David Taylor

David Taylor was born in 1877 in Yackandandah, Victoria, to James Robert Taylor and Ann, nee Masters.

On 14th March 1916, he enlisted at Tallangatta, Victoria. At the time, he was a single 38-year-old labourer living in Corryong, Victoria. His medical examination notes that he needs to have his teeth checked and repaired before passing. He was allocated Regimental Number 693 and placed in B Company of the 37th Battalion. David gave his next of kin as his father, Robert. After initial training, he embarked on HMAT A34 Persic at Melbourne, Victoria, on 3rd June 1916.

After arriving in England, he was transferred to the 5th Battalion, but would not be taken on strength by them in France until the 2nd February 1917. Two weeks after joining the battalion, he was admitted to the 1st Australian Field Ambulance suffering from trench feet. He rejoined his unit in the field on 22nd March 1917.

In February 1918, he was granted a two-week furlough to England. On the 28th March 1918, he was admitted to hospital. He would eventually be diagnosed with measles. Unfortunately, this led to complications that would result in him being declared unfit for active service. He was discharged from the hospital by early June and would spend the next six months at No. 1 Command Depot.

On 11th December 1918, he returned to Australia aboard the HT Saxon, with the rank of Private. He was discharged on 9th March 1919, being awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service during the war.

David passed away on 10th August 1956 at Beechworth, Victoria and was buried in Beechworth Cemetery.