Yearly Archives: 2020

Leiutenant George Alfred Still – MC

Member Mick James has dug up the following story containing details of one of the 1st Reinforcements for 31st Battalion:

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STILL, Lieutenant George Alfred MC
Posted May 17, 2017 by Admin
Lieutenant George Alfred Still MC
31st Battalion, AIF
by Robert Simpson

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George Alfred Still was born in Reigate, Surrey, England on 4th January 1883 at Montpelier Villa, London Road, Red Hill. His father was listed as a schoolmaster. He was one of eight children to George Ewers Still and Lucy Arnold. George and Lucy were married on 28th December 1880 at West Brompton. In the 1881 census George was living at Hove in Sussex with his parents and Lucy was with her parents in London. He was a graduate of St. Mark’s College. George was listed as a School Master and Lucy was a Fancy Goods Assistant, working in the fancy goods trade with her father and siblings. Their first child Sarah was born in late 1881. George Alfred was the second child. He had 3 brothers and 4 sisters.

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In July 1884, the four of them departed Liverpool for Brisbane on the Nevasa, arriving there on the 8th of September. George was one of a batch of teachers brought out from England by the Queensland Government. He took up a position as headmaster of Newtown School in Maryborough (now Maryborough West State School). After arriving in Queensland the rest of the children were born from 1885 to 1901. A younger brother, Kenneth Victor, who was born in 1893, died in Maryborough and was buried in the cemetery there in 1895. In 1895, at the end of year breakup, the headmaster George Still gave a report which included “that Haidee Sunners and George Still obtained Grammar School Scholarships at the last examination, the latter not being twelve years old at the time.” In 1898 a list of passes of the Maryborough candidates for the Junior Public Examinations for the University of Sydney were published and included George, who matriculated with English A, French C, Latin C, Greek B, arithmetic B and algebra B. The youngest brother and family member, Victor, was born in Maryborough in 1897.
The 1903 Electoral Roll shows they were living at Ariadne Street in Maryborough and George Ewers was a Schoolmaster. In December 1905 the Maryborough Chronicle reported the breakup at Maryborough West State School and that that “was the twentieth and last at which Mr. Still would preside.” An address was read to him from the staff and children and he was presented with a parting gift. The family relocated to Boonah where he was a school teacher and they were still there in 1908 and by the 1913 Electoral Roll. He was head teacher of the Boonah State School and then Brassall State School.

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By 1905 George Alfred Still had started working and on the 1st October, he was appointed as a Draftsman in the Survey office of the Department of Public Lands. On 26th March 1908 he married Maggie Gilles Smith Gibson in Queensland. Maggie had been born in Queensland on 20th April 1883, a daughter to Andrew Gibson and Margaret Smith. By the 1905 Electoral Roll she was living with a sister in Kelvin Grove Road Brisbane and was doing domestic duties. In the 1908 Electoral Roll they were at Simpson Road, West Paddington, Brisbane and he was listed as a surveyor. On 23rd February 1912 he was listed in the Queensland Gazette as a Professional Class IV, in the Survey Office, Department of Public Lands. The 1913 Roll has them living at Fernberg Road, West Paddington with his occupation as surveyor.

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On 27th May 1915 George attested with the 31st Battalion in Brisbane. The 31st Battalion was raised at Enogerra in Brisbane as part of the 8th Brigade in August 1915. He then applied for a Commission on 20th August, as he qualified at an examination for first appointment as 2nd Lieutenant. He was appointed to the AIF on the 30th. His educational qualifications were listed as Grammar School, Public Service Examination and Sydney University Junior, Matriculation and Senior Examinations. He requested that 10 shillings per day was to go to his wife on 29th September, which Maggie signed for.

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Group portrait of officers of the 31st Battalion, on board A62 HMAT Wandilla enroute to Egypt. From left, Front row: 2nd Lt George Alfred Still from Brisbane (later awarded MC).

On 5th November 1915, the 31st Battalion (1st Reinforcements) embarked on HMAT Bakara A41 in Melbourne. On the Nominal Roll, George was listed as a Lieutenant of 32 years old, a surveyor of address “Nowra”, Upper Fernberg Road, Ithaca, Brisbane. Oddly his wife’s address is given as Simpson’s Rd, Upper Paddington in Brisbane. His religion was listed as Presbyterian and he was a British subject. The description of his present civil employment was given as computing draftsman and surveyor at the Survey Office Lands Department. His previous military experience was noted as 2 years’ Field Artillery in Brisbane and 6 years Grammar School Cadets where he held the rank of Lieutenant. He was 5 foot 8.75 inches tall, weighed 156 pounds, had a chest measurement of 36.5 to 38.5 inches, and was of fair complexion with blue eyes and fair hair. His vision was 6/6 and 6/12 and had 2 vaccination marks on the right arm and a mole on the right shoulder. His term of service was for the duration of the war and 4 months.
They disembarked at Suez on 7th December 1915. On 2nd March 1916, he was posted to B Company at Tel-el-Kebir and was promoted to Lieutenant on the 21st.

