Category Archives: Recruits

Archibald MCINTYRE

Posted on February 11, 2015 | Leave a comment

Archibald MCINTYRE

Per his military service record (regimental no. 2708), Archibald McIntyre enlisted twice in the AIF. Archibald McIntyre was born at Glasgow, Scotland. On his first enlistment (during the Coo-ee March), he gave his age as 31 years and 6 months, his marital status as single, and his occupation as labourer. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 2 inches tall, weight 9 stone 10 lbs., with a dark complexion, brown eyes, and dark hair. His religious denomination was Church of England. He claimed that he had no previous military service. He completed his medical on the 26th October 1915 at Blayney, and was attested by Captain Eade at Blayney on the 26th October 1915.

After completing the Coo-ee March he went to Liverpool Camp as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

Whilst at Liverpool Camp Private McIntyre went before a medical board on 17th November 1915 where he was deemed unfit for military service due to defective vision. He was discharged on the 29th November 1915.

In a letter dated 16th April 1916 Archibald McIntyre wrote “I was rejected for eyesight but as they have reduced the test I intend to give it another try”.[1]

On the 19th May 1916 Archibald McIntyre applied again to join the AIF. He attended the Royal Agricultural Showground in Sydney, and stated in this application that he had 35 days previous military service in the AIF, and was rejected on grounds of eyesight. He underwent a medical on the 19th May 1916 which he passed. He was attested on the 20th May 1916 at the Royal Agricultural Showground.

Private McIntyre went into camp and began training at Cootamundra on the 23rd May 1916, then to Goulburn on the 22nd June 1916. He remained at Goulburn till the 4th September 1916 when he was transferred to the 56th Battalion and went to Sydney being taken on strength of the 6th reinforcements for the Battalion.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was Portland N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as father, William McIntyre, 161 Pollok Street, Glasgow, Scotland.

Private McIntyre departed Sydney on the HMAT A40 Ceramic on the 7th October 1916. He arrived in Plymouth, England, on the 21st November 1916. After further training in England he departed Folkestone, England, aboard the SS Princess Victoria for France on the 21st December 1916. He underwent further training in France at the 5th Australian Division Base Depot at Etaples. He joined the 56th Battalion on 1st February 1917 whilst it was in reserve and providing fatigue parties at Bernafay south of Pozieres, France.

On the 22nd March 1917 the 56th Battalion was in reserve in the vicinity of Bancourt, France, when Private McIntyre was evacuated to hospital sick. On the 24th March 1917 he was diagnosed to be suffering from Bronchitis. On the 25th March at the 2nd/1st South Midland Casualty Clearing Station Private McIntyre was diagnosed with Cerebro Spinal Meningitis. He died the next day.

Private McIntyre was buried in the Puchevillers British Cemetery, France, on 26th March 1917.

Archibald McIntyre's headstone at Puchervillers British Cemetery, France (Photograph: S & H Thompson 5/9/2014)

Archibald McIntyre’s headstone at Puchevillers British Cemetery, France (Photograph: S & H Thompson 5/9/2014)

Private McIntyre’s name is commemorated on panel 162 on the Australian War Memorial First World War Roll of Honour.

Note: Archibald McIntyre’s father wrote on his Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour Circular that he came to Australia when he was 22, and that he ‘sailed round world once or twice as a sea apprentice in a sailing ship. Traded from Australia to New Zealand for a time. Joined in the Coo-ee March. Two brothers in British Army (one killed).’[2]

[1] McIntyre, Archibald. Letter to [A. H. Miller], 16th April 1916, Alex Halden (Joe) Miller papers mainly relating to the Gilgandra Coo-ee Recruitment March, New South Wales, 1912-1921, 1939, held at the Mitchell Library (State Library of N.S.W.)

[2] Archibald McIntyre 2708 Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour Circular, http://static.awm.gov.au/images/collection/pdf/RCDIG1068881–64-.PDF

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Charles Henry HUNT

Posted on February 11, 2015 | Leave a comment

Charles Henry HUNT

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4804), Charles Henry Hunt was born at Hargreaves, N.S.W. He gave his age as 43 years, his marital status as widower, and his occupation as labourer. His description on his medical was height 6 feet 1 ½ inches tall, weight 176 lbs., with a medium complexion, blue eyes, and medium brown hair. His religious denomination was Roman Catholic. He claimed that he had no previous military service.

According to William Laurence Hunt’s and Jack Henry Hunt’s service records, Charles Henry Hunt signed consent forms (for persons under 21 years of age) for his two sons to enlist on 7th October 1915. According to the Bathurst Times, their father saw them off in the start of the Coo-ee March at Gilgandra, ‘but the thought of the parting was too much for him’.[1]

He went to Dubbo to enlist, and completed his medical on the 28th October 1915 (two weeks after the Coo-ees had passed through Dubbo), and was attested at Dubbo on the 28th October 1915. He then proceeded to Bathurst to catch up with the Coo-ees. According to the National Advocate, ‘on the road from Bathurst to Yetholme … a father, hearing that his two sons were amongst the marchers, overtook them near Raglan, was examined and took his place alongside his two sons’.[2]

After catching up with his two sons and the Coo-ees on Friday 29th October between Bathurst and Yetholme, he completed the Coo-ee March and went to Liverpool Camp, as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was Wingadee, Coonamble, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as daughter, Miss P. O. [Pearl Olive] Hunt, St. Patrick’s Convent, Dubbo, N.S.W.

