 stated he was missing on 12/7/15, cannot confirmed killed and the missing report was confirmed.

Military Order 733 of 1915 read “Army Corps Routine Order, dated 28^th July, 1915. The Lieut.-General Commanding has great pleasure in recording the gallant conduct of the undermentioned officers and N.C.O.’s: – “, and the list included “2^nd Lieut. N. J. Greig 7^th Battalion, A.I.F. Who was killed during an attack on German officers’ trench when covering the retreat of his party, which was safely effected through his gallant action.”

Divisional Order 80 read “GALLANT CONDUCT recorded by the Lieutenant General Commanding: – “Was KILLED during an attack on German Officers trench, when covering the retreat of his party, which was safely effected through his gallant action.”” It was recorded on 1^st August 1915 in his service record. Base Records in Melbourne sent a copy of an extract of the Order to his father on 25^th January 1916 and noted in the letter that it was recorded in Australian Military Order 733 as above.

He was mentioned in Daily Order No 93 as killed but now reported missing in an Army Order in 1915. Another said “No definite information of death is available.” In December 1915, notes were sent saying “Missing cannot confirm KILLED” and “Your Part 2 Order No 82 dated 29-7-15 para 282 shews 2/Lieut Greig 7^th Battn Killed in Action Battn does not confirm this report but say MISSING Investigate reply urgently.” The missing report was confirmed. An entry in his service record on 25^th September 1917 showed that the proceedings and findings of Court of Inquiry held at Rouen France on 3^rd to 5^th September 1917 determined he was killed in action at Gallipoli on or about 12^th July 1915 and they were confirmed by Lieutenant-General W E Birdwood on 23^rd September 1917.

Norman died on 12^th July 1915, as reported in an army order in 1917 that he was killed in action on or about that date. A Court of Enquiry in September 1917 had determined this and it was confirmed by Lieutenant-General Birdwood. His service record originally had written that he was Mentioned in Despatches, with the last word crossed out and Divisional Orders written.

A from sent by Major Lean of Base Records to Mr D Greig of Bank of Victoria Penshurst advised him that no further official news had been received on his son who was reported missing on 12^th July 1915. He asked if he would mind adding a statement to the letter if he had received any news on Norman from any other source or post cards from him, or any letter detailing his death or being a POW, could they be sent to Base Records. The reply by his father, signed and dated on 25^th July 1917, was received by Base Records on 27^th July and said: “re 2^nd Lieut. N.J.Greig, 7^th Battalion. Having reference to your enquiries re the above soldier, I have to state :- (1) That I have not obtained any news of my son from any source since he became missing. (2) I have made enquiries from various sources, his soldier comrades and others, and nothing was known of him after that date 12^th July 1915 upon which he became missing. The last news of him was, that after having made with is son an attack on the German Officers Trench at Gallipoli, he was last seen alive covering the retreat of his men and firing his revolver at the Turks to keep them back. (3) The last letter we had from him was dated 7^th July 1915 and we have had no communication with him since. (4) I have communicated by cable with the American Consul at Constantinople asking him to make enquiries as to whether he was a prisoner amongst the Turks and the reply received was that nothing was known of him. (5) The Defence Department after making enquiries could not confirm his death and I would be glad if you would make further enquiries as to whether he may or not be a prisoner of War.”

The AIF Kit Store in London sent David some of Norman’s effects that had been sent to them from Egypt on 15^th December 1916, which was one black kit bag (sealed); the contents of which were: a Sam Browne belt, 2 pairs of underpants, a body belt, a polishing cloth, a towel, 1 pair of socks, a tie, a military book and 2 photos in a wallet. It was sent on the Beltana. He was also sent Norman’s sword and scabbard which had come “Ex. K.B. 16/3/17”. His trunk was sent in July 1917 on Port Sydney and the contents are listed below.

The inventory of effects of “Lieutenant Greig N.J. 7^th Battalion, A.I.F. of one valise despatched on 20^th August 1917 was: “1 Brown bag containing Blankets, Pr Razors in case, 1 Revolver& Holster, 1 Binocular case (Empty), 1 Pr Boots, 1 Tobacco pouch, 1 Note Book cover, 1 Pr Riding Breeches, 1 Pyjama Suit, 1 Short, 2 Face Cloths, 1 Pr Drawers, Singlet, 1 Housewife, 2 Prs Socks, 4 Handk’fs, 1 Testament. 1 Wrist watch strap, 1 Muffler, 1 Tie, 1 Pr Mittens, 1 Cap cover, 1 White bag containing Brushes, Cigarette case & Stars, 1 Sheepskin jacket in Pillow.” It was sent from Australian Depot Stores at Ghezireh on Boorara.

A package of Norman’s effects from Base Records was signed by David on 14^th June and another on 18^th July 1917. His father signed for an effects package that had been sent by Port Sydney on 8^th September 1917. Another package, ex Boorara, was signed by him on 16^th October 1917. A letter was also sent out by Base Records on 19^th June, 16^th July, 3^rd September and 13^th October, advising David the parcel was coming and when received the attached receipt was to be signed and returned. The last one also interestingly stated “Should these not come to hand in a reasonable time …. allowances being made for the present strike conditions …”, suggesting the postmen had some issues at that time.

The Australian Red Cross Society has a file on him which includes a statement from 1529 Private Cottler of the 7^th Battalion, who it is recorded as having said “that Lieut. Greig called for volunteers to charge an enemy trench and out of 14 only 2 came back.” He also said “that it was officially given out, when he was in Gallipoli” that he “was killed while gallantly trying to save two of his men during a charge.” The statement was given at Gezirah Hospital at Cairo, mid-1915. Another statement by 576 Private N Leach of 7^th Battalion while in 1^st AGH at Heliopolis and stated he knew of the attack, gave details of it and that 3 or 4 bodies were brought back afterwards, including Lieutenant Greig. He added that Norman “was a reinforcement Officer and exceedingly well liked.” Another witness at a Heliopolis hospital said that other men had seen his body on the enemy parapet by periscope and gave a description of Norman. A couple of Lieutenants from the 7^th Battalion in hospital recalled the attack and said that he had “not been seen since, but no one saw him shot, so he may be still alive.” Private Sinden agreed with the Lieutenants that 20 men went out and only some returned. The last two records state that missing had been changed to KIA 12.7.15.

Army Form B 2090A (report of a death of an officer) was filled out for 2^nd Lieutenant N J Greig 7^th Battalion AIF, reported by GOC AIF that he died on or about 12^th July 1915 at Gallipoli Peninsula Turkey with the cause of death being killed in action and his burial place was unknown. A will was not received. It was signed on 30^th October 1917 at Alexandria.

The Warrnambool Standard on Saturday 17^th November 1917 on page 9 had:

“HEROES AT THE FRONT. CORPORAL GORDON GREIG. Intense regret will be expressed by the many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Greig of Penshurst, at the announcement that their second son, Corporal Gordon Greig, was killed in action in France on 9th October. This additional blow follows closely on the receipt of the news a few weeks since that their eldest son, Lieut. Norman James Greig had been killed in action in Gallipoli on 12th July, 1915, having previously been posted as missing and a wave of sincerest sympathy will go out towards the sadly bereaved parents in their hour of poignant sorrow. Gordon was formerly a student at the Warrnambool Agricultural High School. On leaving that institution he went to Dookie College, where he won gratifying distinction and after wards he entered the Engineering and Surveying Department of the State. When “the call” came he heard it, and responded in that brave and self-sacrificing spirit which has entwined the laurel wreath of chivalry around the rows of tens of thousands of Australia’s noblest sons. He was one of the dauntless heroes who fought through Gallipoli, and also took part in the historic fights of Pozieres, Bapaume, Bullecourt and elsewhere. He therefore saw much strenuous service, and whilst in France was mentioned in despatches and decorated with the Military Medal for bravery in the field. Paying the supreme sacrifice at the youthful age of 24, he was of a particularly fine and upright character, and of him it may be truly said – “Those who knew him best, loved him most.” He has now joined his gallant brother and although no longer visible to mortal ken, he still lives, and will continue to live for years, in the memory of an admiring circle of friends who held him in the highest esteem.”