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The Battalion embarked at Alexandria to join the BEF on the Honorata on 16th June 1916 and disembarked at Marseilles on the 23rd. George was placed as Intelligence Officer under Lieutenant-Colonel Fred Toll, the Commanding Officer of the Battalion and worked closely with him. Prior to the attack, George and other observers gathered information and were praised by Toll who said the “men of this party also deserve praise for their untiring efforts and constant vigilance throughout the period 6th to 19th July.” The 31st Battalion fought its first major battle at Fromelles on 19th July 1916. The assault had been postponed from the 17th, but even then the Battalion had suffer casualties due to enemy shelling. After a 7 hour artillery bombardment, which was ineffective, the attack was mown down by the German machine-gunners with severe losses. After the first two waves were sent off and mauled, Toll, realising the futility of the attack, and George (who had been buried by an artillery shell before the attack) led the third and fourth waves. Some German trenches were taken, but were lost due to no support and fierce counter-attacks. With Lieutenant-Colonel Toll, George had much difficulty in holding the troops, who had seen another Battalion withdraw and began to go back across No-Man’s Land. In his notes on Fromelles, C. E. W. Bean writes “Toll, at 5.45, finding himself alone with Lt. Still and Cpl. Carew, both seriously wounded, strode back across No-Man’s Land, practically the last of his brigade.” Both flanks had been broken and they returned to the original front lines, with very heavy casualties. 544 men of the 31st Battalion were casualties. The 5th Division had over 5000 casualties.

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Medals of Lt George Still (Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals).

George was placed on the seconded list as evacuated sick on the 24th July. On 30th July 1916 George was sent from the 30th General Hospital at Calais to England with debility and eye strain (severe) on the HS Brighton. When Lieutenant-Colonel Toll wrote up the War Diary, he nominated twenty Officers and men for distinction in order of merit, with Lieutenant Still being the first name on the list and his name underlined for special consideration. Toll wrote “Lieut. G. A. STILL For gallantry in organising straggling troops and advancing over open country in rear of enemy’s position, also for keeping up communications with Brigade Headq. by means of pigeons, and later runners, and in German main breastworks during the night, assisted in consolidating positions won, and generally devotion to duty.” Army Form W 3121 has George listed in an immediate award list on 3rd August with the entry reading “At PETILLION on 19th/20th July 1916, displayed gallantry in organising straggling troops and advancing over open country in rear of enemies positions, also in keeping up communication with Brigade Headquarters by means of pigeons and later runners. When in the German main breastworks during the night assisted in consolidating the position won and displayed most praiseworthy devotion to duty.” It was stamped awarded M.C. on 28th August. On 31st August 1916 he was awarded the Military Cross in France. It was gazetted in the London Gazette on 26th September 1916 page 9436. The entry reads: – “For conspicuous gallantry in action. He rallied and organised straggling troops, and led them on over open country. During the night, in the enemy’s main breastwork, he ably assisted in consolidating the position won.”

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He was the only Queensland officer to be awarded the Military Cross for that battle, the only other one that was awarded to the 31st Battalion was to 2nd Lieutenant L J Trounson from Maryborough Victoria. On 20th September 1916 he was discharged from Brook War Hospital at Woolwich. He was placed on the supernumerary list on 24th October. George was marched in at Weymouth on 26th January 1917, marched out for embarkation to Australia on 10th February and was struck off strength on 13th February. He returned to Australia on HT Ulysses at Plymouth on 13th February. His record originally said gunshot wound to chest and arm, which were crossed out, and then recorded as shell shock and amblyopia of the left eye. In his reference, Bean mentions that George lost sight in one eye, but that is not confirmed in his records.
George was marched in to the Number 2 Command Depot. He was discharged in Queensland on 22nd June 1917. In his statement of service form, Maggie’s original address was given as “Matea” Karella Rd Cremorne Sydney NSW, which was crossed out with the Simpson’s Road address added. He was added to the Reserve of Officers list on 1st July 1920 as a Lieutenant.

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From the 1925 to 1943 Electoral Rolls they were living in Flaxton, a tiny village near Nambour and he was an orchardist; very much a change in his occupation. By 1925 his father had retired and was living in Ipswich. He was appointed a returning officer for Fassifern and Bremer electorates. He was admitted to the Ipswich General Hospital in June 1934. George Ewers Still passed away on 20th October 1934 in Queensland. An obituary stated he was head teacher at Maryborough West State School for 20 years, 11 years at Boonah and 8 at Brassall and retired in 1925. He was also a member of the Maryborough and Ipswich District Teachers’ Associations. On 6th November 1947 Lucy (his mother) passed away at Rosalie and was privately cremated. In the 1949 roll they had retired to Tugun on the Gold Coast. They shifted again and by the 1954 Electoral Roll they were living on the corner of North and Bayview Roads at number 121 North Street at Brighton, and were still there in the 1958 Roll. He was still retired. The 1963 roll finds both of them in a retirement village called Iona at Brookfield Road Kenmore, in Brisbane. Maggie passed away on 2nd December 1964 and George passed away in 1968. They had no children.

