Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Thomas Miners Cliff SX7305 2/43rd
Tom was born in Durham, an historic town in the north east of England on the 29th January 1921 to Thomas and Ethel Cliff. He was one of five children, four sons, Jack, Joe and Allen and a daughter, Doreen. Once the family moved to South Australia, they settled in the suburb of Maylands.
Tom was employed, at the ‘Thamms Toymaking and Wickerwork’ business, located in Capper Street; Kent Town. It was there that he met two other young teenagers, Allan Porter and Frederick Allan Fulton (also called Allan). The three became firm friends and thereafter were always together, becoming known as the ‘Inseparable Trio’. The trio were reliable, hardworking and respected by their fellow workers for their pride in the work they produced as well as having identical interests.
Obviously with the outbreak of war, young men, regardless of their occupation, would have numerous discussions about ‘joining up to do their bit’. This would have been particularly so for Tom with his British heritage. Inevitably they walked together to Wayville to enlist with the Army on the 1st July, 1940. Tom’s official records show his birthdate as the 29th January, 1919 which suggested he was 20 years old at enlistment. However, the reality is that he was certainly born on the 29th January, but two years later in 1921. It appears that the other two may have done similarly as Allan Fulton’s headstone lists his birth as being 1922 and Allan Porter’s family records show he also was born in 1922.
The News of August ’41 reported that the trio ‘did preliminary training together, and then separated in two units.’ Because of the initial of their surname Tom Cliff and (Frederick) Allan Fulton were enlisted in the 2nd/43rd Battalion becoming respectively SX7305, and SX7302. Allan Porter was allocated to the newly formed 2nd /48th Battalion becoming SX7315. Their relatives and friends gave the trio a joint farewell party, knowing they would serve their country with honour.
While Allan Porter was the first of the trio of friends to arrive in Tobruk, the two Allans and Tom did all reunite in Palestine, taking a photo to commemorate the reunion.
Tragically, within four months of arriving, Allan Porter was killed in action in Libya on May 1st,1941. Tom and Allan Fulton continued to remember Allan Porter, reflecting on the service he had given.
In a further cruel twist of fate Tom, the second of the Inseparable Trio, died of wounds three months after Allan on the 4th June ‘41. He was listed on his army record as being 22 years old at his death but his family’s tribute state that he was then just 20 years old. John Glenn in ‘Tobruk to Tarakan’ described the fateful encounter which led to his death and the decimation caused to his battalion. ‘In the south, the 2/43rd attacked strongly, but came up against strong and accurate machine-gun fire, and were forced to withdraw. The 2/43rd commenced the attack with 137 men, and came out with only 33 unscathed.’ His remaining fellow soldiers buried him in the field but he was later transferred to permanently rest at the Benghazi War Cemetery in Libya Number 6. D. 13 near his close friend, Allan Glanville. Tom’s parents later chose the inscription ‘Love’s greatest gift, Remembrance. “Thy will be done”’ to be etched on his headstone.
With accurate documentation of deaths, captures and injuries challenging, Tom’s fate was initially reported in both the News on the 26th August and the Chronicle on the 28th August ’41 as being ‘Wounded in Action’. The article in that issue of the News reported that ‘Three friends who became known as "the Inseparable Trio— they were parted only once in the past four years—have been reported casualties at Tobruk. They are Pte. Allan G. Porter, of Kent Town (killed in action on May 1st) Pte. F. Allan Fulton, of Kent Town (wounded in action on August 30). Pte. Tom Cliff, of Maylands (wounded in action on August 30). The trio was linked when Ptes Porter and Fulton, who had been school mates. began work at Thamm's wicker works, Kent Town, where Pte. Cliff was already employed. The ties were cemented by comradeship in the A.I.F. All aged about 19½., they enlisted on the same day in June. 1940.’
On the 9th October the Chronicle reported that Tom was missing. Finally in October his parents were informed officially of his death. They added a tribute to him in the Advertiser on October 29th ‘CLIFF. —On August 4, died of wounds abroad, Pte.,T. M. Cliff, aged 20 years, dearly beloved eldest son of Thomas and Ethel Cliff of Maylands. His duty nobly done. Sleep on, dear son, so kind and true. No one on earth was better than you; The days will go and the years will pass But your beautiful memories will always last. —Sadly missed by his loving father, mother, brothers and sister, aunties uncles and cousins.’