On 8th March 1916 Private Hunt, along with his two sons, and many of the other Coo-ees, departed Sydney on the HMAT A15 Star of England, and arrived in Egypt on the 11th April 1916.

On the 2nd June 1916 Private Hunt left Alexandria aboard the transport Kinfauns Castle bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 8th June 1916.

Private Hunt served with the 45th Battalion through its first action at Fleurbaix, France in July 1916 then moved with it to Pozieres in early August 1916. On the 16th August 1916 the 45th Battalion was being relieved from the front line trenches between Pozieres and Martinpuich, France. Private Hunt was evacuated to the 7th Field Ambulance with shell shock and bruises. He rejoined the Battalion after only a short absence.

On the 28th October 1916 the 45th Battalion was training at Brucamps, France when Private Hunt was evacuated to the 1st Australian General Hospital at Rouen, France, suffering from Pleurisy. He was discharged on the 24th November 1916 and sent to the 4th Australian Division Base Depot at Etaples, France, arriving on the 25th November 1916. On the 4th December 1916 Private Hunt was admitted to the 26th General Hospital. On the 7th December 1916 he was placed aboard the Hospital Ship Cambria sailing from Calais, France, for evacuation to England, suffering from Debility.

On the 11th December 1916 Private Hunt marched into the Number 1 Command Depot at Pernham Downs, England. On the 25th January 1917 he was transferred to the Number 2 Command Depot at Weymouth, England. On the 30th January 1917 Private Hunt underwent a medical board where it was determined that he suffered from Pleurisy and Rheumatism and he was classified as not suitable for active service nor home service.

On the 17th March 1917 Private Hunt departed England aboard the HMAT Beltana bound for Australia. He arrived in Sydney on the 15th May 1917, and was discharged as medically unfit on the 9th June 1917.

[1] ‘The Coo-ees’, The Bathurst Times, 10 October 1916, p. 4, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article109934579

[2] A “Tramp falls in. Father joins his two sons’, National Advocate, 30 October 1915, p. 3, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article158152728

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Jack Henry HUNT

Posted on February 11, 2015 | 1 comment

Jack Henry HUNT

Jack Hunt, Lemaire Studios, Military Camp, Liverpool. Photograph courtesy of Iain and Judy Macdonald.

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4806), Jack Henry Hunt was born at Coonabarabran, N.S.W. [1] He gave his age as 18 years and 2 months, his marital status as single, and his occupation as station hand. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 10 ½ inches tall, weight 10 stone 7 lbs., with a dark complexion, hazel eyes, and dark hair. His religious denomination was Roman Catholic. He claimed that he had no previous military service. Along with his brother William Laurence Hunt, he completed his medical on the 9th October 1915 at Gilgandra, and was attested at Gilgandra on the same day by Captain Nicholas – the day before the commencement of the Coo-ee March. His service record included a consent form signed by his father C. H. Hunt.

After completing the march he went to Liverpool Camp, together with his father Charles Henry Hunt (who had caught up with the Coo-ees between Bathurst and Yetholme) and brother William Laurence Hunt, as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

At Liverpool on the 3rd February 1916, Private Hunt was charged with being absent from Parade on 2nd February 1916.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was Wingadee, Coonamble, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as sister, Miss P. O. Hunt, St. Patrick’s Convent, Dubbo, N.S.W.

On 8th March 1916 Private Hunt, along with his father and brother, and many of the other Coo-ees, departed Sydney on the HMAT A15 Star of England, and arrived in Egypt on the 11th April 1916.

He was admitted to No. 2 Australian Stationary Hospital with mumps at Tel el Kebir on 18th April 1916.

On the 20th May 1916 he was transferred to the 45th Battalion.

On the 7th June 1916 Private Hunt left Alexandria aboard the Transport Huntspill bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 14th June 1916.

Private Hunt served with the 45th Battalion through its first action at Fleurbaix, France in July 1916, then through the fighting around Pozieres in August 1916.

On the 7th September 1916 Private Hunt was with the 45th Battalion at Beauval, France, refitting and reorganising. On this day Private Hunt was charged with Eating Reserve Iron Ration without permission (on the same day his brother William Laurence Hunt was charged for the same offence). He was awarded Forfeiture of One Day’s pay.

On the 28th October 1916 the 45th Battalion was at Brucamps, France conducting training Private Hunt was sent to hospital sick. It is not indicated how long he was away for but it is not believed to have been long.

