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War Memorial
Australia

Lewis Morell Semmens SX7189
Named after his father, Lewis Victor, (Lew) was born in Norwood on the 29th October, 1915 the oldest son of Dulcie and Lewis. He was one of seven children, Victor, Dulcie, Edna, Doris, Clem and Vera. Sadly, the family suffered the death of their first-born daughter, Dulcie Verna when she was just 8 months old on the 19th March, 1920 when Lewis was four and Victor 21 months.
The family moved to the Riverland to live at Cobdogla, a close knit and supportive community. There, the local paper, ‘Murray Pioneer and Australian River Record’ encouraged younger children to write in to a club called the Mopoke Club to help them keep connected with others. Lewis wrote his first letter as a 9-year-old, giving an insight into his school, lifestyle and initiative. He wrote; “Taylorville, via Morgan, June 15. Dear Mopoke, -Would you accept me as a new clubmate? We have a nice museum in our school. It contains many pretty shells. Another boy and I went trapping in the holidays. We trapped twelve rabbits and one big black cat. I am going to sell the skins for pocket money. Last Sunday I caught two fish on a line, they were not very large ones. With good wishes to the club from LEWIS SEMMENS.” The published response was “Welcome to our club. I am getting quite a large-family of boy Mopokes. You write very nicely. It's a good idea to save the rabbit skins for pocket money.” No reaction was made to the capture of the cat or its usefulness.
By September Lew had written once more and again the details of Lewis’ life reflect the variety of his experiences, local conditions and his resourcefulness: “Boggy Flat, via Morgan, Aug. 30 Dear Mopoke, -I am writing to you to let you know we have had a beautiful rain. My grandfather has got a lot of nice lambs and they are very pretty. They skip and jump and play about. I have a nice lot of books, and am very fond of reading. I get up every morning at half past six and go to my traps, then I go to school. It would be very nice to have a picnic on the river bank as mentioned by you. With best wishes to the club. LEWIS SEMMENS.”
Lewis and his siblings all attended the local Cobdogla School where he was awarded first prize for his Composition in Grade 7 in 1929 and also won the Cobdogla Boy’s Sporting Championship. Each school year concluded with a picnic to the North Lake near the Government Boarding House. A convoy of cars and lorries transported the children and their parents to the Lake where presentation of books, provided by public subscriptions, were made before food and sports became the major indulgences. In the 6-8 age group, Vic finished a credible third in his foot race. This annual event expanded with Cobdogla and Loveday combining for a joint picnic day where fruit, sweets, ice cream and refreshments were a highlight. Local businesses, including the Bakery, provided trophies and awards.
Post school, like so many of his age, Lew worked on the family fruit block, gaining skills including driving heavy vehicles and tractors. This lifestyle obviously contributed to Lewis’ fitness, including his involvement as a competitive cyclist, a sport that was rapidly gaining in popularity. As a 16-year-old, he competed in the Berri Half and One Mile Handicap races in 1932. His younger brother, Victor also became a very competitive rider as the sport grew to become a national event.
War intervened. Aged 24 Lew was one of the first local young men to enlist on the 14th June 1940 in Glossop to become SX7189. Victor quickly followed, enlisting on the 19th June also at Glossop to become SX8055. Both subsequently became members of the newly formed 2/48th Battalion that would come to be so highly regarded and decorated. Sadly, it was to also become one of the most decimated Battalions.
Prior to embarkation Lew, Victor and Ken Marrett, SX4579 had a weekend’s leave Aug 20 1940. These three and fellow bike riders John and Murray McFarlane were farewelled amongst the seven local enlistees. The farewell was described as one of the largest attended socials in Cobdogla. Inspiring speeches and gift presentations were made to each of the ‘boys’ from the Ladies’ Committee. Believing action spoke louder than words, each of the enlistees made a “cheery little speech, and by the time It came to the last soldier to say a few words he thought there was "nothing left for him to say." A rousing rendition of ‘For They Are Jolly Good Fellows’, three cheers, a hearty supper and dancing rounded the evening, according to the ‘Murray Pioneer and Australian River Record’.
