ANDERSON, Alexander Garnet Roy

Alexander, known as Roy, was the son of George and Agnes Anderson who lived at Oakwood, north of Inverell NSW. His birth was registered at Inverell in 1899. He attended Oakwood Public School.  At the age of eighteen, and with his Father’s permission, Roy enlisted in May 1916.  He joined the 34th Battalion, 4th Reinforcement and left Australia on the ship HMAT A30 Borda in October.

After arriving in England in January 1917 he had three months further training before being sent to France.  He was a stretcher bearer and highly regarded by his mates. He survived the Battle of Paschendale and Ypres in 1917. However, whilst carrying a wounded soldier for treatment on 5 April 1918 he was shot through the back and subsequently died of wounds. Private Roy Anderson was buried at St. Pierre Cemetery, Amiens, France.  His personal effects, including a metal cigarette case, wallet, nail clippers and fountain pen were returned to his Father. 

Roy’s name is recorded on the Oakwood Honor Roll; the Inverell Honor Roll and the Inverell Cenotaph.  In 1919 he was one of the men for whom a memorial tree was planted in Kurrajong Parade, Inverell.