37 L/Cpl Joseph Charles Harvey KRUGER DCM
22nd Australian Infantry Battalion AIF
By Robert Simpson
Joseph Charles Harvey Kruger was born in Port Melbourne Victoria and his birth was registered in 1896 with the registration number 30344/1896. He was the eldest of 5 children to Charles Albert Kruger and Annie Cornish, who had been married in 1896 in Victoria. Charles had been born in Victoria in 1865, from German parents who had migrated to Australia. Annie had been born about 1880, according to other family trees; where is not known. Their other children were Charles Frederick William Kruger, born in Port Melbourne in 1898; George Malcolm Kruger, born in 1900 in Port Melbourne, but unfortunately passing away on 30th October 1900; Lydia Carol Kruger, born in 1902 in Port Melbourne and Ethel May Kruger, born in 1904 in South Melbourne.
Joseph enlisted on 16th February 1915 at Melbourne, stating he was a natural born British subject, born in Port Melbourne and was 19 years and 2 months old. He was a labourer, single and had not been an apprentice. His next of kin was his father, Charles Kruger of 248 Bridge Street Port Melbourne. He had also given consent for Joseph to enlist. Joseph had 3 years with the senior cadets at Port Melbourne, being discharged due to being medically unfit. He took the oath the same day. His physical description was aged 19 years and 2 months, height 5 foot 5 3/8 inches, weight 10 stone 2 pounds, chest measurement 33½ to 35½ inches, and had a medium complexion with blue eyes and brown hair. For distinctive marks, he had 4 vaccinations on his left arm, a scar on his left forearm and a birthmark on his lower spine. He was medically certified on the same day. Joseph was appointed to A Company 22nd Battalion on 1st May 1915 by the Commanding Officer of the 22nd Battalion as Private 37 Joseph Harvey Kruger. The Battalion had been formed at Broadmeadows Camp on 26th March 1915, as part of 6th Brigade. His religious denomination was Church of England.
Private 37 Joseph Harvey Kruger embarked with A Company 22nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Brigade on 10th May 1915 on HMAT Ulysses A38 at Melbourne. He was a 19-year-old labourer who lived at 248 Bridge Street Port Melbourne. His father Charles Kruger of the same address was his next of kin. His religion was Church of England and he was paid 5 shillings a day. In the book, “With the Twenty-Second, A History of the 22nd Battalion, A.I.F.” by Captain E. Gorman MC on page 4 it states “On the 21st May, the Battalion Representative, Pte Kruger – later awarded the DCM on Gallipoli and killed in action at Warlencourt – won the Lightweight Championship of the boat from Pte Springhall, of the 21st, a boxer of some note.” The transport ship, the 15,000-ton Ulysses, carried the 21st and 22nd Battalions and the HQ for the 6th Brigade. There were in excess of 2000 soldiers on board.
248 Bridge Street, Port Melbourne is a house, with 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 2 parking spaces. It is on a 141 sqm block of land. This house is estimated to be worth around $1.2m. It was last sold 17 years ago for $380 000. It has been listed for rent since it was last purchased and was most recently listed for rent in 2016 with an asking price of $730 per week.
On 30th August 1915 he proceeded to join the MEF at the Gallipoli peninsula. He joined the 22nd Battalion there. They deployed at Gallipoli in the first week of September and moved to the front line, allowing the 2nd Brigade to be rested. On 30th October 1915 (according to his service record) he had been asphyxiated by gas and went to the 6th Field Ambulance. He returned to duty the next day. His service record says “poisoned by gas (slight)”. The Battalion war diary on 29th October 1915 at ANZAC noted that at “1400 Mine blown up in Tunnel C3 today.” An “officer was overcome by gas.” Officers and men of the 22nd Battalion “went to rescue – many overcome by guncotton fumes. 2 officers & 3 men died – about 14 suffered from poisoning”.
Joseph was recommended for a Distinguished Conduct Medal which was written: 29/10/1915. C2 Tunnel. ANZAC. Distinguished himself greatly by his plucky conduct in entering the tunnel and shaft repeatedly to rescue others and, though suffering from the effects of fumes succeeded in bringing up Lieut. Bowra’s body with the aid of No. 1536 L/Cpl. J. P. Doyle, who also displayed endurance and devotion in rescue work.” The incident occurred when the 4th Field Company Engineers detonated a mine in the tunnel near the 22nd Battalion’s position in the line. It failed to break through to open air, causing the poisonous gasses from the explosion to remain in the tunnel. Lieutenant Frederick Bowra was overcome by the gasses as he was lowered into a shaft to the tunnel. Lieutenants Edwin Bazeley, Charles Thom, and Sapper Frederick Currington went to his aid and were all overcome. Toxic gasses were then detected coming up the shaft. Several men, including Private Joseph Kruger, participated in a rescue attempt. Five men died as a result of this incident and several were hospitalised. Joseph was amongst those who were asphyxiated by gas.