By September, both Lew and Vic were on leave with the McFarlane brothers, John Walsh and Donald Wing. Then in October a huge 400 strong crowd gathered at the Barmera Bonney Theatre to honour the 18 young locals who were on leave for the last time before heading overseas. Each of the men were greeted and introduced to the crowd. Then in a stirring speech by Mr Tonkin, President of the Barmera. Sub-Branch of the R.S.A. the young men were compared with the WWI fighters and reminded that “twenty-six years ago the boys were hardened to be, what was described by the then commander-in-chief, the finest troops in the world. He felt sure that the generals of today would say the same of the men of the Second A.I.F. History would repeat itself in that what had been dared by the old Diggers would be done again by the young Diggers.” Each soldier then received a gift of a one-pound note, and responded personally to the well-wishers before the traditional supper and dancing followed.
In November, Lewis and Vic were both on the Stratherden heading for the Middle East and conditions that were rarely shared with family back home. They became one of the highly respected Rats of Tobruk, helping to write the legend that would be part of the 2/48th and 9th Division legacy. Anytime locals heard from those serving overseas was shared with joy. The Aussie sense of humour was also celebrated as when Lou and his friend Grant Thorpe from the 2/48th were heard on radio. The ‘Murray Pioneer and Australian River Record’ in January ’42 reported “The many friends of Ptes. Grant Thorpe and Len Semmens received a real thrill when they heard these popular lads broadcasting from the Middle East, and all are looking forward to hearing more local boys over the air. Grant's "Whacko Barmera" will be long remembered by all who had the good fortune to listen to this cheery lad's broadcast.”
A bout of appendicitis caused Lew to have an extended stay in the Middle East hospital and as he was recovering from this, he contracted another gastric condition which prolonged his stay. He survived the horrific conditions in Tobruk and other campaigns in the Middle East to returned to Australia in February of ’43 to marry his local sweetheart, Lorna Dorothy Hombsch on 18th March, 1943 at the Lutheran Church in Renmark. Not unexpectedly, Lorna was also an active sportswoman, particularly in Netball (then called basketball). Lew was granted two months leave of Absence until the middle of April, with the two using this precious time to honeymoon in Adelaide.
Lew and Vic were also guests of honour at a welcome home social and dance for members of the 9th Division AIF held in the Cobdogla Hall, arranged by the Cobdogla Soldiers’ Social Comforts Fund Committee. Lorna’s brother, Sgt. Hombsch spoke in glowing terms of the good work accomplished by the various patriotic organization throughout the Middle East. He praised the Red Cross for their splendid work in looking after the sick and wounded. He next thanked the Salvation Army, Comforts Fund and YMCA, who, regardless of where the troops were sent in the forward lines or lean areas, all contributed to make things more comfortable for troops. Finally, Sgt. Hombsch thanked the school children for their wonderful help through. the SPF emphasizing the importance of all these particular organizations which was so appreciated by the Digger at home or overseas.
With the dust, dirt and unforgettable conditions as a Rat of Tobruk behind him, newly married Lew, Vic and the 9th Division and were then sent to New Guinea, in August of 1943, disembarking at Milne Bay to face the new Japanese threat. Conditions were demanding and inevitably tempers short, earning Lewis monetary fines for being AWOL and challenging an officer.
The euphoric time Lorna and Lew had together was so fragile. Firstly, in August 43 news of her brother’s death arrived. “Sgt Obs Ronald Victor Hombsch (RAAF), is missing, believed to have lost his life in air operations on the night of July 25-26. Sgt. Hombsch joined the Air Force in May, 1941. After training he was attached to the Coastal Command in England, and in April, 1943, was sent to the Middle East.”
Then a further cruel blow as new wife, Lorna Semmens received the devastating news less than three months later, in December ’43 that Lewis had died of wounds inflicted during a Japanese attack. John Glenn in ‘Tobruk to Tarakan’ attempts to describe the conditions on the fateful 22nd November. “With parts of the road continually under observation from Sattelberg, the Japanese must have been aware of the amount of jeep traffic taking up supplies to forward troops. Whether they were firing at random will never be known, but, nevertheless, one shell made a direct hit on a tree above battalion headquarters spraying the whole area with shell fragments and inflicting a number of casualties.” These included L.M. Semmens, Major Reg Batten, Captain Hugh Treloar, Lieutenant G.J. Butler Sergeant Lane, K.S. Kelly and A.R.J. Lindsay. Lewis died of his wounds in Papua New Guinea, 22 November 1943, aged 28 years.
Initially, Lewis was buried at Sattelberg but in May 1944 he and others were reburied in the Finschhafen War Cemetery with the inscription on his grave reading simply, ‘May His Soul Rest In Peace.’ His Medals, the 1939/45 Star, Africa Star, Pacific Star, Defence Medal, War Medal and Australian Service Medal were sent to Lorna in February of 1953.
