Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Thomas Thornton Ward I believe was in charge of the rifle range a Broadmeadows. He was a 2nd Lt in the Lighthorse Regiment in England before coming to Australia. He was employed by "The White Star Line" who owned the Titanic. He came to Australia to start the Perth Office. He was re-commissioned to be part of the formation of "The 3rd Pioneer Battalion" at Broadmeadows in Victoria Australia. A combination of an infantry soldier and an army field (combat) engineer. I believe he also may have helped train the soldiers to ride horses; so they could get to the front lines quickly. He was promoted to 1st Lt. He was at the battle of the "Armiens" with the Pioneers under the command of General John Monash in 1918. The biggest battle ever attempted for the time.The battle it was hoped would bring about the end of WW1. I have a letter from General Monash given to my grandfather which outlines the plans for the battle, and what was hoped to be achieved. I intend to show the letter to the army in 2018, 100 years after it was written. It has been seen by Sotherby's in Melbourne who tell me it is well documented. Hidden away for many decades until my father gave it to me. I am willing to show it to anyone who had family in the 3rd Pioneers. Send a text to 0404002899 and I will reply.