Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

William Allen's military service during the tumultuous years of World War I offers a detailed glimpse into both his personal life and his contributions to the war effort. Born in Sydney, New South Wales, and working as a butcher prior to his enlistment. William enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force on May 17, 1915. His place of enlistment was Adelaide, South Australia, marking the start of his military service at the age of 23. He embarked on his journey as part of the military forces aboard the HMAT A60 Aeneas on the 29th of June 1915  from South Australia. This ship was one of many that carried Australian troops to the battlefields across the seas.With service number 1653, he was initially ranked as a Private in the 27th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement but later achieved the rank of Driver. His records indicate a man who faced adversity, including bouts with smallpox and enteric fever, and multiple stints in and out of hospital due to illness and injuries sustained during his service. Despite these challenges, William demonstrated resilience and dedication to his duties until his return to Australia on 2 April 1919.

Williams early life in the working-class neighborhood of Waterloo, under the care of his mother, Mrs. Emma Allen, laid a foundation of strong family ties and a commitment to hard work. His religious affiliation with the Church of England and his marital status, initially listed as single, play integral roles in understanding the societal norms and personal beliefs that shaped his actions both on and off the battlefield. His records also reveal a transition from civilian to military life, detailing his physical attributes, previous occupations, and family background, including his marriage to Fanny Priscilla Denyer during his service. His pre-war examination reveals a man in the prime of his life.

William's time in the military was challenging. He served as a Driver, an important role that involved moving troops and supplies. He faced serious health issues, including smallpox, influenza and enteric fever, which were common diseases in the military camps and trenches. He was also hospitalised with Appenditisis. Despite these challenges, Williams showed great resilience, always returning to his duties after recovering. The war took William to many places, including the Western Front, where he and his battalion participated in significant battles like Pozieres. He also spent time in hospitals in England, recovering from his injuries and the psychological impacts of the war. William's service ended when he returned to Australia on April 2, 1919, coming back to a country changed by the war.

During his service, William was transferred to another unit, evidenced by the military term "Taken on Strength" (TOS). He was initially part of the 27th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement but was transferred to the 4th divisional artillery, and subsequently taken on strength by the 11th Field Artillery Brigade.

William has also been absent without leave multiple times, a common but serious military offense. On February 22, 1916, he was absent from 4 PM until 12:20 AM the next day, resulting in the forfeiture of a day's pay. A more extended absence occurred from 7:20 PM on February 8, 1916, to 9:30 PM on February 15, 1916, for which he lost eight days' pay and was awarded 28 days' detention on February 17, 1916.

Another notable incident during his service was his assault on a native, leading to his absence from March 8 to 9, 1916, and the consequent forfeiture of another day's pay. These disciplinary issues culminated in various punishments, including detention and forfeiture of pay.

After the war, William struggled with health problems, likely a result of his war injuries and diseases. His marriage also faced difficulties, leading to separation in 1942. In a surprising turn of events in 1947, William was charged for using indecent language in public, showing the challenges many veterans faced in adjusting back to civilian life.