Captain Brian Colden Antill Pockley MiD

Australian Army Medical Corps, Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force

by Robert Simpson

Brian Colden Antill Pockley was born on 1890 in St. Leonards Sydney, New South Wales, a son to Francis Antill Pockley and Helen Clara Hooke. He was the third child and middle son of the children and had two brothers, Francis Guy Antill (born 1888) and John Graham Antill (born 1892), and two sisters Phyllis Mary Antill (born 1886) and Helen Dorothy Antill (born 1895). Francis was a doctor who was an eye specialist. He was one of the North Shore’s earliest doctors (later to become a leading ophthalmic surgeon). Doctor Pockley was an avid early motorist. Brian’s grandfather was Robert Francis Pockley, who was a Captain of ships that sailed from England to Australia and back. Robert moved to Australia and married Selina Eliza Antill (from where Brian gets his unusual middle names). Selina’s father was Henry Colden Antill, who had been born in the USA, but migrated to and married in Australia. Henry’s parents were John Antill and Margaret Colden. John’s father was Edward Antill a prominent colonial politician in the New Jersey colony. John served with the British during the American Revolution as a Major, while another son Edward, joined the Continental Army and was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel. Margaret’s father, Alexander, was also involved in the revolution.

Brian completed his early education at Sydney Church of England Grammar School from 1902 to 1908. His father had presented an annual prize on moral qualifications since 1904. In his time at this school he was Prefect, Pockley Prize man (in 1908), Captain of Football, won Football and Athletic colours. He was quite a remarkable athlete, being in the First XV, Captain of Football and winning the Honour Cap. He won the Championship Shield for two successive years and when captaining the football team, it was unbeaten for two years. Other sport he was involved in were rowing, swimming, boxing and ju-jitsu wrestling. The New South Wales Junior and Senior Public Examinations roll lists Brian as sitting the senior exam in 1908, but it says for subjects passed that he “qualified for admission to Dept. of Engineering”. (Probably an error in transcription and should read Faculty of Medicine). He was a Lieutenant in the G.P.S. Senior Cadets in 1908-9 and was skilled at shooting.

At the University of Sydney, he studied medicine from 1909 to 1913 while staying at St. Paul’s College. Brian gained a double Blue for football and athletics in his first year, he was Vice-President of the Medical Society in his last year and was on the committee of St. Paul’s College for 3 years. He was working as a medical practitioner upon completion of his M.B. degree, at Sydney Hospital as junior resident medical officer.

When he was 19 he visited New Zealand, and returned to Sydney on 24^th September from Auckland.

In the 1913 electoral roll he was listed as living at 26 Liverpool St Ashfield and was a medical student. Another roll of the same year has him at his parent’s house at Burns Rd Ryde as a medical student.

Brian applied for a commission in the Australian Imperial Force in the Australian Army Medical Corps on 14^th August 1914. He gave his address as Graystanes, Wahroonga which was the address of his father Dr F Antill Pockley who was listed as next of kin. (The house is now named Mount Alverna after being purchased by the Catholic Church in 1950). The address was later changed to 227 Macquarie St. Sydney. Brian was described as being 5 foot 9 inches tall, weighed 11 stone 7 pounds, had a chest measurement of 38 inches (apparently he had a 9 inch expansion) and normal eyesight. As a Captain, he was appointed to the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force (ANMEF) (Tropical Unit) which left Australia on 19^th August 1914 for German New Guinea.

As part of the first Naval Brigade landing force, he landed at Kabakaul on 11^th September 1914. While advancing towards a German wireless station, Able Seaman William Williams was shot in the stomach. Pockley attended to him and then got Stoker Kember to carry Williams to the rear. He gave him his Red Cross armband (brassard) to ensure they were not shot at. While attending another wounded seaman, despite being warned not to, Pockley was shot and wounded. The Germans took him for an ordinary soldier. Both Pockley and Williams were taken aboard HMAS Berrima. Williams died first, becoming the first Australian casualty of the war. Pockley succumbed later, becoming the first Australian officer to fall in the Great War.

S. S. Mackenzie (author of The Australians at Rabaul) wrote, “Pockley’s action in giving up his Red Cross badge, and thus protecting another man’s life at the price of his own, was consonant with the best traditions of the Australian army, and afforded a noble foundation for those of Australian Army Medical Corps in the war.” In the University of Sydney Roll of Service it is also recorded “As he lived his life…so he met his death… brave, cheerful, unselfish to the last, leaving behind a record carved in pure gold.” – Hermes, November, 1914.

Brian died of wounds on 11^th September 1914 at Kabakaul, Papua New Guinea and was buried originally at Herbertshohe cemetery (now Kokopo), East New Britain, Papua New Guinea on the same day. Later his remains were reinterred in Rabaul cemetery on 11^th July 1919 with full Naval and Military Honours. In 1950, his grave was relocated to Rabaul War Cemetery (Bita Paka). He is commemorated on panel 188 at the Australian War Memorial. Brian is also listed in the Book of Remembrance of the University of Sydney in the Great War 1914-1918.

Members of the Australian Navy and Military Expeditionary Force (AN&MEF) bringing Captain Brian Colden Antill Pockley, the medical officer, on board HMAT Berrima, his face is covered by his pith helmet.

The 1916 grave of Captain Pockley and other men killed in 1914. The iron railing fence around the grave of Captain Pockley was provided by an uncle, also a medical doctor and named Pockley.

The graves of Lieutenant Commander Elwell, Royal Navy (RN), Captain Brian Colden Antill Pockley, Australian Army Medical Corps (AAMC), A B Courtney (Walker), and A B Street, who fell at the capture of Kabakaul, German New Guinea, taken in 1914.

A picture of his grave taken in 1945 at Rabaul cemetery. The Japanese damaged many AIF headstones in WW2.

He was mentioned in despatches by Vice Admiral Sir George Patey as being commended for services in action during the operations against the German Possessions in the Western Pacific, which was promulgated in the London Gazette on 11^th January 1916, page 449, position 3. Unfortunately they have spelt his middle names incorrectly as Colder Ampill. His father received a letter from King George V in December 1914, reading with great interest and pride the account and the noble manner of his death and also conveying his sympathy and regret for his loss. The Sydney Morning Herald published his obituary on 14^th September 1914 which again described his brilliant career as a student and athlete and noting the speech of the rector of St. Andrew’s Church of England at Wahroonga. Brian attended there and the Reverend told of his moral and upright character and noble example.

On 25^th September 1919 his father wrote to Base Records expressing his disappointment that no one informed him that they had moved Brian’s remains without advising him. He told them he had visited the original grave 4 years ago and was going to bring the remains back to Sydney, but when he saw how it presented and was being maintained, he decided his remains should stay there. He was surprised and had communicated with the Secretary of Defence and Brigadier General Johnson on the matter and said if he had known, he would have brought the body back to go to the family burial ground. His address at the time was 227 Macquarie St. Sydney. But a letter had been written on 30^th August explaining all the details involved with the moving of the remains to that address, although another letter on 10^th September was sent to Grayslanes.

His father signed for Brian’s Commission Form on 29^th September 1920 (his secretary signing for him as he was overseas at the time), the Mention in Despatch certificate on 20^th November 1920, the Memorial Scroll on 8^th July 1921 and the Victory medal with one Oak Leaf attached on 22^nd June 1922. His Memorial Plaque was signed for on 30^th April 1923, but there was a problem with it. His first name was written as Brien and in the paperwork in his service records they seem to promote the error by saying it should be Brien, not Brian. His father probably propagated the problem, as in his letter to Base Records he writes “The name on this is wrongly inscribed, “Brian” being incorrectly spelt “Brien”, which probably could have been worded clearer. He was asking for it to be corrected. Another note said that in all the records they had his name was spelt Brien, which appears to be an error on his original application forms where someone else has re-written his full name. A letter was sent out, asking for its’ return, which it was on 24^th April 1923, and hopefully corrected to the right forename. His 1914-15 Star and British War Medal were also sent, but no acknowledgement is in his service file.

The Police Gazette of 10^th March 1915 has an entry relating to the loss of a pair of binoculars belonging to Brian. They were lost or stolen at Rabaul and may have come to New South Wales. They had his name inscribed on them and the case.

Forms relating to the permanent memorial for Brian were posted to his father at Grayslanes on 20^th December 1919, but had not been returned to Base Records, so they sent out more on 8^th February 1921 and asked if he could fill them out and return as soon as possible.

John Graham Antill Pockley also served in the war. He joined as a Private with his friend Elliott Slade in 1915 and were on the hospital ship Karoola. On return of the ship they both did NCO’s and Officers’ schools in Australia before going to England for more training. After receiving their commissions they were sent to France with the 33^rd Battalion. They were both killed on 31 March 1918. John was married and left a wife and child.

John Pockley.

Helen remained unmarried and died in a car accident near Bowral.

Phyllis married Lieutenant “Peter” Clinton Danby, who served in both World Wars and was later Vice-Admiral Sir Clinton Danby KBE CB. He was also at HMAS Cerebus and commanded an Australian Squadron on HMAS Melbourne in the mid-1920’s.

Francis Guy was also a doctor and a well-known eye specialist and had a farm called “Pylara” near Goulburn.

Reverend Dr Radford produced a booklet in memory of Brian and any proceeds from sales were to be given to the Red Cross. A memorial tablet was placed in the Sydney Hospital and unveiled on 23^rd December 1915 to commemorate Brian and described how he died.

In 1922, Dr Pockley presented a fountain to the Grammar School in memory of his sons. He also endowed the Pockley Prize permanently as the Brian Pockley Memorial Prize in 1914 in memory of his son.

Brian’s Headmaster wrote of him: “I always considered him as approaching as near to my ideal schoolboy as any boy in my experience. Work and games alike he displayed a splendid keenness and an admirable temper, and won high honours for the School and for himself, and the unconscious influence which he exercised was in the direction of an upright manliness. As a Prefect he helped me more than he was aware of, by loyalty, by respect to duty, and by charm of manner. I trust that for his family as for us there may be much consolation in knowing that his beautiful life and noble death have been of infinite worth to his day and generation, and that for himself, though his days were short, they were days of happiness and honour”. His father gave Shore a memorial drinking fountain in the playing fields, and a window in the north wall of the chapel is dedicated to him. It is the first of a series, and represents St. George. Brian’s portrait is used for the face of St. Luke, “The Beloved Physician”.

The National Archives of Australia has documents pertaining to his effects, and honours and awards report.

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

The museum does not hold anything for him, the story was done for a trip to Rabaul on the centenary of AN&MEF Force.

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 belonging to the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

Lieut-Colonel Charles Moreland Montague Dare DSO MiD VD 

10^th Light Horse Regiment, AMF

14th Battalion, AIF

by Robert Simpson

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Moreland Montague Dare DSO VD

Charles Moreland Montague Dare was born on 27^th May 1888 in Coburg Victoria. He was the only son to Montague Charles Dare and Annie Charlotte Mason. He had an elder sister, May Gladys Dare, who had been born in 1886 in Coburg too. Montague and Annie had married in 1879 in Victoria. Montague had been born in Camberwell, London in January 1852 to John George Dare and Mary Ann Clarke and had migrated to Australia in 1859, with his family (his mother died in St. Kilda in 1886). John worked as a land and estate agent in St Kilda, where they lived. Montague worked in his father’s business. Purchasing farmland with a partner in 1882 near to Sydney and Moreland Roads, they wished to establish a prestigious subdivision on it, naming it Moreland Park Estate. The land was subdivided into residential lots (a few larger ones), parkland and some small shop allotments along Sydney Road. Purchasers were offered architecturally designed 3 bedroom homes, constructed of brick or wood. Twenty-four homes had been built by 1890 (most were owned by Montague) and he built Moreland Park Buildings on Sydney Road. Due to financial difficulties in 1896, he sold most of the properties, but kept his own 10 acre home “Moreland Park” by Merri Creek. Annie was killed in a tragic riding accident there in August 1904 and Montague died in 1919 of pneumonia. They were buried in Coburg Cemetery. In the 1912 and 1914 Electoral rolls, Charles was living at home with his father at Nicholson Street Coburg and was listed as a student.

Design Plan – Moreland Park Estate

At school, Charles passed the Junior Public Examinations in six subjects, one of which was a distinction.

Charles was given the provisional rank of 2^nd Lieutenant on 16^th July 1907 with the 5^th Squadron 10^th Light Horse and was supernumerary to establishment. His rank was also confirmed. He was then transferred to the Victorian Rifles, supernumerary to establishment, on 19^th May 1908. He was promoted to Lieutenant on 3^rd May 1909 and was brought on establishment on 16^th November 1909. Charles was posted to 51^st Battalion on 1^st July 1912 and made provisional Adjutant on that date also. He was promoted to Captain on 10^th September 1912. He was a Militia Adjutant for about 4 years.

On 21^st September 1914, Charles was appointed as Captain in the 14^th Battalion AIF. His application for a Commission in the 14^th Battalion AIF was dated 8^th December 1914. On it, he stated he was single, a British subject, lived at Moreland Park, Moreland Victoria and his next of kin was his father Montague C Dare of the same address. Charles was 5 foot 6½ inches tall, weighed 10 stone, had a chest measurement of 38 inches and had 6/6 eyesight in both eyes. (Another application form has his height as 5 foot 6 inches, 34 inches chest measurement, weight of 9 stone 6 pounds stripped and normal eyesight). His present civil employment was as a warehouseman.