Tom’s father lived to see peace declared, dying at home on the 27th April, 1954, aged 57. His mother lived to be 84 and died on the 15th January 1981. Both are buried together at Centennial Park. For many years, the family, friends, Allan Porter’s family and Allan Fulton remembered Tom’s sacrifice.
Advertiser Tuesday 4 August 1942, CLIFF. —In lasting memory of dear Tom, who was killed at Tobruk on August 4, 1941. There is a road we call remembrance. Where thoughts and shadows meet; We take that road in thought today, To one we cannot greet. —Inserted by auntie, uncle, Grace and Jack. CLIFF. —In loving memory of dear Tom, who died of wounds at Tobruk on August 4, 1941. We shall see him one bright morning, waiting on the other side, we shall see his dear face smiling, Not changed, but glorified. Resting where no shadows fall, in perfect peace he awaits us all. —Ever remembered by his loving cousins Nell and George, Auntie Grace and Ronnie. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dearly beloved son, Pte. T. M. Cliff, of Maylands, died of wounds received in action at Tobruk on August 4, 1941. How often we think of you, dear Tom, with hearts and eyes that fill, The love we had for you in life, In death is greater still. Today brings back sad memories, sweet thoughts of you we keep, and though one year has passed away, our grief is just as deep. Shall we forget him, never, For love’s bright golden chain Shall bind our hearts with His above, Until we meet again. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember him. —Sadly missed by his sorrowing father and mother, brothers and sister, Jack, Joe, Allen and Doreen. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. Tom Cliff, who died of wounds received at Tobruk, on August 4, 1941. —Will always be remembered by his two mates, Gunner S. J. and Pte. F. A. Fulton, A.I.F., abroad. CLIFF. —In fond memory of my dear friend, Pte. Thomas Cliff, died of wounds at Tobruk on August 4, 1941. A.I.F. You gave your life for freedom. —Inserted by his friend George Forward. CLIFF. —In memory of my pal Tommy, who was killed in action at Tobruk on August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by his pal Windy. CLIFF, Tom. —Killed in action at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. —A token of remembrance from Viv. Jones. CLIFF. —In fond memory of Tom, died of wounds on August 4, 1941. Our son’s pal so rare, Now rest together in God’s care. —Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family. CLIFF. —In loving remembrance of dear Tom, who died of wounds received at Tobruk on August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by his uncle and aunty, Joe and Nellie Miners, and cousins, Eva, Betty, Ethel and Ray. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. T. M. Cliff, who died of wounds August 4, 1941. God’s greatest gift, remembrance. —Always remembered by the Gibson family. CLIFF. —Treasured memories of Tom, our beloved nephew, died of wounds. Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Resting where no shadows fall, in perfect peace he awaits us all. —From his loving auntie and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. C. Hearn, of Glenelg, and cousins, Jennie, Syd (A.I.F.), Hughie, and Marge. Deeply loved.
Advertiser Wednesday 4 August 1943, CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. Tom Cliff, who died of wounds received at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by his mates, Pte. F. A. and Bdr. S. J. Fulton. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, who died August 4, 1941. Not just to-day, but always will remember. —Inserted by Gibson family. CLIFF. —In memory of our brother Tom, who made the supreme sacrifice, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Always so loving, unselfish and kind, the dearest brother this world could find. —Remembered by brothers, Jack, Joe and Allan. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, who died of wounds at Tobruk. Hearts that loved you never forget; in memory you are with us yet. —Ever remembered by his auntie Grace and Nell, uncle George and Ron. CLIFF. —In loving remembrance of Tom, died of wounds at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by his uncle, aunt and cousins, Mr. and Mrs. J. Miners, family, St. Peters. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. Tom Cliff, who died at Tobruk on August 4. Days and years go past, but memories of you will always last. —Ever remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family. CLIFF. —Cherished memories of my dear pal Tom, who died at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. A smiling face, a heart of gold, the dearest pal the world could hold. —Remembered always by Jack, auntie, uncle, and Grace. CLIFF. Pte. T.—Died of wounds August 4, 1941. A tender chord of memory is softly touched today. —inserted by his friend, Pte. Geo. Forward. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. God shall link the broken chain, as one by one we meet again. —Remembered by Uncle Charles, Auntie Ellen, cousins, of Glenelg. CLIFF. —Cherished memories of our beloved son, Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. In our garden of memories, we are still together, yesterday, today, and forever. —Sadly missed by loving mother, father, sister, Doreen. CLIFF. —A tribute to Tommy, who died of wounds at Tobruk. —Always remembered by his pal, S. J. Windham (A.I.F. ret.).