The River community continued to fund-raise for the Red Cross and their men overseas but the December ‘43 dance was marred by the losses the community had endured. A sombre two minutes silence in honour of Private. Lewis Semmens, who recently made the supreme sacrifice, was observed.
By 1947 a Memorial Garden and Playground was finally unveiled bearing an honour roll bearing the names of old scholars of World War II who had made the supreme sacrifice. These included Ronald Hombsch (RAAF), Lewis Semmens, Phillip McBride, Jack Proud, and Robert Taylor, all of the 2nd A.I.F. Two little nieces of Robert and Lewis, Heather and Carol Hombsch sombrely placed a wreath on behalf of the school.
Lorna was devastated at the loss of her husband. She, family, friends and those with whom he served continued to honour the memory of Lew each year.
Murray Pioneer Thursday 23 December 1943, SEMMENS—In loving memory of my dear husband Lewis (AIF) died of wounds, New Guinea, on November 22. Deep in my heart a memory is kept, of one that I loved and will never forget. —Ever remembered by his loving wife Lorna.
SEMMENS—In loving memory of dear Lewis (AIF), died of wounds, New Guinea, Nov. 22nd. His loving ways and smiling face, no one else can take his place. —Ever remembered by his brother-in-law Sgt. Bruno Hombsch (A.I.F.) N.G.
Murray Pioneer Thursday 16 December 1943, SEMMENS — In proud and loving memory of our dear son and brother Lewis, late 2/48th Battalion, died of wounds November 22, in New Guinea (returned M.E.) "A hero called to a higher service." Ever remembered by his loving Mother and Father, Brothers and Sisters, Cobdogla, and Brother Vic (N.G.).
Advertiser Tuesday 14 December 1943, SEMMENS-—ln memory of Lewis, died of wounds. N.G, November 22. His duty nobly done. —Ever remembered by Vida. SEMMENS. —A tribute to Lew, died of wounds, N.G. November 22. Remembered as only mates can remember. — Inserted by H. H. Sort (Shorty). Port Noarlunga. SEMMENS. —Honored memory of Lewis, died of wounds, Nov. 22. His memory will live within the hearts of those who knew his worth. —Aunty Kate, Uncle Charlie, cousins Stuart (RAAF). Kathleen. Joan. Gwen (WAAAF). and June.
Advertiser Saturday 11 December 1943, SEMMENS. — In memory of my husband Lewis, died or wounds. N.G. November 22. I hoped for his safe return, and longed to clasp his hand, but God has postponed that meeting. —Remembered by his loving wife Lorna. SEMMENS. — In loving memory of my dear son-in-law Lewis, who paid the supreme sacrifice in N.G. on November 22. One of the bravest, one of the best. —Ever remembered by his loving mother in-law. Mrs. Hombsch. SEMMENS. — In loving memory or our dear brother-ln-law Lewis, died of wounds. N.G. November 22. Thoughts drift back to bygone days; time moves on but memories stay. —Ever remembered by Fred and Bruno Hombsch (A.I.F.) SEMMENS. — A fond tribute to one of the best, our loving nephew Lewis (AIF.). who died of wounds November 22. —Ever remembered by his Uncle Stan. Aunt Girlie, cousins Phyl, Colin (R.A.A.F.). and Marjorie.
Advertiser Saturday 18 December 1943, SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewes, died of wounds in New Guinea. Whatever else I fail to do. 1 will never fail to remember you. —lnserted by pal. Otto Neideck Barmera.