He embarked as Captain and Adjutant of the 14^th Battalion on 22^nd December 1914 on HMAT A38 Ulysses at Melbourne. The above picture was taken on the ship.

As part of the 14^th Battalion, he took part in the landing at Gallipoli in 25^th April 1915.

On 5^th May 1915 he was admitted to the 4^th Field Ambulance at Gallipoli with influenza, and returned to duty on the 7^th.

He was promoted to Major on 27^th May 1915. On 28^th August 1915, he assumed command of the 14^th Battalion.

On 8^th October 1915 he was sent to Alexandria, from Mudros, and returned to duty at Dardanelles, ex Alexandria from Brigade Duty, on 8^th November 1915.

While on Gallipoli, he wrote the following note:

He was granted the temporary rank of Lieutenant-Colonel on 8^th December 1915.

With the Battalion, he was evacuated from Gallipoli in December, arriving at Alexandria from Mudros on 6^th January 1916 on the Cardiganshire.

Charles was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel on 10^th January 1916.

On 28^th January 1916, he was Mentioned in Sir Ian Hamilton’s Despatches of 11^th December 1915, which were published in the London Gazette page 1209 (Supplement No. 29455) as a Major in the 14^th Battalion (Victoria) AIF. Base Records advised his father, Montague Dare, of the award on 27^th April 1916. His conspicuous service was in connexion with operations mentioned in the Despatch above.

He was appointed as Lieutenant-Colonel on 20^th February 1916.

On 18^th April 1916, he married Dorothy Violet Moss at Ismailia in Egypt. She was a daughter to Isidore Henry Moss and Alice Frances Mabel (May) Wilson, who were married on 10^th March 1887 in Melbourne. Alice was a women’s activist and suffragette, and was the president of the National Council of Women. Isidore was a grazier and involved with the Victoria Racing Club. Her address was noted in his service records as c/o E S & A Bank, 38 Lombard St, London, so she must have been living there while he was in France.

Charles arrived in France on 8^th June 1916 after departing Alexandria on the 1^st, and took part in the Battle of the Somme.

In the London Gazette of 3^rd June 1916, Charles was listed in the King’s Birthday Honours to be a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) under the Australian Imperial Force section as Major Charles Moreland Montague Dare, 14^th Battalion. The award was noted in the Barrier Miner (Broken Hill) on Monday 5^th June 1916 as one of four thousand soldiers rewarded in connection with the King’s birthday.

He was Mentioned in Sir Charles Munro’s Despatches of 6^th March (10^th April) 1916 which were published in the London Gazette (4^th Supplement No. 29964) on 13^th July 1916 as Major/Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel in the 14^th Battalion AIF. Base Records sent his father a notification of the award on 4^th December 1916. Montague wrote back on 7^th December 1916 from Moreland Park, saying that “I am much gratified by the receipt of your communication”, “informing me of the mention in Despatches of “Distinguished Service” of my Son”.

He had commanded the Battalion from August 1915 to December 1916. On 2^nd December 1916, he handed over command of the 14^th Battalion to Major N D Feathers at 3pm and reported to Battalion Headquarters for court of enquiry. Part of his service record stated he left his unit on 4^th December with instructions to report for future disposal. He was to report to AIF Headquarters in UK and a letter was posted giving instructions for his employment there. On 5^th December 1916, he was posted for duty at AIB Depot in England from 14^th battalion in France as per AIF Orders. Charles was then to be returned to Australia for employment by Defence.

Charles was still listed in the 1915 and 1917 electoral rolls as a student living at Nicholson Street Coburg.

He left Plymouth on HT Marathon on 13^th February 1917. His next of kin was informed of his return on 20^th March 1917. Charles arrived in Australia on 8^th April 1917 (in the 2^nd Military District), for staff duty in Australia (approved by the GOC AIF) and his appointment was terminated on 22^nd April 1917.

He was called up for Home Service at Broadmeadows on 7^th May 1917. Charles commanded the 3^rd District Guard and Domain Camp from 28^th July 1917 until 30^th December 1918.

His form of warrant of his commission was received on 14^th November 1917, and he signed for it on the 26^th.

The Singleton Argus of Thursday 12^th April 1917 carried the following article: – “AUSTRALIA’S YOUNGEST COLONEL Lieutenant-Colonel Dare, D.S.O. After completing practically two years, continuous service at the front, Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Montague M. Dare, D.S.O., the youngest officer of his rank in the Australian Imperial Forces, arrived back in Melbourne yesterday (says Monday’s “Melbourne Age”). Although now only 28 years of age, Colonel Dare has commanded a battalion since the latter part of 1915. He left Australia as adjutant and captain of the 14^th Victorian Infantry Battalion. A few months after the landing at Gallipoli, in which he was a participant, he gained his majority, and before the end of the year he was awarded the D.S.O. and promoted to the supreme command of the battalion. From Gallipoli he want with his unit to France, and remained in charge right up to the time of his leaving for Australia, a short while ago. Snipers, shell fire, and bombs have no terrors for Colonel Dare: at least, that is what his comrades in arms say. “Dare by name and dare by nature” is the opinion formed of him by those who have served alongside him in the firing line. It would seem that he bore a charmed life. Men standing next to him have been struck down by bullets or bursting shells, but Colonel Dare, despite his almost continuous service in the firing line, has never once received a scratch. He arrived back yesterday as well, if not better, than the day he left Australia. To see him and to talk with him makes it almost impossible to believe that one is meeting and conversing with one of the veterans, of the war – a soldier who has been fighting and enduring hardships for well nigh two years. Few would imagine that Colonel Dare was a day older than 25 years. He is fresh-faced, slight of figure, and in height a little below the medium. Campaigning has not hardened his features. There is nothing of the grim warrior about him. On the contrary, he presents rather the appearance of an unaffected dashing young subaltern. The only visible signs of his rank are the star and crown worn on the shoulder straps of his tunic, and these are of miniature design, which makes them less conspicuous. Colonel Dare smiled broadly when an interviewer approached him yesterday. “Was he glad to be back?” Well, yes, but he did not like leaving the   boys over there. “You know,” he said, his manner growing suddenly serious, ”there is a great need for men over in France. Things have been a little bit quiet, of course, during the winter, but every man we can put into the field will be needed, now that the great push has commenced. Drive that fact home if you can. It is the only one that matters. He spoke with quiet earnestness, and as though to emphasise his important point he mentioned a little later that at times his own battalion of 1000 men had been reduced to barely 300 pending the tardy arrival of sorely needed reinforcements. “It’s just the luck of the game,” he remarked when reference was made to his rapid promotion. “I just missed the bullets, and that’s all there is to be said about it.” He let slip the interesting fact that he was the only officer who had not been put out of action at some time or another. Colonel Dare has a poor opinion of the German infantry. “The Boche himself,” he said, “is not much good. It’s the guns – the machinery behind the men – which has enabled the enemy to accomplish so much.” As to the ultimate result of the war Colonel Dare, has no doubt, but he declared that the Hun has still plenty of fight left in him. The last impression which he   brought away from France was that the Allies would have their work cut out to finish the war this year. Colonel Dare has returned to Australia on special staff duty, and it is understood that he is to be given a position by the defense authorities where his energy and resourcefulness can be utilised to the full.”

He was mentioned in the book “War Services Old Melburnians” numerous times, as follows:-

From R E Courtney “CHARLIE DARE has been appointed Lieut.-Colonel. He rather shrinks from advertisement, but it would be very churlish to hide even any little honour that may reflect glory on the good old School.”

Keith Officer wrote “There are O.M.’s all round us – …..(including) C. M. DARE”.

Clive Williams noted “CHARLIE DARE is, I understand, a lieut.-colonel. I believe he is the youngest in the Australian Army. I never ran up against him in Cairo.”

War Notes on 14^th December 1914 read “Mr. W. R. HOGGART, who has been in charge of the cadets for a number of years, and who had charge of Ross House, has been made a Captain in the 14^th battalion. This battalion is officered to a large extent by O.M.’s. During the term Colonel R. E. COURTNEY, Captain C. M. DARE, (Adjutant), Captain W. R. HOGGART, Lieut. A. G. BENNETT, Lieut. A. P. Henry, Lieut. R. COX, Lieut. A. R. Cox, visited the school, and amidst great enthusiasm one after the other came forward on the platform and addressed the boys assembled in Big School. The School has “adopted” this battalion, and has given it $50 from the School Patriotic Fund, which is being spent in purchasing whatever may be necessary to make the men in the battalion as efficient as possible. Colonel COURTNEY thanked the School for the gift, and asked, further, that the battalion might take as its motto that of the School, “Ora et labora.””

“CHARLES MONTAGUE DARE, who was recently described as the youngest Colonel in the British Army, has received the Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.). He did wonderful work on Gallipoli, and when the health of his Colonel (R. E. COURTNEY) broke down, he had to take charge of the regiment. He is now in France.”

On 1^st October 1918, he was appointed to 2^nd Battalion, 5^th Infantry Regiment and on 1^st April 1919 he was to temporarily command the 5/14^th Infantry Regiment. The Repatriation Department wrote to Base Records in 1919, asking them to forward a confidential report in connection with an application for assistance lodged by Charles. Base Records had no details of him being married, they stated he joined the AIF as a single man and returned to Australia on 8^th April 1917.

The 1919 electoral roll has him and Dorothy living with his parents at Moreland Park, Rennie Street and he was listed as a student. His application for war service gratuity was passed on 25^th March 1919. His oak leaves were sent to him on 28^th April 1920, and he signed for them on 28^th August 1920 with his present address as 25 Bay St, Brighton. He was also made substantive Lieutenant-Colonel on 1^st July 1920. Two certificates for his Mention in Despatches were sent on 28^th May 1921, and he signed for them on 31^st May 1921. He signed for his British War Medal on 30^th August 1921, and Victory Medal on 26^th April 1922. In 1923, he applied for a refund of his wife’s passage from England to Australia.

He was placed on the unattached list on 31^st March 1921. On 1^st August 1923, he was to command 60^th Battalion supernumerary to establishment of Lieutenant-Colonels, with pay and allowances of Major. From 1^st May 1924 to 31^st October 1924, he was to temporarily command the 15^th Infantry Brigade.

By the 1924 electoral roll they had moved to 25 Bay Street at Brighton and he was an architect. On 31^st March 1925, Headquarters of the 15^th Infantry Brigade at Brunswick wrote to Base Records to get particulars of AIF service of Lieutenant-Colonel Dare, as required in connection with him applying for the Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers Decoration. They dispatched the records back on 7^th April. The 1927 roll recorded the same details. From 1^st July 1927 until 31^st December 1927, he was on special leave. By 1928 they had moved to 26 Tennyson Street in St. Kilda and he was still an architect. His appointment to command was extended by 1 year, from 1^st August 1928 to 31^st July 1929. He relinquished command of the 60^th Battalion on 31^st July 1929 and was transferred to the unattached list on 1^st August 1929. Charles was made temporary Colonel on 1^st May 1930, when he was transferred from the unattached list and was to command the 4^th Infantry Brigade, and he was made substantive Colonel on 1^st December 1930. The 1931 roll shows Charles to be by himself at Riverdale Crescent, Mount Eliza in Frankston with the same occupation. He was transferred to the unattached list on 1^st May 1934.

In September 1934 the divorce between Charles and Dorothy was finalised. The Argus of Friday 14^th September has the following entry in the divorce decrees “Charles Moreland Montague Dare, aged 46 years, architect, of Mount Eliza, from Dorothy Violet Dare, aged 42 years, Orchard street, Brighton, on the grounds of desertion. The parties were married at Ismailia, Egypt, on April 18, 1916, and there are three children.”

The 1936 and 1937 rolls still have him living at Mount Eliza by himself. In 1937 he married Minetta Wilma Leach Humphries in Victoria. There are no other details on the wedding. The 1939 electoral roll has both of them living at Nyora, Riverdale Crescent in Mt. Eliza with his occupation as architect. He was transferred to the Reserve of Officers on 1^st May 1939.

On 3^rd July 1940, Charles signed up as V4176 at Royal Park. He was discharged at the same place on 22^nd October 1940 with the rank of Colonel of 2 R R D at Royal Park (a recruit depot?). As his service records for WW2 are not online, not much else is known about his service then. The 1942 electoral roll has them at Riverdale Crescent and he is back to being an architect. The same is for the 1946 roll.

On 18^th August 1948, Base Records replied to a letter by Charles on the 13^th, stating that according to his records, the reason he returned to Australia was Staff Duties in Australia. They also noted the ship he returned on, when he disembarked and when his appointment was terminated. He was living at “Goodrest” Lorne at the time. The letter Charles wrote stated “I have been informed by a person who inspected the records of the 14^th Bn. A.I.F. 1914/18, that my record show that I was returned to Australia “Services no longer required.”” He asked how the error occurred, as he had been sent back to Australia with other officers to replace Permanent Staff Corps Officers. This was arranged by General Birdwood, and he was personally informed of this by General Griffiths before embarking. He wanted to enquire if it was as stated, how it could be corrected. Note the reply referred to his records, not those of the 14^th Battalion. The battalion record for December 1916 is noted above, but makes no other mention of anything.