On the 12th November 1916 the 45th Battalion was at Bernafay Wood south of Longuveal, France preparing to go to the front when Private Hunt was evacuated to the 15th Australian Field Ambulance with a sprained ankle. Private Hunt rejoined the Battalion when it was holding the front line in front of the village of Gudecourt, France on the 24th November 1916.

On the 27th February 1917 the 45th Battalion was marching from Mamentz to Beaucourt Camp when Private Hunt was evacuated to the 45th Casualty Clearing Station suffering from Trench Feet. On the 28th of February 1917 he was placed aboard the 9th Ambulance Train and moved back to the 3rd Canadian General Hospital at Bolougne, France.

On the 2nd March 1917 Private Hunt was evacuated to England aboard the Hospital Ship Aberdonian sailing from Bologne, France. On the 3rd March 1917 he was admitted to the Voluntary Aid Hospital at Cheltenham, England with trench feet (severe). He was later transferred to the 2nd Southern General Hospital where the third toe of his right foot was amputated.

On the 8th August 1917 Private Hunt was transferred to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford, England. On the 11th August 1917 Private Hunt was granted leave to report to the Number Two Command Depot at Weymouth, England on the 25th of August 1917.

On the 19th October 1917 Private Hunt began his return to Australia departing England on board the H.T. Port Lyttleton. He arrived in Australia on the 16th December 1917, and was discharged as medically unfit on the 28th January 1918.

[1] NAA: B2455, HUNT J H 4806

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William Laurence HUNT

Posted on February 11, 2015 | Leave a comment

William Laurence HUNT

Bill and Jack Hunt. Photograph courtesy of Iain and Judy Macdonald.

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4805), William Laurence Hunt was born at Coonabarabran, N.S.W.[1] He gave his age as 20 years and 3 months, his marital status as single, and his occupation as labourer. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 10 inches tall, weight 10 stone 12 lbs., with a dark complexion, hazel eyes, and dark hair. His religious denomination was Roman Catholic. He claimed that he had no previous military service. Along with his brother Jack Henry Hunt, he completed his medical on the 9th October 1915 at Gilgandra, and was attested at Gilgandra on the same day by Captain Nicholas – the day before the commencement of the Coo-ee March. His service record includes a consent form signed by his father C. H. Hunt (for persons under 21 years of age).

After completing the march he went to Liverpool Camp, together with his father Charles Henry Hunt (who had caught up with the Coo-ees between Bathurst and Yetholme) and brother Jack Henry Hunt, as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was Wingadee, Coonamble, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as sister, Miss P. O. Hunt, St. Patrick’s Convent, Dubbo, N.S.W.

On 8th March 1916 Private Hunt along, with his father and brother, and many of the other Coo-ees, departed Sydney on the HMAT A15 Star of England, and arrived in Egypt on the 11th April 1916.

On the 19th April 1916 Private Hunt was transferred to the 45th Battalion.

On the 1st June 1916 Private Hunt left Alexandria aboard the Transport Kinfauns Castle bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 7th June 1916.

Private Hunt served with the 45th Battalion through its first action at Fleurbaix, France, in July 1916. He then moved with the Battalion to Pozieres in early August 1916. On the 14th August 1916 the 45th Battalion was relieving the 46th Battalion in trenches between Pozieres and Martinpuich, France. During this relief Private Hunt was one of 15 members of the Battalion wounded. His wound was slight and he returned to the unit on the 16th August 1916.

On the 7th September 1916 Private Hunt was with the 45th Battalion at Beauval, France, refitting and reorganising. On this day Private Hunt was charged with Eating Reserve Iron Ration without permission (on the same day his brother Jack Henry Hunt was charged for the same offence). He was awarded Forfeiture of One Day’’ pay.

On the 24th November 1916 the 45th Battalion was holding the front line in front of Guedecourt, France. Private Hunt was evacuated to the 38th Casualty Clearing Station with trench feet. On the 25th November 1916 he was placed aboard the 7th Ambulance Train and moved to the 6th General Hospital at Rouen, France, arriving on the 26th November 1916. On the 29th November 1916 Private Hunt boarded the Hospital Ship Formosa at Le Harve for journey to England. On the 30th November 1916 he was admitted to the War Hospital at Stratford Upon Avon, England. On the 13th February 1917 he was transferred to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford, England.

On the 19th February 1917 Private Hunt was granted leave to report to the Number One Command Depot at Pernham Downs, England, on the 6th of March 1917.

On the 8th March 1917 Private Hunt was charged for Being Absent Without Leave from 3.30 pm on the 6th March 1917 till 4.00 pm on the 7th March 1917. He was awarded three days confined to camp and fined two days pay.

On the 16th March 1917 Private Hunt was transferred to the Number Two command Depot at Weymouth, England. On the 2nd June 1917 he was sent to the Overseas Training Depot. On the 25th June 1917 Private Hunt departed Southampton, England, bound for France. He arrived at Le Harve on the 26th June 1917, and marched into the 4th Australian Division Base Depot. On the 29th June 1917 he went before a Medical Board and was classified PB (Permanent Base).