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One of George’s younger brothers, Victor, also served in WW1. Victor was an engine fitter from Boonah. He enlisted as Private 2674 in the 9th Battalion on 26th May 1915, was transferred to the 49th Battalion on 2nd April 1917 in France and was wounded in 1917 with a severe gunshot wound of the back. He was admitted to hospital and died of wounds on 29th October 1917 at 5.25 am. Victor is buried in Mont Houn Military Cemetery, grave number 663B.
A sister, Lucy Elizabeth, married John Mitchell Norris in 1912. John served in WW1 as Sapper 22312 in the Field Company Engineers, but did not embark until March 1918. He returned to Australia in August 1919.

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His youngest brother, Arnold born in 1901 in Maryborough, became a Police Constable there. He served in a few places in Queensland, rising to the rank of Senior Sergeant when he was in Brisbane. He passed away there in 1971. Arnold’s son, Leonard Victor Still married Helen Martin Steel, whose brother, Robert Martin Steel, served in WW1 as Sapper 5423 in the Mining and Tunnelling Company. Robert was born in Scotland, was a miner and migrated to Queensland in 1911. His son, James Robert Steel born in 1922 in Ipswich, served in WW2 as Leading Aircraftman 426006 in 114 Air Sea Rescue Flight.
LEST WE FORGET
Refer http://www.anzac-biographies.com/…/still-lieutenant…/

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Commemoration – “The Texas Terror” Crash –

From Felix Reitano and the Ingham Branch of the Association comes the news of the Commemoration of “The Texas Terror”  aircraft accident.

 The Ceremony commemorates “The Texas Terror” Crash during WW2. of a USAAF – B24 Liberator Bomber known as the “Texas Terror” which crashed onto the summit of Mt Straloch on Hinchinbrook Island 18th Dec 1942, during a fierce tropical Storm. It was on its way to Iron Range. It had just departed Garbutt Airbase Townsville after picking up passengers, & probably still climbing through the Storm when it hit the Mountain.

This Ceremony is organised each year by Felix & the Ingham Branch of the 31st Bn Assoc. often attracting relatives & friends from the USA of those who perished in the crash. Unfortunately with current restrictions on travel it was not possible to have visitors from the USA.   – Refer photos below.

  Thanks for your attendance yesterday at our “Texas Terror’ ceremony.

hope you all had a safe trip back home.

Stay safe,

Regards, Felix

“The Texas Terror” Commemoration

Sgt David Emmet Coyne – Albert Medal Gold

David Emmet Coyne (1896-1918), soldier and farmer, was born on 14 March 1896 at Ballinrush, near Mackay, Queensland, eighth child of David Emmet Coyne, farmer, and his wife Anne, née Hughes, both of whom were Irish-born. He was educated at Marian State School and then joined his father on the land.

Coyne enlisted as a private in the Australian Imperial Force on 25 January 1916 and went into training at Fraser’s Hill Camp, Brisbane. While there he showed considerable athletic prowess and figured in an incident which was perhaps a portent of the selfless act which resulted in his death two years later. After the horses of an express wagon had bolted, endangering several soldiers’ lives, Coyne leapt on to the back of one of the horses and managed to bring the wagon to a halt. He embarked for France with reinforcements in May and on 24 December was taken on strength with the 31st Battalion. His unit spent the winter of 1916-17 on the Somme engaged in raiding and patrol work, then in March took part in the advance on Bapaume. On 21 April 1917 he was promoted lance corporal and for the next six months was absent from his unit qualifying as a bombing instructor and serving temporarily with the 67th Battalion. He was promoted sergeant in June and rejoined the 31st Battalion in October.

From November 1917 until March 1918 the battalion served in Flanders in the Messines-Wytschaete sector, then returned to the Somme. On the night of 15 May, while in the line at Vaire-sous-Corbie, Coyne was testing some Mills grenades which he believed had been affected by damp. He threw one of them but it rebounded off the parapet and fell into the trench in which he and several others were standing. Ordering his men out, he tried to find the grenade in the darkness; then, realizing that his companions were not clear, deliberately threw himself over the grenade’s approximate position and received over twenty wounds when it exploded. At first it was thought that Coyne would survive and it was typical of his courageous and genial nature that he joked about the incident as he received preliminary medical attention. His wounds proved worse than expected and he died within hours. He was posthumously awarded the Albert Medal in Gold, the highest class of that decoration: he was the only member of the A.I.F. to gain such a distinction. Sgt Coyne’s grave lies in the Vignacourt British cemetery near Amiens. He was unmarried.

Sgt David Emmet Coyne – Albert Medal Gold

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Tribute to Sgt David Emmet Coyne – Albert Medal Gold done by Hon Member Pierre Seillier

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Members may be interested to know that David’s father who was also David Emmet Coyne was a director of Marian Sugar Mill (near Mackay) during WW1.