Their parents entered a family notice in the Age on Saturday 17^th November 1917 on page 8 under the In Memoriam section: “The Anzac Heroes. GREIG. — on the 12th July, 1915 at Gallipoli in action (previously reported missing). Lieut. Norman James Greig, A.I.F. much loved eldest son of David and J. A. Greig, Bank of Victoria Ltd., Penshurst, in his 25^th year, late master at Scotch College, Melbourne; also Lance-Corporal Robert Charles Gordon Greig, Machine Gun Company, killed in action on 9^th October, late of State Rivers and Water Supply department, Rochester, second dearly loved son of above, aged 24 years. Two Anzac brothers now reunited. Our brave boys.”

Base Records sent to Mr D Greig, Bank of Victoria, Penshurst a note on 12^th February 1918 stating “In accordance with your personal request herewith please receive a certificate of report of death of your son, the late 2^nd Lieut. N. J. Greig, 7^th Battn.” The report stated Norman was killed in action on Gallipoli on or around 12^th July 1915 and it was confirmed by various military references. On the request form, David also put an alternate address of “Egremont” Tennyson Street Sandringham.

On 22^nd October 1918, Base Records sent a reply back to the Secretary of Finance about “the late 2^nd Lieut. N. J. Greig, 7^th Battalion, (reported killed in action on or about 12/7/15, previously posted as missing). Appended is a copy of this office memorandum to you of 17^th instant :- With reference to your telephone enquiry as to what evidence is held here in connection with the report of death of the abovenamed Officer, I have to state this was the finding of a Court of Inquiry, the proceedings of which are held here, and show that before arriving at its decision that Court had in view the following circumstances, which apply generally. 1. The number of men whose bodies were so mutilated by enemy shells as to be quite unrecognisable. 2. The number of bodies which were still lying in no man’s land as the time of the evacuation, still unidentified. 3. The fact that the latest information received of the different soldiers mentioned is dated just prior to the date of important engagements on Gallipoli. Evidence deduced by the Court shows that there is no report in any Hospital in Egypt, Mediterranean or England, and that his name did not appear on any Prisoner of War List received.”

Norman is remembered on Lone Pine Memorial on Panel 27 at Gallipoli, Canakkale, Turkey as his final resting place is unknown. CWGC has “Son of David and Jane Agnes Greig, of Penshurst, Victoria, Australia. Native of Daylesford.” They also add he was “Mentioned in Despatches”. His name is at the bottom right of the picture but has weathered a bit in the 2^nd picture.

Probate on his will was granted on 6^th March 1918, as was his brother’s. Norman was listed in the index as a Lieutenant AIF from East Melbourne, and Robert as a Soldier from Penshurst. In the will of Robert, it stated he was an assistant engineer, he had no real estate and his personal estate was valued at over £331. Norman was a Resident Master and died intestate with the estate being granted to his father. His estate was over £413 with no real estate. It was stated he had no debts. A notice had been placed in the newspaper by his father asking for any debtors to contact him on 13^th February 1918.

On 19^th November 1919, R Drinkley, Bank Manager at Penshurst, signed the receipt for the Commission Form of the late 2^nd Lieutenant N J Greig 7^th Battalion on behalf of his father. The form had been issued by the British War Office covering the appointment of Norman as a temporary 2^nd Lieutenant in the regular forces of the British Army and passed on by Base Records on 7^th October 1919. On 8^th December 1919, a circular and book re graves was sent out.

Base Records wrote a reply back to Mr David Greig Esq. The Bank of Victoria, Penshurst on 16^th May 1921, saying “With reference to your communication of the 9^th May relative to the graves of your sons, the late 2^nd Lieutenant N. J. Greig, 7^th Battalion, and the late No. 1679 Lance-Corporal R.C.G. Greig, M.M., 6^th Machine Gun Company, it is regretted no burial report has been received in connection with the former soldier. An intensive search is, however, now being made over all battlefields with a view to locating unregistered graves and should the grave of the late 2^nd Lieut. N.J. Greig be discovered, you would be notified through this office. The grave would be photographed and three copies transmitted to you.”

On 9^th May 1921, David wrote to Base Records thanking them for the photo of the grave of Robert and asking if he could have a photo and grave location of Norman as well. He discussed that Charles Bean had mentioned a Turkish Officer telling him about Norman’s death. Their reply on 17^th May stated “With reference to your communication of the 9^th May relative to the graves of your sons, the late 2^nd Lieutenant N. J. Greig, 7^th Battalion, and the late No. 1679 Lance-Corporal R.C.G. Greig, M.M., 6^th Machine Gun Company, it is regretted no burial report has been received in connection with the former soldier. An intensive search is, however, now being made over all battlefields with a view to locating unregistered graves and should the grave of the late 2^nd Lieut. N.J. Greig be discovered, you would be notified through this office. The grave would be photographed and three copies transmitted to you.” “Where The Australians Rest” was sent on 21^st July 1921. His 1914-15 Star was issued, his British War Medal was issued on 15^th July 1921and his Victory Medal was issued on 13^th October 1922 to his Father. His Memorial Scroll was sent to David on 28^th July 1921.

His father signed for his Memorial Plaque on 9^th December 1922 (it was sent on the 6^th) and on the return slip wrote: “The Memorial plaque is beautiful and much appreciated.” He had previously signed for Norman’s Victory medal on 18^th October 1922 and Memorial Scroll on 3^rd August 1921.

From “The official history of Australia in the War of 1914-1918 Volume II The Story of ANZAC” by C E W Bean.

In the book “History of Scotch College 1851-1925” in the section on War Services on pages 285-6 is an entry on Norman: – “On July 12, an ex-master, Lieut. N. J. Greig volunteered to lead a raid on a crater near the famous German Officers’ Trench. The party reached its objective and killed the Turks holding it, but found to their surprise that the crater gave no cover on the Turkish side, opening directly into the Turkish front trench. They were promptly bombed by the Turks, and reinforcements coming over were subjected to heavy fire. Lieut. Greig ordered his party to withdraw through a tunnel opening in the crater, and, although wounded, stood covering their retreat with his revolver. The Turkish commander, who admired Greig’s gallantry and fine appearance, desired to take him prisoner, but on Greig’s persistently refusing to surrender, he was killed by a bomb. It is reported that the Turks buried him with far more reverence than was usually shown to their dead enemies.” He is also mentioned in the list of servicemen on page cxxxi as: – “GREIG, NORMAN JAMES – Enl 16-1-15; Age 24; Emb 19-2-15’ 2^nd Lieut 2^nd Bn Rfts’ 7^th Bn, Gallipoli, 8-5-15; K 12-7-15.” His picture is also included in the book.