Advertiser Wednesday 22 November 1944, SEMMENS—In loving memory of my dear husband. Lewis. 2/48th Batt, died ot wounds. N.G, Nov. 22, 1943. Not a day do I forget you, in my heart you’re always near. I, who loved you sadly miss you as it dawns this first sad year. —lnserted by his loving wife. Lorna. SEMMENS In remembrance ot my dear son-in-law Lewis, died of wounds, NG, Nov. 22. 1943/ Gone from us his smiling face, those pleasant, cheerful ways; a heart that won so many friends in happy, bygone days. —Ever remembered by his mother-in-law. Mrs. Hombsch. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of our dear brother. Lewis. SX7189. 2/48th Batt died of wounds, N.G, Nov. 22, 1943. Not a day do we forget you, in our hearts you are always near; we, who loved you sadly missed you as it dawns the first sad year. —Ever remembered by sister Edna and brother-in-law Lloyd. SEMMENS. Pte. L. M. (AIF, returned from Middle East. —ln proud and loving memory of our dear pal, Lew, who died of wounds. New Guinea, 22/11/43. One year has gone since that sad day when the one we loved was called away: the end was sudden, the shock severe, we little knew the end was near. Loved in life honored in death: a beautiful memory is all we have left. —Ever remembered by his pals. Bill, Gordon, and Bill, from the 2/48th Batt, AI.F. SEMMENS. Lewis, died of wounds. N. Guinea, Nov. 22. 1943.—Lovingly remembered by Auntie Dorrie, Uncle and Murray (N.G.). SEMMENS. —In memory of Lew. Killed in action in N.G, Nov. 22. 1943.—Ever remembered by pals John and Murray. 2/48th Battalion. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of our friend Lew, killed in action in N.G, Nov. 22. 1943. —Inserted by Mr. and Mrs. McFarlane and family. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lew. 2/48th Batt. killed in action. N.G, Nov. 22, 1943. —Always remembered by Mollie and Tom. SEMMENS, Lew. late 2/48th Battalion. —A tribute of honor to a brave soldier and staunch friend, died of wounds, Satelburg, New Guinea. —From Blue. Gay. Bill, and Gordon. SEMMENS. —In loving memory ot our dear nephew and cousin, Lewis, who was killed in action in New Guinea a year ago today, Nov. 22, 1943. Our best friend from the cradle to the grave. —Always re membered by Uncle Jack. Aunt Jess, and cousins.
Advertiser Thursday 23 November 1944, SEMMENS. SX7189. L. M —In loving memory of Lewis, who died of wounds. N.G., November 22. 1943. Peace, perfect peace, in this world of sin. —Ever remembered by his loving mother and father, brothers and sisters. SEMMENS. —A tribute to Lew. late 2/48th Batt, died of wounds. N.G. (returned M.E.). Thoughts drift back to bygone days, time moves on, but memories stay. —Ever remembered by his brother Vic ex-A.I.F.). SEMMENS. —Treasured memories of Lew, late 2/48th Batt. died of wounds. N.G. (returned M.E.) For us he gave his all. —Missed by sisters Doris and Chum SEMMENS. —In honor of Lew. late 2/48th Batt. died of wounds. N.G. (returned M.E.). Peacefully sleeping with his mates. — Always remembered by his brother Clem.
Advertiser Saturday 25 November 1944, SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lew, who died in New Guinea on Nov. 22 1943. Gone from us his smiling face, his kind and loving ways; the one who won so many friends in happy bygone days. —Ever remembered by his loving pals. Otto, Alf, Agnes Neidick Barmera.
Murray Pioneer Thursday 22 November 1945, SEMMENS-In loving memory of my dear husband Lewis, 2/48th Batt., died of wounds New Guinea, November 22nd, 1943. The evening stars are shining on a hero's grave, Beneath the Cross of Sacrifice He lies among the brave. Ever remembered by his loving wife, Lorna.
Advertiser Thursday 22 November 1945, SEMMENS. —In loving memory of my dear husband, Lewis. 2/48th Batt. died of wounds, New Guinea, November 22. 1943 Shattered hopes and scattered dreams, and thoughts of what might have been. —Longed for always by his loving wife. Lorna. SEMMENS. —In fond memory of Lewis. 2/48th Batt. died of wounds New Guinea, November 22 1943. You were not spared to see the peace in your country you helped to save, but our thoughts go out to you, dear Lew, where you lie in a hero's grave. —Ever remembered by his mother-in-law and brothers-in-law SEMMENS, L.M.—Late of the 2/48th Batt. A.I.F. died of wounds. November 22 1943. Love lights the gloom of sorrow faith seeks the dawn to be; hope waits the great tomorrow that will bring us near to thee—Inserted by his loving mother, father, brothers and sisters — Vic (late A.I.F.), Edna, Clem, Doris, and Vera. SEMMENS. —Treasured memories of Lew late 2/48th Batt. died of wounds. H.G-. November 22. 1943. Deep in our hearts a memory is kept of a brother we loved and shall never forget—Always remembered by his loving sister Edna, brother-in-law Lloyd. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewis (2/48th, returned M.E.), who died of wounds at Satelberg. A soldier's grave is a touching thing, where loving hands no flowers can bring; but God alone In His great care, will guard my brother, who is resting there. —Remembered by his loving sister Doris. SEMMENS, L. M.—Late of the 2/48th Batt. AJ.F. died of wounds. November 22 1943. Rest on in peace. O warrior brave, now your task is o'er: all your best you gladly gave to help us win the war. —lnserted by his loving brother Vic. and sister-in-law Beryl SEMMENS. —In loving memory of my pal Lew (A.I.F.), died of wounds, N.G., November 22. 1943.—H. Slater (A.I.F. ret.). SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewis, who died of wounds in New Guinea on November 22 1943. Deep in our hearts lies a picture, worth more than silver or gold; it's a picture of you, dear Lew, one that will never grow old. — Ever remembered by the Neldecks. Barmera. SEMMENS. L. M.—A tribute to the memory of Lew, died of wounds at Satelberg November 22, 1943.—Ever remembered by Bill, Blue and Gay (ex-2nd/ 48th Batt.). SEMMENS. —Dvr. L. M.—Fondest memories of our pal, Lew. who died of wounds in New Guinea Loved in life, honored in death, a beautiful memory is all we have left. —Always remembered by his pals. Bill, Ern and Gay.
