Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Clarence Edward Sutton was born on the 16th November 1886 in Busselton, Western Australia to parents Benjamin and Margaret Jane Sutton. He was educated at the Busselton State School, Western Australia. On leaving school, he completed a 4-year apprenticeship as a Farrier with Hough & Donnell in Busselton, Western Australia

At the outbreak of WW1 he was working as a Farrier in Roeburne, North West, Western Australia. He enlisted on the 7 January 1915 at Blackboy Hill, Western Australia. He embarked with his unit from Fremantle on board HMAT A8 Argylshire on the 9th April 1915 and was taken on strength on Gallipoli 4 July 1915.

Written on the back of the photo sent to his brother Charles –

‘Heliopolis Camp’ dated 26 May 1915.

Dear Charles

Just a few lines to let you know that I have arrived safe in Egypt and will be leaving for the front tomorrow. I am in good health at present and hoping you all are the same.

Clarence was killed in action 7 August 1915 at Walkers Ridge, Gallipoli and was originally buried at Russels Top Cemetery with 80 New Zealanders the same day. In 1922 his remains were exhumed and re-interred at Walkers Ridge Cemetery, Plot 11, Row B, Grave No. 10.

Correspondence received from the War Office dated 14 June 1922 and a brown paper bag, was forwarded to his father and contained a Silver disc, Buckle & Testament. The correspondence stated in part ‘ I am forwarding herewith, 1 silver disc from pouch, formerly in possession of your son was recovered from the field by the Graves Exhumation Parties. This and similar effects, while of little intrinsic value, impaired by long exposure, maybe possibly prized on account of intimate association with late members of the AIF and for this reason are being distributed to next of kin’.

His other personal effects included spurs, hairbrush, razor, shaving brush and pipe however it is not clear from the records if these were also returned to the family.