RUSSELL, James
| Service Number: | 2973 |
|---|---|
| Enlisted: | 22 February 1916, Adelaide, South Australia |
| Last Rank: | Private |
| Last Unit: | 50th Infantry Battalion |
| Born: | Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, October 1889 |
| Home Town: | Toowoomba, Toowoomba, Queensland |
| Schooling: | South Kolan State School, Queensland, Australia |
| Occupation: | Labourer |
| Died: | Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne derailment, France, France, 5 December 1918 |
| Cemetery: |
Busigny Communal Cemetery Extension |
| Memorials: | Adelaide National War Memorial, Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour, Toowoomba Roll of Honour WW1 |
World War 1 Service
| 22 Feb 1916: | Enlisted AIF WW1, Private, 2973, 50th Infantry Battalion, Adelaide, South Australia | |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Nov 1916: | Involvement Private, 2973, 50th Infantry Battalion, --- :embarkation_roll: roll_number: '19' embarkation_place: Adelaide embarkation_ship: HMAT Afric embarkation_ship_number: A19 public_note: '' | |
| 6 Nov 1916: | Embarked Private, 2973, 50th Infantry Battalion, HMAT Afric, Adelaide |
Help us honour James Russell's service by contributing information, stories, and images so that they can be preserved for future generations.
Add my storyBiography contributed by Ashton Lee-Archer
James Russell, affectionately known as Jim Russell, was born in the quaint town of Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, in October 1889. He grew up in the rugged Australian outback, instilled with the values of hard work and resilience that would define his character in the years to come.
In 1916, at the age of 27, Jim enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I, joining the 50th Infantry Battalion. His decision to serve his country was a testament to his patriotism and sense of duty. Enlisting in Adelaide, South Australia, on February 22nd, he embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of his life.
Throughout his service, Jim proved himself to be a dedicated and courageous soldier. As a private in the 50th Infantry Battalion, he faced the horrors of trench warfare on the Western Front with unwavering resolve. His bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers earned him the respect of his peers and superiors alike.
Despite the dangers and hardships he endured, Jim remained steadfast in his mission. He fought valiantly in some of the most grueling battles of the war, determined to defend his homeland and protect the freedoms of future generations. His service was marked by acts of bravery and selflessness, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his country and his fellow soldiers.
Tragically, Jim's journey came to an untimely end on December 5th, 1918. While returning home from the war for Christmas, he was aboard the ill-fated Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne train, which derailed in France. The incident claimed the lives of many soldiers, including Jim, casting a shadow of grief over his family and community.
Jim Russell's sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the profound cost of war. His memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the annals of Australian history, a testament to the courage and resilience of those who have answered the call to serve. Though he may be gone, his legacy endures as a symbol of honor, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the Anzacs.
Click images to start slideshow.