The Albert Medal

The Albert Medal was instituted in 1866 and named after Queen Victoria’s consort, Prince Albert, who had died in 1861.

Until the institution of the George Cross in 1940 it was Britain’s premier decoration for civilian acts of gallantry in saving life at sea and on land. It became known as ‘the civilian’s Victoria Cross’, although awards were also made to servicemen in non-combatant situations.

There were two classes: the First Class in gold, and the Second Class in bronze.according to the perceived degree of gallantry. The medal was awarded only for the most exceptional bravery, and consequently was very sparingly given.

The medal was terminated in 1971. Subsequently the George Cross was awarded for acts of Gallantry in this category.

It is worth noting that only 45 gold and 290 Bronze Albert Medals were awarded from its inception until it was terminated. It is enlightening to read how many awards were made to military members relating to accidental grenade explosions.

 

Sgt Cyril Kirby MM and Pte JJ Goulding – Historic Links at Fromelles

This interesting piece of history which recently came to light, purely by member, Chris Hamilton, based in Longreach, reading an article in the “Barcoo Independant” . Chris followed up to make contact with the author – Ann Kirby who had mentioned about her Grand Father being a member of the 31st Battalion at the Battle of Fromelles. Chris then passed it on to Mick James who got to work with the help of Life Member Peter Nelson, & our French Life Member Pierre Seillier (Fromelles). The Team dug up a fascinating piece of 31st Battalion History. Thanks to Mick, Peter, & Pierre. Refer below, & read the website articles that Mick has provided.

Mick takes up the story:
It started a few days ago when Chris Hamilton forwarded to us an article about 31st Bn digger, No 555 Pte JJ Goulding and the sad letter his mother wrote seeking information about his whereabouts as he was missing and then noted as being in German custody following the Battle of Fromelles. The writer (Ann Kirby) noted that he was in the same Battalion & Company as her Grandfather, who was No 525 Sgt Cyril Kirby MM.
I attach Mrs Goulding’s letter to the Army seeking details of her son 3 years after the Battle.

The letter written by Mrs J Goulding seeking details of her Son Pte John Joseph Goulding

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Below also is a photo of the statue that was conceived after discussions between Lambis Englezos ,Tim Whitford and sculptor Peter Corlett. Tim was an integral part of Lambis’ team to locate the missing bodies from the Battle of Fromelles. The bodies of our soldiers were buried in 1916, in a mass grave on the German side of the line. A Shire of Alberton badge given to Tim’s ancestor, Pte Harry Willis, was the first indication that there could be Australian bodies buried where Lambis’ group calculated that they were laying. In the past 20 years the bodies have been eventually exhumed and re-interred in the Pheasant Wood Cemetery near Fromelles. Quite a number have now been identified by DNA testing.  This is an article on the Statue – https://www.smh.com.au/national/a-mothers-grief-to-cross-the-generations-20120718-22anh.html

The statue of the “Grieving Mother” in Ballarat – L to R Garry Snowden Peter Nelson and Lambis Englezos

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A closeup of the Statue of the Grieving Mother Holding Portrait of Her Son

Pte JJ Goulding

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The recovery of the Shire of Alberton Badge was the clincher for the team led by Lambis Englazos

“The bodies in the gravesite at Fromelles were definitely Australian”

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I was well aware of the JJ Goulding story and subsequent Statue of his mother. This is a link to photos and description of the Statue at the unveiling in 2017 by the Governor General, Sir Peter Cosgrove AK –
http://lemnosgallipolicc.blogspot.com/2017/02/unveiling-of-grieving-mother-memorial.html . I phoned Chris Hamilton and advised him of these details and found that the writer of the article was a Ann Kirby. I suggested that Chris should invite her to join our Facebook page 31st Battalion AIF Memorial Association (set up by Tim Whitford in 2012). I also attach a photo of JJ Goulding’s grave at Fromelles with Pierre’s Tribute to him that I had laminated and took on my visit in Sept 2017.

Grave of Pte JJ Goulding at Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery – France

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Tribute to Pte John Joseph Goulding by Hon Member Pierre Seillier

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Ann Kirby subsequently joined the Facebook group and was welcomed and invited to post any photos of her Grandfather. I posted the story of Sgt Cyril Kirby MM below and Ann then posted the group photo (attached) There followed a discussion on Facebook on the details of the group photo between Pierre, Peter Nelson, myself and one other. Ann had stated that Cyril was front row 2nd from right. but there was some doubt as the shoulder flashes didn’t appear to be Gold & Brown and he had CSM badge on his sleeve. I confused the situation by initially stating the incorrect time he was an acting CSM.

Eventually, after I suggested that it may have been in the Summer of 1917 because some wearing shorts and before Cyril had been awarded his MM, Peter Nelson agreed and found in Battalion Routine Orders that A/CSM Cyril Kirby had returned from a 5th Army school course on 9th August 1917. This explained the British soldiers and others from 2nd Div AIF in the photo. It was commented that the photo was of high resolution more than once.