Norman is also mentioned in the University of Melbourne Record of Active Service, with is picture and description: – “GREIG, NORMAN JAMES. 1912. W.C. and S.C.; 1^st year Education; Lieut. Senior Cadets; Re Master at Wangaratta G.S. and S.C.; interstate hockey team. 16.1.15 2 Lt. 7^th Btn.; sailed 19.2.156; trained troops in Egypt Gallipoli with first rfts. Despatches. (an error) Killed in action in German Officer’s trench, Gallipoli, on 12^th July 1915. He led a body of men into a crater, and died, revolver in hand, covering the retreat of his men, who he had ordered to retire. (See Aust. War History, Vol. II., C. Xi. P. 340.”

The AWM has a record of Norman which is described as “Collection relating to service of 2nd Lieutenant Norman James Greig, 7 Battalion AIF, Gallipoli. Collection consists of a copy of a letter written by C E W Bean to the father of 2nd Lieutenant Norman James Greig describing the details of Greig’s death on Gallipoli.” It is under Accession Number DRL/0321. They also did a Last Post Ceremony commemorating his service at – https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2278631 . His brother was also remembered – https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2278632 .

The 1^st May 1932 edition of ‘Reveille’ under the heading No Surrender: Brave Officer was this story about “Lieut. Norman James Greig, of the 7^th Bn., A.I.F., was killed in the attack on German Officers’ Trench, Gallipoli, on July 12, 1915. Born at Daylesford, Victoria, he was at the time of enlistment a resident teacher at Scotch College, Melbourne. In this article, the main features of which had been previously published under his name in the Melbourne “Age,” Mr. Chas. Smith, of the 14^th Bn, A.I.F., in taking the death of Lieut. Greig as his theme, says: “as the years roll on and the ranks of the Anzacs thin, time will never dim the memories of heroic deeds and spirit of self sacrifice which characterised the operations at Gallipoli.” In July, 1915, the 7^th Bn. Were holding Steele’s Post, and less than a hundred yards in front was a post known as German Officers’ Trench. During the attack on German Officers’ Trench, Lt.-Col. H. E. Elliott (lately deceased) called for volunteers, and Lieut. Greig, a new arrival at Anzac, offered to lead the party, which consisted of eleven other volunteers. Their way lead through a tunnel and crater, and, although the attack took place in broad daylight, a certain amount of confusion was inevitable. Two of the party were killed and all the rest wounded- some, it is thought, by our own men from distant positions, who were unaware of the nature of the attack. “Greig therefore sent his men back along the broken-down tunnel,” wrote Dr. Bean. “The rearmost of them, on reaching safety, reported that he had last seen his officer standing at the tunnel mouth, revolver in hand, his head bleeding, holding back the Turks while his men retired. Among the enemy who faced this gallant youngster, though he could not have known it, was the commander of German Officers’ (Zeki Bey). It was Zeki Bey who made the following statement to Dr. Bean while they were inspecting the site of the attack together in 1919: – “I wonder whether you would know anything about a young officer who was killed in my trenches during the early part of the campaign? He was a handsome, fair-haired, square-shouldered boy and a very gallant officer. It was during a raid that was made upon out trenches that I happened to come across him. “The circumstances were that during the morning and afternoon your howitzers had been bombarding our trenches, and our observers reported that they had seen men with fixed bayonets walking through the Australian lines. Several indications made us expect an attack. Matters were quiet, however, and was sitting in my headquarters close to the back of the trenches when I received a ring on the telephone from the commander of the army corps, or rather, his A.D.C., saying: – ‘The English are getting into your trenches, major. What are you going to do about it?’ “I told him that it was impossible that his could be the case, as I had received only a few moments before repots from the front line that everything was quiet. However, he repeated the message, so I decided to go and see for myself, and, running into the fire trench, found that there was a scuffle going on with bombs and rifle shots on the spot. “Some weeks before this, the Australians had blown a mine underneath our front trench, breaking down the whole forward side of it. We had been unable to build the trench up, but had filled in the edge of the crater with barbed wire. I came straight to this point, and a young officer of my own who was there grabbed me aside and said: ‘This is no place for you,’ but it was necessary for me to see for myself what was happening. “Some of your men seemed to have got into our trench, or into the crater, and they would have got further if it had not been for the coolness of this young Turkish officer, who collected the men behind the traverse and kept up a bomb fight and rifle fire from there. The senior officer in command of the front line had failed to rise to the occasion altogether. “As I came opposite the crater I saw there was activity there, and rushing up, I found facing me, at the far side of the crater, a young Anglo-Saxon officer. He was a splendid-looking boy, and was leaning with his back to the crater and his revolver in his hand facing some of our men. “I shouted at once: ‘Don’t kill that officer – take him prisoner.’ Our men turned to me and said: ‘He refuses to surrender, major. We have tried to catch him.’ At that moment the boy sank back and fell at the bottom of the crater. We went out and picked him up, and I found that his leg had been broken by a bomb. “He was dying at the time I first saw him, and he could have lived only a few minutes after. He was carried away to the rear of our trenches, and I wish that I could tell you where his grave was, for he was certainly buried by my people, but at the time things were so critical in the front line that I had no time to ascertain his grave myself, and I fear that it cannot now be identified, but I have always wanted to ask somebody on your side as soon as I met them who that officer was, because his gallantry and appearance made such a great impression on me.” And for such the name of Anzac is sacred.”

The Australian War Memorial has a file “David Greig, Penshurst, Victoria, Photos offered by Mr Bean concerning Lieutenant Norman Greig” which is also listed at NAA.

His medals are 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals.

The book: First Hundred Years: Scotch College, Melbourne, 1851-1951 – mentions the stained-glass windows and record of those who died in WW1 in the Memorial Hall. The hall contains a series of stained-glass windows which were commissioned as a tribute to those who died in the war. The Foundation Stone of the Memorial Hall development was laid on 5^th March 1920 by Lieutenant-General Sir John Monash, GCMG, KCB, VD, MCE, using a very special commemorative trowel.

From AWM: “This work was commissioned from the artist for 250 pounds. The subject is the death of Lieutenant N J Greig of the 7th Battalion who was killed on 12 July 1915 at Gallipoli. CEW Bean suggested the story of Greig’s death as a possible subject for Crozier to paint. Summary of the event: “Lieutenant Greig and a small party of volunteers were to seize an old mine crater close to a major Turkish position on Gallipoli, known as German Officers Trench, and to demolish any Turkish defences between there and the crater of a recently exploded mine. It was known, however, that the new explosion had blown away the front wall of the trench, which now opened into the crater, except for a hastily erected barbed-wire grille. The small enterprise therefore constituted an attack on the German Officers trench. With every man, including himself, wounded, Greig sent the survivors to the rear, covering them with his revolver. His action was seen by the Turkish commandant, who ordered: Don’t kill that man; we want to capture him!’ His troops replied: ‘He will not allow himself to be taken!’ The next instant Greig was killed by a bomb.””

Some of his records and stories of him as recorded above (including picture above) have his rank as Lieutenant, which is incorrect, he never attained that rank and was a 2nd Lieutenant.

From the book “In Memory and Mourning Menin Gate North by Paul Chapman” are the following pages on the brothers.

The museum just has his Memorial Plaque.

