Breaking News: 7 Soldiers Named at Pheasant Wood
The Honourable Minister for Veteran Affair’s and Minister for Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh MP, has announced that 7 soldiers will be officially commemorated this year at Fromelles. This brings the total number of found soldiers to 180 out of the 250 originally reburied at Pheasant Wood Cemetery.
Today, we pause to remember and honour the bravery and sacrifice of these seven men, rediscovered at Pheasant Wood Cemetery. These Soldiers have rested in unmarked graves since 2010 and today helps bring closure for their families.
Private Alfred William Fitch Ansell Reg No 2825, 5th Pioneer Battalion
Private George Robert Barnatt Reg No 1062, 29th Battalion, D Company
Corporal Percy George Archibald Barr Reg no 3006, 54th Battalion
Private William Christopher Brumby Reg No 585, 31st Battalion, C Company
Private Herbert James Graham Reg 3543, 54th Battalion
Lance Corporal Harold Thomson Smith Reg 509, 8th Field Company Engineers
Private Ernest Frank (Studdon) Welling Reg 1311, 30th Battalion, C Company
It is appropriate to acknowledge that all identifications are a co-operative commitment by donors, genealogical researchers, families and Unrecovered War Casualties Army (UWCA) and the Department of Defence. Without this spirit of co-operation, very few identifications could be made.
Biographical stories on each of these soldiers are available on our website www.fromelles.info and have been compiled with the co-operation of family members and volunteers. We thank donors who have provided the vital DNA samples and family who have provided irreplaceable information and photographs, all of which provide moving testimonials to the importance of their “kin”.
We acknowledge those families who have assisted in the identification process who have not been rewarded by a positive identification. We also acknowledge and applaud our volunteer researchers who have worked many thousands of hours to achieve these, and so many other identifications.
Our Work Continues.
Let us reflect on the enduring legacy of these heroes and express our gratitude for their service. As John Studdon (3rd cousin of Ern Welling) writes:
“While I may never have the chance to shake your hand and express my gratitude in person, please know that your memory lives on in the hearts of our family. Your selflessness and valor will forever be a source of inspiration for generations to come.”
Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Lest we Forget.
