Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

From Australian Remembrance Army

Private Edwin Neale (Service No. 2222), an Australian World War One veteran, is among almost 800 previously unmarked WWI veterans’ graves in Lutwyche Cemetery we have now marked with plaques in recognition of their service for Australia.

We unveiled his plaque in Lutwyche Cemetery on 15 April 2023, along with a further 246 plaques on the previously unmarked graves of Australian World War One veterans:
See Australian Remembrance Army Facebook page

Edwin Neale was born on 25 July 1862 in Maryborough, Victoria, to John Alfred Neale and Frances Neale (nee Grace).

He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force at Rockhampton, Queensland, on 14 March 1916, claiming to be 40 years old when he was in fact in his mid-50s. A prospector by occupation, he nominated his sister, Alice, as his next of kin. Neale departed Brisbane for overseas service aboard HMAT Boorara on 16 August 1916, arriving in England in October. He then undertook further military training at Codford on the Salisbury Plain, a major training centre for Australian troops preparing for service on the Western Front.

In late December 1916, Neale proceeded to France, joining the 25th Battalion during the harsh winter conditions that followed the Somme campaign. After a brief period of acclimatisation and reinforcement duties, he was taken on strength with his unit in early February 1917. Within weeks, on 7 March 1917, Neale was wounded in action. He received initial treatment at a field ambulance before being transferred through a series of medical facilities, including a casualty clearing station and a general hospital in France. Due to the severity of his injuries—gunshot wounds affecting his eyes and nose—he was evacuated to England for further treatment.
In England, Neale was admitted to several military hospitals, including specialist care for eye injuries. His recovery was prolonged, involving transfers between hospitals and convalescent depots as medical staff assessed his condition. Despite ongoing treatment, the effects of his wounds proved significant and lasting. It was determined that he was no longer fit for active service. He embarked for the return journey to Australia in July 1917 and was discharged from the A.I.F. in December 1917.

Private Edwin Neale died on 1 July 1943, aged 80, and was buried in Anzac Portion 7, Lutwyche Cemetery, Brisbane. He was unmarried with no known children.

After decades without recognition at his place of burial, his grave now bears a plaque commemorating his service to Australia — ensuring his name endures among those remembered for their duty and sacrifice. His identity and dignity have now been restored.

We have remembered him.
Lest We Forget