Thomas PERKINS

PERKINS, Thomas

Service Number: 17927
Enlisted: Not yet discovered
Last Rank: Private
Last Unit: Army Medical Corps (AIF)
Born: Llanelly, Wales, 18 June 1879
Home Town: Geelong, Greater Geelong, Victoria
Schooling: Not yet discovered
Occupation: Congregational Minister
Memorials: Bendigo Forest Street Congregational Church Honour Roll
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World War 1 Service

4 Aug 1917: Involvement Private, 17927, Army Medical Corps (AIF), --- :embarkation_roll: roll_number: '23' embarkation_place: Melbourne embarkation_ship: HMAT Themistocles embarkation_ship_number: A32 public_note: ''
4 Aug 1917: Embarked Private, 17927, Army Medical Corps (AIF), HMAT Themistocles, Melbourne

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Biography contributed by Sharyn Roberts

REV. T. PERKINS.
CHAPLAIN WHO BECOMES A PRIVATE

In a recent issue it. was stated that the Rev. T. Perkins, of Geelong, formerly Congregational minister in Bendigo had enlisted as a private for service at the front. A special meeting of the members of the Congregational Church, Geelong, was held to deal with the situation. which has arisen. In order to help the church during the time the pastor is away, Mr. Shrimpton announced his resignation as paid organist to the church, and intimated that he would continue his duties in an honorary capacity while Mr. Perkins was away. " Further motions were carried arranging for pulpit appointments during the pastor's absence, and it was intimated that L Mrs. Perkins, could remain at the manse. While in Bendigo Mr. Perkins was recognised as a thoughtful and courageous preachier and his departure was deeply regretted by members of the Congregational Church. Since he has been acting as Chaplain it, the Geelong Camp , he has closely identified himself with the life of the soldiers. Although while acting as Chaplain he has held the rank of Captain, he has risen with the men, been with them on parade, participated in their physical exercises and marches, and even helped in trench digging. His decision to become a private occasioned surprise. bit it recognised that he will have great
opportunities of doing the work of a Christian minister among the men while in camp and when on active service.

Bendigonian Thursday 30 March 1916 page 25

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