On the 9th July 1917 Private Hunt was sent back to England, arriving at Southampton on the 10th July 1917. He was sent to the Number Two Command Depot at Weymouth that same day. On the 22nd November 1917 Private Hunt commenced a course of instruction at the Winchester Engineering Works.

On the 23rd September 1918 Private Hunt began his return to Australia, departing England on board the HMAT Runic. He arrived in Australia on the 27th November 1918, and was discharged medically unfit on the 31st January 1919.

[1] NAA: B2455, HUNT W L 4805

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William Emerton HUNTER

Posted on February 1, 2015 | Leave a comment

William Emerton HUNTER

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4807), William Emerton Hunter was born at Sydney, N.S.W. He gave his age as 21 years and 1 month, his marital status as single, and his occupation as wheat lumper. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 11 inches tall, weight 172 lbs., with a fair complexion, blue eyes, and brown hair. His religious denomination was Church of England. He claimed that he had no previous military service. He joined the Coo-ees at Geurie. He completed his medical on the 16th October 1915 at Wellington, and was attested at Dripstone by Captain Nicholas on the 19th October 1915.

When the Coo-ees were in Orange, he was to receive some sad news from his mother. The incident was reported in an article titled ‘Tragedy of the War’ in The Leader, as follows: ‘When the Coo-ees arrived at Wade Park on Saturday there was a big parcel of mail waiting for the members of the patriotic band. One fine hefty young fellow named Hunter held out his hand for his letter, and with a smile on his face, walked to the end of the pavilion to read it. He knew by the handwriting on the envelope that it was from his mother in Sydney, who was waiting eagerly for her boy to arrive, at the end of the glorious march from back o’ beyond. He had hardly scanned the first few lines when tears bedimmed his eyes, and then he burst out into a paroxysm of grief. The letter read, “My darling boy.-It is sad news I have to tell. Your two brothers who left Sydney with the 18th Battalion were killed in action on the 27th of August. Be brave, my boy, and try to bear it as your mother and sisters are trying to do. I will send you 10/ on Monday if I have the money.” There was much more of a private nature, and those who were handed the letter to read were visibly affected. The young fellow was broken-hearted, but even the sad blow has not deterred him from carrying out his intentions of going to the front, and now he is doubly eager to be off and avenge .his brothers’ death. The Mayor has given £5 of the money collected for the Coo-ees’ entertainment to the poor lad’s mother. His brothers entered the firing line on the 14th, and were in action till they received their death wounds.’[1]

According to newspaper reports, money raised from a collection made for Mrs Hunter was sent home with Private Hunter, who was allowed to go home for a few days to spend some time with his mother.[2]

Photo of William Emerton Hunters 2 brothers killed at Gallipoli (Sydney Morning Herald 1/11/1915)

Photo of William Emerton Hunter’s 2 brothers killed at Gallipoli (Sydney Morning Herald 1/11/1915)

This photograph of Private Hunter’s two brothers Frederick and Maurice Hunter was published in The Sydney Morning Herald on 1st November 1915 with the caption “Brothers Hunter of Redfern both killed in action at Gallipoli … a third brother is one of the Gilgandra recruits now marching to Sydney”.[3]

Private Hunter was to hear from his mother again on the march. The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate reported that at the recruiting meeting held for the Coo-ees in the Park at Parramatta on 10th November 1915: ‘A lady here stepped on to the platform and said her name was Mrs. Annie [sic] Hunter, and that she lived at Young Street, Redfern. Two of her sons had been killed at Gallipoli on August 27, and her third son was now with Captain Hitchen’s men. “I only had three boys,” she said, “and two have been killed; the third one is with the ‘Coo-ees,’ and I wish that I had another one to give in the cause of the Empire.”[4]

After completing the Coo-ee March Private Hunter went to Liverpool Camp as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

On Private Hunter’s embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was 50th Young Street, Redfern, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as sister, Miss A. Hunter, 50th Young Street, Redfern, N.S.W. (On his attestation paper in his service record his next of kin is listed as mother, Mrs F.[Fanny] Hunter, 50A Young Street, Redfern, N.S.W, which is crossed out and changed to sister, Miss Annie Hunter, 50A Young Street, Redfern, N.S.W. His sister Annie Hunter’s name is also mentioned in other documents in his service record).

On 8th March 1916 Private Hunter along with many of the other Coo-ees departed Sydney on the HMAT A15 Star of England, and arrived in Egypt on the 11th April 1916. On the 19th April 1916 Private Hunter was transferred to the 45th Battalion at Tel-el-Kebir.

On the 2nd June 1916 Private Hunter left Alexandria aboard the transport Kinfauns Castle bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 8th June 1916.

