Kingston, PTE Eric George

Private Eric George Kingston (1901-1918), labourer and soldier, was born in Toodyay, Western Australia, son of George Kingston. His mother died whilst he was still a child. On the 16th April 1917 at the age of only 16 (pretending to be 18), Kingston enlisted into the Australian Imperial Force and was posted to the 8th Reinforcements, 44th Battalion. He embarked for overseas service aboard the HMAT A30 “Borda” on the 30th June 1917. He arrived at the front line on the 29th December 1917.

The German Army launched its last ditch attempt to win the war, the Spring Offensive, on the 24th of March 1918. The British Army fell back in disarray and on the 28th of March 1918 the Germans reached the position of the 44th Battalion. Kingston saw his first piece of action on this day. By nightfall he was reported missing, confirmed as killed a few weeks later. He was only 17 years and 5 months old. Kingston died where he stood, his grave is known only unto God.

Kingston spent 89 days in the trenches.

Kingston was an Australian soldier who was an expert in close combat,
He was physically and mentally tough, compassionate and courageous,
He led by example, he strove to take the initiative,
He was committed to learning and working for the team,
He believed in trust, loyalty and respect for his country, his mates and the Army,
The rising sun was his badge of honour,
He is an Australian soldier, Always!

Sources

Toodyay Herald – 08/06/1918, P. 2

Western Mail – 31/05/1918, P. 1

Western Argus – 01/04/1919, P. 15

National Archives of Australia

Australian War Memorial

*Initially listed as missing in action on the 06/04/1918, he actually died on the 28/03/1918, before being confirmed as kia 20/04/1918