ANZAC Biographies

On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women

whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

QX34877 Major Noel Robert Vary

47^th Battalion

By Robert Simpson

Noel Robert Vary was born on 15^th July 1921, a son to Robert John Vary and Florence Willday. Robert had married Florence in Queensland on 30^th March 1920. Florence had been born on 12^th July 1897 in Queensland and Robert had been born 14^th May 1897 in Maryborough. His parents, William Vary (1858-1911) and Elizabeth Agnes Bailey (1859-1943) had been born in the UK and had migrated to Queensland separately in the late 1800’s and married on 21^st September 1884. They had 8 children in all. William, a Scotsman, was an engineer and they lived in Maryborough in Saltwater Creek Road. Unfortunately, he passed away on 18^th November 1911 and buried in the Maryborough cemetery in A394. His death notice was published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle on 17^th November 1911 and his funeral the next day. Maryborough cemetery records show his denomination was Independent and he died in St Marys Hospital of anaemia from an operation on a hernia. He was buried by Reverend Leeder on 18^th November 1911 in A394 in the Maryborough cemetery. J Ammenhauser was the undertaker. Elizabeth passed away on 16^th September 1943 and is buried in the same grave. Her death notice was published in the Maryborough Fraser Coast Chronicle on 17^th September 1943 and hers VARY Elizabeth Death aged 84 at Maryborough as published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle of 17^th September 1943.

Headstone Description – William died in his 53rd year, also his wife Elizabeth died aged 84 years

Their eldest, Kenneth William Vary was born on 7^th July 1885 in Maryborough and served in WW1 as Private 1095 in the 41^st Battalion, joining on 15^th January 1916. He was a labourer and had 3 years previous service with the ASC in Maryborough. Kenneth went AWOL a few times and broke his right leg while wrestling. A court of enquiry found they were not self-inflicted, he was not on duty and no one was to blame. He attended a cookery school in 1917 and a month later accidently scalded his foot. In mid-1918 he was medically discharged in the UK as he was “taking up employment as an Australian Munition Worker”. He was entitled to the British War and Victory medals. After the war he lived in Oxley and was a wharf labourer, marrying Elizabeth Dunbar in 1935. They then lived in Clayfield until he died on 6^th July 1956. He is buried in Lutwyche cemetery. His funeral notice was headed: VARY Kenneth William 9^th July 1956 Funeral, as published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle of 11^th July 1956.

Alexander George Vary was born on 5^th January 1888. He lived in Maryborough all his life, was a railway clerk and married Lily Jackson in 1929. They lived at 368 Ann Street and he died in 1941. His death notice was published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle on 31^st October 1941.

Francis Thomas Vary was born on 16^th October 1890. He married Matilda Cronan in 1915. They lived at 53 Churchill Street and he was a carpenter. He died in 1963 in St Stephens Hospital. His death notice was published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle on 27^th August 1963.

Allan Richard Vary was born on 17^th December 1892. He married Amy Maud Harris in 1916. They lived at 118 Ferry Street Maryborough and he was a labourer, before moving to Pialba at 111 Esplanade and he was a railway employee up to the 1963 electoral roll. His death notice on 3^rd February 1968 in the Fraser Coast Chronicle of 5^th February 1968, showed he died at the age of 75 at Demaine Private Hospital, Maryborough, late of Maryborough, formerly of Torquay.

Jane Robertson Vary was born on 15^th January 1895. She married Charles Alexander James Crawford on 15^th January 1921. Charles served in WW1 as Private 529 in the 2^nd Light Horse Field Ambulance, being awarded a Military Medal and Mentioned in Despatches. His story is on Anzac Biographies and includes Jane. Her death notice and funeral were published under: “VARY Jane Robertson see CRAWFORD, Jane Robertson Fraser Coast Chronicle on 4^th and 5^th January 1985.

Elizabeth Agnes Vary was born on 10^th November 1899. She married Herbert Andrew Wilschefski in 1927. Herbert died in 1932 of encephalitis and coma; they were living at Ideraway and he was a dairyman according to Maryborough cemetery records. He was a Baptist and was buried by Reverend Earl on 21^st October 1932 in A647. Kirk and Son were the undertakers. In 1936 Elizabeth was living in Gayndah and she remarried at some time. Her death was recorded in the Maryborough Chronicle of Saturday 27^th March 1954 on page 4: – “DEATH LORENZ, Elizabeth Agnes — At Gayndah, March 23, 1954 Elizabeth Agnes, beloved wife of Mr. H. Lorenz, Ideraway, mother of Mrs. G. E. Schonrock, Wellington Pt. (nee Wilschefski), sister of Mrs. J. Crawford, (Kilkivan), Kenneth (Brisbane), Frank, Alan, Robert, Edward Vary (Maryborough). ‘Peace, Perfect Peace’”.

Edward James Vary was born on 5^th April 1903. He married Marjorie Lorette Gardiner in 1929. In the 1943 electoral roll, they were living at Iindah Road Tinana and he was a farmer, but another record for that year has them living at 43 Gilbert Street with Edward a labourer. In the 1958, 1963 and 1968 roll they were both still there. By the 1972 roll, he had retired and they were living at 37 Mant Street Point Vernon. He died on 24^th October 1979 and is buried in Polson Cemetery, Hervey Bay with Marjorie who died in 1987. His death and funeral notices show his death, aged 76 at Royal Brisbane Hospital, late of Point Vernon as published in the Fraser Coast Chronicle on 25^th and 26^th October 1979.

Robert John Vary was born on 14^th Mary 1897 in Maryborough. At the age of 14, he started out as a Naval Cadet before commencing an apprenticeship as a Brass Finisher at Walkers Limited. He enlisted in WW1 as Private 3137 in the 15^th Battalion in Brisbane on 7^th July 1915 and was passed medically fit on the same day. On his service record he stated he was an apprentice brass finisher, working at Walkers for 3½ years. Robert listed his mother as next of kin. He had 4 years’ service with the RANR previously. His mother wrote a letter saying “I the undersigned, hereby give consent to my son Robert, John, Vary enlisting with the Australian expeditionary forces. Signed: – Elizabeth Vary”. Underneath that in pencil was written “My Father is Deceased R. J. Vary”. He was 18 years and 2 months old, 5 foot 8 inches tall, weighed 141 pounds, had a chest measurement of 34 to 36 inches and was fresh complexion with blue eyes and light brown hair. His religious denomination was Baptist. He had clear skin with no distinctive marks, had 6/6 vision in both eyes and was passed medically fit.

His service record is a bit confusing, with a stamp for 10^th Reinforcements 15^th Battalion crossed out, a handwritten entry for 30^th Battalion crossed out and 47^th Battalion written in blue then red and a 51 under that. On 2^nd October 1915, he filled out a form asking that while on service they were to pay 3 shillings a day to his mother, Mrs W Vary of Saltwater Creek Road Maryborough. A vaccination chart has him with the 9^th reinforcements of the 15^th Battalion and he had two inoculations, one on 16^th July 1915 and the other on the 26^th.

First picture as postcard taken at Cairo. Second picture: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland Neg or Image No: 702692-19151106-s0024-050, as published on page 24 of The Queenslander Pictorial, supplement to the Queenslander, 6 November, 1915

He joined the 15^th Battalion at Moascar on 5^th February 1916. Robert was awarded 5 days confinement to barracks and was to forfeit 2 days’ pay as he was AWOL from 6am 26^th February 1916 to 10.30pm on 27^th February 1916. He was transferred to and joined the 47^th Battalion at Tel-el-Kebir on 3^rd March 1916 and was to be Corporal on 14^th March 1916. He had been part of the 15^th Battalion that had been transferred to make up the 47^th Battalion (as part of 4^th Division) when the Divisions were expanded. From the 12^th Australian Field Ambulance, he was admitted to the 11^th Casualty Clearing Station with a soft chancre on 12^th April 1916 at Serapeum. From there he was transferred and admitted to 1^st Australian Stationary Hospital. The next day he was sent on the No 4 Hospital Train at Ismailia to 1^st Australian Dermatological Hospital at Abbassia, where he was admitted with Venereal disease. He was discharged from there to Tel-el -Kebir on 24^th April, joining the 47^th Battalion on 26^th April 1916. The next entry in his service record says remaining at 4^th Training Battalion. He was to be Lance Sergeant on 25^th May 1916.