Private Hunter served with the 45th Battalion during its first action at Fleurbaix, France in July 1916. Private Hunter then moved with the 45th Battalion to Pozieres, France, in early August 1916. Private Hunter was killed in action in the vicinity of Pozieres, France, on 7th August 1916. He had initially been reported wounded in the field on 7/8th August 1916, then was posted as wounded & missing. Following a court of enquiry on 26th April 1917 he was officially reported killed in action on 7th August 1916. Private Hunter has no known grave.

Private Hunter is remembered on the Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux in France.

Private Hunter's name on the Villers-Brettoneux Memorial (Photograph: S. Thompson 7/9/2014)

Private Hunter’s name on the Villers-Bretonneux Memorial (Photograph: S. Thompson 7/9/2014)

Private Hunter’s name is commemorated on panel 139 on the Australian War Memorial First World War Roll of Honour.

His name is also listed on the Redfern War Memorial (along with the names of his two brothers).

Note: Having already lost 2 sons to the war, after her son William was posted wounded and missing in 1916,  Mrs F. Hunter moved to a war widows’ home later that year in The Boulevarde, Sans Souci, which had been built for her by the Kogarah branch of the Voluntary Workers’ Association, and named “Coo-ee” in memory of the third son who had ‘marched with Hitchen’s Coo-ees’.[5]

[1]‘A tragedy of the War’, Leader, 25 October 1915, p. 1., http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117842543

[2] ‘Mr Arkins and the “Coo-ees.”, Molong Argus, 29 October 1915, p. 7, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article105660877

[3] ‘Heroes of the Dardanelles’, The Sydney Morning Herald, 1 November 1915, p. 5., http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15622222

[4] ‘The great recruiting meeting in the park’, The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate, 13 November 1915, p. 11, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article86101772

[5] ‘War homes’, The Sydney Morning Herald, 25 September 1916, p. 5, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15684629 ; ‘War widows’ homes’, Sunday Times, 24 September 1916, p. 6, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121344784

 

 

 

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Joseph PARRISH

Posted on January 29, 2015 | 1 comment

Joseph PARRISH

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4866), Joseph Parrish was born at Monmouthshire, Wales. He gave his age as 18 years and 5 months, his marital status as single, and his occupation as miner. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 4 inches tall, weight 118 lbs., with a fair complexion, black eyes, and black hair. His religious denomination was Methodist. He claimed that he had no previous military service. He joined the Coo-ees at Wellington. He completed his medical on the 16h October 1915 at Wellington, and was attested by Captain Nicholas at Orange on the 24th October 1915. A note “Presented consent at Orange 24/10/1915” is written at the top of his attestation paper.

After completing the Coo-ee March he went to Liverpool Camp as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was Boolaroo, via Newcastle, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as father, J. Parish, Boolaroo, via Newcastle, N.S.W.

On 8th March 1916 Private Parrish along with many of the other Coo-ees departed Sydney on the HMAT A15 Star of England, and arrived in Egypt on the 11th April 1916. On the 16th April 1916 Private Parrish was transferred to the 4th Pioneer Battalion at Tel-el-Kebir.

On the 4th June 1916 Private Parrish left Alexandria aboard the Transport Scotian bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 11th June 1916. Private Parrish served with the 4th Pioneer Battalion until the 10th of August 1917 when the Battalion was conducting night works on communication trenches in the vicinity of Kemmel, Belgium. Private Parrish was evacuated from the field sick, and on the 12th August he was admitted to the 13th Australian Field Ambulance, then sent to the 4th Division Rest Station. He was discharged on the 22nd August 1917, and rejoined his Battalion on the 28th August 1917 whilst it was resting at Neuve Eglise, France.

On the 17th October 1917 the 4th Pioneer Battalion was conducting road works on the Zonnebeke Road. On this day Private Parrish was charged with ‘conduct to the prejudice of good order & military discipline, in that he after being placed on a task in the forward area quitted same without authority’. He was awarded 14 days Field Punishment Number 2 and fined 14 days forfeiture of pay.

On the 12th May 1918 Private Parrish was transferred to the 4th Machine Gun Battalion. On the 10th June 1918 the 4th Machine Gun Battalion was in action in the vicinity of Villers Bretonneux when Private Parrish received a gun shot wound to his neck. He was admitted to the 4th Australian Field Ambulance. He was moved to the 61st Casualty Clearing Station later that day. On the 11th June 1918 he was placed on the Number 17 Ambulance Train for evacuation to the 53rd General Hospital at Boulogne. He was admitted to the 53rd General Hospital on the 12th June 1918 where he was also diagnosed with Broncho Pneumonia.

On the 27th June 1918 Private Parrish died of his wounds. He is buried in the Terlincthun British Cemetery, France.

Joseph Parrish's headstone at Terlincthun British Cemetery, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 5/9/2014)

Joseph Parrish’s headstone at Terlincthun British Cemetery, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 5/9/2014)

Private Parrish’s name is commemorated on panel 176 on the Australian War Memorial First World War Roll of Honour.

