William Ernest Griffiths

William Ernest Griffiths was born in 1888 in Albury, NSW, to William James Griffiths and Mary Ann, nee Sheather.

On 8th January 1916, he enlisted at Melbourne, Victoria. At the time, he was a married, 24-year-old bookkeeper living at 49 Campbell St, Moreland, Victoria. He was allocated Regimental Number 454 and placed in B Company of the 39th Battalion. William gave his next of kin as his wife, Essie Griffiths. After initial training, he embarked on HMAT A11 Ascanius at Melbourne, Victoria, on 27th May 1916.

During his enlistment period, he was also a member of the Australian Army Pay Corps, being transferred to that unit on the 13th April 1917.

While part of this unit, William received the Meritorious Service Medal. His citation read, “For conspicuous ability and continued good service during period 16th September 1918, to 11th November 1918. This Warrent Officer was originally Pay Seargant to the 39th Battalion A.I.F. and is now Cheif [sic] Clerk in Divisional Paymasters Office. His work always been of the highest standard; at all times he displayed the greatest tact and ability and has performed excellent work and rendered valuable assistance in the control of Pay matters for this Division. During the last 4 (four) months he has been in charge of the cash section of the Divisional Pay Office and all financial statements have been prepared under his supervision.

His assidious application and devotion to duty have set a splendid example to the Pay Staff of this Division and his services are deserving of special recognition.”

On 3rd May 1919, he returned to Australia aboard SS Leicestershire, with the rank of Warrent Officer 1st Class. He was discharged on 13 January 1920, being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the British War Medal, and the Victory Medal for his service during the war.

Two of William’s brothers, Sydney and Leslie, would also enlist in the 1st AIF, and both would return home.

William married Ann Margaret Krausgrill on 3rd November 1915 at Corryong, Victoria. They would settle in Corryong, having twelve children. He passed away at the Alfred Hospital on 12th April 1959 and was buried in Corryong Cemetery.

One of William and Ann’s sons, Kevin, would be killed in action during the Korean War on 8th October 1951, during the battle of Maryang San.