Robert proceeded to join the BEF at Alexandria on 2^nd June 1916, embarking on Caledonia and disembarking at Marseilles on 9^th June 1916. The 47^th Battalion was then involved in the Battle of Pozieres. They relieved the 48^th Battalion on 7^th August and were relieved 5 days later. Only a single entry was made in the Battalion War Diary over those days, that the bombardment during its stay was “heavy, and considerable casualties were inflicted on the battalion.” He was wounded in action in France on 8^th August 1916 and was admitted to 44^th Casualty Clearing Station with a gunshot wound to the hand on the 9^th. He was shot through the left hand, almost severing a finger. Robert was then admitted to 2^nd Australian General Hospital at Wimereux on the 10^th and was transferred to England on 12^th August 1916, embarking on HS St Dennis at Boulogne that day. He was admitted to 5^th Southern General Hospital at Portsmouth in England with what they recorded as “shell wound” to the left hand “slight” on the same day. He was sent to 1^st AAH at Harefield on 4^th September 1916 and was discharged to Weymouth on 29^th September 1916, marching into No 2 Commonwealth Depot there on 26^th.

His mother wrote to Base Records on 12^th September 1916, asking “I am in receipt of your wire of 9th instant advising me of my son Lance Sergeant R J Vary No 3137 of C Company 47th Battalion 12th Brigade being wounded in France and I respectfully beg to ask if you will please give me particulars of his wound also the Hospital in which he is now confined.” The note they sent her on 8^th September 1916 stated he was wounded and they did advise they would let her know promptly if anything further arrived. Their reply was quite wordy but said they had no other information.

As a Lance Sergeant in the 47^th Battalion, he was placed on the supernumerary list of NCO’s on 8^th November 1916 owing to his absence from the unit for a period of 3 months. Robert was returned to Australia for discharge from England on HT Wiltshire on 12^th November 1916, leaving Portland. He was discharged in the 1^st Military District as a Sergeant in the 47^th Battalion on 14^th February 1917.

His mother, at Saltwater Creek Road, was sent a letter by Base Records on 14^th December 1916, saying 3137 R J Vary 47^th Battalion (late 15^th Battalion) was returning to Australia and was due in Brisbane late December.

AIF Headquarters in London sent a letter to The Secretary, Department of Defence in Melbourne a letter on 20^th November 1916 which read: “Herewith is forwarded a watch the property of No.3137 Corporal A.J. Bary, 47th Battalion, A.I.F. which has been recovered from an Egyptian Watch Maker by the A.I.F. Headquarters, in Egypt. This N.C.O. returned to Australia per H.M.T. “Wiltshire” on 12th November, 1916, and it is desired that you be good enough to forward the watch to him.” Another sentence was added by D.A.A.G. 1st Military District to Base Records in Melbourne, saying: ‘Referred for favour of necessary action. This soldier (whose correct appellation is No.3137 Sergeant R.J. Vary, 47th Battalion) returned ex Transport “Wiltshire” on 31/12/16. He should be required to prove ownership of this watch before it is handed over.” (They had originally made an error with his surname.) On 24^th May 1917, a minute letter was sent to Base Records stating “the watch in question was sent to Mr Vary on the 2^nd March last under registered cover. Letter proving ownership and file returned herewith.” Another letter to AIF Command in England acknowledged their letter covering the despatch of his watch, which had then been handed over to him.

The letter he wrote was dated 26/2/17 from Maryborough and said “Referring to a letter 137.1.118 which I received some time ago, mentioned about a watch supposed to be my property, also asking for proof of ownership. This watch was handed by myself, to a Egyptian watchmaker to undergo repairs to the winding spring, but owing to early departure from Egypt was unable to procure same when it was repaired. This watch is a small gunmetal wristlet watch, with no engraving whatever on it, but I fancy it has my name scratched very lightly on the back, this watch being a present which I received on departure for active service, and I am anxious to procure same again. Hoping this will answer description of watch, and thanking you for all care taken. Yours Truly R J Vary Address Creek Road Maryborough Queensland”.

Robert was issued the 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals for his service.

Back in Maryborough, he completed his apprenticeship at Walkers. In the 1919 electoral roll he was living at Creek Road and was a fitter. On 30^th March 1920 Robert married Florence Willday in Queensland. Florence was born in Queensland on 12^th June 1897. Her parents, Charles (1858-1932) and Jessie (1869-1923) both migrated from the UK before marrying in 1892 in Queensland. Both are buried in Howard Cemetery. The 1924 Queensland Post Office Directory showed Robert was living at Fort Lane Maryborough.

During WW2 he served as Q25011, enlisting on 3^rd April 1939 in Maryborough and being discharged on 11^th March 1941 from the 47^th Battalion (CMF). Florence was listed as his next of kin.

In the 1954 electoral roll, they were living at 70 Fort Lane and he was a fitter.

Fort Lane

The Queensland Branch of Repatriation Department sent a letter to CARO, which they received 20th February 1962, requesting service documents for Sergeant 3137 Robert John Vary of the 4^th Battalion as he had lodged a claim for Repatriation Benefits (should be 47^th Battalion).

He was a founding committee member of the Maryborough RSL, played rugby league for Maryborough Roos and was a member of the Pipe band. Florence and Robert had two children, Noel and Joyce. Bob maintained his connection with the 47^th Battalion serving in the Regimental Band and later as a National Service Training WO2 in the lead up to and commencement of WW2. In 1941 Bob was asked to return to Walkers where he was foreman of the Brass Shop for the remaining years of the war and until his retirement in 1960. Florence and Bob lived at 70 Fort Lane Maryborough.

Robert passed away in 1977. His notice appeared in the Fraser Coast Chronicle of 29^th April 1977 as: VARY Robert John (Bob) Death notice 28^th April 1977 Death 79 at St Vincent de Paul Aged Home, Mackay, formerly of Maryborough. Florence died in Sydney in 1976.

His medical records are at National Archives Australia in the Brisbane branch and are open, but not online, under M8846 Parts 1 & 2. Robert’s WW2 records are at the Canberra branch but have not yet been examined under B884, Q25011.

Their son, Noel Robert Vary, was born on 15^th July 1921 in Maryborough. Noel attended the Maryborough Central and Grammar Schools. On 28^th January 1936 Noel was recorded in the Maryborough Boys State High School Admission Register. Being the depression years Noel left school in 1936 to fend for himself and commenced work as a railway Porter in Murgon. He was listed as a Lad Porter in the Traffic Branch of Queensland Railway in the 1938 and 1940 lists. In the 1943 electoral roll, he was listed as a soldier, living at 70 Fort Lane with his parents.

