Alfred Outtrim GARDNER

Alfred Gardner was born on 17 July 1897 in Longwood, Victoria. His parents were Reverend Hugh Harrison and Margaret Adamson (née Outtrim) Gardner. He attended Scotch from 1905 to 1911. He and his brother Hugh entered the Preparatory School in 1905. He moved to Caulfield when their father became minister at St Clement’s, Elsternwick. Alfred then attended Caulfield Grammar School.

Alfred was a bank clerk when he enlisted on 16 October 1916 in Melbourne. He served in the 5th Australian Field Artillery Brigade with the rank of Driver. His Regimental Number was 32398.

Alfred died on 19 October 1917 at Ypres, Belgium. He was 20 years of age.

Service record

Alfred enlisted at 19, with his parents’ permission (see below). At 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) and weighing 133 pounds (60 kg), he was a small man. He was initially allotted to the Artillery Reinforcements at Maribyrnong. On 5 January he was allocated to reinforcements for the 1st Divisional Ammunition Column, and he was with them when he embarked at Melbourne in mid-February 1917. He disembarked at Plymouth, England, on 11 April 1917.

After spending time training at Larkhill, he proceeded to France on 5 September. On 16 September he was transferred to the 2nd Divisional Ammunition Column, but then on 24 September was sent to the 5th Field Artillery Brigade and posted to 13th Battery. Alfred was killed in action on 19 October 1917. His service file contains a 1918 letter from his mother thanking the army for returning her ‘dear son’s’ few possessions [including a wallet, photo case, metal mirror and gold ring] in good condition’ (see below).

At his father’s suggestion, on Alfred’s headstone are the words (from a poem by Harriet Eleanor Hamilton-King), ‘Love’s strength standeth in love’s sacrifice’.

Alfred Gardner is buried in the Perth Cemetery (China Wall) (Plot IV, Row F, Grave No. 6), Zillebeke, Belgium.

Photographs and Documents:

Alfred’s parents gave permission for their 19-year-old son to enlist.

Sources:

1. Australian War Memorial – Roll of Honour
2. Commonwealth War Graves Commission website
3. Mishura Scotch Database
4. National Archives of Australia – B2455, GARDNER A O
5. Scotch Collegian, 1917
6. The AIF Project - https://www.aif.adfa.edu.au/showPerson?pid=107416