Robert Deckhardt

Born 1888    Place Holm, Lublin, Poland  Ethnic origin German/Pole?    Religion Roman Catholic

Arrived at Australia -

Residence before enlistment Gladstone, Qld

Occupation fireman

Service

service number 313   enlisted 6.11.1915 POE Rockhampton

unit 42nd Battalion   rank Private, Lance Corporal

place Western Front, 1916-1917

final fate KIA 12.10.1917

memorial details 29 The Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium

Materials digitised service records (NAA)

Roll of Honour card (AWM)

Armentieres, France. January 1917. The 42nd Battalion, just out of the line, washing the mud off their gum boots. E00117 (AWM)

From Russian Anzacs in Australian History:

Robert Deckhardt, a former ship’s fireman, had no living relatives to put down as next of kin when enlisting; but, while serving in the 42nd Battalion, he became friends with a Corporal Corry. Deckhardt made his will out in Corry’s favour, even though there were several other Russians in his battalion (including Alexis Tupicoff). Deckhardt was killed at Ypres and his effects — several books, letters and photos — were sent to Corry, who had already left the army and was living at a station near Gympie.

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