Advertiser Friday 22 November 1946, SEMMENS. —In loving memory of my husband Lewis, who died of wounds. N.G, on November 22, 1943 No matter what the years may bring. Loving memories always cling. —Ever remembered by his loving wife Lorna. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewis, who passed away in New Guinea, November 22, 1943. Today we are thinking of someone, whom to us was good and kind; his smile was as dear as the sunshine, dear Lewis, that someone is you. —Ever remembered by Neldicks, Barmera. SEMMENS, Lou. —In memory of Lou. killed Satelberg. November 22 1943 Happy days we knew have gone, but fond memories always linger on — Inserted by Blue, Gay and Bill SEMMENS, L. M. No. SX7189. 2/48th. who died of wounds in New Guinea November 22. 1943. No matter what the years may bring, loving memories always cling. —Inserted by his loving mother and father, sisters and brothers. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of my brother Lewis. 2/48th Batt., died of wounds, Satelberg, N.G. Sunshine passes, shadows fall, loving memories outlive all. —Ever remembered by sister Doris.
Advertiser Saturday 22 November 1947, SEMMENS. —A tribute to Lou, killed in action, Satelterg, November 22. In silence we remember. —lnserted by Blue. Gay and BilI. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewis, who died of wounds In New Guinea on November 23, 1943. The waves of the ocean divide us as you sleep in a soldier's grave, we remember you as a hero, and treasure the life you gave. — Ever remembered by the Neidlcks. Barmera. SEMMENS. L. M.—ln loving memory of Lew. who died of wounds, N.G. November 22 1943. Away in the beautiful somewhere. Sheltered from sorrow and pain. When life's Journey is ended. Then we will meet again. —Ever remembered by his loving mother and father, sisters and brothers. SEMMENS. —Cherished memories of our dear brother Lew. died of wounds. N.G. November 22 1943. Just a token, true and tender. To show, dear Lew. we still remember. —Ever remembered by his loving sister Edna, brother-in-law Lloyd. SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewis, died of wounds. Satelberg, N.G. Time moves on but memories stay, as near and dear as yesterday. —Ever remembered by parents, brothers and sisters. Cobdogla.
Advertiser Monday 22 November 1948, SEMMENS, Lewis, 2/48th, died of wounds, Satelberg, N.G. To be with us in the same old way would be our dearest wish today. — Ever remembered by parents, brothers and sisters, Cobdogla. SEMMENS, L. M.—In loving memory of Lew, who died of wounds, New Guinea, Nov. 22, 1943. Gone from us his smiling face, the one who won so many friends in happy bygone days. —Ever remembered by his loving mother, father, sisters and brothers.
Advertiser Wednesday 23 November 1949, SEMMENS. —In loving memory of Lewis, died of wounds November 22, 1943. N.G. Years may dawn and fade away. But loving memories always stay. —Mother, father, sisters and brothers. SEMMENS. —Loving memories of our brother Lewis, died of wounds November 22, 1943. A leaf in the book of memories Is fondly turned today. —Edna and Lloyd.
Advertiser Friday 24 November 1950, SEMMENS. L. M.— In loving memory of Lewis, died November 22, 1943. To be with us in the same old way Would be our dearest wish today. —Ever remembered by his loving mother and father, sisters and brothers. Cobdogla.
Lewis’ parents and his infant sister Dulcie, were all buried in the Barmera Cemetery. His beloved bride, Lorna Dorothy Semmens died just prior to her 85th birthday. She also is buried in the same cemetery.
Researched and written by Kaye Lee daughter of Bryan Holmes SX8133 2/48th Battalion