Abrey, SIG Thomas 

Signaller Thomas Abrey (1897-?) was born in Hastings, England.

Abrey enlisted into the Australian Imperial Force on the 14th January 1916 at the age of 18 and was immediately posted to the 44th Battalion. He embarked for overseas service on the 6th June 1916 and was continuously in action from November 1916 until the end of the war in November 1918. He was wounded twice, in January 1917 and in October 1917 (Battle of Broodseinde Ridge).

He was detached to the 3rd Division Signal Company from 15th February 1918 until the end of the war with the rank of Signaller.

Offences – AWS for 6 hours 1/11/1916 (loss of 9 days pay). AWOL for 50 days 28/04/1919 – 16/06/1919 (sentenced to 72 days detention, but possibly only served 12-28 days of that)

Abrey again put his hand up to serve 25 years later at the beginning of the Pacific War of World War II. He enlisted into the Australian Army Reserve (WX50737) on the 19th January 1942 and was immediately posted to the 19th Garrison Battalion. At this time he was a 44 years-old unmarried labourer living at 185 Newcastle Street, Perth. On the 18th February 1942 he was called up for full time service with D Company, 19th Garrison Battalion (probably for a period of 1 year). His unit remained in Western Australia and did not see action. Garrison battalions were the third line of defence and while being less equipped and trained than AIF & Militia battalions, they were better off than VDC battalions.

On the 11th March 1943 he transferred to the 29th Garrison Battalions and his duties would have become less. On the 23rd February 1944 he transferred to the 26th Works Company where he remained until his service concluded on the 2nd May 1946. Just like in WW1 he was charged with being AWOL for 1 day. Abrey received the Australian Service Medal 1939-1945 for his home service during World War II.

Abrey 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!

Record completed by Luca Muir Anderson