By the 1949 roll, they have shifted to Smith Street, Lorne. In February 1950, they departed Sydney on the Himalaya, and arrived in England on 30^th March 1950. On 12^th October 1950, they departed London on the Strathaird, and after a stop in Colombo where they departed from on 3^rd November, they arrived in Fremantle on 7^th November, bound for Melbourne. In the 1954 electoral roll they are back at their usual address and occupations. In March 1956, they departed Sydney on the Orsova and arrived in London on 9^th April. They departed Liverpool on the Empress of Britain on 24^th August 1956.

The 1963 and 1968 electoral rolls show them still living at Smith Street, Lorne and he was still an architect.

On 29^th April 1971, Charles Moreland Montague Dare passed away. The index to his will, probate and administration record is kept with the Public Record Office of Victoria under file number 724/865 and shows he was retired and living in Lorne. He was buried at Lorne Cemetery on 1^st May 1971 in LRN-SECT-5-807-525.

Minetta stayed at the same address until her death on 22^nd August 1977. She was buried in the same grave as Charles on 24^th August 1977.

His first wife, Dorothy, died on December 1984 in Brighton. She was cremated at Springvale Botanical Cemetery and placed in Renowden Chapel, Section B, Niche 24.

Charles and Dorothy had three children, Phyllis May born on 16^th September 1917, Keith Howard born on 17^th April 1919 and Gordon Kenneth born on 16^th June 1920. Not much is known about Phyllis, except she returned to Australia from England by herself in 1935 and crossed from Canada to USA in 1939. Keith died on 18^th July 1936 in Brighton Victoria, but the circumstances are not known. Gordon was a clerk who had been in the militia for 4 years when he was mobilised in the Infantry Training Battalion at Royal Park as Private V83565. He then enlisted in the AIF on 8^th August 1940 as Private VX38610 in the 2/24 Battalion. He was captured at Tobruk on 1^st May 1941and spent some time as a POW in North Africa and Italy, before escaping in Italy on 8^th August 1943 after the Italian Army capitulated. After trying, but not succeeding, to get to Switzerland, he joined Italian partisan brigades and then in 1945, the British Military Mission. At the end of the war, he returned to Australia, lived in St. Kilda and died in 1976.

Charles’ sister May, departed Australia in November 1916, and arrived in London on 10^th November on the Osterley. She went there to marry William MacGregor, who was an officer in the AIF. With the 6^th Field Artillery Brigade, he left Melbourne on HMAT Persic A34 on 22^nd November 1915. He was listed as a Captain and Veterinary Officer. They married in England on 30^th November 1916. He was recommended for a Military Cross and Mention in Despatches, but was only awarded the MiD. After the war, May employed a Joseph Georgelin, whose family was from Jersey. He had served as Private 7016 in the 14^th Battalion AIF and had worked for her father on Moreland Park before the war as a gardener, so he continued that. He was also witness to Captain MacGregor signing for his British War Medal in 1921.

His medals are Distinguished Service Order, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal with oak leaf and Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers Decoration.

His whistle and compass at the museum.

His whistle and compass.

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 belonging to the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

338 L/Cpl Frederick Gordon Crisp DCM MiD

1^st Light Horse Regiment, AIF

by Robert Simpson

Fredrick Gordon Crisp was born at Browning, near Yass in New South Wales in July 1895. He was a son to William Crisp and Mary McKinnon, who had been married in Yass in 1882. William had been born in Cambridgeshire, England in 1858 and had migrated to Australia in 1862. No other details are known about Mary (apart from her funeral details which give her age as 85, so born about 1857). They had seven children all up, Frederick being the youngest son and one of four boys. On 28^th May 1901, the Wagga Wagga Advertiser had an entry in Land Notes, Forfeited Conditional Purchases in the Albany District for William Crisp, that “c p 91 59, 50 acres, county Goulburn, parish Vautier”, was declared forfeit due to non-payment of money. Frederick joined the 43^rd (Werriwa) Infantry Regiment (Headquarters at Goulburn), a militia regiment, sometime in 1912, as he stated he had served with them for 2 years on his service record. He was probably with C Company, which was based around Yass, Braidwood, Cooma, and Bega. The Regiment had been formed after the reorganisation of the army in 1911 in New South Wales. It was a Militia Force in the 2^nd Military District and part of the 10^th Infantry Brigade. But in 1913 and 1914, the 43^rd Werriwa Regiment was attached to the 14^th Infantry Brigade for training. Frederick was still living with his parents in Victoria Street in Bowral. At this time he was working in the quarry on Mt. Gibraltar as a stonemason. He was a member of the local freemasons in Bowral, the Loyal Lighthouse Lodge. A description of him at that time was “open-hearted, fearless and chivalrous, of irreproachable character, and of a generous and jovial disposition”.

Frederick joined on 25^th August 1914 with the 1^st Light Horse Regiment as Private 338. He was one of the first men in the Southern Highlands to enlist. The regiment was raised with men from New South Wales in August 1914. He noted on his attestation paper that he was working as a mason and was born in Yass. Frederick had never been an apprentice, nor was he married. He gave his next of kin as his father, William Crisp of Victoria St, Bowral. He was still serving with the 43^rd Werriwa Infantry and had been with them for 2 years. Rosebury Park was the place he enlisted at. Frederick was described as being 19 years and 1 month old, height of 5 foot 10 inches, weight of 11 stone 6 pounds, chest measurement of 39 inches, of ruddy complexion with blue eyes and dark hair. His religious denomination was Presbyterian. He was passed as medically fit. Lieutenant Colonel John B Meredith, Commanding Officer of 1^st Light horse Regiment, approved the attestation and appointed him to “B” Squadron on 28^th August 1914 at Rosebury Park.

His service records read that he was a Driver from 1^st September 1914 to 11^th September 1914 and then reverted back to Private from 12^th September 1914. As a part of the 1^st Light Horse Regiment, Frederick embarked at Sydney on the HMAT Star of Victoria A16 on 20^th October 1914 (another record has 19^th). He was with B Squadron. They disembarked at Egypt on 8^th December 1915. His rate of pay was 5 shillings a day, of which he took 2 shillings and 6 pence. They incorrectly spelt his middle name as Gorden. He was promoted to Lance Corporal on 21^st (or 22^nd in another record) January 1915.

The Light Horse Regiments were deployed to Gallipoli without horses, to reinforce the infantry. The 1^st LHR landed on 12^th May 1915 and was used in a defensive roll for most of the campaign.

He was recommended for a gallantry award with the recommendation reading: – Lance Corporal F G Crisp 338 1^st ALH Regt., on 15^th May 1915 at Razor Back, near Quinn’s Post “This man volunteered and was allowed to go out in daylight on the morning of 15^th May to rescue a wounded man of the 2^nd A.L.H. who was seen lying on the cliff face of Razor Back to the left of QUINN’S POST and within twenty yards of the enemy’s trench. L.Cpl. Crisp had to climb the cliff in the sight of the enemy and returned with the wounded man.” He had not been previously recommended for an award.

Frederick was promoted to Corporal (temporary) on 26^th July 1915.

His DCM was promulgated in the London Gazette of 3^rd June 1916 (A32-27) page 5585, position 4 as Lance Corporal No. 338 1^st Australian Light Horse Regiment. The citation for the Distinguished Conduct Medal reads “CRISP F.G. L/Cpl 338 1^st Regt. For conspicuous gallantry. He voluntarily went out by daylight and rescued a wounded man from within 20 yards of the enemy’s trench. 21.6.16”. It was published in the London Gazette of 21^st June 1916 on page 6159, position 2. Base Records sent a letter to his father at Bowral, advising him of the entry in the London Gazette, although it said it was No. 29631 of 20^th June 1916.

His Mention in Despatches was published in the London Gazette of 13^th July 1916 page 6954, position 11, as Lance Corporal F G Crisp 338 1^st Light Horse Regiment Australian Cavalry. His father was sent a letter on 2^nd December 1916 the extract from the London gazette of 11^th July 1916 Fourth Supplement No. 29664 “relating to the conspicuous services rendered by your son, the late No. 338, Corporal F. C. Crisp, 1^st Light Horse Regiment. MENTIONED IN DESPATCHES. With reference to the despatch published on the 10^th April the following are mentioned for distinguished and gallant service rendered during the period of Sir Charles Munro’s Command of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force :- No. 338 FREDERICK GORDON CRISP.” Note, they put C instead of G in his initials. It was sent to Victoria Street Bowral. Another record notes it was for services between 6^th May 1915 and 28^th June 1915.

As part of the August offensive, the regiment was used to mount an attack on the Turkish position known as the Chessboard on the 7th. The allies planned to break the stalemate and seize the high points along the Sari Bair range. A diversion was planned at Lone Pine to start on the afternoon of the 6^th. They had to attack against formidable entrenched Turkish positions. Some of these positions were covered by pine logs, which they had to break through to get to the Turks. The main Turkish trench was taken 20 minutes after the charge, but this led to 4 days of intense hand-to-hand fighting. Of the 200 men involved of the 1^st HLR, 147 became casualties. During the attack on Lone Pine on 8^th August 1915, Frederick was wounded with a gunshot wound to the chest.

Frederick died of his wounds at sea on H.S. Dunluce Castle off the shore of Gallipoli on 8^th August 1915 (another entry has 20^th August?). The ship was on its way to the hospital at Malta when he died. Frederick was buried at sea en route to Malta, after the service to commit him. He was one of eleven Southern Highlanders who were killed during the attack at Lone Pine, between the 6^th and 9^th August 1915.

He is remembered on the Lone Pine Memorial at Anzac with his name listed on Panel 1. G.

Army Form B 2090A was filled out on 19^th August 1915 at Alexandria to report on his death and stated that Frederick Gordon Crisp, First Light horse Regiment, B Squadron, Regimental number 338 with the rank of Lance Sergeant (crossed out and Corporal handwritten), died on the 8^th August 1915 on board “Dunluce Castle” at sea and the cause of death was died of wounds received in action. There was no indication of a will and his pay book was not yet at hand.

The man he rescued was Trooper Edward Donovan of the 2^nd Light Horse Regiment C Squadron (Private 501). Edward later returned to Australia on 23^rd December 1918 as Corporal in the 1^st Light Horse Regiment. He wrote a letter which was published in the local paper: – “Saved By a Comrade. Trooper Edward Donovan, of 2^nd L. H. Regt, writes from the 1^st Australian General Hospital at Heliopolis, to his father at Lismore, as follows:- “When I was wounded at Quinn’s Post I lay unconscious out in front of our lies, at that time the most dangerous place at Anzac. After a month’s time I found that the man who rescued me under heavy machine-gun fire was Corporal Frederick Crisp, of B Troop, B Squadron, 1^st A.L.H. Regt. I hear he was awarded the D.C.M. for the brave act. This is the first opportunity I have had of thanking him.” [The above has evidently been written by a soldier who is unaware of the death of the comrade who rescued him. Corporal Crisp, who was the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Crisp, of Bowral, was subsequently killed in the memorable Lone Pine battle on the ill-fated Gallipoli peninsula. It must be consoling to his parents to know that the heroic act for which he was awarded the D.C.M. was in every sense genuine.-Ed.]”

On Tuesday 31^st August 1915, the Southern Mail in Bowral had this article in the “Roll of Honor: – CORPORAL FRED. CRISP. It was with profound regret that the news was received in Bowral on Thursday last that Corporal Frederick Gordon Crisp, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Crisp, Victoria-street, Bowral, had died on 8^th August from wounds received in action at the Dardanelles. From the meagre particulars to hand it appears that Corporal Crisp was wounded in the battle at Lonesome Pine, and died on the boat while being conveyed to the hospital at Malta. He was buried at sea. The deceased soldier, who was within four days of his 20^th birthday, was a splendid type of the young Australian – open hearted, fearless and chivalrous, of irreproachable character, and of a generous and jovial disposition which won the affection and esteem of all who knew him. He sailed with the 1^st Light Horse, 1^st Australian Division, obtained the first stripe while in Egypt, and the second at the Dardanelles. That Corporal Crisp was distinguishing himself in the firing line was evident from the fact that he had been mentioned in recent despatches for gallantry. We join their many friends in extending sincere sympathy to the bereaved family.”

The Sydney Morning Herald of 1^st September 1915 had under Roll of Honour “CRISP. – LANCE-CORPORAL Frederick Gordon, 1^st Light Horse Regiment, 1^st Australian Division, died of wounds received in action at the battle of Lonesome Pine, in his 20^th year. Dearly beloved brother of Cecil and Ettie Crisp, of Moss Vale.” The same paper on Tuesday 8^th August 1916 had two entries in the Roll of Honour:-

“CRISP. – In loving memory of our dear son and brother, Corporal Frederick Gordon Crisp, D.C.M., 1^st L.H., died of wounds received at Lone Pine August 8, 1915. He rose responsive to his country’s call, And gave his best – his life, his all.

CRISP. – In loving memory of our dear brother and uncle, Corporal Frederick Crisp, 1^st Light Horse, who gave his life for his country at Lone Pine August 8, 1915. His King and country called him, The call was not in vain; On Britain’s roll of honour You will find our hero’s name. Never forgotten by his loving sister and brother-in-law, Jim, niece, Mary, and nephews, Keith and Jimmy Walsh, 440 Wattle-street, Sydney.”