On 26^th May 1943, he married his school sweetheart Vera Lyle Thorne in Maryborough. Vera had been born in Warwick on 24^th December 1921, a daughter to Herbert Thomas Thorne (1894-1983) and Gladys May Andrews (1897-1981). They had been married in Maryborough on 17^th August 1919. Herbert had served in WW1 as Private 4607 with the 15^th Battalion, joining on 15^th September 1915. He served in the Middle East and France with them and rose in the ranks to a rank of Temporary Sergeant. Bert (as he was known) was reported missing in action on 11^th April 1917. He was captured at Reincourt and spent time as a POW in Germany, interred in Limburg originally. His whereabouts were not known until September 1917. The AWM has a series of Red Cross correspondence from Gladys and Herbert’s mother and the Red Cross replies after they had confirmed he was a POW. It is all listed here: – https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1060792/document/5648671.PDF While in Germany, he sent some letters to his parents, two of which were published in the book by The Maryborough Historical Society “Letters from the Front Line” in the Prisoner of War section on page 192. He arrived back in England in January 1919, returned to Australia in May 1919 and was discharged. Herbert was entitled to the 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals. Bert was a steam train driver who worked routes from Cordalba, Isis Junction, Bundaberg and Maryborough. He passed away on 25^th December 1983.

Noel enlisted in the 47^th Battalion and was allotted to the Signals Platoon of HQ Company on 15^th July 1940. He attended a 3-month National Service Camp as a volunteer in September 1940. Noel served full time in the Australian Army in WW2 as Q1326, joining at Lytton on 5^th February 1941 with Northern Command Area Signals. He entered Signals Training Camp there on 6^th February. The unit was recorded as being on Active Service from 1940 and was responsible for the maintenance of communications throughout Queensland, Northern NSW, Cape York and Torres Strait. Noel progressed through gradings and NCO ranks. In 1942 he was a Linesman Trade Group 2, Operator Trade Group 1, Lance Corporal (posted to Switchboard Section) and Corporal (posted to Wireless Section). He was involved in mobile research and selection of suitable transmission sites in south Queensland, which included Cabarlah (near Toowoomba) which became a permanent transmission site. In January 1942 he was a Lance Sergeant and in charge of International Wireless Telegraphy.

In April 1942, as a Sergeant, he was transferred to the AIF and given service number QX34877. He was eligible to attend the School of Signals Officer Training Course in November 1942, but his CO (Lieutenant Colonel C J C Hargreaves) advised him that as the priority was for Line Officers, he would therefore be ineligible, but he would be promoted to Warrant Officer. On 25^th November 1942, he was appointed Warrant Officer Class II as Company CSM. The Chief Signals Officer at Victoria Barracks was not happy with the arrangement, and held an examination of 4 eligible Sergeants in the area. WO Vary topped the exam. On 30^th November 1942 he was selected by CSO Victoria Barracks to attend the School of Signals Officer Course No 50 at Bonegilla Victoria.

On 19^th April 1943 he was commissioned to the rank of Lieutenant in the Permanent Forces. This was unusual as most commissions at that time were for AIF or CMF. He was posted as Officer Commanding 23^rd Australian Despatch Rider Section on 1^st May 1943. Arriving in Townsville on 30^th May 1943 to take up the posting, he was appointed as Signal-master of Stuart Signal Centre and was reposted as Officer Commanding 56^th Australian Operating Section Adv LHQ Signals. While there he received a signal of commendation from the Commander Allied Naval Forces for communication support. The original copy of this signal is held by Ian Vary. While he was based at Stuart, he was involved with in liaison with Constructions Groups at Repeater Stations on the Cape York Overland Telegraph, the marine cable between Port Moresby and Cape York and the installation of Wheatstone Telegraph Equipment at Stuart.

In January 1944 he was transferred to 106 Australian Telegraph Operational Section and was appointed Signal-master at General Blamey’s HQ at Advanced Land HQ. Noel served for some time as Chief Signal-master late in 1944. In early 1945 he was transferred to 22 L of C Signals earmarked for service in Bougainville. He was sent to School of Signals to undergo a refresher course in late April 1945. While he was at Bonegilla the war in Europe ended in May 1945 and he returned to 22 L of C at Balcombe. Japan surrendered in August 1945 and he was offered a Permanent Force posting at Adelaide River on 31^st October 1945, but he elected to take his discharge at Redbank Brisbane. He was discharged on 31^st October 1945 as a Lieutenant in 106 AUST OP SECT.

Noel returned to civilian life with the Queensland Railway in Townsville before being posted to Maryborough in 1947. He was dissatisfied with Railway duties and undertook trade training as a carpenter. He worked in railway maintenance roaming the bush and living in railway box wagons and tents. Lyle and Noels’ family home was at 33 Grosvenor Street where they raised two children, Kay and Ian. In 1950 Noel started the Wizard Laundrette and mobile dry-cleaning business. At this time Lyle re-commenced music teaching, a role she commenced as Music Mistress at St Gabriels Anglican Girls School at Charters Towers in 1938 and continued for 70 years.

The 1949 roll shows them living at 112 Churchill Street and Noel was a railway employee.

Churchill Street

In the Maryborough Chronicle of Saturday 22^nd April 1950 on page 6 under Social And Personal: – “Mr. and Mrs. N. Vary, who are opening a business on Monday, are in receipt of heaps of telegrams and good wishes for success in their new venture.” They were opening Vary’s Wizard Wash Shop, a laundry business as the ad in the Maryborough Chronicle showed. He later worked as paymaster for Walkers in Maryborough. Vera was a music teacher and St. Paul’s organist for many years.

In the Maryborough Chronicle of Thursday 12th July 1951 on page 4 was a notice: – “Noel Robert Vary and John Palmer were each fined £1/10- plus 6/- costs, for not being in possession of current driving licences. Vary was questioned by Constable Gillespie on May 18 and Palmer, by Sgt. Faulkiner on May 28.”

In October 1952 the CMF was reformed and he was offered an appointment as Officer Commanding Signals Platoon of 42^nd Battalion Maryborough.

Noel was involved in a court issue as recorded in the Maryborough Chronicle of Wednesday 24^th September 1952 on page 4

“FINED FOR EVADING SERVICE

A youth who had absented himself without leave from an obligatory National Service training camp was fined £5 and 6/- costs of court, by Mr. J. Ward, S.M., in the Court of Petty Sessions, yesterday. He was also ordered to enter into a recognisance of £50 to comply with any notice subsequently served on him. It was the first case of its kind heard in Maryborough. Eric William Connellan, labourer, of 83 John-street, was charged with having failed to render the service he was liable to render under Section 26 of the National Service Act of 1951, in that he absented himself without leave from an obligatory camp of continuous training, from May 14, 1952, to June 4, 1952. Lieut. Noel Robert Vary, 33 Grosvenor-street, an officer of the Australian Military Forces, prosecuted. Defendant pleaded guilty and admitted receipt of the summons. Lieut. Vary said that he had been posted to the 42nd Battalion, Maryborough. The defendant, Pte. Connellan, was a non-effective member of the battalion. He was required under the Act to render national service in the military forces, including 98 days’ fulltime training in a national service training battalion, and 78 days with a C.M.F. unit, normally spread over three years. Defendant was posted to the 42nd Battalion on November 17, 1951, and had completed his 98 days’ national training and was required to attend a recognised camp held from March 19 to April 9. Connellan failed to attend that camp and was given an opportunity of attending an alternative camp with the 9th Battalion from May 14 to June 4 last. The necessary notice was despatched to him and he acknowledged its receipt. He failed to attend the camp. Connellan in answer to the S.M., said that he had nothing to say. It would be no good telling a lot of lies as they would get him nowhere, he added. The S.M, said that the defendant must realise that he had to do his training or he would have to go to gaol. He convicted him and fined him £5 and 6/- costs of court, in default two weeks in gaol. He ordered him to enter into a recognisance in the sum of £50 to comply with any notice subsequently served on him under Section 26 of the Act. If he failed to enter into a recognisance he would be committed to the prescribed authority.”