Advertiser Friday 4 August 1944, CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, died of wounds August 4, 1941. No matter what the years may bring, loving memories will always cling. —Lovingly remembered by aunty Liz, uncle Dick, Grace and pal Jack. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, killed in action, August 4, 1941. Sweetest memories forever linger. —Inserted by Gibson family. CLIFF. —Loving memories of our beloved nephew, Tom, died of wounds Aug. 4, Tobruk. After the partings, sweet reunion. —From uncle Charlie, auntie Ellen and loving cousins, Glenelg. CLIFF. —Cherished memories of our dear brother, Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. A day of remembrance, so sad to recall; a dearly loved brother, missed by us all. Always remembered. —Joe, Allan, Doreen. CLIFF. —A tribute of love and honor to our dear son, Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, Aug. 4, 1941. His smile a beautiful memory; his absence a lasting sorrow. Deeply loved. —Lovingly remembered by mother and father. CLIFF. —In proud memory of our dear brother and brother-in-law, Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, Aug. 4, 1941. You live with us in memory still, not just today, but always will. —Ever remembered, Jack, Jacquelene, nephew John. CLIFF. —In memory of his sacrifice, we honor him today, Tom, died of wounds Tobruk, August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by uncle, aunt, and cousins, Mr. and Mrs. J. Miners and family. CLIFF. —In fond memory of Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, Aug. 4, 1941. Memories, sweet and tender, of one we loved and will always remember. —Ever remembered by aunty Grace, aunty Nell, uncle George and Ronnie. CLIFF. —In memory of Tom, who died on August 4, 1941. In a soldier’s grave he sleeps beneath sunshine of perfect peace. —Ever remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. Tom Cliff, who was killed in action August 4, 1941. —Ever remembered by T. J. and F. A. Fulton. CLIFF. —In memory of Thomas, died on active service abroad, August 4, 1941. When other helpers failed the Lord was by his side. —Inserted by Geo. Forward.
Advertiser Saturday 4 August 1945, CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. In our home you are fondly remembered, purest memories cling round your name; hearts that hold you in deepest affection still love you in death just the same. — Always remembered by Auntie Nellie, Uncle George, Auntie Grace, and Ronnie. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear brother Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. His King and country called him; the call was not in vain; on the nation’s roll of honor you will find our dear brother’s name. —Ever remem-bered by his loving brothers and sister, Joe (A.I.F.), Allan, and Doreen. CLIFF.—Cherished memories of our dear son Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. There is a face that is always with us, and a voice we would love to hear, his smile we will always remember, and a memory most precious and dear. —Dearly loved and sadly missed by his loving father and mother. CLIFF. —Fond memories of our dear brother Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. We think of you in silence, Tom, no eyes may see us weep; but ever in our aching hearts your memory we will keep: —Always remembered by his dear brother Jack (A.I.F., Borneo) sister-in-law Jacquelene, and nephew John. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. Tom Cliff who was killed in action Aug. 4, 1941, at Tobruk. —Always remembered by Fulton family. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, killed at Tobruk. Time drifts on, shadows fall, but beautiful memories, Tom, out-last them all. —Ever remembered by his friends Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, killed in action Aug. 4, 1941. Time passes, but memories linger. —Inserted by the Gibson family. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear nephew Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. In heaven above, where all is love. We’ll meet to part no more. —Lovingly remembered by uncle Charles, aunty Ellen, and loving cousins, Glenelg. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear nephew and cousin Tom, who died at Tobruk, August 3, 1941. A dear pal’s memory is now more than gold, his love and worth can never be told. —Ever re-membered by Lizzy, Dick, Grace, Babs and Jack.