A letter from the Commanding Officer of the 43^rd Infantry at Goulburn was replied to on 18^th September 1916 by Base Records, sending him Record Books C.M. Forms M.7-8 (with A.I.F. service entered) relating to Frederick, who was in the AIF and “formerly of your Command, reported as :- Died of wounds, 8^th August, 1915.” On 4^th October 1916, R A Page, Captain and Adjutant pro Commanding Officer acknowledged receiving them.

A letter was written to Mr W Crisp at Victoria St Bowral on 10^th October 1916, which reads:- “With feelings of admiration at the gallantry of a brave Australian soldier who nobly laid down his life in the service of our King and Country, I am forwarding to you as the next-of-kin of the late No. 338 Corporal F. G. Crisp, 1^st Light Horse Regiment, Australian Imperial Force, the Distinguished Conduct Medal which His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to award that gallant soldier for conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty at the Dardanelles while serving with the Australian Expeditionary Force. May I ask you to accept my deep personal sympathy in the loss which not only you, but the Australian Army has sustained, by the death of Corporal Crisp, whose magnificent conduct on the field of battle helped to earn for our Australian soldiers a fame which will endure as long as memory lasts.”

On 10^th November 1915, a claim for a pension by Mary Crisp of Victoria St Bowral was rejected by the Deputy Commissioner of Pensions in Sydney as she was not dependent on the deceased soldier.

A couple of entries in his service record state he had no personal effects in his kit.

On 12^th January 1921, his father was sent the book “Where the Australians Rest”.

On 27^th August 1921, William Crisp signed for the Memorial Scroll and the Memorial Plaque on 31^st August 1922. He also signed for the Victory Medal with oak leaf attached on the same day. On 7^th July 1921, the certificate for the Mention in Despatches for “the late No. 338 T/Corporal F.G. Crisp ‘DCM’, 1^st L. H. Regt.” Was posted to Mr W Crisp of Victoria Street Bowral, only to be returned unclaimed. It was re-sent to PO Griffiths on 9^th March 1922.

At some stage his father, William, changed his address to C/O Post Office Griffiths NSW, as recorded on the Attestation page in his son’s records.

William Crisp, his father, passed away in September 1938 and is buried in Randwick General Cemetery. Mary Crisp died in April 1942 and was also buried at Randwick General Cemetery.

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

Memorial at Bowral.

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 belonging to the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

Lieutenant David Hardy MM MiD

11^th Australian Garrison Artillery, AMF

11^th Battalion, AIF

by Robert Simpson

David Hardy was born in St. Arnaud, Victoria in 1879, a son to George Hardy and Johanna O’Brien. George had been born in Halifax Yorkshire in 1831 and had migrated to Australia in 1855, arriving at Melbourne in January 1856. He lived in Glenorchy and was a grazier. George married Johanna in 1859. She was born in 1840. David was one of twelve children to them. He was the third youngest and one of eight brothers. No one else in the family served in the military. Nothing else is known of his early life.

He served with the 11^th Australian Garrison Artillery of the AMF for 14 years, which must include time in Victoria and maybe in Western Australia. His service records state he left at his own request.

By 1913, he had moved to Freemantle in Western Australia and was living at 48 Cantonment Street. His occupation was a wharf lumper. Also in 1913 he married Isabella Franklin in Freemantle. In the 1916 and 1917 electoral rolls, he was listed as living at 29 Point Street and was listed as a wharf labourer; even though by then he was actually serving. Isabella was listed as living at 69 Adelaide Street and was doing home duties. They did have one child, Lucy, but her date of birth is only listed as 1914 in Fremantle. Isabella had previously been married to Arthur Franklin on 22^nd August 1908 in Semaphore, South Australia. Her maiden name was Fairbairn and she had been born in 1872 in Victoria, a daughter to Thomas Fairburn (1825 to 1899) and Margaret Grant (1829 to 1908). Both of them had been born in Scotland and passed away in Victoria.

They were living at 29 Court Street, Fremantle when David enlisted, as noted on his enlistment form.

David enlisted on 17^th August 1914 at Helena Vale in Western Australia. He was part on the 11^th Battalion in the 3^rd Brigade of the 1^st Australian Division. He was given the service number 441 with the rank of Private in D Company. His religion was Roman Catholic. David was described as being 36 years old, height of 5 foot 7¾ inches, weight of 12 stone 4 pounds, chest measurement of 38 inches, and of dark complexion with dark eyes and black hair. He had spots of pigment on the inner side of his left thigh. Lieutenant-Colonel James Lyon Johnson, the Commanding Officer of the 11^th Battalion, signed his certificate of appointment to the 11^th battalion at Blackboy Hill on 6^th October 1914. His service was for the duration of the war and for 4 months afterwards if required. He was a Private from 14^th August to 31^st August 1914, then was promoted to Colour Sergeant from 1^st September to 31^st December 1914, on reorganisation of the Battalion into platoon companies. They embarked on HMAT Ascanius A11 from Fremantle on 2^nd November 1914. (Another record has 31^st October). On 1^st January 1915, he was appointed to B Company Quartermaster Sergeant, which he held to 10^th January 1915. He reverted to the rank of Corporal at his own request on 11^th January, and he held that rank up to 5^th April 1915. On 6^th April he was promoted to Lance Sergeant.

On 2^nd March 1915, he embarked on HMT Suffolk to join MEF (Gallipoli Peninsula) at Alexandria. He was admitted to No. 1 Stationary Hospital at Lemnos on 23^rd March 1915 and was discharged to re-join his unit on 14^th April 1915. He was involved with the landing at Gallipoli. David was promoted to Sergeant on 5^th May 1915. On 7^th October 1915 he was promoted to Temporary Company Sergeant Major and then on 1^st December was promoted to CSM at Lemnos.

David must have been working at Kalgoorlie at some stage, as a letter from Major R A Leane, dated 4^th September 1915, acknowledged comforts from the Kalgoorlie Working Bee and mentioned David in a list of men who received the “parcels and were duly grateful for them” as Sergeant-Major D. Hardy. There were 27 names out of over 200 Goldfielders who had landed with the 11^th Battalion at Gallipoli. He was promoted to Company Sergeant Major on 7^th October 1915. It was confirmed on 1^st December 1915. He disembarked from HMT Lake Michigan on 6^th January 1916 at Alexandria.

He was awarded a Military Medal for the Gallipoli campaign “for consistent gallantry and devotion to duty. During the fighting in Gallipoli he worked a Trench mortar and later a 3.7 Howitzer with excellent results. Although constantly exposed to shellfire his Mortar always came into action with effect when and where required. His conduct was consistently gallant.” The entry was recorded in the London Gazette of 27^th October 1916, page 10487, position 44. The recommendation had him listed as Sergeant, now Warrant Officer. Apparently, he served with distinction throughout the entire campaign, and the award was only one of five for the 11^th Battalion. It was his artillery knowledge that helped, being able to work a trench mortar and howitzers gave him the recognition.

David was promoted to Regimental Sergeant Major (Warrant Officer 1^st Class) on 15^th March 1916 at Ismailia. He embarked for France at the end of March 1916, embarking on the 29^th. He disembarked from HMAT Corsican at Marseilles on 5^th April 1916. He was present in the operations at Fleurbaix and Pozieres.

On 30^th July 1916 Warrant Officer and Regimental Sergeant Major David Hardy 441 and Sergeant Tom Lodge Hollings 915 were recommended for a Mention in Despatches (which was later changed to a Corps Complimentary) for “valuable service rendered under heavy artillery fire during the operations 22/25^th July 1915 which culminated in the capture of POZIERES.” The Battalion suffered horribly at Pozieres, with the casualties of 19 officers and 511 other ranks. David was one of two officers in D Company to survive. He was promoted to 2^nd Lieutenant on 23^rd August 1916.

With 5 others, David left for England on 26^th October 1916 to report to the 3^rd Infantry Training Battalion, to which he was seconded and posted to. He was awarded the Military Medal on 27^th October 1916. He marched into the 3^rd Training Battalion at Durrington on the 31^st. Reinforcements were sent there to receive their final training before being sent to France.

On 25^th November 1916, the Captain (Acting Brigade-Major) for the 3^rd Australian Infantry Brigade wrote an order that included 441 Sergeant David Hardy stating that “Units will so arrange that all recipients are as close to the front as possible in order to avoid unnecessary delay after the Church Service. On conclusion of the Service recipients will fall out in front of the centre of their respective Units. Those to receive medals on the Right, those for Ribbons on the left.” On 25^th December 1916, he was promoted to Lieutenant. Another entry has that on 1^st January 1917 he was to be a Lieutenant and remain seconded with the 3^rd Training Battalion.

Isabella signed for a Regular Army Form of Warrant for 2^nd Lieutenant D Hardy of the 11^th Battalion on 4^th May 1917, giving her address as Hampton Rd, South Fremantle. Base Records had received it on 25^th March 1917, and forwarded it on to her on 2^nd April 1917, but sent it to 29 Court Street. On 25^th April 1917, Isabella was sent a notification from Base Records “relating to the conspicuous services rendered by 2^nd Lieutenant D. Hardy, 11^th Battalion”. It read “HIS MAJESTY THE KING has been graciously please to award the Military Medal for bravery in the Field to the undermentioned non-commissioned officer: – No. 441, Sergeant (now 2nd Lieutenant), DAVID HARDY.” Her address was noted as 29 Court Street Fremantle, which by now was old. Her address was changed in his service records at some stage to C/o Nurse Sheedy at Hampton Road Fremantle.

He attended several courses in England for one year. From 28^th May to 1^st June 1917, he attended and qualified 1^st Class (suitable as Instructor) at the S. C. Revolver School at Wareham. After that, he was to remain seconded to the 3^rd Training Brigade.

On 14^th September 1917, David, who was a Lieutenant in the 11^th Battalion AIF (according to the record), faced a court martial. The proceedings of the court martial for his trial were noted on that date and stated that he was sentenced to forfeit his seniority and was severely reprimanded.

He was promoted to Lieutenant on 5^th October 1917 and re-joined the Battalion on the 11^th, as part of A Company, proceeding from Southampton to France on the 9^th. On 11^th October, he ceased to be seconded with the 3^rd Training Brigade.

On 19^th October 1917, during a live bomb throwing practice, a grenade explode prematurely, injuring several men. David was seriously wounded in the chest and shoulders. 2^nd Lieutenant Lionel Logan Summers MC was also injured and later died.

David passed away, dying of his wounds “accidently received” at the 2^nd Canadian Casualty Clearing Station in Belgium on 31^st October 1917. The Commanding Officer of the 2^nd Canadian CCS reported to the Officer of Records that he had died of wounds (accidently received) and that details of his burial place were “not yet to hand” and his will had not been received. It is recorded he died of accidental injuries in the index of the cemetery records. He is buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery at Poperinge, West Flanders in Belgium in Plot XXI. AA. 19. His gravestone has this inscription – “In loving memory of my dear husband and father of Lucie Isobel”. The cemetery is 1¾ miles southwest of Poperinghe.

The author of the Battalion history “Legs-Eleven” wrote about the incident: – “On October 19, before the officers sat down to mess, Major Darnell, who was senior officer at the time, said he had a rather distressing announcement to make, and he then informed the assembled officers (all the mess orderlies and stewards having been sent out of the hut) that he had the promulgation of a court-martial to read. This order was to the effect that Lieut. Dave Hardy was to lose six months’ seniority on account of over-staying his leave when ordered to proceed from England to France. (The offence was purely technical and was only due to a mistake in the time of departure of a train, but the authorities chose to take a serious view of the matter, with the abovementioned result.) All the officers were full of sympathy for Hardy, who was a fine soldier. Hardy, however, was deeply chagrined, and took the matter very much to heart. Just after lunch German bombing ‘planes were heard overhead and “eggs” began to fall around. Most of the officers quickly evacuated the hut and old Con. O’Brien and the rest of the orderlies cleared out. Dave hardy still sat moodily in his chair, so the writer went up to him and said: “Come on, Dave, let’s clear out of this or Fritz will be dropping one of his “eggs” on top of us.” But hardy would not move. “I don’t give a damn,” he said, if the bastards drop one right on top of my head.” That afternoon there was a practice in live bomb throwing and Lieuts. Hardy and Summer were in charge of the party. During the practice there was the premature burst of a bomb and both Hardy and Summers were very seriously wounded and Sergeant Bill Back and Private R. F. Bell, of the bombing platoon, were also wounded. All were immediately rushed to hospital, but Hardy and Summers both died a day or two later.”

In late October 1917, report 5408 on accidental or self-inflicted injuries for Lieutenant David Hardy stated the injuries were bomb wounds to the head, shoulder, left arm, neck and chest and were severe. “Lt D Hardy was supervising live bombing practice when bomb burst immediately after leaving thrower hand wounding thrower No 5350 Pte Bell R F Lt D Hardy & L D Summers No 3717 Sgt W Beck”. The Commanding Officers opinion was that it happened in the performance of military duty and no one was to blame.it was a premature burst and accidental and David was accidently wounded. A notification of his death was sent to ANZAC Section 3^rd Echelon GHQ on 25^th November 1917, stating he was with A Company 11^th Battalion and the details above. It also noted his will was not received.