His name is also listed on the Boolaroo District Roll of Honour.

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Spencer John LETCHER

Posted on January 24, 2015 | Leave a comment

Spencer John LETCHER

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4832),Spencer John Letcher was born at Cowra, N.S.W.[1]  He gave his age as 18 years and 1 month (though he was younger), his marital status as single, and his occupation as painter. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 8 inches tall, weight 132 lbs., with a fair complexion, grey eyes, and fair hair. His religious denomination was Methodist. He claimed that he had no previous military service. He completed his medical on the 28th October 1915, and was attested at Bathurst on the 28th October 1915. He joined the Coo-ees at Bathurst.

After completing the Coo-ee March he went to Liverpool Camp as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was 15 Busby Street, Bathurst, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as father, J. J. [John James] Letcher, 15 Busby Street, Bathurst, N.S.W.

On 8th March 1916 Private Letcher along with many of the other Coo-ees departed Sydney on the HMAT A15 Star of England, and arrived in Egypt on the 11th April 1916.

On the 19th of April 1916 he transferred to the 45th Battalion in Egypt.

On the 2nd of June 1916 Private Letcher left Alexandria aboard the transport Kinfauns Castle bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 8th June 1916.

Private Letcher served with the 45th Battalion through its first action at Fleurbaix, France in July 1916, then moved with the Battalion to Pozieres in early August 1916. It was whist the 45th Battalion was in action in the vicinity of Pozieres, France, that Private Letcher was killed in action on the 6th August 1916. He was buried on the battlefield.

After the war Private Letcher’s grave was located and his remains exhumed. He was reburied at the nearby A.I.F. Burial Ground, Grass Lane, Flers, France.

Private S. J. Letcher's headstone at AIF Burial Ground, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 4/9/2014)

Private S. J. Letcher’s headstone at AIF Burial Ground, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 4/9/2014)

Private Letcher’s name is commemorated on panel 140 on the Australia War Memorial First World War Roll of Honour.

His name is also remembered on the Bathurst South Public School Roll of Honour board.

Research note:  His NSW Birth Certificate shows that he was born on 8th March 1899, so he was actually only 16 years and 7 months when he joined the Coo-ee March, and only 17 years and 4 months of age when he died.[2]

 

[1] NAA: B2455, LETCHER SPENCER JOHN

[2] NSW Birth Certificate, LETCHER SPENCER J 11458/1899 JOHN J LOUISA COWRA

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Lewis LEOVILLE

Posted on January 24, 2015 | Leave a comment

Lewis LEOVILLE

Per his military service record (regimental no. 5489), Lewis Leoville was born at Marseilles, France. He is listed with the alternate spelling of his first name as Louis Leoville on some documents in his service record (and in earlier newspaper advertisements for his hairdressing saloon business). He is listed as being a naturalised British Subject. He gave his age as 41 years, his marital status as married, and his occupation as barber. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 6 inches tall, weight 156 lbs., with a dark complexion, grey eyes, and dark brown hair. His religious denomination was Roman Catholic. He claimed that he had 3 months previous military service in the French Army. He completed his medical on the 3rdNovember 1915 at Lithgow, and was attested at Lithgow on the same day.

After the march he went to Liverpool Camp as 15th reinforcement for the 13th Battalion. He was transferred to 17th Reinforcement for the 13th Battalion on 29th March 1916.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was Binalong, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as wife, Mrs R. Leoville, Wagga Wagga N.S.W.

On 9th April 1916 Private Leoville departed Sydney on the HMAT Nestor A71 (along with Coo-ees Harold Uhr and Daniel Lynch).

After arriving in Egypt he was transferred to the 45th Battalion on the 20th May 1916.

On the 7th June 1916 Private Leoville left Alexandria aboard the transport Huntspill bound for France, arriving at Marseilles on the 14th June 1916. He was sent to the 4th Division Base Depot at Etaples, France, until the 29th July 1916, when he departed to join the 45th Battalion.

On the 4th August 1916 Private Leoville was taken on strength of the 45th Battalion when it at Tara Hill two miles north east of Albert, France, preparing to move to the front lines.

On the 8th August 1916 the 45th Battalion was in the front lines in the vicinity of Poziers, France when Private Leoville was wounded by a high explosive artillery shell. He was evacuated to the 13th Australian Field Ambulance which was set up in the village of Warloy- Baillon. Private Leoville had suffered wounds to his head, face, right leg and abdomen, and he died of these wounds that same day.

Private Leoville was buried in the Warloy-Baillon Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

Lewis Leoville's headstone at Warloy-Baillon Communal Cemetery Extension, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 4/9/2014)

Lewis Leoville’s headstone at Warloy-Baillon Communal Cemetery Extension, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 4/9/2014)

Private Leoville’s name is commemorated on panel 140 on the Australian War Memorial First World War Roll of Honour.

