Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

John’s (Jack) main attribute was his willingness and ability to help anybody with just about anything. He was born in South Queensferry, Scotland on January the 4th 1910, his father being John Donaldson of Edinburgh, his mother Minnie McNeil Ried of South Queensferry, his grandparents were John Donaldson of Edinburgh, a paint shop proprietor and artisan and Marion Monfries from Inverness. Jack’s father migrated to Australia early in 1913 and his mother followed with Jack later that year.
His education enabled him to make great strides, promotion following promotions until he became auditor in the Audit Office, the Lay Superintendent of Parkside Mental Hospital. He served there from 1949 – 56 and was again promoted, being appointed Chief Administrative Officer of the Land Development branch back in the Department of Lands.
Jack spent three years in the Citizen’s Forces in the 3rd Lighthorse Machine Gun Squadron which was probably the main reason that he was made sergeant section commander in the machine gun platoon in the 2/48th Battalion serving four years in the Middle East and New Guinea.
Jack was one of the stalwarts to give this Club such a good solid foundation, having been a very active member as president also vice President on many occasions. Jack’s son Sandy’s (Alistair Monfries Donaldson) tribute to his dad was – Dad had much in his life to be proud of and even in his hardest battle at the end set an example which I would be proud to be able to follow.
Article taken from The Khamseen Kronicle, Official Journal of the 2/48th Battalion June 1990
Submitted by Kaye Lee, daughter of Bryan Holmes SX8133 2/48th