Advertiser Saturday 3 August 1946, CLIFF. —Sacred to the memory of our dear son Tom, 2/43rd Batt., who gave his life at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. There are many miles between us, and the distance is a lot; but the flower that grows between us is the sweet forget-me-not. A distant grave, a touching thing, where loving hands no flowers can bring, but God alone in His loving care, will guard our darling resting there. —Sadly missed by his loving mother and father. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear brother Tom, died at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. To be with us in the same old way, would be our dearest wish to day. —Ever remembered by his loving brothers Joe and Allen, and sister Doreen. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear brother Tom, died at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. A loving smile, a heart of gold, the dearest brother this world could hold. —Always remembered by Jacqueline, Jack and John. CLIFF. —In loving memory of dear Tom, who died August 4, 1941, at Tobruk. Things have changed in many ways, but one thing changes never, the memory of those happy days, we spent so well together. —Always remembered by Babs and Jack. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Pte. Tom Cliff, who was killed in action, August 3, 1941. —Ever remembered by Fulton family. CLIFF. —In loving memory of dear Tom, who died August 4, 1941, at Tobruk. Remembrance is a golden chain, linking us till we meet again. —Fondly missed by aunties Grace, Nell, Lizzie, and uncles Dick, and George, and Grace and Ron.
Advertiser Monday 4 August 1947, CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, died of wounds August 4, 1941. You live with us in memory still, Not Just today, but always will. —Inserted by Gibson family.
Advertiser Wednesday 4 August 1948, CLIFF. —In fond memory of our brother Tom, died of wounds at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by Jacqueline and Jack. CLIFF. —In memory of Tom. Not just today, but every day we will remember him. —Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family. CLIFF. In loving memory of dear Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Down memory lane the lights are never dim; until the stars cease to shine, we will always remember. — Longed for always, mum. dad. CLIFF. —Treasured memories of our dear brother Tom, who gave his life at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. His memory is our dearest keepsake. —Sadly missed by Doreen, Joe, Alan and sister-in-law Mabel.
Advertiser Thursday 4 August 1949, CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear son Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Death leaves a heartache one cannot show, those who have loved and lost are the only ones who know; till memory fades and life departs you will be forever in our hearts. Sadly missed by mum and dad. CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear brother Tom, who gave his life at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Golden memories silently kept of our dear brother we loved and will never forget. —Lovingly remembered by Joe, Doreen, Allen and Mabel. CLIFF, Tom. —Ever remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family.
Advertiser Friday 4 August 1950, CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear son Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Don’t ask us if we miss him, for true love never dies, the dearest spot on earth to us, is where our dear son lies. — Sadly missed by mum and dad. CLIFF—Treasured memories of our dear brother Tom, who gave his life at Tobruk, August 4, 1941. God has you in His keeping, we have you in our heart. Ever remembered by Joe, Allan, Doreen. CLIFF. —In memory of Tom, killed Tobruk, 1941. —Ever remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family.
Advertiser Saturday 4 August 1951, CLIFF. — In loving memory of our dear son Tom. died of wounds Tobruk. Aug. 4. 1941. There is something in life you cannot buy, A gift that Is rare and true, the gift of a wonderful son Like the one we had in you. -Sadly missed mum, dad brothers, sister and sister-in-law. CLIFF. — In memory of Tom. killed at Tobruk. Aug. 4. 1941.— Always remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Porter and family.
Advertiser Monday 4 August 1952, CLIFF. —In loving memory of our dear son Tom, killed Tobruk, August 4, 1941. Though absent you are ever near, still loved, still missed and ever dear. Sadly missed by mum, dad, brothers and sister. CLIFF. —In loving memory of Tom, who died of wounds, August 4, 1941. —Always remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Porter.
Advertiser Tuesday 4 August 1953, CLIFF. — In loving memory of our dear son Tom, killed Tobruk August 4, 1941. Time can never take away lovely memories we hold today. Lovingly remembered by mum, dad, brothers and sister. CLIFF. —In memory of Tom, died of wounds, Tobruk, August 4, 1941. —Ever remembered Mr and Mrs. Potter.
Advertiser 1954, CLIFF. — In loving memory of my dear son Tom. killed Tobruk. August 4. 1941. Loving memory. — Mother.

Researched and written by Kaye Lee daughter of Bryan Holmes SX8133, 2/48th Battalion.