Lieutenant Inglis Peter Stewart was awarded a Military Cross for the same event. The museum has his medal group as well.
Base Records sent his father a letter on 17th November 1915 stating: – Regret reported son Private J.H. Kruger poisoned by gas slight October 30th will promptly advise if anything further received.” They sent him another one on 22nd December 1915 advising him: – now reported son Lance Corporal Joseph H. Kruger admitted 3rd Auxiliary Hospital Heliopolis 15th December rheumatism mild will promptly advise if anything further received.”
On 11th December 1915, he was to be a Lance Corporal. Joseph was sent to HS Oxfordshire with rheumatism on 12th December 1915 and was admitted to the 3rd Auxiliary Hospital at Heliopolis on the 15th with the same illness. He was discharged on 6th January 1916 for overseas duty.
The Colac Reformer (Victoria) on Thursday 30th December 1915 in page 3 had
“AUSTRALIAN CASUALTIES
128th List
The 128th list of casualties was released by the Defence Department last night. The list contains the names of 9 officers and 548 of other ranks.” Under “INJURED” was a list including “Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger”.
In the Farmer and Settler (Sydney) of Wednesday 5th January 1916 in page 2 was
“AUSTRALASIA’S ROLL OF HONOR
The Commonwealth’s and the Dominion’s Losses in Turkey Now Total 45.920
The casualties in the Australian Expeditionary Force, notified by the Defence Department, number 37,877, comprising 6318 of all ranks, killed or died of wounds or illness. 30.004 wounded or ill, and 1555 missing. The New Zealand casualties total 8043, and the aggregate for Australasia is thus 45,920.” In the list of “ILL IN HOSPITAL” in the 3rd Auxiliary Hospital at Heliopolis was “L.-Cpl. J. H. Kruger, 22nd Btn, (Port Melbourne) second occasion.”
The Herald of Melbourne on Wednesday 12th January 1916 in page 5 had the story: –
“D.C.M. WON BY BOXER
LANCE-CPL. J. H. KRUGER
For having attempted to rescue sappers who were being suffocated by gas, Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger has been awarded a Distinguished Conduct Medal. He is a son of Mr and Mrs Charles Kruger, of Bridge street, Port Melbourne, and a nephew of Mr F. W. Porter, physical culturist. He is attached to C Company, 22nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Brigade, but is now in the hospital at Hellopolis (sic) suffering from the effects of the gas. In a cable message to his mother he stated that he was making good progress. Lance – Corporal Kruger is 18 years of age. His first notable feat was to compete in the featherweight boxing championship of Broadmeadows, which he won after 15 severe contests, defeating several professional boxers in the competition, the prize for which was a medal. His next performance was to compete in and win the championship of the transport — the Southland, which was torpedoed.”
His entry in the London Gazette of 22nd January 1916 on page 959 at position 1 reads “KRUGER J. H. Pte. 37 22nd Bn. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during rescue operations near Anzac, Gallipoli Peninsula, on 29th October, 1915, when he repeatedly entered a mine tunnel and shaft to rescue others. He showed great pluck and, though suffering from the effects of the fumes, succeeded with the aid of another man in bringing up the body of an Officer who had succumbed.” It was also entered in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette on 6 April 1916 on page 860 at position 53.
The Echuca and Moama Advertiser and Farmers’ Gazette (Victoria) of Tuesday 25th January 1916 in page 2 had:
“BRAVE DEEDS.
AUSTRALIANS HONORED.
Distinguished Conduct Medal. Sergeant R. G. Stone, 22nd Australian Infantry; Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger, 22nd Australian Infantry; Sapper Rankin, 4th Field Company. On the same occasion these three men displayed conspicuous gallantry and devotion in descending a shaft foul with gas fumes and bringing up men who had succumbed. Lance-Corporal Kruger is a son of Mr. and Mrs. C. Kruger, of Port Melbourne. He is 18 years of age and when at Broadmeadows he won the boxing championship of the camp. He is a member of the C Company, 22nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Brigade.”