Pierre, after initially posting a Tribute, then used his skill to expand the image of Cyril and place it on a grey background (similar to a studio photo) and produced another Tribute with the enhanced photo (attached).

Tribute to Sgt Cyril Kirby MM done by Hon Member Pierre Seillier

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The story I posted to Facebook –

He joined B Coy 31st Bn in
Brisbane in August 1915, trained at Enoggera then moved to Broadmeadows in
Melbourne where BHQ, A & B Coys joined C & D Coys there and the whole
Battalion shipped to the Suez Canal arriving in Dec 1915, where they underwent
further training and also guarded the Canal from the Turks.

In June 1916 they shipped to
Marseilles and entrained up to Northern France to the Nursery, a reserve area
behind the Front Line. They moved into the Front Line at Fleurbaix around the
12th July 1916 and attacked the German front line trenches in front of Fromelles
on the evening (6.00 pm when it was still light) of 19th July.

Cyril was a Pte during the Battle
but a week later (26/7) was promoted Sgt . He relieved as Coy Sgt Major from 8th
April 17, but reverted to Sgt on 23rd Aug 1917.

In the Battle of Polygon Wood in
Belgium on 26th-28th Sept 1917, he was subsequently awarded a Military Medal.
His Citation reads-

“At Polygon Wood on 25th-28th
Sept 1917, early in the operation, his platoon commander was wounded but Sgt
Kirby, displaying great leadership and pluck, restored the confidence of the men
to such an extent that the final objective was captured and consolidated and at
least one enemy MG and crew were put out of action. Heavy hostile shelling did
not prevent his reorganising his platoon nor his giving great assistance in
bandaging the wounded”.

He attended Musketry schools and
Training Battalions as an instructor both prior to Nov 18 and after. He returned
home in early 1919 and finally discharged in Oct 1919.

LEST WE FORGET

Sgt Kirby on the left of Picture

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Vale – WO2 Alf Cumberland – 103yrs

The following message has been received from the Secretary of the Brisbane Branch of the 31st Battalion Association Tony Wadeson

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It is with great sadness that I advise you of the Passing of our oldest WW2 Veteran – QX43769 WO2 Alf Cumberland. Alf passed away early this afternoon peacefully in his sleep at his residence, – The Lodge, Magnolia Aged Care, Coomera. Alf had just turned 103Yrs on the 2nd Sept. Alf joined the Army – “Artillery” on the 22nd Sept 1941. He joined the 2/31st Bn in New Guinea as a Reinforcement Nov 1943. He also took part in the later Invasion at Balikpapan Borneo. There are quite a few interesting stories to be told. Alf’s Company Commander was George Henderson, the Father of Alex Swan (nee Henderson). Refer 31st Bn Assoc Website – 31bnassn.org   – Go to Archives refer to July 2019 & Sept 2019.

Members, Veterans & Friends. – FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS – ALF CUMBERLAND. as Follows:-

(1) WHERE:- The Funeral is to be held at:-  Newlife Uniting Church – 4 Greenwich Ct. ROBINA  Q’ld 4226

(2) WHEN:- Tuesday 20th October at 1.00PM

(3) DRESS:-  31st Bn Members – Jacket & Tie, – Beret, – Medals – Name Tag.

(4) It is our intention (with the OK from White Lady Funerals) to have the 2/31st Bn Banner Displayed & form a Guard of Honour at the Conclusion of the Service.

If anyone requires Transport assistance please contact me on my Mob 0427 337 177 or by email, & I will endeavour to help you.

The Nerang RSL are Handling the Poppy Service. 

  

Tribute Designed & presented by our Honorary Member Pierre Seillier (France). This Tribute was presented to Alf on his 102nd Birthday last year. Due to the Magnolia Aged Care Centre being in lockdown on his 103rd Birthday this year we were unable to visit him.

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The following Record of Service was researched and compiled by Association Committee member Mick James

Vale – QX 43769 WO2 Alf Cumberland

WW2 – Veteran – 2nd/ 31st Bn AIF

Alf Cumberland was born on 2nd Sept 1917. He grew up in “Wellington St” Clayfield Brisbane.

MILITARY SERVICE – WW2

    • 22/9/41 – Joined the 2nd AIF – 5th Field Regiment – Brisbane
    • 7/11/42 Transferred to 17th Field Regt. Townsville
    • 19/11/43 transferred to 2/31st Bn Port Moresby
    • 31/1/44 Returned to Townsville.
    • 20/3/44 Admitted to 2/4 AGH
    • 12/7/44 Rejoined 2/31st Bn Petrie Area. The Bn moved to Atherton Tableland in Aug 44
    • 28/9/44 Promoted A/Cpl
    • 4/12/44 Confirmed Cpl.
    • 9/6/45 Embarked “Howell Lykes” at Townsville for Morotai.
    • 18/6/45 Disembarked Morotai
    • 25/6/45Embarked for Service Balikpapan
    • 2/7/45 – 0900HRs Landed Balikpapan
    • 3/7/45 WIA – GSW (Rifle) Rt Ear Lobe – Evac 2/5th Field Ambulance.
    • 6/7/45 Promoted to A/Sgt
    • 8/7/45 Rejoined Unit.
    • 24/8/45 Promoted A/WO2
    • 24/8/45 WO2 Rank Confirmed.
    • 25/1/46 Embarked Balikpapan per “Kanimbla”
    • 4/2/46 Disembarked Brisbane
    • 1/4/46 Discharged.

