Francis was the eldest son of Cornelius and Louisa O’Brien of ‘The Glen’ Warialda. His birth was registered at Inverell in 1895. He was a twenty year old Labourer when he enlisted at Armidale in August 1915. He joined the 34th Battalion, 7th Reinforcement and left Australia on HMAT A68 Anchises in January 1917. Two months later he arrived in England where further training was undertaken before he was sent to France in July.
Private Francis O’Brien was killed in action on 29 September 1918 in France during the Battle of St Quentin Canal. He was buried at Unicorn Cemetery, Vend’huile, France. His personal possessions were returned to his family and included letters, postcards, a pipe, razor, shaving brush, hair brush, gloves and photos. His name is recorded on the Kooloona Honor Roll, made of marble by Mr. Hardy of Narrabri. The new memorial gates at Anzac Park, Delungra, also record Francis O’Brien’s name.
Image: Provided by family