The Southern Cross (Adelaide) of Friday 28 January 1916 in page 8 had:
“AUSTRALIAN HEROES DECORATED.
The following awards for bravery have been, gazetted:- The Military Cross has been awarded to Second Lieutenant Edwin Bazeley, of the 22nd Battalion, Australian Infantry Force (Vic-). Near Anzac, on October 29, Bazeley descended a shaft communicating with a mine tunnel, and placed a rope around the body of an officer who was insensible through foul air. The would-be rescuer was himself overcome, and just managed to reach the mouth of the shaft in time to be given successful treatment. He had no sooner recovered from the effects of the gas than he again descended to complete the rescue. Once more he was rendered unconscious by the noxious fumes, and on having been resuscitated again volunteered to go down, but his comrades would not permit the attempt. In connection with the same event the Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.) has been awarded to Sergeant R. G. Stone and Private J. H. Kruger, of the 22nd Infantry, and to Sap. Rankin of the 4th Field Company, for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. They descended the shaft amid foul gas fumes and brought up the body of the officer, who had succumbed to the noxious air.”
On 9th February 1916 he was to return to Australia as Escort on Nestor, which sailed from Suez on that day.
Base Records sent Mr C Kruger 248 Bridge St Port Melbourne a letter on 23rd February 1916 saying that Joseph was returning to Australia and was due in Melbourne about the middle of March but no more details could be disclosed and the information could be incorrect pending verification from the troopship roll.
The Ballarat Star of Wednesday 1st March 1916 in page 3 under sick and wounded heading was and entry for 22nd Battalion— L.-Cpl. J. H. Kruger, in the section headed by “Returned to Duty”.
The Bendigo Independent of Friday 7th April 1916 in page 5 had:
“The Distinguished Conduct Medal has been awarded to the following: -Private J. H. Kruger, 22nd Battalion A.I.F., for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during rescue operations near Anzac: on October 29, 1915, when he repeatedly entered a mining tunnel and shaft to rescue others. He showed great pluck and, though suffering from the effects of the fumes, succeeded, with the aid of another man, in bringing up the body of an officer who had succumbed.”
According to the Australian War Memorial, Joseph is mentioned in either letters written by Lieutenant Frank Gerald Kellaway MC 22nd Battalion AIF to family members in Australia, or in his personal diary for the period August 1915 to October 1916. They are not online.
On 12th April 1916 Base Records sent Charles Kruger 248 Bridge Street Port Melbourne a letter stating they had “much pleasure in forwarding herewith a copy of extract from No. 44 of the “Commonwealth of Australia Gazette” of the 6th April, 1916, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by your son, No. 37, Private J. H. Kruger, 22nd Battalion.” It said he had been awarded the DCM for “conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during rescue operations near Anzac, Gallipoli Peninsula, on 29th October, 1915, when he repeatedly entered a mine tunnel and shaft to rescue others. He showed great pluck, and, though suffering from the effects of the fumes, succeeded, with the aid of another man, in bringing up the body of an officer who had succumbed.”
This page is in his service records.