Isabella was sent notification that he had died of wounds on 9^th November 1917. Base Records, on 31^st January 1918, acknowledged her letter of the 8^th and enclosed, in triplicate, the report of the death of David as she requested. They sent it to her, C/o Nurse Sheedy of 130 Hampton Rd Fremantle.

His service record contains an entry on 16^th November 1917 – “This officer is sentenced by G.C.M. to take rank and precedence in his Battalion & in the AIF as if his appointment as Lieutenant bore date the 14^th Sept. 1917. (Authority: – “London Gazette Supplement” No 30375dated 10^th Nov. 1917.) and, Reported Died of Wounds, is struck off strength.” He was originally promoted to be a Lieutenant on 1^st January 1917. There are lots of entries in his service records that have been crossed out, because of this.

The West Australian newspaper of Friday 16^th November 1917, under the Birth, Marriage and Deaths heading had in the Killed in Action list – HARDY. – On October 31, somewhere in France, died of wounds. Lieutenant David Hardy, beloved husband of Isobel and father of Lucy Hardy, late of the Australian Garrison Artillery. Deeply regretted. He has nobly fought a good fight. In the same newspaper, on Monday 3^rd December 1917 had in the casualty list under died of wounds – Lieutenant Hardy, David (Fremantle). The Daily News in Perth also carried the same entry.

Isabella Fairburn and been born in Pentland Hills in Victoria in 1872. After David died, she was still in Fremantle in the 1916 and 1917 rolls, at 69 Adelaide Street and 12 Attfield Lane respectively. Then she had moved to Victoria and was living at 55 Wellington Street in Flemington. By 1921 she was living at 79 Edinburgh Street in Newmarket. That year she also married Alexander Edward Savage, who was a commercial traveller. Finding any more information on him is almost impossible. A birth or death date for him cannot be found. In the electoral rolls from 1925 to 1943, they were living at 38 Bryant Street in Newmarket, but afterwards it is not known what happened to him. Isabella passed away in 1948 in Flemington, Victoria.

On 30^th March 1918 in Western Australia, a pension was granted for the widow of 441 Colour Sergeant David Hardy of the 11^th Battalion. Isabella Hardy of Fremantle received a pension of 52 shillings and 3 pence a fortnight, granted from 12^th January 1918. Lucy Hardy, his daughter, received a pension of 20 shillings a fortnight, from the same date also. On 3^rd April 1918, the pension was increased to 70 shillings a fortnight, from 12^th January and David was listed as former RSM (Lieutenant 11^th Battalion).

The Officer in charge of records for the AIF in London forwarded a letter that was addressed to the executors of David on 18^th April 1918, so that Base Records in Melbourne could forward that onto them. Another one had been previously sent on 12^th February 1918, addressed to her Fremantle address. A letter was sent from AIF Headquarters in London on 25^th March 1919 to Base Records in Melbourne, with a letter addressed to the Executors of his will, for them to send on. It was eventually sent to her on 31^st May 1919, at her address in Newmarket.

Isabella signed for a Form of Warrant for the late Lieutenant D Hardy, 11^th Battalion on 14^th May 1918, giving her address as 98 Shields Street Newmarket in Melbourne. She also signed for his Military medal on the same date. On 21^st August 1918, she signed for 1 package and for another on the 24^th. Both were sent on the Gilgal to Base Records in Melbourne, and then forwarded securely to her. The sealed tin trunk was originally sent to her Western Australia address in late 1917. It contained a purse with 4 coins and a German Mark note, a wallet, letter, photos, books, handkerchief, collars, ties, 1 clothes brush, 1 boot brush, 1 housewife, 1 sword frog, 1 jack knife, 3 whistles, 2 stars, 1 cigarette case, 1 fountain pen, 2 rulers, 1 shirt, 1 flannel, 1 suit pyjamas, 2 walking sticks, 1 muffler, 1 S. D. tunic. Ex sack- 1 “Sam Browne” belt, 1 pair of brown boots. Ex valise- 1 razor, 1 razor strop, 1 book notes, 1 suit pyjamas, 1 towel, handkerchiefs, collars, 1 pair of socks, 1 mirror, 1 pair of woollen gloves, 1 flannel shirt, 1 cap, 1 shirt, 1 linen bag, 1 pair of trench boots, 1 pair of brushes in case, 1 pair of S. D. slacks, 1 S. D. tunic, valise. All must have been present in both deliveries, as she was asked to check seals and advise of any discrepancy by the forwarding letters. She also signed for something on 24^th October 1919, but what it was is not listed on the card. It may have been his warrant issued by the British War office for his appointment and temporary 2^nd Lieutenant in the regular forces of the British Army, which was sent on the 18^th October to her address. It had been previously sent to her Fremantle address on 4^th April 1918.

Three photographs of his grave were sent to Isabella from London on 21^st February 1919 to her address at Fremantle (which was wrong) and eventually signed for on 3^rd November 1920. On 18^th December 1920, the booklet “Where the Australians Rest” was sent to Isabella. The memorial scroll and King’s message was sent to Isabella on 2^nd July 1921 and signed for on the 18^th. The memorial plaque was sent on 7^th December 1922, but was returned. It was re-addressed and sent on 20^th May 1923 and she signed for it on the 29^th. Her new address was 55 Wellington Street Newmarket. His three campaign medals were also sent out and returned on the 10^th March 1923. They were re-issued on 8^th November 1923 and signed for on the 18^th. Base Records wrote a note that Isabella had remarried in 1923 (incorrect) and her address at 1930 was Mrs Isabella Savage, 38 Bryant street Newmarket. A letter was sent to her at 55 Wellington Street on 28^th September 1923, giving her information that “the site of his grave in the Lijessenthoek Military Cemetery is officially registered as: – Plot 21. Row AA. Grave 19. While the actual place of burial remains unchanged the previous registration allotted has been altered to conform with the uniform layout of this Cemetery.”

Isabella wrote out information that was to go to the Roll of Honour at the War Memorial. For the town that he was chiefly connected with, she wrote Melbourne. His calling was a soldier, aged 37, his school was St. Arnaud at “Aulbury” NSW and his other training was a soldier in the RAGA with the rank of Sergeant Major. For his previous military service he served in Melbourne, Sydney, Thursday Island and Fremantle. She gave her address as 55 Wellington Street in Flemington Victoria and for a reference to another person, she gave Lucy Crawford of 238 Drummond Street in Carlton Victoria.

His nickname was “Dave”.

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

Honor board at St. Arnaud.

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 belonging to the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

Commander John Savile Dent Metcalf DSC RD MiD Spanish Lifeboat Society Gallantry medal

Royal Navy Reserve

by Robert Simpson

Commander John Savile Metcalf DSC, RD, RNR

Photos taken 8^th August 1935 by Madame Yevonde at 28 Berkeley Square, London.

John Savile Dent Metcalf was born on 7^th December 1895 in Ilkley Yorkshire England. He was the only son to William Day Metcalf and Annie Louisa Towse who had been married on 5^th June 1892 in Oulton Yorkshire. He also had a sister, Mary Grace Day Metcalf, born on 16 March 1893 in Leeds Yorkshire. William had been born illegitimately in 1863 with his mother Sarah Metcalf marrying a Major Sheldon in 1880 (his name not a rank, he was a miner and he died in 1882). In the 1901 census they were living at 57 Weaste Rd in Pendleton and John was at school. William had various occupations mainly involved with being a clerk, but by 1911 he owned and ran a pub in Yorkshire. Annie was a schoolmistress in the 1891 census. John was educated at Carlisle Grammar School. He was admitted in the Summer Term of 1906 on 2^nd July and left in July 1908. His father was listed as living at Old Brewery House in Bridge Street Carlisle. In 1910 he was apprenticed to the Runciman Line and by the time of the outbreak of the war in 1914 he had been appointed as a Third Officer.

On 27^th January 1915 John was a probationary Midshipman (appointed 3^rd July 1914) in the Royal Naval Reserve on the Triumph with seniority from 1^st July 1914 and number 2037. The Triumph was a pre-dreadnought battleship. After action near China and a refit in Hong Kong she was sent to the Dardanelles where, with other ships, she was involved in bombarding the Turkish forts in the straits. On the morning of the 25^th April his steamboat was to pick up number 2 tow from the Queen Elizabeth, which he did at 3.20 a.m. All the ships and tows moved east towards the coast in the dark. Instead of being 150 yards apart they were only 50 yards and could just see each other then. When instructed to go ahead of the Queen he moved ahead after a second call, even though the first tow boat had not sped up. Getting closer he determined they were too close to Gaba Tepe where Turkish troops could enfilade them, so he altered course two points to port and 15 minutes later, seeing the other tows had followed, he altered course one and a half points to port again. This alteration meant the landings were not where they were supposed to be (about a mile off target, south of Ari Burnu), but probably saved a lot of lives initially. There is also discussion of the Turks shifting a British landing-buoy one mile to the north of where it had been positioned and the ships started in the wrong position. John was wounded in subsequent trips, receiving a severe wound to the right forearm, and was evacuated to Alexandria. He was mentioned for service in connection with the landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula on 25^th -26^th April 1915. The listing has his full name but then his middle name except for the S is crossed out and an e is added to his surname. The entry originally had him as RN, which was crossed out and RNR written in. It lists him as being on the Triumph and he was recommended by the Vice Admiral Commanding the Eastern Mediterranean Squadron and notes he “was in command of one of Triumph’s boats during the landing at Z beach”. The award of a Distinguished Service Cross was made on 16^th August 1915. It was promulgated in the London Gazette on 16^th August 1915, with the King graciously pleased to give orders for the award in recognition of his service “as mentioned in the foregoing despatch”.. The Edinburgh Gazette of 17^th August 1915 lists him for Special Recommendation from Vice-Admiral John M. de Robeck as “Midshipman John Savile Metcalf, R.N.R. H.M.S. “Triumph”.” He also got a copy of the listing from Admiralty noting he “was mentioned in Despatches in recognition of distinguished services during the War”. The Triumph was torpedoed a few weeks later, and sunk with a significant loss of life, while he was still in hospital. He was appointed Midshipman on 22^nd March 1916.

HMS Triumph.

Picket boat from HMS Triumph.

He was on the HMS Faulknor, a flotilla leader class of destroyer as an Acting Sub-Lieutenant in 1916. The Faulknor was present at the Battle of Jutland. During the battle she engaged the SMS Grosser Kurfurst while passing down the German line with her 4 inch guns (without causing serious damage) and delivering a torpedo attack. While on her, he met Admiral Jellico in December 1915. Jellico asked him if he would accept a commission in the Royal Navy, but he declined due to financial grounds. His Captain on the Faulknor and the Saumarez, A J B Stirling, gave him a reference saying he served on those ships “under my command, from the 4^th day of September 1915 to the 13^th day of May, 1917 during which period he has conducted himself entirely to my satisfaction. He has carried out his duties zealously and efficiently and he is a reliable Officer-of-the-Watch at sea.” He was appointed Sub-Lieutenant on 28^th February 1917 with number 002846 and seniority from 28^th January 1917. John then served on other destroyers until the end of the war and was demobilised as a Lieutenant in June 1919. He also received other references from those Captains, all pointing out his ability and zeal and some note he was “strongly recommended for promotion”. His address during the war was listed as Boston Spa, Yorks. He had been appointed Lieutenant on 6^th March 1919 with seniority from 28^th January and number 02271.

As 4^th Mate on the Orvieto (of the Orient Line), he left London in late 1919, arriving in Sydney on 15^th December. This was despite being issued with certificates of competency for Second Mate (for foreign-going steamships only) on 12^th April 1919 and Master on 4^th June 1919 in the Merchant Service by the Board of Trade. He was also listed in the Navy List in 1919 in the RNR as an Acting Lieutenant with Seniority date of 28^th January 1917 and he was serving on the Gabriel, a Marksman Class destroyer. He was listed in the Merchant Navy Seaman register as Rating 5 Officer with a Grade of B/T Certificate of Master, number 0012655. His Identity Certificate was number 21313 and included his picture. In late 1921 he departed London on the Orcades as 3^rd Mate, and arrived in Sydney on 23^rd November. From 1921 to 1927 he was on the Royal Naval Reserve Active List as a Lieutenant with seniority from 28^th January 1919. Another Merchant slip has him with the rating of 2^nd Mate in 1926 and also lists on the back the ships he was on from 1922 to 1934. Another card dated 1932 has his rating as 1^st Mate and said the original Certificate of Discharge was reported lost. It also listed his description as height 5 foot 11 inches, grey eyes, brown hair, medium complexion and no distinguishing marks. On 1^st July 1928 John was awarded the Decoration for Officers of the Royal Naval Reserve (Reserve Decoration or RD), an award to officers with at least fifteen years of active duty. In 1930 he was listed in the Merchant Navy Seaman’s Records which stated his birth year and 1895 and place as Yorkshire. The 1931 Navy List has John as a Lieutenant-Commander in the RNR with seniority from 28^th January 1927 and he was appointed to that rank on 4^th February 1927. It was also published in the London Gazette on 15^th February 1927 in the list of RNR Lieutenants to be Lieutenant-Commanders. His service record between the wars lists all the ships and appointments he had for the Orient Line and for the naval training he had. It also acknowledges he was suitable for training and recommended for promotion in due course. His records also show the courses of Voluntary Training he did and service in H. M. Ships when called out and is quite detailed and filled out. His conduct was always satisfactory and his ability average or above average. Some of the courses he did were signals, gunnery and torpedo.

