Private John Ashleigh Murphy

A young man of 21yrs old when he joined the Imperial Force 8th July 1914. He was living at Horsham at the time he entered the service and had nominated his brother Laurence Murphy as next of kin.

Laurence was living in Mansfield with his Father George and Grand Father George Snr. I have no photo's of Pt John, a description of a 5ft 8 inch dark haired with green eyes is the only picture I have in mind as stated on his medical certificate. He served in France as a driver.

I have an activity sheet of his service and appeared to have had dental problems, hospitalised on a number of occassions. Pt John returned on an invalid ship called The Castalia on the 22/07/1919.

My Great aunt Martha signed off his history card Schedule No 21864. He remained at Mansfield for a considerable time. I am yet to discover his final resting place.

In 2011 I visited ANZAC Cove and a warm feeling of emotion filled my very soul,this experience was before I had knowledge of Pt John. I now have someone close and special to thank. God rest his soul and all that served under the flag.