In Port Melbourne, School Anzac Activities in 1916 were held on Thursday 20th April as Tuesday 25th fell following Easter. Events at the Graham Street School included “At 2 o’clock the school gathered around the flagpole. The head teacher, Col McShane, gave a short address followed by the National Anthem and God Bless Our Splendid Men. The ‘old boys’ who had enlisted spoke in turn led off by Corporal Joseph Kruger who had been awarded a DCM for “conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during rescue operations near Anzac, Gallipoli Peninsula, on 29th October 1915, when he repeatedly entered a mine tunnel to rescue others”.” Another newspaper, the Port Melbourne Standard on Saturday 29th April 1916 on page 2 had “SCHOOL WORLD. Graham Scholar’s Impressions. Anzac Day. (By Charles R. W. Sharp.) In the morning of Anzac Day the ordinary school lessons at Graham were despatched with divided attention on the part of most of us, for our thoughts would wander in other directions, as to whether the supply of medals would meet the demand, or how many old boys of Anzac fame would be able to visit us in the after-noon. The arrival of a fresh supply of medals, and the appearance in our room of Sgt.-Major A. H. Howlett, set our fears in these directions at rest. The sgt.-major lunched with the staff, and afterwards was good enough to take charge of our grades -the seventh and eighth. It seemed like old times to hear him say, “School papers out! Turn to the first war picture!” For an hour or so he described to us some of his experiences in Cairo, and told us about the scenes shown in our papers. The event of the day took place at 2 o’clock. The school was assembled round the flagpole. Our head teacher (Col. McShane) gave a short address. We then sang the National Anthem and “God Bless Our Splendid Men.” The “old boys” of the school who had taken part in that memorable landing, on April 25, 1915, spoke to us in turn. Pride of place was given to Corporal J. H. Kruger, who has won the D.C.M. Like most soldiers, the hero is a fighter, not an orator, as his brief remarks showed. The other old boys all gave little speeches, including Sgt.-Major Howlett. Privates A. and F. Banton, who are soon to leave for the front, were present. We cheered the Anzac boys, and then sang “The Recessional” and “God, Our Help in Ages Past.” The ceremony was brought to a close by the sounding of the “Last Post.”‘ As we listened to its solemn notes, our hearts went over the sea to where our men lie at rest. The committee afterwards entertained the Anzacs and teachers at afternoon tea. At this function “Old Lang Syne” was sung by all present. Thus ended a day which should live for ever in the memories of the Graham scholars. The same newspaper had on 1st July 1916 “ITEMS OF NEWS. Private Kruger, D.C.M. Arrangements are being made for the presentation at an early date of the Distinguished Conduct Medal to Lance-corporal J. H. Kruger, of the 22nd Battalion. Lance-corporal Kruger, who formerly resided with his parents at Port Melbourne, after having distinguished himself at Gallipoli, was invalided home. He is now in camp at Broadmeadows, preparatory to returning to the front. The presentation will take place in the presence of a muster of troops attached to the Broadmeadows camp.”
The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of Saturday 27th May 1916 in page 10 had:
“Private J. H. Kruger, 22nd Battalion, A.I.F., who was recently awarded the D.S.O. (sic) for “conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during rescue operations near Anzac, Gallipoli, on October 29th, 1915,” is a boxing pupil of Fred Porter, the Melbourne teacher, who had hopes of making something good out of him. Although Kruger has not appeared publicly in Melbourne, he won the feather championship of Broadmeadows Camp and the transport championship. He also secured first prize in a featherweight competition in Egypt. Private Kruger has been home on sick leave, but returns to the fighting line again on June 13.” Also, the story was in the Winner (Melbourne) on Wednesday 24 May 1916 in page 6 under the heading “AMONG THE BOXERS”. It was a boxing newspaper.
On 23rd June 1916 his DCM was forwarded to The Commandant of the 3rd Military District with a note saying “It is the Minister’s desire that early opportunity be taken for this decorations to be presented with as much publicity as possible.” Confirmation of receipt was asked for also.
The Daily Herald (Adelaide) of Thursday 29th June 1916 in page 4 also discussed about the DCM award and presentation and noted “The incident was graphically described by Captain Bean in “The Daily Herald”.” A letter from AMF Headquarters in Melbourne on the same day to the Secretary, Department of Defence read “Referring to your B.R. 61765 for the 25th June relative to Lance Corporal J.H. Kruger, 22nd Battalion, please note that this N.C.O. has been absent without leave since the 12th instant. C.O. Broadmeadows Camp has been asked to advise District Head Quarters as soon as he returns or is apprehended.” Base Records received a copy on 30th June.
The Port Melbourne Standard of Saturday 1st July 1916 in page 2 had under:
“ITEMS OF NEWS. Private Kruger, D.C.M. Arrangements are being made for the presentation at an early date of the Distinguished Conduct Medal to Lance-corporal J. H. Kruger, of the 22nd Battalion. Lance-corporal Kruger, who formerly resided with his parents at Port Melbourne, after having distinguished himself at Gallipoli, was invalided home. He is now in camp at Broadmeadows, preparatory to returning to the front. The presentation will take place in the presence of a muster of troops attached to the Broadmeadows camp.”
The Herald (Melbourne) of Wednesday 5th July 1916 in page 10 had:
“D.C.M. WINNER MISSING.
Though there is a Distinguished Conduct Medal waiting for Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger, 22nd Battalion, at the Victorian District Headquarters, he cannot be found. He was in the Anzac Army at the Dardanelles. It was announced some time ago that arrangements were being made for the presentation of the medal to Kruger, but afterwards it was discovered that he had been missing from the camp at Broadmeadows since June 12, and he was soon posted as being absent without leave. Col. Jr Hawker, Assistant Adjutant General, said today that Kruger was still missing.”
