BRYANT, Albert, George, Edward & Harry

Albert was one of four brothers in his family to volunteer for service during World War 1. He was a twenty one year old Labourer at Ashford when he enlisted in February 1916. A few weeks later his brothers George, Edward and Harry enlisted, becoming members of the Second Contingent of The Kurrajongs.

All four brothers were attached to the 33rd Battalion 1st Reinforcements and sailed from Australia on HMAT A74 Marathon in May 1916. Subsequently they were all transferred to the 34th Battalion.

Albert was gassed in France and returned to Australia in June 1919. He worked for the Ashford Shire Council for more than forty years. He died at Inverell in 1976.

George suffered from pleurisy and pneumonia whilst in France and was hospitalised in England for treatment. He was returned home in January 1919 and medically discharged. George died in 1928.

Edward was Killed in Action at Messines, Belgium on 16 July 1917 and his body never recovered. His name is among those recorded on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ypres, Belgium.

Harry died of wounds on 19 May 1917 and buried at Trois-Arbres Cemetery, Steenwerck, France.

At Inverell Privates Edward and Harry Bryant have their names inscribed on the Inverell Honor Roll and the Cenotaph.

Privates Albert and George Bryant have their names recorded on the Inverell Honor Roll.

Image: Provided by family. Back L to R: Edward and Albert; Front L to R: Henry and George