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Edward Joseph MCGARRY

Posted on January 2, 2015 | Leave a comment

Edward Joseph MCGARRY

Per his military service record (regimental no. 4920), Edward Joseph McGarry was born at Kelso, N.S.W. He gave his age as 35 years and 8 months, his marital status as married, and his occupation as fuelman. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 9 ¼ inches tall, weight 12 stone, with a dark complexion, brown eyes, and black hair. His religious denomination was Roman Catholic. He claimed that he had no previous military service. He joined the Coo-ee March at Bathurst. He was attested at Bathurst on the 28th October 1915, but did not complete his medical until the 13th November October 1915 at Liverpool.

After completing the Coo-ee March he went to Liverpool Camp as reinforcement for the 13th Battalion.

On 7th February 1916 he was charged with being absent without leave for 5 days,

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was 7 Lord Street, Bathurst, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as wife, Mrs S. McGarry, 7 Lord Street, Bathurst, N.S.W.

On 8th March 1916 Private McGarry departed Sydney along with many other Coo-ees on the HMAT A15 Star of England, arriving in Egypt on the 11th April 1916.

On the 16th April 1916 he was transferred to the 4th Pioneer Battalion.

On the 4th June 1916 Private McGarry left Alexandria aboard the Transport Scotian bound for France, disembarking at Marseille on the 11th June 1916.

On the 28th September 1916 Private McGarry was admitted to the 4th Field Ambulance sick. He was admitted with Influenza, and transferred to the Division Rest Staton on the 29th September 1916. He was then admitted to the 13th Australian Field Ambulance with Influenza.

On the 4th October 1916 Private McGarry was discharged to duty.

On the 12th December 1916 Private McGarry was wounded in action with a gun shot wound to the chest. He died at No. 38 Casualty Clearing Station at Heilly on 13th December 1916, and was buried on the same day in Heilly Station Cemetery, which was adjacent to the Clearing Station.

Edward Joseph McGarry's headstone at Heilly Station Cemetery, France. His name is on the bottom of the headstone (Photograph: H. Thompson, 4/9/2014)

Edward Joseph McGarry’s headstone at Heilly Station Cemetery, France. His name is on the bottom of the headstone (Photograph: H. Thompson, 4/9/2014)

An article titled ‘Died on service Private E. J. McGarry A “Coo-ee’s” sacrifice’ in the National Advocate (29/12/1916, p. 1) noted that before enlisting, he was ‘employed in the locomotive department on the Bathurst railway’, and that he left a wife and two children.

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Percy Walter HOLPEN

Posted on January 1, 2015 | Leave a comment

Percy Walter HOLPEN

L. Cpl. W. Holpen, Redfern, Sydney. Died of Illness (Sydney Mail, 8/1/1919)

L. Cpl. W. Holpen, Redfern, Sydney. Died of Illness (Sydney Mail, 8/1/1919)

Per his military service record (regimental no. 2196), Percy Walter Holpen was born at Brisbane, Queensland. He gave his age as 21 years and 11 months, his marital status as single, and his occupation as carter. His description on his medical was height 5 feet 9 inches tall, weight 172 lbs., with a fair complexion, blue eyes, and light brown hair. His religious denomination was Church of England. He claimed that he had no previous military service. According to his Attestation paper in his service record he joined on 16th October 1915, when the Coo-ees were in Wellington. He did a preliminary medical at Wellington on 16th October 1915, and was provisionally accepted for enlistment at Dripstone by Captain Nicholas on the 19th October 1915. He completed his medical on the 11th December 1915 at Liverpool, and was attested at Liverpool on the same day, with his service dated from 16th October 1915.

After completing the march he went to Liverpool Camp and trained for the 15th reinforcements for the 1st Light Horse Regiment.

On his embarkation roll his address at time of enrolment was 84 Walker Street, Redfern, Sydney, N.S.W., and his next of kin is listed as father, Walter Holpen, 84 Walker Street, Redfern, Sydney, N.S.W.

On 21st March 1916 Trooper Holpen departed Sydney on the HMAT A26 Armadale, arriving in Egypt on the 24th April 1916. He was sent to the 1st Light Horse Training Regiment at Serapeum.

On the 1st May 1916 he was transferred to the 4th Pioneer Battalion.

On the 4th June 1916 Private Holpen left Alexandria aboard the Transport Scotian bound for France, arriving at Marseille on the 11th June 1916.

On the 10th July 1916 Private Holpen marched out of the 4th Pioneer Battalion whilst it was engaged in works in the vicinity of Fleurbaix, France, for transfer to the 46th Battalion. He marched into the 46th Battalion the next day whilst it was being relieved from the trenches in the vicinity of Sailly, France.

On the 25th August 1916 Private Holpen was admitted to the 13th Field Ambulance sick. On the 28th August 1916 he was moved to the 1st Australian Rest Station. On the 4th September 1916 he was discharged to return to duty. He rejoined the 46th Battalion the next day whilst it was resting at Rubempre, France, after coming out of the trenches in the vicinity of Poziers, France.