The Evening Echo (Ballarat, Victoria) on Wednesday 5th July 1916 in page 4:
“D.C.M. HERO
DISAPPEARS FROM CAMP. MELBOURNE, This Day.
Lance-corporal J. H. Kruger, of the 22nd Battalion, who won the Distinguished Conduct Medal by his gallantry at Gallipoli, and was to have been officially invested with it shortly, has disappeared from the camp at Broadmeadows, and his whereabouts are unknown. He was first reported missing on June 12, and has not since been seen. When he turns up again he will not only be formally invested, but also court-martialled for being absent without leave.”
The Daily News (Perth) on Thursday 6th July 1916 in page 5 put it a bit kinder:
“A D.C.M. WINNER
MISSING FROM CAMP DISAPPEARANCE OF LANCE CORPORAL KRUGER. MELBOURNE, Thursday. Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger, of the 22nd Battalion, who was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry at Gallipoli, has disappeared from the Broadmeadows Camp. He was first reported missing on June 12. The military officials cannot understand Kruger’s disappearance, since arrangements had been made to present him with the medal in the camp. When he returns the ceremony will take place, out he will also have to undergo a trial for being absent without leave.”
The Gippsland Times (Victoria) of Thursday 6th July 1916 in page 3 had:
“SOLDIER MYSTERIOUSLY MISSING. Corporal J. H. Kruger, of the 22nd Battalion, who won the distinguished conduct medal at Gallipoli, has disappeared from Broadmeadows. Arrangements had been completed for the presentation of his medal to him at the camp, when he disappeared on June 12.” The article was also in the Hamilton Spectator (Victoria) of Thursday 6th July 1916 in page 4.
The Victoria Police Gazette Of 6th July 1916 had an entry in page 413 for “KRUGER, JOSEPH HARVEY (D.C.M.), lance-corporal, 19 6-12 years of age, 5 ft. 5 3/8 in., medium brown hair, blue eyes. Born at Port Melbourne. His father resides at 248 Bridge-street, Port Melbourne. Absentee from Broadmeadows since 12th June, 1916.” In the Gazette dated 20th July 1916 on page 441, under the heading Deserters from H M Service was an entry saying the “following warrants have been withdrawn” and the list included “KRUGER, JOSEPH HARVEY, Police Gazette, 16/413”.
The Argus (Melbourne) of Saturday 8th July 1916 in page 18 had:
“DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT
L.-CORP. KRUGER DECORATED.
A SHY HERO.
Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger, a young Australian soldier of the 22nd Battalion, was decorated with the Distinguished Conduct Medal at the Broadmeadows camp yesterday afternoon by the Minister for Defence (Senator Pearce), The ceremony took place in the Lady Stanley Hall, the building being packed by between 2,000 and 3,000 troops. The acting State commandant (Brigadier-General Williams), attended by Lieutenant Treadwell, Colonel Garrard (commanding officer at Broadmeadows), Major Carroll, Mr. Fenton, M.H.R., and Mr. C. Kruger, of Port Melbourne, the lance-corporal’s father, were present. Lance-Corporal Kruger was a member of the 22nd Battalion, and reached Gallipoli last September. He came back unscathed to Australia on escort duty after the evacuation, and is off to the front again with the 24th Reinforcements. The Minister read the official record of Lance-Corporal Kruger’s deed, as follows:- “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during rescue operations near Anzac, Gallipoli Peninsula, on October 29, 1915, when he repeatedly entered a mine tunnel and shaft to rescue others. He showed great pluck, and, though suffering from the effects of the fumes, succeeded, with the aid of another man, in bringing up the body of an officer who had succumbed.” The decoration was pinned on to the gallant lad’s tunic by the Minister, who called for three cheers for the lance-corporal, which were given most heartily. Addressing the troops, the Minister expressed pleasure at being present to bestow this well-earned reward on their comrade. There were many men who ought to get a decoration, but who were probably over-looked. The one consolation every brave man got was the knowledge that he had done his duty. He congratulated the lance corporal’s father on being the father of one of Australia’s heroes, and also congratulated the camp on turning out so many soldiers who had made Australia’s name known far and wide. The Distinguished Conduct Medal winner was pressed to make a brief response, but the soldier, who had faced death on Gallipoli, frankly confessed that he was too shy to address a few words to his comrades. Led by Chaplain-Colonel Mackay, the men sang several of their marching songs in a fine vigorous fashion, the gathering concluding with cheers for the King.”