Mick James – 31st Bn Assoc. (Brisbane) Committee Member – 8/10/2020

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Peter Thatcher at last Octobers Reunion Lunch Meeting aged 102 Years.

 Alex Swan (nee Henderson) with Alf in April 2019.

A few of us with Alf on his 102nd Birthday last year.

Alf and wife Stephanie on their wedding day 1946

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A few notes from Mick James after attending the funeral for Alf:

Have been down on the Gold Coast from Monday afternoon and returned home on Thursday. Went to the funeral of 103 year old WW2 digger, 2/31st Battalion WO2 Alf Cumberland. I have known Alf since meeting him at the 2/31st Memorial at South Bank on ANZAC Day 2017, and he was a extraordinary human being.
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Four of us from the 31st Battalion Assoc visited him at his aged care home for his 102nd birthday on Sept 2nd 2019. We brought a cake and also his WW2 Service Record. When I mentioned that his record shows he grew up in Wellington St Clayfield , he replied – “yes, do you know it? It runs into Oriel Rd.” I replied “Yes, I deliver Meals on Wheels to the next street over”. Straight away, he said “Monpelier St”, which was correct. He wouldn’t have visited his home in over 60 years, but was still as sharp as a tack.
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I was aware that he with his wife (who died in 2014) used to make ANZAC Biscuits, individually wrapped with a sticker, “LEST WE FORGET” on each and send over 1000 to various WW2 mates, friends and acquaintances. They also had willing friends from their Aged Care home assist them. The former Editor of our magazine was a recipient of the Biscuits for a number of years.
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Among the incredible stories we heard at the Funeral Service, was that Alf was feeling that he had had enough and, as a religious man, felt it was time to meet his maker and rejoin his beloved wife, Stephanie, whom he married in 1946.
On Monday 5th October, he wrote his eulogy. When a friend visited the next day, Alf stated he was ready to go, but not before the Eulogy was typed up. which was done on the Wednesday. Alf died on Thursday 8th October.
RIP Alf
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LEST WE FORGET

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Interesting News Item – Maj S.A. Nottingham V.D.

The following interesting news item was researched by Association member Mick James:

I’ve recently come across an Obituary of one of the earliest and long serving Kennedy Regiment soldiers. I also attach a photo of Kennedy Regiment Officers from 1905 that includes him. The photo is from Bob Burla’s book, “Crossed Boomerangs”.

TOWNSVILLE DAILY BULLETIN Thurs 23 April 1936
THE LATE MAJOR S. A. NOTTINGHAM, V.D.
(By One of the Old Brigade.)
, 
Once again the call has come, and our old friend Major S. A. (Arthur) Nottingham has answered the roll call. He has gone to his rest leaving a great example to those who follow on an outstanding example In civil life as exemplified in his long service, some 40 years, with Messrs Burns, Philp and Co., Ltd., attentive, punctual loyal, obliging and straight forward with junior and senior alike, and during the many years he stood out as a distinctive personality in the execution of his duties.
The late Major Nottingham was born at Chiselhurst In Kent, England, on 23rd June, 1851. arriving in Australia and settling In Mackay in 1878, where he resided for some years, incidentally Madame Melba, contemporary with him, living next door.
He spared no time In joining the Kennedy Infantry Regiment, a company of which was established there under the command of Captain, later Lt-Col. W. G. Hodges, rising to the rank of Color Sergeant. He came to Townsville In 1889, transferring to ‘B’ Company in Townsville. Captain Caldersmith in command, Lt. Ben. Marsland and Lt. Fred. Willmett being the subalterns of the Company. He was promoted to Quarter Master Sergeant of the Regiment, headquarters at Charters Towers, 21st May. 1892. At the encampment held at Kissing Point in 1912, the deceased was presented, on parade, with the long service medal (Victoria Decoration) (Note; I think it was the Volunteer Decoration); he attended the camp In 1913 with the rank of Hon. Major on the unattached list.
The brief reference I desire to make to his memory is more particularly associated with his military services, with the old (Kennedy) 3rd Infantry Regiment of which he was Quarter Master and in which capacity I knew him for a great many years in the military camps held In those days at Kissing Point, consisting of the several units in training In North Queensland, Garrison Artillery, Light Horse, Infantry, A.M.C., etc., reaching in numbers over 1000 strong, the late Major Nottingham acting as Quarter Master for the whole camp, no light responsibility.
I think he was always the last to bed at night and the first up in the morning. When, as officer of the day, my duty taking me down in the early morning to the issue of supplies to the various units. I would find him active with his hurricane lamp in hand, it was before daylight arranging for the issue. Being Quarter Master of the stationary camp he did not always go out with the troops for drill and exercise, but for inspection or for a review and march past of those days he neglected nothing of his uniform, of which he was particularly; proud and, with his magnificent physique, he looked every inch a soldier and was much looked up to by everybody.
During the year it was a delight to him to attend at mess to which distinguished visitors were invited, to meet the officers and to indulge with the others in reminiscence. They were happy days officers and men were one, volunteers In the service of which we were proud, striving for efficiency and building up the nucleus of a force which, during the Great War, earned the reputation of being the best shock troops in the world. The younger ones are now called to take our place and the demands upon them will far exceed the threatenings of the past. May they use their opportunities and be ready when the occasion calls.
A military record of 33 years honorable service in Queensland as detailed as under: Col. Sgt. F. Coy; Mackay, from 1/1/’81 till 30/6/’89; Col. Sgt. B. Coy., Townsvllle, from, 30/10/’89 till 21/5/’92; Q.M.S. K.I.R Townsville. from 21/5/’92 till 24/9/1900; Lt. K.I.R., Townsvllle, from 24/9/1900 till 27/7/1908; Capt. K.I.R., Townsvllle; from 28/7/1908 till 30/10/1908; U.L.Q.M. and Captain, Townsvllle, from 30/10/ 1908 till 30/3/1912; Hon. Major from 30/6/1913.
A good swimmer, the late Major Nottingham saved at least half a dozen lives during his life.
Rest In Peace
—ooo—