Photo of him from Merchant Seaman register in 1921.

In 1924, he applied for a patent for “improvements in or relating to means for securing hats on the head of a wearer”. His 1914-15 star and Oak Leaves were issued to him in May 1926 while he was with HMS Pembroke.

In 1927 he was awarded a Spanish Lifeboat Society’s Gallantry Medal which is in Spanish. Unfortunately no record is with it to say what it was for or when and where the event was.

In mid-1933 his mother, Annie Louisa passed away in Tadcaster Yorkshire.

In late 1935 he married Dora Stuart Primrose Greene in Holborn Middlesex. Dora had been born in Madras India on 11^th March 1892, and also baptised there. Her father, George Percy Greene (born 1862 in Ireland) was the Superintendent of Madras Survey and had passed away in 1900 at the age of only 39 in India. He had married Eleanor Emily Ernestine Burton in India on 30^th October 1890. They had three children, including Dora. After he passed away the family returned to England where they are shown on the 1901 census as living in Bedford St Peter. She attended Bedford School from 1901, leaving at Christmas time in 1911. Dora was listed in a passenger record for the Highland Princess, leaving London bound for South American ports on 17^th September 1932 as a secretary (an error). She was a founder and company director of British Tabulating Machine Company. Another record shows her returning to England in 1^st Class on the Andalucia Star from Buenos Aires on 6^th October 1932 as a Director of a Private Company. The electoral registers from 1936 to 1938 listed Dora as living at 4 Great Ormond St Holborn.

In late 1940, having being appointed to the command of the Orient Line’s Ormonde and used the ship to help evacuate the British troops at Narvik and St. Nazaire, where due to his skilful manoeuvring he avoided the bombers that had targeted the ship and returned the troops safely to England.

John is listed in the Navy Lists from 1939 to 1942 as Commander with seniority from 31^st December 1934. In the 1944 list he was noted as the same with Acting Captain noted afterwards. The lists from 1945 to 1948 have him listed as RNR Captain with seniority from 30^th June 1944. In World War 2, John was originally posted as Commodore of East Coast Convoys at Southend. From 7^th August 1941 to early 1942 he was on the HMS Lady Blanche (FY014), an armed yacht, as Commodore. In 1942 he was placed in charge of auxiliary patrols at Scapa Flow. Also in 1942 he volunteered for “Force X”, a dummy convoy which was set up to draw the Tirpitz away from convoy P.O.17. The weather was not good and covered them so much in fog that the German reconnaissance could not detect them and the plan was rendered entirely useless. In late 1942 he was appointed Commodore of the Atlantic Convoys at Belfast. He was then on HMS Ranee (D03), an escort carrier, as Acting Captain from 10^th October 1943 to April 1944. The carrier was built in America and supplied to Britain under the lend-lease agreement. Modifications and sea trials occurred late 1943 and early 1944 off Vancouver. When all completed in February she called into San Francisco to pick up aircraft which were then delivered to India in March after first stopping at Wellington and Freemantle. She then returned to Vancouver in March (with some American war brides from Australia) before travelling on the Pacific Ocean to Canada for a refit in April. He then handed the ship over in May 1944. The London Gazette of 7^th July 1944 lists John as being promoted on 30^th June 1944 from Commander to Captain in the Royal Naval Reserve. Then he was on HMS Guardian (T89), a netlayer, from 5^th November 1944 until late 1945, based in Sydney. She was with the British Pacific Fleet in its actions against the Japanese in the Pacific and was present at the signing of the Japanese surrender in Hong Kong in September 1945.

William Day Metcalf passed away on 12^th August 1944 with his effects of over 600 pounds going to his daughter, Mary Grace Day Metcalf, who was a spinster. He had been living in The Old Vicarage Church, Fenton near Tadcaster in Yorkshire; an address John sometimes used on his service records.

John was released from the Royal Naval Reserve in March 1946. From 1948 he was employed by British Tabulating Machine Company as a Personal Relations Officer as he could find no suitable naval job. Dora had and gotten him a job there when he left the navy in 1946. He also stated he would be a volunteer for an early recall in the event of an emergency.

On 1^st July 1950 John retired, but was employed at the Admiralty in the 1950’s in connection with the Royal Naval Mine-watching Service, which was a part time job. His service record stated he was ineligible for step up in rank after retirement. He spent from October 1950 to June 1951 in Westminster Hospital due to major operations in connection with a perforated appendix.

The electoral registers from 1952 to 1956 show them living at 3 Oakwood Mansions in Kensington. According to his service records they were there from 1949 to 1959. The 1960 and 1961 registers have them at 3 Abington Gardens in Kensington South and the 1961 register has him listed as a Captain. He was also there in 1962 as recorded on his service record and then they moved to Swordsland Lodge in 1963. They both retired at the end of 1962.

In early 1975 John Metcalfe passed away in Wharfedale, West Yorkshire.

His sister Mary Metcalf remained a spinster until her death in late 1980.

Dora passed away on 17^th October 1982 in Leeds Yorkshire and the Times had in her death notice that she was the wife of Captain J S Metcalf.

His second middle name, Dent, is only mentioned in his entrance to Carlisle Grammar School and as an initial D on the 1901 census. It is mentioned nowhere else. To confirm it would need his birth certificate. The school also has his date of birth recorded as 5^th December 1895, which is different to all other records.

The Imperial War Museum has a collection of his papers which mainly relate to his naval career.

He was an ardent Mason and was also associated with other clubs and associations.

His medals are Distinguished Service Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal with MID clasp, 1939-45 Star, Atlantic Star, North Africa Star, Pacific Star with Burma Clasp, 1939-45 War Medal, Decoration for Officers of the Royal Naval Reserve and Spanish Lifeboat Society’s Gallantry Medal.

Close up of his Spanish Lifeboat Society’s Gallantry Medal.

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 belonging to the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Rankine DSO MiD VD

14th Battalion, AIF

39th Battalion, AIF

by Robert Simpson

Robert Rankine was born in Chatham in Kent England on 29^th July 1868, the only son and child to William Henry Rankine and Helen Dobbie (that is known of). William had been born in London in 1837 and moved to Scotland before the 1851 census with his family, living at Falkirk in Stirlingshire. While there he married Helen Dobbie on 21^st June 1857. Helen had been born in Scotland about 1839. After marrying, they moved back to England before the 1861 census, living in Gillingham, Kent. William appears to be an engineer, maybe to do with marine propulsion. They do not appear in the 1871 census, but are still in Gillingham in the 1881 census, at 22 Paget Street. Robert was a scholar at that time, attending Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School at Rochester, Kent.

On 15^th June 1890 Robert married Annie Christina Mildred Polden at Saint Martin in the Fields, Westminster, London and well he had to. Annie gave birth to their only child, Kenneth Carruthers Rankine on 11^th September 1890 at Aldershot in Hampshire. Kenneth was baptised at the Holy Trinity Church at Aldershot on 26^th October 1890. Annie’s parents were Thomas and Elizabeth Polden. Thomas was an Army Schoolmaster – Infantry at Chatham Barracks according to the 1871 census. Annie had been born in Canada about 1865. In the 1891 census they were found at 5 Wellington Street at Aldershot and Robert was listed as Publishers Manager Books. At some stage they all moved to Australia around 1900 and in the 1909 electoral roll they were living at Avoca Avenue in St. Kilda where he was listed as a Printer and Stationer. By the 1914 roll they were still living in the same place, but his occupation had changed to importer. There is a Robert Rankine, manager of Lamson Paragon Supply Company Limited of 47 Elizabeth Street, in the Melbourne Directory of 1900, which could be him. The company was established in England and seemed to be involved in cash delivery systems in businesses although Wiki says a subsidiary company was not established in Australia until 1901. By about 1910 he had moved to Peacock Bros. according to a notice in The Argus on his death. They also seem to be involved with business supplies and are still operating. While working, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 2^nd Battalion of Infantry in Melbourne in December 1901, a Lieutenant in the 6^th Australian Infantry Regiment on 10^th May 1906 and then Captain in 1908 and adjutant with the Victorian Scottish Regiment (a militia regiment in Elsternwick) from 1905 to 1908. With the Kitchener reforms commencing in 1910, “Captain Robert Rankine of the Victorian Scottish Regiment, 1^st Battalion was appointed to Victoria area Number 46B for the region of Balaclava with the rank of Captain while holding Temporary Appointment as Area Officer.”

Robert applied for a commission in the AIF on 28^th November 1914 in the 3^rd Military District. His previous military service was as a Major with the 52^nd Infantry. The application records he qualified at a competitive examination for first appointment as 2^nd Lieutenant on December 1901, was 46 years and 4 months old and was married to Annie. They were living at Dunmore in Avoca Avenue. He was 5 foot 7 inches tall, had a chest measurement of 38 inches, weighed 11 stone 12 pounds and had 6/6 eyesight in both eyes. On 9^th October 1914 Robert was appointed to the 14^th Battalion (A Company) with the rank of Major.

He kept a diary which includes an entry in the front page– “In the event of my being killed in action I desire that this diary be forwarded to my wife Mrs R. Rankine “Dunmore” Avoca Avenue, St Kilda Victoria. Gallipoli April 26^th 1915”.

The Battalion boarded a train at Broadmeadows for Port Melbourne on 22^nd December 1914 and then embarked on the HMAT Ulysses A38 for Egypt. At Egypt, all the battalions were reduced from 8 companies A to H, to 4 companies battalions lettered A to D. Robert was appointed Commander of the reformed A Company. They departed Alexandria on 12^th April 1915 on SS Seeang Choon for Gallipoli.

During the Gallipoli landing, the 14^th Battalion was involved in helping the wounded from the landing back on the Seeang Choon and helping to care for them on the 25^th April. They landed on the next day under shrapnel fire but had few casualties. They were used on the beach as a reserve, collecting the arms, equipment and packs that had been discarded the day before at the northern point of Anzac Cove at Ari Burnu and slept under the cliffs that night. On the 27^th they were instructed to reinforce 1^st Division at the front, receiving orders at about 8.15am to march up Shrapnel Gully. They advanced under intermittent shrapnel fire, taking any cover that was available as they progressed. Under Major Rankine, they reinforced the garrison at Quinn’s Post. It was one of the most dangerous posts in the line, being at the crest of a steep hill and having very little cover for the troops. Due to this, many casualties from machine gun and sniper fire were suffered early on and it was hard to evacuate the wounded. His diary also reads for that day– “’Turned out of our dug outs at daylight & formed up, started up the high hills in single file on narrow path winding through low scrub 2 ft high, terrific fire the whole morning. My company pushed forward up a jungle covered ridge 1000 feet; very difficult & trying. Entrenched under heavy fire from within 500 yards & had many casualties before noon. At 12.15 Turks brought up machine gun and in 3 minutes had given me 23 casualties, panic followed but lasted very short time. Could not hear yourself speak for din of firing, naval ships all joined in, cries & screams of wounded most distressing. Afternoon brought many more casualties, enemy was badly knocked about, stretcher parties were kept busy. Hung on to our trenches all night & repulsed Turks attack at dawn, no food all day, a little muddy water to drink. Capt. Hoggart killed instantly, Lieut. Hanby severely wounded.” They held the post until relief arrived on the 29^th April by which time the Battalion had lost nearly one third of its’ men.

After the attack, Robert was recommended for awards for his gallantry. “Major Robert Rankine, 14^th Australian Infantry battalion (Victoria): On the night of 26^th-27^th April, 1915, during operations in the neighbourhood of Gaba Tepe, for gallantry leading an assault resulting in the capture of a most important post, and subsequently for holding that position against repeated attacks for five days without relief.” He was recommended by Lieutenant-Colonel Courtney at Gallipoli and it was forwarded on 18^th May 1915 for a Mention in Despatch and a Distinguished Service Order. The DSO was recorded in the London Gazette of 3^rd June 1915 with “His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to approve of the following rewards for gallantry and devotion to duty in connection with the operations at the Dardanelles (Mediterranean Expeditionary Force):- To be Companions of the Distinguished Service Order. Major R. Rankine, 14^th Australian Infantry battalion (Victoria).” He was personally awarded the DSO by King George V at Buckingham Palace on 14^th October 1915.

An entry in his service records stated he was awarded a Military Cross which was promulgated in the London Gazette on 3^rd July 1915, but this is incorrect. His DSO was confirmed on 29^th May 1915 with an entry in his records for Military Cross, crossed out with DSO written above it on 3^rd July.

Robert was admitted to the Anglo-American Hospital at Cairo on 30^th June 1915 with influenza and discharged on 1^st July. Another entry has that he arrived in Alexandria on Hospital Ship Gascon on 18^th June.

A letter to his wife on 5^th July 1915 stated he was in Anglo-American Hospital with influenza.

His Mention in Despatches was promulgated in the London Gazette on 5^th August 1915 on page 7669 position 4.