The Daily Herald (Adelaide) Saturday 8th July 1916 in page 5 had:
“A D.C.M. Presented. In the Lady Stanley Hall, at Broadmeadows, this afternoon, Senator G. F. Pearce, Minister of Defence, presented a Distinguished Conduct Medal to Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger, 22nd Battalion, who, when taking part in the Gallipoli campaign, rescued several comrades who had been overcome with gas in a sap, which had been mined by the Turks. Among those present was Brigadier-General R. E. Williams.”
Joseph was with the 13th Reinforcements 22nd Battalion at Broadmeadows on 8th June 1916 and transferred to 13th Reinforcements 24th Battalion and was given the service number 5173 on 6th July 1916. He had his final examination on 27th July 1916 to return to duty in the 3rd Military District. On 28th July 1916, he embarked with the 13th Reinforcements of the 24th Battalion on HMAT Themistocles A32 from Melbourne, after being certified to join them on 8th June. All of his embarkation information was the same as previously recorded, except his service number, which was 5173. A remark on the roll recorded he “Previously served as No. 37, 22nd Btn.” His service number and Battalion were also recorded on another attestation form, with all the other details the same. He disembarked at Plymouth on 11th September 1916.
He was re-examined and found fit on 6th November 1916. On 4th December 1916 at Folkestone England, Joseph proceeded overseas to France for the 22nd Battalion on SS Princess Victoria. At the 2nd ADBD at Etaples he marched in from England on the 8th and marched out on the 15th. He was taken on strength of the 22nd Battalion the next day in the field from 13th Reinforcements 24th Battalion. They were at the Somme and were there for most of 1917, involved in bloody trench warfare. When he arrived at the Battalion, they were at Flessells doing training and drills. On the 19th they entrained to Amiens and marched to huts at Fricourt the next day. They marched to E Camp at Thoneswood on the 22nd and the next day moved into Needle Trench. On Christmas day they relieved the 21st Battalion in the firing line, occupying Zenith, Gusty and Spectrum trenches. After 3 days they were relieved and moved back to Needle trench and then to B Camp Thoneswood the next day.
In January they moved into a new sector of the trenches, which were very bad with mud and water. Snipers were very active. They held 1200 yards of the line, some of which was impassable. After improving the trenches and shelters and drainage they were relieved in the 5th. After going in and out of the trenches, in mid-January they moved back to billets at Ribemont. On 23rd January they were inspected by Major General N M Smyth VC CB, Commanding the 2nd Australian Division. They were there for most of the rest of the month, training, and moved to Becourt Wood late in the month for more training.
They were still there in February, training for an upcoming attack. On 9th February they moved into the firing line near Le Sars. The ground began to thaw, with mud and shush everywhere. Captain C E W Bean visited the Battalion on the 18th while they were in a camp. On the 21st they moved back into the trenches at Le Sars, with the dark and deep mud impeding progress, but it was quiet. The next few days were quiet. On the 24th, they received a telephone message from Brigade HQ to move up as an enemy evacuation was suspected. No artillery support was to be used. They “were ordered to advance and occupy the enemy front line GALLWITZ trench.” From the book “With the Twenty-Second” was a description of Gallwitz trench: “a broad, creek-like excavation knee deep in mud and devoid of habitable dug-outs, which lay between our post and the village of Warlencourt, and had, up to this time, served as the German front line.” The advance of C & D Companies, who were the front garrison, was very quiet, with only scattered machine gun and sniper fire and a few flares. The trench was in their hands by 4am on the 25th and they pushed forward. “Several men were wounded by “booby traps” left by the enemy.” On 25th February 1917, Joseph was wounded in action and was admitted to the 1/1 SMD CCS with a compound fracture of the thigh. He died there from his wounds the next day. The site https://anzac-22nd-battalion.com/22nd-battalion-1917/ also noted “At dawn in Little Wood a patrol from C Company was engaged and a stray bullet detonated a box of bombs being brought forward causing 16 casualties killed and wounded, including L-Cpl Kruger, DCM. Several were also wounded by booby traps left by the enemy. In all 50% of the men engaged in the failed attack of the 25th/26th February became casualties”.