Robert and Florence also had a daughter, whose marriage was recorded in the Maryborough Chronicle of Saturday 19^th December 1953 on page 4 in the marriage section: – “RICKARDS—VARY: At St. Mary’s Catholic Church, on December 19, at 4.15 p.m., Moreen Joyce, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Vary, of Maryborough, to Brian Charles, second son of Mr. and Mrs. It. F. Rickards, of Maryborough.” Moreen had been born on 13^th October 1924 in Maryborough and Brian (born in 1923 in Gayndah). Brian served in WW2 as QX63959. He was originally Private Q137060 in 5 ARD before attesting in the AIF. His civilian job was a clerk (other records say butcher). In October 1942 he was charged with “Conduct with prejudice of good order and military discipline in that he use obscene language to superior officer”. Brian also was charged in December 1942 for revving an engine excessively while in low gear. Even with those charges, he was promoted to Corporal. He only had active service within Australia with 5 Australian Reinforcement Depot Training Centre. He was discharged on 18^th June 1946. In the 1980 electoral roll, they were living at 2 Bryce Avenue St Ives and Brian was an executive. Moreen passed away in 2002 in Brisbane and Brian died in 2010 in Thornlands.

The Colours of the 47^th Battalion were laid up in the Warriors’ Chapel St Paul’s Church in Maryborough in 1953. They were the second set (being presented in 1927), the first having been laid there in 1937. In 1953 the 42^nd Battalion was split in two, with their Headquarters at Rockhampton and the 47^th Battalion was formed with its’ Headquarters in Maryborough. Lieutenant Vary was promoted to Temporary Captain Officer Commanding Signals Platoon. In 1954 his rank was substantiated with his promotion to Captain and he was appointed Officer Commanding HQ Company.

The Maryborough Chronicle of Saturday 13^th November 1954 on page 2: – “CITY CHORAL SOCIETY The Maryborough Choral Society reports keen enthusiasm by all members at the bi-weekly practice. The choir is happy to welcome former member. Barry Nowitzke, who is home on college vacation, and is hoping to have the assistance of his fine bass voice in the ‘Messiah’ presentation. Again this year, in addition to the grand piano, an organ will be specially installed at the City Hall to ensure excellent instrumental support to the choir. Well-known musician, Mrs. Noel Vary, will play the organ. The majority of choir members will visit Gympie one evening next week to enjoy ‘Pirates Of Penzance’, presented by the Gympie Dramatic and Musical Union. Though very familiar with this operetta, many members have not actually ‘seen’ it being themselves on stage for the local production last July —so are especially looking forward on this occasion to be out in front.”

In 1955, Noel qualified at a Command “Tac 3” course for promotion and was promoted to Temporary Major. Around this time, he closed the Laundrette business and commenced work at Walkers Limited in the pay office. He was promoted to substantive Major in 1956 and in civilian life took on the role as Paymaster at Walkers. In 1957 he was offered an appointment to the United Nations Observer Group in Kashmir, which he declined. He was appointed Second in Command of the 47^th Battalion and qualified for Command appointment. In 1960 the Australian Army was reorganised into “Pentropic” Division and the 47^th Battalion Wide Bay Regiment was disbanded and absorbed into the Royal Queensland Regiment and subsequently retitled as 9^th Battalion RQR. Noel was transferred to The Command and Staff Group at Victoria Barracks in Brisbane for 4 years, pending Command opportunities. He was offered Command of the Signals Regiment, but as this meant permanently living in Brisbane, the appointment was declined. In 1964 his appointment was terminated and he was posted to the Reserve of Officers, thus ending his Army service. A few years later, he was posted to the Retired List.

By the 1954 roll, Noel and Vera had moved to 33 Grosvenor Street and Noel was a carpenter. The same details were recorded for the 1958, 1959, 1963 and 1968 rolls.

On 27^th February 1956 Noel took an oath to serve as a Justice of the Peace as recorded in the Queensland State Archives under SCT/R55.

Vera (Lyle)

Vera was a compassionate and dedicated Music Educator for 70 years. She was Music Mistress at St Gabriel’s in 1938, Senior Music Mistress at St Ann’s in Townsville in 1939 and St Catherine’s in Warwick in 1941. Vera was St Pauls Organist for 25 Years, had Community involvement with Plays, Musical Societies, Eisteddfods, Choir and Radio and taught from home in Maryborough, Mackay and Sunnybank. Her post-nominals were – A Mus A, ATCL, LTCL, LRSM, Adv SUSUKI.

Grosvenor Street

Arcoona Street Sunnybank

On 17^th November 1968 Noel oversaw the laying down of the 47^th Battalion’s third set of Colours into St Pauls Warrior Chapel. They accompanied the other two sets already laid up there. Lyle officiated in the service as the organist.

In 1972 Noel and Lyle moved to Mackay, residing at 22 Binnington Esplanade and working as an Industrial Officer with the meat works and then Pioneer Shire Council. (The 1972 and 1977 electoral rolls record him as being an industrial officer.) In 1979 Noel and Lyle moved to Sunnybank where Noel worked as Personnel and Industrial Manager for Logan Shire Council. In the 1980 roll their listing was 6 Arcoona Street Sunnybank and he was still an industrial officer. Noel retired in 1986. His retirement interests were the Signals Museum at Victoria Barracks, grandchildren and travel. Lyle continued to teach piano and music until 2009.

His service record is at NAA in Canberra under B884, Q25011, but is not yet examined. Another file, titled “A22 [application for a commission] – 1/32616 Lieutenant Noel Robert Vary” is in Melbourne, but has not been opened. One file naming him – Appointment of Officers – Lt Vary, Noel Robert – 1/32616- is open but not online.

Noel passed away on 25^th June 2013 in Brisbane. Vera passed away on 1^st July the same year. They were cremated at Mt Gravatt Crematorium and their ashes are located at CRE-MEM-S WALL BOR-25. His Funeral notice in the Courier Mail of 27^th June 2013 reads: VARY Noel Robert Death on 25^th June2013, aged 91, late of Eight Mile Plains and Sunnybank, formerly of Maryborough.

These are various items held by the museum that Noel had, including old drums from the 47^th Battalion.

ANZAC Biographies

On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women

whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

Staff Sergeant S/2/016366 Herbert William ANDERSON DCM, MiD

Royal Army Service Corps

by Robert Simpson

Herbert William Anderson was born on 23^rd July 1884 at Clerkenwell Surrey. His parents were James Edward Anderson and Emily Ains, who had been married 24^th January 1880 in Holborn London. James had been born in about 1857 in Edinburgh and Emily in 1858 in Clerkenwell London. Emily’s father was a magic lantern maker in the 1871 census. In the 1881 census, they were living at 9 Gough Street Holborn. By the 1891 census, James was a scientific instrument maker and they were living at 37 Skinner Street London. Herbert attended Hugh Myddleton School, with admission number 1532 on 17^th June 1897 and his father James Edward Anderson listed as living at 9 River Street. He was not exempt from religious instruction and his age was entered with the correct details. The previous school he attended was Anwell Street School, a public elementary school. He left that school on 2^nd October 1897. In the 1901 census they had moved to 137 Stanhope Road in No 2 Shaldon Lodge. Herbert was listed as a Butcher and journeyman. By the 1911 census, they had moved to Medburn Villa Station Road Boreham Wood Hertfordshire. James was a general brass finisher, as was two of his sons. They had seven children; Norman James born in 1880, Ernest Edward in 1883, Herbert William in 1884, Walter in 1886, James in 1888, Emily Julia in 1891 and Gertrude Susan in 1893. Nothing else can be found about the family members after the 1911 census.