Pte Harry Boughton MM – Greta NSW

Tim Lewis, who is our Liaison Officer for 2/31st Battalion matters has a particular interest in the town of Greta NSW. His great grandfather happened to be Mayor of the town of Greta covering two periods between 1915 and 1920. Tim, whose father was an Officer in the 2/31st Battalion, is in regular contact with a friend by the name of Ken Driscoll. Ken has compiled a book about all 300 (approximately) diggers named on the memorial in Greta.
Tim was anxious to know whether Ken had found any 31st Battalion diggers amongst them. Six were found one of whom was Pte Harry Boughton MM.
Tim adds “At the time that these diggers went to war, included in their number was one of my grandfathers and a great uncle; they were with the 18th and 54th Battalions respectively. The citizens of Greta bestowed upon them these medalions, pictured front and back, My grandfather’s is one of four known to be in existence today”.
Greta was a town of some few thousand people in 1915 but, like so many rural communities, by the census of 2016 had shrunk to 2,830.
The courageous action that saw Harry Boughton awarded the Military Medal (Award Document Below) was covered in the story of Lt Albert Hill which was posted on this website in December 2018. (Type the name Albert Hill in the Search Box on this website). –
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Private Harry Boughton’s Military Medal citation reads:
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For Conspicuous gallantry and bravery in the field. Near Bouzencourt on 10th May 1918, a British single-seat aeroplane (Lt Baker, 80th Squadron RAF) crashed out of control at about 7.10pm in full daylight inside the German outpost line. On his Platoon Commander calling for a volunteer to assist him to carry the pilot in, Private Boughton volunteered, though the enemy were heavily machine-gunning the plane and our trenches. He coolly walked across No Mans Land with Lieutenant Hill and assisted him to extricate and carry back to our trenches the pilot, who was badly dazed though unwounded. 
This act, coolly carried out in the face of enemy fire, required the greatest pluck, and the magnificent courage displayed, served as an excellent example for Private Boughton’s comrades. 
C.A.G. 15 dated 4.2.1919   
The Award Document
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Medalions (Engraved and Obverse sides) Awarded by the Citizens of Greta
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Mayors of Greta Including Tim’s Great Grandfather
–o–

Vale – Captain Merv Short

The Secretary of the Brisbane Branch of the Association, Tony Wadeson has passed on the following sad message:

It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Merv Short, the optimum of an Officer & a Gentleman. A great Character and Entertainer, but above all a great mate & true friend to all who new him. Who could forget the Army CL Truck heading through the streets of Townsville on the way to a W/E Bivouac, with the sounds of a Piano being played from the covered back.

Merv passed away early Thursday morning (3rd September 2020) after a long Illness. Our thoughts and deepest sympathy go to Merv’s devoted wife Wendy who nursed him at home, until the end.

Merv’s funeral will be a private Service to be held next week.

Farewell old friend – RIP

Tony

Merv continued to be involved with the 31st Battalion long after his family and business commitments restricted the amount of time he was able to devote to specific postings. His was a continuing effective presence as Chairman of the Committee For Employer Support Reserve Forces (CESRF). In this capacity he continually liaised with other employers to smooth the way for many of their employees to complete their army commitments to the Battalion. His emphasis was always on the value adding that Army Reserve service gave back to an employer in the long run.

As Honorary members of the Mess, Merv and Wendy were always great supporters of many social occasions. Members will attest that, with a small amount of encouragement, Merv would to sit down and tinkle the ivories on many of these occasions. Wonderful evenings of song, enjoyment, and camaraderie.

