KIA

click to enlarge
Photo of Frederick Russell
courtesy of the AWM

Frederick was born in Bacchus Marsh, VIC in 1891. He had two other family members, Robert and Ivan, who are also remembered in the Avenue, as is his employers sons, Dr W B Ryan and E J Ryan.

Frederick was a chauffeur to Dr. T B Ryan^{(1) (2)} of Bacchus Marsh when he enlisted in the AIF, 11^th Reinforcements, 14^th Battalion on the 10^th of July 1915, aged nearly 24. He embarked aboard the HMAT A71 Nestor in October and disembarked in Egypt some time later.

In June 1916 Fred arrived at Marseilles, France but on the 10^th of August, shortly after the Battle of Pozieres, he was killed in action.

He was of B. Company. VIII Platoon. On 10th August 1916 between Rosieres and Mouquet Farm, in the front line. Was killed outright by a shell. He was buried along with 2 other men. We dug them out, one of them Pte H. Gordon. was alive and has since returned to Australia. The 3rd man I did not know. Russell was dead and we buried him on the spot. No cross was erected. Christian name Fred, came from Bacchus Marsh. I am going to see his people on my return.

Source: Red Cross Wounded & Missing - Sgt. W C Groves 4199

Frederick is remembered at the Villers-Bretonneux Memorial, France.

He is listed on the Shire of Bacchus Marsh Roll of Honour, the Bacchus Marsh & District Roll of Honour, the Roll of Honour for the Bacchus Marsh ANA, the Roll of Honour for the Coimadai State School and the Holy Trinity Church Roll of Honour. He is also remembered in the Coimadai Avenue of Honour.

Notes

1. From Pte Edward Marsh who was an informant of his death.
2. The Bacchus Marsh Express 7 Oct 1916