Frederick Nankervis

Frederick Nankervis was born on 8th April 1900 in Corryong, Victoria, to Charles Nankervis and Emma Isabel, nee Simpson.

On 13th May 1918, he tried to enlist at Melbourne, Victoria. At the time, he was a single, 18-year-old clerk living at Mordialloc, near Melbourne. After passing his medical and signing the oath, his parents, living in Corryong, discovered that Fred was trying to enlist. His parents stated that the father, Charles, had just returned after serving overseas for 2 and a half years and that Frederick was far too young to enlist. It's quite possible that Charles wanted to shield his son from the horrors of the Western Front.

Fred had his opportunity to serve Australia 21 years later, when he enlisted in the 2/5th Infantry Battalion (VX52249) and achieved the rank of Lieutenant. It is interesting to note that, in this instance, Fred gave his birth date as 8th April 1910! In May 1941, he was at the No. 2 Infantry Officer Training School under courses to become a platoon commander. Written comments on his performance include: “instructional ability - good weapon training instructor, personal note - can improve his control by avoiding “Fussiness”, is aggressive and quick to learn, general remarks - has done a fair Course considering his limited experience.” He also served in the 6th Training Battalion and the 59th Battalion before taking up a variety of administrative roles across Australia, including one at the Murchison POW camp in Victoria.

Frederick married Edna Elizabeth McBean in 1929. He passed away on the 24th November 1985 at Parkdale, Victoria and was buried in Beechworth Cemetery, Victoria.