WALSH, Francis James

Francis was the eldest son of James and Mary Walsh of Brookfield, Dungog NSW where his birth was registered in 1892.  He became a teacher and was working at the Provisional School, Myall Creek, Delungra when he enlisted at Inverell in April 1916.

Francis joined the 34^th Battalion, 4^th Reinforcement and left Australia on the ship HMAT A30 Borda in October 1916.  After arriving in England in January 1917 he participated in further training until sent to France in April. Just three weeks later he was wounded in action and evacuated to England. He was admitted to Kitchener Military Hospital, Brighton with gunshot wounds to both hands.  By September he had rejoined his unit in France.

Private Francis Walsh was killed in action on 6 May 1918 and has no known grave.  His name is inscribed on the Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux, France. His personal effects, including a religious medallion, wallet, diary and Prayer book were returned to his family.

Francis has his name inscribed on the Inverell and Delungra Honor Rolls.