Image courtesy David Beal.
This is a studio portrait of Percival Kerrison Smith, taken in Brunswick before he left for the Front.
339 Private Percival Kerison Smith, 29th
Infantry Battalion, A Company was killed in action at Fromelles on 19-20 July 1916.
As a result of my earlier entry on P.K. Smith, a relative has sent me this photo and tells me that he is waiting to be contacted by the army so that he can provide a DNA sample in the hope of identifying PK's remains.
He writes 'My wife and I plan to visit Fromelles around next July so we are
really hoping that Percival can be identified in time for the 2015 memorial
at Pheasant Wood,
Fromelles.' I wonder how many others will make this same pilgrimage.
You can find out more about Lambis Englezos and his involvement in the Fromelles project here and here or simply do a Google search. So far, more than 120 soldiers have been identified. You can read more about the Fromelles Project here.
Thanks for posting the photo Cheryl.
ReplyDeleteCheers, David
It is always heartening to hear from relatives of these soldiers. It's a constant reminder to all of us that the men (and women) who served in WW1 are far more than names on honour rolls and lists of those who fought or those who died. Since beginning this blog I have heard from many family members and have heard many stories. It is important to me to remember all those involved - the families and friends left here in Australia as well as the men themselves. So thank you for sharing your story.
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I visited Fromelles in 2015. It was a moving experience to see Percival's name carved into the monument at VC Corner.
ReplyDeleteHaving now submitted my DNA sample I await a positive outcome. I know it is very much a long-shot but fingers are crossed.
David
I can imagine how moving the visit was for you and your wife. Please let me know when you hear about the DNA test!
ReplyDeleteCheryl