He embarked on the SS Minnewaska for the Dardanelles on 9^th July 1915 and returned to his unit at Gallipoli on the 15^th, where he assumed command of unit on 21^st, as Lieutenant-Colonel Adams was sick.

While on Gallipoli, he kept a dairy of day to day events. The entry for Thursday, 29^th July 1915 reads “My birthday, splendid mail, letter from Chris, Kenneth & 4 from Mother. Packet from Chris & Kenneth with birthday presents. Birthday dinner in my honour by Major’s Young & Dare & Capt. Cooper. Large bottle champagne, sent cork & signatures home to Chris. Fine, hot day, nothing doing.” The cork and card are on display in the museum.

Robert was temporary Commanding Officer of the 14^th Battalion from 10^th August to 26^th August 1914 and was appointed temporary Lieutenant-Colonel during that time. At that time he apparently souvenired a Webley & Scott flare pistol and a Turkish belt buckle. Then he reverted back to the permanent rank of Major, which was recorded on 25th August 1915, while sick at Mudros. He was admitted to the No. 19 General Hospital at Alexandria on 30^th August 1915 from HS Formosa (admitted on 28^th) with debility on one file and influenza on another.

Another letter advised Annie that Robert had been admitted to the General hospital in Alexandria on 19^th August with debility and he was satisfactory on the 30^th August.

He was evacuated to England suffering severe dysentery on 23^rd September on the HS Karoola. At the 3^rd London General Hospital, he was admitted on the 5^th and on 6^th October 1915 a medical history form was filled out when he was discharged. He was suffering with dysentery and neurasthenia from Gallipoli where he reported sick with dysentery from 3^rd September 1915 and was sent to Alexandria and then there, according to his medical record. After completely recovering from that he was now suffering from insomnia and severe neurasthenia. The cause was given as exposure to infection and nerve strain due to his military service. He was given 6 months to recover which was approved in October 1915, as he was unfit for active service. Robert returned to Australia on 21^st December 1915 on Runic A54 being unfit for general duties with dysentery, leaving England from Portland on 7^th November. He was also struck off strength on this date at Tel-el-Kebir. The next record shows dysentery stools negative and he was fit for duty on 10^th March 1916.

A letter was sent to Annie at Dunmore on 14^th October 1915 referring to the wire on the 8^th that Robert was now in 3^rd General Hospital in London suffering “Debility” and he could be contacted by writing to Lieutenant-Colonel R Rankine DSO, ill, 14^th Australian Infantry. Another letter on the 29^th confirming previous details and stating he was now doing well. She replied on 30^th November, thanking them for all the notifications that they had sent her about Robert and signed it Christina Rankine.

Annie was sent a letter on 10^th December 1915 from Base Records Melbourne advising her that the London Gazette had an extract “relating to the conspicuous services rendered by your husband, Lieut. Col. R. Rankine D. S. O. “ which was headed Companions of the Distinguished Service Order, Major Robert Rankine 14^th Australian Infantry with the entry “On the night of 26^th – 27^th April, 1915, during operations in the neighbourhood of Kaba Tepe, for gallantry leading an assault resulting in the capture of a most important part, and subsequently for holding that position against repeated attacks for five days without relief.”

His service record has an entry that he returned from 14^th Battalion (overseas). A copy of his Attestation Paper has him as a Lieutenant-Colonel in the 39^th Battalion with what looks like B Coy done as a stamp and other letters and numbers that are unreadable. It gave his age as 47 and his calling as soldier. His wife Annie was listed as next of kin with her address as Dunmore Avoca Ave, St. Kilda. It was dated 27^th May 1916. His pay-book number was 194868.

His religion was listed as Presbyterian.

From 7^th to 12^th January 1916, he spent that time in the No. 5 Australian General Hospital with dysentery and neurasthenia and was given one month’s leave. He was then back in on the 10^th with continuing dysentery but was noted as fit for duty. On 10^th February 1916 he was appointed Lieutenant-Colonel in charge of the 39^th Battalion and was sent to the Western Front in France. The Staff Officer for Invalids sent a minute with the Medical Board proceedings for Lieutenant-Colonel Rankine to return to duty to pass on to Base Records. A note was also added by Staff Officer of Returned Soldiers that he returned to duty on 21^st February 1916 (in the 3^rd Military District) and was now commanding the 39^th Battalion AIF. A note from No. 5 Australian General Hospital dated 11^th March 1916 stated he had been discharged from there and was fit for duty. They embarked on HMAT Ascanius A11 at Melbourne on 27^th May 1916, arriving on 18^th July at Devonport. From Southport they proceeded to France on 23^rd November 1916. After continuing to suffer from ill health in November he was admitted to hospital with severe myalgia on 30^th November. He re-joined the Battalion from there on 14^th December 1916 (the record stated 39^th Battalion and he was a Lieutenant-Colonel). On 27^th January 1917 he was again admitted to hospital with myalgia from the field. He was then invalided to England on HS Western Australia on 7^th February.

On 30^th January 1917 he was placed on the Seconded List.

A Medical Case Sheet dated 1917 for him from the 3^rd London General Hospital stated he had myalgia and lumbar fibrositis. He reported sick on 7^th February 1917 with pain in the back and two thighs and he went to 14^th General Hospital and then to that hospital. Robert had stiffness in the muscles and radiant heat, massage and electro-therapy were tried. He was also given Caffeine and Aspirin Mixture. The pain was moving up and down the back and massage and electro-therapeutics were used to treat it. Later on it was noted he was well now, he had had mumps and was going to Scotland with his people. A Medical Report dated 19^th March 1917 examined him and found that “on account of dysentery he was sent to Australia in March 1915 and returned to England in June. Went to France in October. He still has pains in the back, right leg & right hand & in the right ankle.” He was unfit for 4 months from general service.

Robert was posted to No. 1 Command Depot on 21^st March 1917, No. 4 on 27^th March and back to No. 1 on 25^th May 1917. On 30^th April 1917 a medical report stated that while with the 66^th Battalion he had rheumatism. He still complained of pain in the ankles, knees and right hand and that he could not ride. He was unfit for 4 weeks. A Medical Board report in May 1917 said he was suffering from rheumatism, but was now fit for duty. He was then Commanding Officer of the 66^th Battalion on the same date and was posted to no. 2 Command Depot on 27^th September 1917. On 9^th February 1918 he was posted to 2^nd Training Brigade Headquarters. He was then posted to Headquarters of AIF Depots in the UK on 28^th January 1919 and was Camp Commandant AIF Depots from the next day until 17^th March 1919. The next day he was Second in Command of AIF Depots. From 27^th June 1919 until 16^th September 1919 he was Officer Commanding no. 3 Group AIF Depots.

On 12^th May 1917 Base Records wrote to Annie advising her that Robert was in the 14^th General Hospital from 31^st January 1917, suffering from severe myalgia. His postal address was Lt-Col R Rankine DSO, SICK No. 39^th Battalion, C/o AIF Headquarters, 130 Horseferry Rd, Westminster London SW.

He was placed on the General List from 15th September 1917.

Annie wrote a letter to the Officer in Charge of Postal Administration at Base Records on 2^nd August 1917, as she had just received a bundle of 20 letters she had sent to Robert, with the details 39^th Battalion and on active service. She indicated he had been sick and had gone back to active service, but that “no attempt had been made to trace him” even though he had left instructions at the hospital and made enquiries. They had all been bundled up and sent back to her and were even marked with 14^th Battalion, not 39^th. She was annoyed and even made mention of complaints in newspapers about mail not being delivered to soldiers. She blamed the postal authorities in London and had sent them all again. The reply from Base Records on 9^th August stated “this Branch is unable to explain same, but it will be realised that the difficulty of distributing mail to members of the Force on Active Service Abroad is very great”. He also added if she kept the envelopes, she could send them to Base Records to be referred to overseas authorities to ensure safe delivery in the future.

Base Records replied to a Mr. P Pook of Canterbury Victoria, who had obviously enquired about details of the engagement that the late 1332 Private L. J. Johnson was killed in, with the reply that they held no records on the action and he should contact Lieutenant-Colonel Rankine DSO, 39^th battalion, Abroad, who may be able to supply that information or refer to an officer in the 39^th who could. Leslie John Johnson was killed in action on 21^st February 1917.

On 8^th December 1917 Annie signed for his Commission Form.

He reported from Depot at Westham to 2^nd Training Brigade at Weymouth on 11^th May 1918. On 28^th January 1919 he was detached from the Permanent Cadre of 2^nd Training Brigade Headquarters and relinquished his appointment of Commanding Officer of 2^nd Training Brigade. He assumed duties as Camp Commandant the next day and relinquished command on 17^th March. On the 18^th he assumed duties as Second in Command. He then officiated as Commanding Officer of No. 3 Group from 7^th June 1919 to 16^th September 1919.

On 18^th December 1919 he returned to Australia on the SS Konigin Luise.

A medical report in 1920 has him as a Lieutenant-Colonel in the General List, he was 51 years old, an occupation of agent and he enlisted in Melbourne on September 1914. It was proposing deafness as his disability, which occurred on 20^th April 1920. He was never wounded or gassed, but had amoebic dysentery in 1915 and was in hospital for 6 months but it was no trouble now. Robert had defective hearing in the left ear and on 11^th March the aurist reported that the condition was improving with treatment but required further treatment by inflation and referred him to a special medical board. The disability was due to military service but had improved and he was well now. He was deemed fit for work. It was signed on 11^th March 1920 at the No. 5 AGH and was confirmed on the 12^th.

There are two entries in his service records stating that he was “brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War for valuable services rendered” in what looks like 1919 and 1920.

Robert signed for his 1914-15 Star on 29^th April 1920 in Melbourne, his British War Medal on 24^th April 1921 and his Victory Medal on 25^th April 1922. The card for his Long Service Medal was not signed or dated.

His AIF appointment was terminated on 10^th May 1920 in the 5^th Military District. His oak leaves were sent to him on 17^th August 1920. On 17^th June 1921 he was sent his Mention in Despatch certificate and he signed for his oak leaves (Mention in Despatches emblems) on 23^rd August 1921. His Volunteer Decoration (CAFOD) was signed for on 15^th February 1923.

According to Who’s Who in Australia published in 1920 he was with the 14^th Battalion AIF and Commandant of 2^nd Training Brigade (including Dardanelles). The 1935 book just mentions him as Colonel Robert Rankine D.S.O. (1915), V.D. of Melbourne.

The 1919, 1924, 1937 and 1939 electoral rolls have the family still living at Avoca Avenue and he was listed still as an importer. In Australia, Annie favoured her second name, with electoral rolls listing her as Christina Annie Mildred Rankine.

On 6^th June 1941 Robert passed away in St. Kilda, Victoria at the age of 73. He died at his home at 25 Avoca Street (Dunmore). The Argus of Saturday 7^th June carried notices on his death from his family (dearly beloved husband of Annie (Chris) and loving father of Kenneth Rankine), by the 14^th Battalion AIF Association (late of the 14^th battalion AIF. One of Nature’s gentlemen) and by the directors and staff of his employment (A tribute to the memory of Colonel R Rankine DSO VD, a highly esteemed and valued member of Peacock Bros. Pty Ltd for 30 years). The funeral took place at Springvale Crematorium on Saturday 7^th June 1941. Brigadier-General J P McGlinn, Captain S Ornstien and several officers of the original 14^th Battalion acted as pallbearers. Reverend H Clark, a Presbyterian minister, officiated and Apps and Sons were the funeral directors. He was cremated and the ashes were scattered. Probate for his estate was approved on 3^rd July for Annie and Kenneth.

Annie passed away on 10^th August 1944 and was privately cremated on the 11^th, with the ashes scattered.

Kenneth was living at “Dunmore” Avoca Avenue in the 1914 electoral roll and was listed as a clerk. He married Muriel Vera H Dodd in the Presbyterian Church in St. Kilda on 29 Mar 1921. After being employed as a clerk for the rest of his working life he passed away in Victoria in 1969. Muriel had been born in 1891 in Victoria and passed away in Victoria in 1966. They had one child that is known of, Betty, who was born before her Grandmother passed away.

Robert kept a diary from December 1914 to December 1915. Below is one page.

Robert’s medals are the Distinguished Service Order (G.V.R.), 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal with MID, Colonial Auxiliary Forces Long Service Medal (G.V.) and Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers’ Decoration.

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 belonging to the

Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,

Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.

712 Sergeant William Alfred Joseph Cross DCM

13th Battalion, AIF

by Robert Simpson

William Alfred Joseph Cross was born on 26^th October 1875 in Christchurch, New Zealand. He was a son to Alfred Nicholas Cross and Susan Ann Vaudine. Nothing can be found of the family, when or where they were married or lived. The only record is of Alfred’s death in July 1883 in New Zealand. What happened to the family after that is not known?

The next time William appears in documents is when he married Mary Elizabeth Eleanor Flahey in St. Stephens Presbyterian Church in Sydney, New South Wales on 1^st April 1906. Mary had been born in Sydney in 1883, a daughter to Michael Flahey and Annie J. Again nothing else is known about the family. In 1889 she was registered at a school in Sydney. A newspaper article in 1903 from the Department of Public Instruction lists Mary and two other ladies as being junior attendants in the Public Library. After the marriage they moved back to New Zealand, where their daughter Dorothy Oreti Eileen Cross was born in October 1906. A son, William Greville Crossley Cross was born in January 1908 in Dunedin, New Zealand. In the 1911 New Zealand Electoral Roll William was listed as a warehouseman at Epsilon St. Roslyn, Dunedin West, Otago in one roll, but it notes he was struck off. In another roll he was listed as living with Mary at Marsden St. Hutt and he was listed as a lay assistant in the Anglican Church and she was listed as married.