On 13^th November 1914, he married Angelina Togneri in the Registry Office at Hendon Middlesex. She had been born 1894 in West Ham. Her father Domenico was from Italy and was a plaster modeller in the 1901 census and her mother was Alice. They had had a son, David George Anderson, born on 26^th August 1912 in West Ham and listed as illegitimate in his service records. He passed away on 5^th February 1919 of measles and pneumonia at Watford Hertfordshire and his death certificate has his surname as Togneri. A copy of the death certificate is in Herbert’s service records, showing he died at their address of 77 Gladstone Road Watford. It looks like he was adopted by Herbert. They had another son, Robert Herbert Anderson, born 31^st May 1915 at Watford, but unfortunately dying in late 1921 in Watford. It is not known what happened to Angelina after that.

Herbert attested with short service (three years with the Colours) on 21^st September 1914. He stated he had been born in the Parish of Clerkenwell, near the town of London in the County of Surrey. He was a British subject of 33 years and 2 months old and a butcher. Herbert stated he was married. He had no previous military service or any other issues. Joining at Aldershot as Private S/2/016366 in the Army Service Corps, and was posted to the Depot on 21^st September 1914. He was at home from 21^st September 1914 to 16^th March 1915 with H Supply Company. His wife (and next of kin) was recorded as Angelina A Anderson at 36 Sutton Road Watford Hertfordshire. Their marriage details were recorded in his service record, as were both sons and their births. His apparent age was 30 years and 2 months, height 5 foot 4½ inches, weight was not recorded, chest measurement of 38 inches with a range of expansion of 1 inch, and he had a fresh complexion with hazel eyes and dark brown hair. His religious denomination was Church of England. He had no distinctive marks recorded. After a medical examination, he was considered fit for the Army by the Medical Officer. He was appointed to the ASC on 10^th October 1914. His medical history file has nothing recorded on one page and the next has all his details recorded and included his weight of 10 stone 8½ pounds, that his physical development was very good and he had 4 vaccination marks. He was vaccinated in his infancy and his vision was noted as good. The form was dated 21^st September 1914.

The Army Service Corps was formed from volunteers in 1914–15. The ASC provided an important service in the production of bread and meat for the troops in the field. With Herbert, the “S” in his service number was for Supply with the “2” denoting recruitment into the appropriately numbered Kitchener (New) Army. The ASC was organised into units known as Companies, each fulfilling a specific role.

He was appointed Acting Sergeant on 2^nd March 1915. From 17^th March 1915, he was with the British Expeditionary Force with the 29^th Field Butchery. He was with the BEF until 3^rd December 1918, then from Egypt to Home from 4^th December 1918 to 5^th January 1919 and arriving Home on 6^th January 1919.

While with the EEF as Acting Sergeant, he was Mentioned in Despatches in the London Gazette on 28^th January 1916. Another entry says 11^th December 1915, which was the actual date that General Sir Ian Hamilton wrote the despatch submitting a list of the names of “men whose services I wish to bring to your Lordship’s notice in connection with the operations described in my despatch of 11^th December 1915.”

The citation for his Distinguished Conduct Medal reads: “S/2/016366 Acting Sergeant H.W. Anderson, Army Service Corps (LG 11 Mar. 1916). For consistent good work on the Gallipoli Peninsula from May to September, 1915, when the depots and bakeries were repeatedly under shell fire.” His award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal was recorded in the Second Supplement to The London Gazette of 2^nd February 1916. He was one of six DCM’s awarded for Gallipoli for the RASC.

Herbert was on the nominal roll of 20 L of C Supply Company at Port Said on 20^th October 1916. On 31^st October 1916, he was promoted to Sergeant while with the EEF while at Port Said.

On 2^nd February 1917, he embarked on Supply Ship Runic at Port Said and disembarked at Alexandria on the 11^th for duty. He returned from Alexandria to Port Said on the 15^th.

Herbert was transferred from 20 L of C Supply Company to Frozen Meat Supply at Port Said on 18^th April 1918. He was appointed unpaid Staff Sergeant to complete Establishment on 4^th May 1918 (assuming duties on that date). His War Pay was increased to 4 pence per day on 21^st September 1918 and he was promoted to Staff Sergeant on 12^th October 1918 while with the EEF. He joined the base of frozen meat supply on 1^st December 1918. On 4^th December 1918, he embarked on HT Caledonia for 3 weeks furlough in the UK on compassionate grounds from Alexandria. He was also granted 21 days ration allowance on that day. On 6^th January 1919 he was retained in England on expiration of furlough and was struck off strength of EEF. He was despatched to the Dispersal Centre at Crystal Palace in York for demobilisation. William entered Egypt, as his first theatre of war, on 30^th March 1915, as recorded on his Medal Index Card. He was awarded the 1914-15 Star in roll RASC/1B on page 393 as a Private and the British War and Victory medals in roll RASC/101B12 on page 1157 as a Staff Sergeant.

He was transferred to Class “Z” Army Reserve as Staff Sergeant on 25^th June 1919 at disposal camp at Crystal Palace. His address was given as 77 Gladstone Road Watford Hertfordshire. His moral character was recorded as very good. A Protection Certificate and Certificate of Identity (Soldier not remaining with the Colours) was issued to S/2/016366 Staff Sergeant Herbert William Anderson of 4 Supply Cal. RAMC (5) from the Record and Pay Office at Woolwich and the date stamped on this was 28^th May 1919. His address for pay was 77 Gladstone Road Watford. It was recorded his year of birth was 1885 and he was Medical Category A1. The place to re-join in case of emergency was Blackheath and his Specialist Medical Qualification was Butcher.

Another form in his service records was titled Particulars as to the Character of a Soldier serving with an Expeditionary Force who is sent Home for discharge or permanently for any reason. The form for Staff Sergeant H W Anderson of the ASC showed he was employed as an NCO on shipping staff of his department for 3 years, his sobriety was very temperate, he was very reliable, and he was intelligent. For special aptitude for civilian life, the CO wrote “as a butcher by trade has had considerable experience in handling frozen meat.” He also wrote “One of the best NCO’s I had ever had under me.” Herbert also had a good power of command and control, and was tactful in his way of handling men. It was signed on 14^th January 1919 by the Commanding Officer at Port Said. A disability form was filled out and showed he was with H Supply Company, he was examined by a doctor on 27^th May 1919 at York and no disabilities were recorded.

In early 1922, Herbert married Eva Clara Stapleton in Stapleton, Watford Hertfordshire. Eva had been born on 28^th September 1887, but no other details can be found for her. AN Eva Stapleton was born in the June quarter of 1888 in Freebridge, with her mother’s maiden name as Lynn. More documentation is needed to confirm if she is the same person.

Herbert was living at Watford Hertfordshire in the 1939 Register, with Eva, at 32 Regent Street. He was listed as a meat salesman and she was doing unpaid home duties. A Gordon Watson, born 20^th November 1916, was also listed with them and he was a van driver. What his relation to them is, if any, is not known.

Herbert passed away in the June quarter of 1969 in Watford Hertfordshire England. Eva died on 20^th March 1973 in Greenbanks Road Watford and left £1924.

His medals are Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal with oak leaf. The medals are on display at the Maryborough Colonial and Military Museum. The museum is looking for a photo of Herbert.

ANZAC Biographies

On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women

whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.