Harold Hugh Thomas Harris

Harold Hugh Thomas Harris was born on 4th January 1892 in Corryong, Victoria, to James Harris and Mary Ann, nee Waters.

On 13th March 1915, he enlisted at Melbourne, Victoria. At the time, he was a single, 22-year-old farmer from Corryong, Victoria. He was allocated Regimental Number 508 and placed in B Company of the 22nd Battalion. Harold gave his next of kin as his father, James Harris. After initial training, he embarked on HMAT A38 Ulysses at Melbourne, Victoria, on 10th May 1915.

During his enlistment period, he was also a member of the 6th Machine Gun Company, being transferred to this unit on 17th August 1916. It was with this unit that Harold was awarded a Military Medal.

The citation, dated 24th September 1918, stated: “During the operations of 8th and 9th August 1918 at FRAMERVILLE, near AMIENS, Driver HARRIS assisted the sections greatly; when in charge of pack horses, by the promptitude with which he got gun gear and S.A.A. forward to the advanced positions. He reconnoitred tracks forward and brought the fighting limbers to assembly positions, calmly and efficiently working his teams notwithstanding shell fire and casualties.

His courage and devotion to duty are always outstanding.

(Sgd) CHARLES ROSENTHAL. MAJOR GENERAL

COMMANDING SECOND AUSTRALIAN DIVISION”

On 15th May 1919, he returned to Australia aboard HMT Ypiringa, with the rank of Lance Corporal/Driver. He was discharged on 30th September 1919, being awarded the Military Medal, the 1914/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal for his service during the war.

Harold married Helen May Haig on 9th June 1920. The couple settled in Corryong and had nine children, all but two of whom outlived their parents. Harold was deeply involved in the local community, including being elected President of the Shire of Upper Murray in 1942, serving as Secretary of the Upper Murray Bush Fire Brigade, and serving on the Corryong Show Committee, among other roles.

Helen unexpectedly passed away on the 5th January 1938. Harold passed away on 1st May 1954 at Corryong, Victoria and was buried in Corryong Cemetery.