Ernest Frank (Studdon) Welling “Ern” was born on 24 October 1884 at Miller's Point, Sydney, New South Wales. His mother was Ada Studdon, but his father is unknown. When Ern was a year old, Ada married Alfred Sydney Welling.
Ern was 5 feet 3 3/4 inches, 126 pounds with grey eyes and brown hair.
Ern was athletic, playing Rugby League for the Western Suburbs Team. He played in the first grade team for the 1910 season.
Ern married Florence Jane Bryant on 16 Aug 1911 in St Barnabas' Church, George Street West, Sydney. He was a salesman at the time. A year later they had a son, Ernest William, who was born in August 1912. Ern’s happiness was short lived however, as his son died in 1913 and then Florence died in November 1914 from pregnancy complications.
Ern enlisted on 16 August 1915 at Holdsworthy, New South Wales. He was assigned to the 30th Battalion, C Company.
Little is know of what happened to Ern on the battlefield, as no Red Cross file or German records have been located. He is simply listed as killed in action.
John Studdon, a 3rd Cousin writes:
“ Your legacy resonates deeply within me, despite our paths never crossing. The sacrifices you made for our country stand as a testament to your unwavering bravery and strength. In the tumult of war, you exemplified courage that inspires me to this day.”
“To know that we share a bond of family fills me with immense pride. Your actions, though undertaken in a time of great adversity, speak volumes about your character and resolve. The honor of having you as a cousin is one I hold dear, even though our lives never intertwined.”
For more information, visit https://fromelles.info/.../1311-private-ernest-frank.../
Lest we forget.