William enlisted on 7^th September 1914 as Private 712 in the 13^th Battalion at Rosebury Park Racecourse Camp in New South Wales (2^nd Military District). His term of service was for the duration of the war and four months. He gave his name as William Alfred Cross from the Parish of Addington in Christchurch New Zealand. Williams was a natural born British Subject of 38 years and 11 months old and was a Clerk in Holy Orders and was living in Darlinghurst. He stated he had been an apprentice and his next of kin was his wife, Mrs M E E Cross. The original address was scribbled over but said Sydney as well. The address was then changed to c/o Mr. A J Coates “Clutherse” Reid Park Mossman. He listed his previous military service as 3 years in Volunteer Naval Artillery. His physical description was height 5 foot 9 inches, weighed 125 pounds, they left his chest measurement out, and he was of dark complexion with brown eyes and dark hair. His religious denomination was listed as Church of England. He had been vaccinated. On 2^nd October 1914 he was promoted to Paid Corporal. He was appointed to G Company on 20^th December 1914 at Broadmeadows. He embarked on 22^nd December 1914 on A38 Ulysses as a Corporal with pay of 9 shillings a day.

William was promoted to Lance Sergeant on 10^th June 1915 and to Sergeant the next day. On 20^th June 1915 he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal while at Gallipoli. He was sent to H S Gascon off Gallipoli on 24^th June with gastro-enteritis and was sent to the 1^st Australian General Hospital at Heliopolis on the 30^th with dysentery. He embarked on Port Lincoln at Suez for escort duty to return to Australia on 4^th August 1915. On 9^th October 1915 and urgent telegram was sent from S O Invalids at Victoria Barracks in Sydney to Base Records in Melbourne asking for particulars regarding 712 Sergeant Cross DCM as the Premiers’ office had requested them in wishing to use his help in a recruiting campaign, and asked them to urgently reply by wire. He arrived in Melbourne on 2^nd September 1915.

His citation for the Distinguished Conduct Medal reads “CROSS W. A. Sjt. 712 13^th Btn. (New South Wales) For conspicuous gallantry on the 9^th May 1915, during operations near Gaba Tepe (Dardanelles), in taking an enemy’s trench. Out of a party of 40 men to which he belonged, only 12 reached their objective. On the Officer in Command being wounded, he endeavoured to assist him back, but the Officer was again shot and killed. Serjeant Cross then immediately returned to the forward position. 5.8.15”. A letter with this citation was sent to his wife c/o Mr Coates as above on 8^th January 1916, but it addressed him as her son. A copy of it also has son crossed out with husband handwritten in. On 3^rd February 1916 from “Bondi” 32 MacDonald Crescent Wellington, New Zealand, Mary wrote back to Base Records; stating “ I am forwarding herewith the notification of the awarding of the D.C.M. to my Son, 712 Sergeant W A Cross , 13^th Aust. Infantry. As the person referred to is my husband I shall be glad if you will have the error corrected before returning to me.” She goes on to say “I also wish to bring under your notice the fact that Sergeant Cross neglected to make provision for my support during his absence on Military Service – beyond a gratuity of 3 pounds for myself, and an allowance of 1 pound per month for my daughter. This arrangement was communicated to me on Jan. 20^th 1915 by Mr. A. J. Coates of Sydney, whose letter I enclose. During Nov. 15 Sergeant Cross visited N.Z. and, upon my representation that the child’s allowance was insufficient, he removed her to Sydney – ostensibly to send her to school. At the same time he did not approach the subject of maintenance for myself. By way of identification I am forwarding my marriage certificate, which I shall be pleased to have returned with other enclosures after my application has received the attention of the proper authorities.” She signed the letter M. E. Eleanor Cross. The letter she included was addressed to her, Mrs Mary E Cross at 174 The Terrace Wellington, N.Z. It stated “When your husband Mr W. A. J. Cross, left Sydney recently on military service, he asked me as a matter of friendship, to act for his in drawing his pay etc. At his desire, I have pleasure in enclosing a P. O. order for 4 pounds, being 3 pounds for yourself and 1 pound as the first instalment of 1 pound per month for your daughter Dorothy, for purchase of extras etc.” It was signed J. A. Coates of Master in Lunacy’s Office Box 26 GPO Sydney. A reply was sent on 17^th February which contained an amended extract of Military Orders as requested (son changed to husband) and the question of support had been referred to the Finance Branch for reply. The letter and marriage certificate were also returned.

The war diary seems to be out regarding dates of this attack as on the 9^th it is written that they were at Popes Hill and 2 ranks were killed, 6 wounded and 1 missing. On the 10^th while still at Popes Hill, at 2.30am D Company was sent to support Quinn’s Hill and 1 platoon took part in a charge. Sergeant Cross mentioned, 15 ranks were wounded, 2 killed and 1 missing. No mention of an officer being killed.

On 24^th January 1916, at No. 4 Australian Auxiliary Hospital in Sydney he was examined and a detailed history form filled in. He was listed as 713 Sergeant W. A. Cross (DCM) of the 13^th Battalion who joined in September 1914 at Sydney and returned to Australia on 9^th September 1915. His former occupation was a clergyman and he was 41 years old last birthday. His disease or disability was dysentery and gastritis (rheumatism) which originated in June 1915 at Gallipoli. He stated he “took bad in Gallipoli” and “was sent to Egypt after 14 days sickness”. The cause of the disability was diet and exposure which was caused by active service. Presently he still had to keep on a light diet. Since returning home he had developed rheumatism in feet and hips. He was recommended for discharge as permanently unfit in order to follow recruiting duties. The Medical Board all agreed with the findings from active service causing dysentery. It was unknown if the disability was permanent or how long it would last. He did require further treatment to restore him to health, 1 month at home being recommended.

After returning to Australia, an article and photo was published in the Sydney Mail on 15^th September 1915, Volume 7, page 12. The article is headed “Back From the War” and reads “Sergeant W. A. CROSS, D.C.M., who returned invalided to Sydney last week, and is here seen being welcomed at the railway station by his little son, was the first clergyman to obtain the Distinguished Conduct Medal at the operations at the Dardanelles. Before enlisting as a private with Lieutenant-Colonel Burnage’s 13^th Battalion of the 4^th A. I. Infantry Brigade, he was attached to St. Peter’s Church of England, Wellington, New Zealand.

Three incidents gained for Sergeant Cross the D.C.M. When the battalion landed, the officer of his company was shot, and he was called upon to take charge for the remainder of the week, and he resisted the attacks of the Turks right through a very severe period. A week later a general advance was made, and the men dug themselves in at the top of the hill, only, however, to be the object of attack. The losses were estimated at 50 per cent. In addition to the dead, there were many wounded, and there were no doctors or army medical men available. He took charge of the wounded, dressed their wounds, and frequently had to shift them from the line of firing. The third and culminating point of honour was at Quinn’s Post. He was in a party of about 40 that made a charge at the Turk’s trenches. They got there, but only five or six escaped. Their officer, Captain Townsend, of Sydney, was shot in a leg. When the order was given to retire, Sergeant Cross took the officer up in his arms and almost succeeded in getting him to the line when a bullet hit the officer in the head, and he fell dead in his arms. That bullet went through the right sleeve on the Sergeant’s coat. Another escape he had from more serious injury was when a piece of shrapnel struck him on the left foot. This laid him up for a fortnight.”

Captain Samuel Edward Townshend was the Captain killed that day, his mother was from Sydney and he was in C Company 16^th Battalion which embarked on 22^nd December 1914. (Note the spelling difference in his surname and he was living in Perth when he joined up). He is remembered at Lone Pine Memorial.

A detailed medical history of an invalid continuation form was written on 3^rd March 1916 in Sydney and noted that the extent that his capacity for earning a full livelihood in the general labour market was lessened by a quarter. The Board recommended he be discharged as permanently unfit and receive a pension. As for his present condition, his general health was good, but he complained of rheumatic pain in his legs. There was no swelling at present.

He was discharged on the 8^th and issued a pension after confirmation, from 9^th June 1916 at a rate of 1 pound 14 shillings per fortnight with his address as “Normanhurst” Ben Boyd Rd, Neutral Bay. His children were also entitled to a pension from the same date, Dorothy at 10 shillings per fortnight and William at 7 shillings and 6 pence with their father as trustee. They were living at the same address. On 27^th September 1917 his pension was adjusted to 17 shillings a fortnight and his address was given as c/o State Recruiting Commission, Sydney. Dorothy had her pension adjusted on the same day to 5 shillings and William to 3 shillings 9 pence, and their address was “Highview” Highview Ave. Neutral Bay. Mary was granted a pension of 8 shillings 6 pence from 17^th April 1918 and her address was Marlingla Flats, Darlinghurst.

His D.C.M. was received on 8^th October 1916 and was sent to the Commandant of the 2^nd Military District.

On 27^th November 1916 a letter was written from Australian Military Forces 2^nd Military District in Sydney to Base Records in Melbourne saying that No 712 L/Sgt. Cross W. A. 13^th Battalion was discharged from the AIF in consequence of medical unfitness on 8^th June 1916 and that all the documents relating to his discharge were also included. A letter sent to Base Records from Finance Member asking for his rank was acknowledged with the reply that he “was appointed Lance-Sergeant on 26/12/14. He returned to Australia per Transport “Port Lincoln” on 2/9/15 as a “Sergeant of the Guard”, and “no further information is available.” It was sent on 29^th November 1916.

There are two entries in one of his service records which state on 2^nd February 1917 he was admitted to 1^st Australian Dermatological Hospital at Bulford with V.D. and discharged from Parkhouse Hospital on 29^th March 1917. It is not in any other record so it is not known if this was his record or not, and possibly it was entered in error. There is no other record stating he was in England in 1917.

He applied for war service leave gratuity on 9^th May 1919 and was issued account 38737.

In October 1920 William petitioned the Court for an order for restitution of conjugal rights against Elizabeth. He stated he had been twice to war (does that fit in with the above VD entry?), had been one of the first of the AIF to be awarded a DCM and “was now employed in the Repatriation Department.” He was a lay reader who had been ordained in the Anglican Church, but had resigned his orders. Mary was a Roman Catholic and frequent differences occurred between them over religion. They note she had been formerly employed in the public library. “On occasions she did not wear her wedding ring, and differences occurred over this. He had given her no cause for refusing to live with him, but he admitted that under extreme provocation he had assaulted her because she endeavoured to kick him.” The judge reserved his decision on the 26^th. Lawyers for Mary “opposed the application, contending that her husband had been guilty of conduct which made a matrimonial home impossible.” The petition was dismissed on 7^th December 1920. A story in the Evening News Sydney paints a damning picture of William and the way he treated Mary. He did not treat her well and had other women in the house. She did state she “was willing to live with her husband if he treated her as a wife, and not a slave, and discontinued the ill-treatment.” Even their daughter testified against him. It seems to be a shocking lifestyle and bad example from one who should know better.

In his service records is a note which notes a communication on 26^th November 1923 from The Historian, Tuggranong re address of soldier and under that is has M51/463 7/12/23 MG.

By 1925 he was living in Armidale, New South Wales.

In December 1926 Mary started divorce proceedings from William. The date range of the papers referring to the case goes from 16^th December 1926 until 27^th February 1929. The Sydney Morning Herald of 19^th February 1929 carries and article that before Mr Justice James a Decree Absolute was granted and the marriage declared dissolved. The records of the case are available in NSW archives. It is not known what happened to the children.

In the mid-1930’s William was living in Myrtleford, Victoria.

On 30^th November1939 he married Marie Eva Bridger in Burrowa, New South Wales. Nothing else is known about Marie except they had a girl of whom no more details are available. How he could get back into ministry and marry is incomprehensible.

On 10^th November 1941, William wrote to Base Records in Canberra asking about being promoted to a commissioned rank. He had seen a story in a newspaper that a number of commissions in the AIF had not been claimed. William stated while at Gallipoli he was “recommended for a Commission and was informed so, by a member of General Monash’s staff and also by the 13^th.Batt. Padre Col.Wray. A few weeks afterwards I was taken ill with dysentery and left Gallipoli and eventually returned to Australia and ultimately discharged, to take up work with the State Recruiting Committee New South Wales. I would be glad to learn from you if the Commission was gazetted after I left Gallipoli.” They replied on the 21^st, stating that there was no record held by them that showed him being promoted to a commissioned rank while in the AIF. His address at the time was The Rectory at Corryong in Victoria.

William passed away on 15^th July 1943 in Myrtleford Victoria. He was cremated at Springvale Botanic Cemetery and his ashes were scattered on the 19^th. The cemetery has no other details listed, no family, no age etc. and no religious or cultural preference was listed either. For a man who showed such courage and bravery in battle, it is hard to fathom his attitude to family, faith and relations. Marie remarried after his death.

His medals are Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal.