CASTLE, John Stirling

John (1892), and his brothers Arthur (1887) and George (1890) were born to John and Jennetta Castle at Inverell. It is likely the family left the district soon after John’s birth. At the age of 23 John enlisted at Brisbane Qld in July 1915, becoming a member of the 9th Battalion, 11th Reinforcement. He sailed from Australia for Egypt on HMAT 48 Seang Bee in October 1915. After service in Egypt, he was sent to France in June 1916.

John was reported missing in October 1917, and a Court of Enquiry held in 1918 determined he was presumed to have been killed in action at Broonseinde Ridge, near Ypres, Belgium on 10 October 1917. He has no known grave, and his name appears on the Menin Gate Memorial in Belgium.

His personal effects were returned to his mother at Chinchilla Qld and included his wallet, letters and photos.

John and his brother George have their names recorded on the Chinchilla Roll of Honor.