slouchhat

Dogs are always good and faithful companions of soldiers.

Please read a heroes records Service Number: 322 Rank: Private Roll title: 26 Infantry Battalion (June 1915) Conflict / Operation: First World War, 1914-1918 Date of embarkation: 24 May 1915 Place of embarkation: Brisbane Ship embarked on: HMAT Ascanius A11 Military records: A) recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewIma... Military records: B) recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewIma... A TRUE HERO, Born and bred Ravenswood Queensland, William John GIRVAN, aged 22 years Reg No. 322. 26th Bn. Enlisted 1st March 1915. He was wounded four separate times, three of them bullet wounds to the head, arm and leg, which he ultimately returned to his duty and promoted to Corporal. The fourth brush with the enemy in April 1918 was to be his final time, with fatal wounds, suffering gunshot wounds to his left and right thighs, left and right lower legs and his right arm and back, His right thigh was shattered. He died 2nd April 1918 at the Aust. Field Ambulance stn. Buried Pont D'Archelle British war Cemetery.

William is my 3rd Great Uncle. This is the only known photograph of William. Next year several members of the extended family are travelling to France. We will be at his grave on the 100th anniversary of his death. Many of us meeting for the first time. Lest We Forget

Malcolm Maurer That will be a very special occasion. We are really pleased that you have this photo of your Great Uncle. Great to hear just before Anzac Day - thanks for sharing.

good shot!