On the 1st December 1916 whilst the Battalion was engaged on road making at New Charlton Camp, Bazentin, France,  Private Holpen was charged with insolence to an officer and absenting himself without leave thereby missing a duty which devolved to another soldier. He was awarded 7 days Field Punishment no. 2 and fined one day’s pay.

On the 27th December 1916 Private Holpen was charged with being absent without leave from 2100 on the 20th December 1916 till 1330 on the 21st December 1916 whilst the Battalion was training at new Carlton Camp, Baxentin, France. He was fined a total of 16 days forfeiture of pay.

On the 18th January 1917 when the 46th Battalion was manning the front line trenches in front of Fricourt, France, Private Holpen was wounded in action, receiving a gun shot wound to his chest. Private Holpen was evacuated to a Casualty Clearing Station. On the 24th January 1917 he was admitted to the 3rd Stationary Hospital at Rouen, France. On the 28th January 1917 he was placed aboard the Hospital Ship Warilda at Le Harve, France, for transport to England. He arrived the next day and was admitted to the 1st London General Hospital.

Private Holpen was discharged from the 1st London General Hospital on the 24th March 1917, and granted Leave, to report to the Training Depot at Wareham, England, on the 4th April 1917. On the 10th May 1917 Private Holpen was transferred to the 65th Battalion that was training at Ludgershall, England.

On the 26th June 1917 Private Holpen was charged with being absent without leave from 1200 on the 24th June 1917 till 1530 on the 25th June 1917. He was awarded 6 days Field Punishment No. 2 and forfeiture of 8 days pay.

On the 19th September 1917 Private Holpen was transferred to the overseas Training Brigade for return to the 46th Battalion and France.

On the 20th September 1917 Private Holpen was charged with being absent without leave from 1700 on the 18th September 1917 till 2200 18th of September 1917. He was fined a total of 12 days pay.

On the 4th October 1917 Private Holpen was charged with being found beyond the limits Field by AIF Depots Orders without leave. He was awarded one day Field Punishment no. 2.

On the 14th October 1917 Private Holpen departed Southampton, England, for France, arriving at Le Harve the next day where he marched into the 4th Australian Division Base Depot. Private Holpen left the 4th Australian Division Base Depot on the 18th October 1917 to rejoin the 46th Battalion. He arrived at the 46th Battalion on the 19th October 1917 whilst it was in action around Ypres, Belgium. On the 12th November 1917 he was promoted to Lance Corporal while the Battalion was resting at Coyceques, France.

On the 25th January 1918 the 46th Battalion was conducting training at Perrone, France. Lance Corporal Holpen was charged with being absent without leave from 2100 on the 6th January 1917 till 1830 on the 7th January 1917. He was demoted to Private and fined 2 days pay.

On the 23rd April 1918 a Field General Court Martial was held where Private Holpen had been charged with Desertion being absent without leave from the 31st March 1918 to the 13th April 1918. He was found Guilty and sentenced to 5 years Penal Servitude.

On the 20th May 1918 the 5 year sentence was suspended. However, Private Holpen was soon in trouble again, being charged with escaping from confinement and being absent without leave from 27th May 1918 to 1st June 1918. On the 25th June 1918 another Field General Court Martial was held where Private Holpen was charged with this offence. He was found Guilty and sentenced to 2 years imprisonment with hard labour.

On the 27th July 1918 Private Holpen was admitted to the No.7 Military Prison to undergo his 5 year and 2 year sentences concurrently. On the 7th September 1918 the 5 years penal servitude was commuted to 2 years imprisonment with hard labour.

On the 19th November 1918 Private Holpen was admitted to the 30th General Hospital at Calais suffering from Influenza. On the 23rd November 1918 Private Holpen was listed as seriously ill, and on the 26th November 1918 he succumbed to the illness and died.

Private Holpen was buried at the Les Baraques Military Cemetery at Calais, France. Percy Walter Holpen has the rank of Lance Corporal inscribed on his headstone.

Percy Walter Holpen's headstone, Le Baraques Military Cemetery, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 28/8/2014)

Percy Walter Holpen’s headstone, Le Baraques Military Cemetery, France (Photograph: H. Thompson 28/8/2014)

Percy Walter Holpen gave incorrect details about his age when he joined the Coo-ees. His father Walter Holpen gave the particulars on his Circular for the Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour after the war, and said his son was only 20 years of age when he died.[1] He was born on the 9th January 1898, according to his Queensland birth registration under the name of Walter Percival Holpen, the son of Walter and Sarah (nee Jackson) Holpen.[2] He would therefore have only been 17 years and 9 months of age when he joined the Coo-ees in Wellington on 16th October 1915.

[1] ‘Percy Walter Holpen, AWM Roll of Honour, http://www.awm.gov.au/people/rolls/R1635220/

[2] ‘Walter Percival Holpen’, Australia Birth Index, 1788-1922, Ancestry.com

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