MY SON
George Craig - 53rd Battalion

George Craig was one of seven children born to Archibald and Janet Craig of Sydney . Born in 1897 he was working as a painter when he enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in September 1915, listing his father Archibald as next of kin.

Assigned as part of the 15th reinforcements for the 1st battalion he embarked for the Middle East in March onboard the Star of England. Upon arriving he was promptly transferred to the newly created 53rd battalion, otherwise known as the Whale Oil Guards.

George didn't get to spend long in Egypt , leaving with his battalion in June onboard the Royal George, bound for France . Upon arriving in Marseilles they took a train to Northern France and billets near Sailly.

On July 19, George took part in the allied attacks on Fromelles, being killed in No Man's Land during the attack. His body was recovered by his fellow soldiers and he was buried in Y Farm Military Cemetery, Bois-Grenier. He is also remembered on his parent's grave.

Research notes:

1) On his enlistment form George noted that he had served four years in the cadets as well as time as an apprentice painter to his father.

2) It took over a year for George's family to find out what happened to him. They then wrote extensively requesting any personal effects belonging to "my son" but none could be found at that stage.

3) Archibald Craig had emigrated from Scotland in the 1880s and died in 1928 after falling downstairs at his home. He was also an avid member of the cyclists union.

Photos:

1) Archibald and Janet's headstone featuring Craig. Photo from Gwen Nabbe.

2) George Craig's headstone. Photo by Robert Pike.

I would like to thank Gwen Nabbe for her help with this memorial.