MEPHAM, Reuben

Reuben’s birth to Reuben and Sarah Mepham was registered at Inverell in 1885.  He enlisted at Inverell in February 1916 giving his occupation as Labourer.  Prio to this he had served a two year apprenticeship with Wunderlich Ltd.  Reuben joined other district men to form the Second Contingent of the Kurrajongs who left Inverell together on 29 February 1916.

As a member of the 33rd Battalion, 2nd Re-enforcement he sailed from Australia on HMAT A15 Port Sydney in September 1916 arriving in England at the end of October.  After further training he was sent to France just before Christmas.  Reuben became ill in July 1917 requiring hospital treatment and did not rejoin his unit until September.  Three months later he was wounded in action and treated for fractured ribs and a knee injury.   

Whilst recuperating he wrote to his Mother saying -

'To date I have escaped without a scratch, and have had some very narrow escapes ... The following are some of the varied occupations I have been put to since landing at the front: Grenadier scout, bomber, sniper, and engaged laying mines at Messines...' (Inverell Times 30 Nov 1917)

Following his recovery he rejoined his unit in April 1918.  Private Mepham returned to Australia in February 1919 and medically discharged the following month.

After the War he lived at the property Hillside, Swanbrook Road, Inverell.  Reuben died at Inverell in 1953 leaving a wife a son.

Private Mepham has his name inscribed on the Inverell Honor Roll.