I am sure many others know of the generosity of Merv Short but I, as a past member of the board of the Endeavour Foundation, can attest that Merv always was the first to generously contribute, whenever we sponsored an outing for the disabled young people in the care of the Foundation in Townsville,

Thanks Mate

Martin O’Sullivan

 

  

A Young Merv with a Group of Officers of 31st Battalion (Circa 1950’s)

-o-

Vale – Pte Barry Renton

A message from Vic Nichol, Secretary/Treasurer of the Charters Towers Branch of the Association has advised us of the sad passing of Barry Renton. Barry enlisted as a private in 31st Battalion on 21 Jan 1958.

He was was a staunch member of the 31st Battalion Association Charters Towers Branch attending various functions. He was one of the first to offer help to whenever it was required. Much of his life was spent in the transport business.

He ran a successful business owning a fleet of trucks.

A email from Vic Nichol  describes the service held on the 1st September 2020 at 10am.

“It was a well planned funeral and Barry would have been proud of his family. His coffin was carried on the side-car of a Harley Davidson with his grandson riding Barry’s Harley escorted by five more Harley motorcycles followed by the vehicles of relatives and friends, accompanying Barry on his last ride down Gill Street. Following this was the grave side and poppy service at the Cemetery.  The wake was held at the RSL Club”.

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Keith Hearne

Keith is a prominent member of the 2/31st Battalion from Victoria. He has always been heavily involved in the Association and is now one of a diminishing band of old soldiers who served through WW2.

Keith was to have gone to Canberra this year to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of WW2. The ceremony which was to have taken place on 15th August 2020 had to be cancelled because of restrictions in place to prevent the transmission of the Covid19 virus. Keith has of late been beset by illness but he received a letter from the Governor of Victoria in recognition of the occasion.

He has been a constant presence in the Victorian RSL as well as a past president of the 2/25 & 2/31st Association. The two Battalion associations voted to merge when numbers started to thin out.

Keith is really proud that he was asked to lead the Anzac Day march in Melbourne three years in a row.

Keith enlisted as soon as possible in 1943 and after various training postings, joined the 2/31 Battalion training on the Atherton Tableland prior to embarkation for Morotai then Balikpapan on the Island of Borneo.

During the landing at Balikpapan Keith recalls that the  landing craft had difficulties getting onto the beach so he and his sergeant were the first to wade  ashore to reconnoitre the enemy situation. Keith was crouched on the beach reconditioning the Owen Gun ensuring that it was free of sea water whilst the Sergeant stood to take a look around. In an instant the Sergeant fell mortally wounded by a Japanese sniper. Keith has spent his much life wondering about the fortunes of war. Why him and not me.

Letter of Appreciation from the Governor of Victoria

Keith has continued his service to the local community in good times or in bad. Amongst other things he has coordinated the East Gippsland RSL Disaster Fund for the floods in 1998 and the East Gippsland RSL Disaster Fund in the bush fires of 2003. In 2005 he flew to Papua New Guinea as a member of the party to reinter the remains of 2/31st Battalion comrades who perished when the aircraft carrying wounded from the battles of Balikpapan and Morotai crashed in the mountains of West Papua on September 18 1945. The service and reinterment took place at Bomana war Cemetery Papua New Guinea. In June 2015 he also visited the Labuan War Cemetery to pay his respects to his mates from the the Borneo Campaign.

Keith at the Reinterment of old 2/31st Battalion mates – Victims of the aircraft Crash Mentioned above

Keith in Papua New Guinea with old “Comrades in Arms”

One of Keith’s good mates, Trevor Jorgensen – killed in the Air Crash 

An old Mate, Trevor Jorgensen, (One of those killed in the Air crash) Finally laid to rest at Bomana War Cemetery, Papua New Guinea

The Crash site in the mountains of West Papua 18th Sep 1945

the remains of the wounded soldiers and crew were recovered in May 2005

2/25th 2/31st/ Battalion Reunion including a visitor from WA Jim Gordon VC

The Battalion rightly honours Jim Gordon for his award of the Victoria Cross for his acts of courage in the battle for Jezzine during the Syrian campaign. At the same time Keith makes light of his own award (The Commander-In-Chief’s Card) for testing anti-Malarial therapies. No doubt it also took great courage to be on the receiving end of untried and unproven therapies for Malaria. This, the disease that had caused more casualties than enemy action for armies and for civilian populations for thousands of years past.

 

The battered old Hat with the colour patch of 2/31st Battalion- Keith calls it the “Real Thing” 

The Banner of the 2/31st Battalion being held in a stiff breeze by 31st Battalion Association Secretary Tony Wadeson.

The banner was held high at the recent Kokoda Day Commemoration Ceremony in Brisbane (9th August 2020). It was regularly used during the Anzac Day march and other commemorative occasions in Melbourne and has now been entrusted to our safe keeping by Keith on behalf of the , now, disbanded, 2/25th- 2/31st assn.
Keith, We Salute You.

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