The Australian Red Cross Society Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau has a file on 37 Private Joseph Harvey Kruger. There are a variety of replies to their enquiry on him which read: –
AIF Headquarters certified that Lance Corporal Joseph Harvey Kruger 22nd Battalion, late 24th Battalion 13th Reinforcements died of wounds on 22nd February 1917. (His number is recorded as 5173, as it is in most of the individual files in the folder.)
4.6.17 Informant Private R C MacPhee 440 22nd Battalion AIF B Company at Richmond Military Hospital Gove Road said “L/Cpl. Kruger was accidently killed by one of our own bombs and died in Hospital.” He was not an eyewitness.
Informant Private E Hynes 1557 22nd Australians D Company 16th Platoon, who was at Havre Hospital, stated on 11th June 1917 “I think he was in C Coy. Near Warlencourt about the 22nd Feb. we were attacking, took the 1st line, and held the ground. I saw Kruger in the trench we had taken: he was wounded and very bad. I heard nothing more of him.”
On 12th June 1917 informant Corporal A G Parry 4516 22nd AIF, A Company, 3rd Platoon, who was at the Military Hospital in Devonport (home address c/o T Love Dumbalk Meringan Victoria) gave a statement “We were holding the line between Le Sars and Warlencourt when Kruger was wounded in the trench and taken to a C.C.S. where he died a couple of days later and was buried near there.” Corporal Parry was not a witness and added “He was called Joe, was a good boxer, medium height and dark. Had D.C.M.”
Informant Private W G Smith 686 at No 8 General Rouen on 7.7.17 was interviewed and the “Informant states that Kruger was in C Coy., 9 Pl., the same as himself. Also that whilst this man was on a post, an explosion occurred of some bombs which had recently been sent up, and that his leg was blown off. The incident happened at Le Sars, and Kruger was taken back to the dressing station, and from there to the C.C.S. Edgehill, where he died, and was buried. Informant also states that he had been told by several men that they have seen his grave in the cemetery in this place, and that a cross has been erected over the grave, giving full particulars.”
10th July 1917. Informant Private E A Gray 4814 C Company 9th Platoon 22nd Australians at an Australian Camp wrote “He was in my platoon, C Co. 9th Platoon, and died of wounds at the Dressing Station at Beaucourt in February 1917. He is buried in the cemetery at Beaucourt.
20.7.1917 Informant Sergeant Arthur W Dixon 4691 A Company 3rd Platoon 22nd AIF at Harborne Hall, VAD Hospital Birmingham (home address 150 Richardson Street Albert Park Victoria) wrote “I knew L/Cpl. Kruger intimately. He belonged to the 2nd Plt of my A.Coy (?). I was attached to different Pltns at different times. He died of wounds by a bomb which exploded in our lines after being hit by a piece of shell on the 22nd Feb/17 nr Le Gura. I was on post duty at the time; but I saw Kruger about a quarter of an hour after he was taken out, he died soon after. I did not see him buried but it was between Le Sars and Warlencourt.
3.8.17. Witness Private G F O’Brien 5127 6th Lt. Mortar Battery who was at 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford wrote “I saw him in a trench wounded at Warlencourt he was hit by a Mills bomb, his leg was almost blown off and had to be amputated. He died the next day. Do not know where he is buried. Cannot refer to anyone who can give place of burial. He was a D.C.M. gained the honour at Gallipoli. He was a guide that night bringing the men up the trenches Germans had evacuated them that night, evidently leaving a trap for them. No other of the same name, quite sure of his number. I was in the battalion at the time.”
London 29.8.17. Died of Wounds. He was admitted on 25.2.17 suffering from Compound fracture of the thigh and died the following day. His brother Wm. C. Kruger 248 Bridge Street Victoria Port Well (should be Port Melbourne) was with him at the time and all particulars given. This was in a letter from I Taggart Sister-in-Charge 56th Casualty Clearing Station. (Research shows his brother did not serve, unless under an alias).
On 21st March 1917, the Officer in Charge of Records for Anzac Section, 3rd Echelon, GHQ, B.E.F. filled out Field Service form B2090A for Private 37 Joseph Harvey Kruger 22nd Battalion AIF who died on 26th February 1917 at 1/1 South Midland Casualty Clearing Station from wounds received in action. A death report was made on the 28th by the CO of the CCS. Details of his burial were not yet to hand nor had his will been received yet.
He is buried in Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme Pte., with this site http://silentcities.50megs.com/cemeteryd/derncomcemext.htm acknowledging he is one of 376 Australians buried there and is recorded as “Joseph Harvey Kruger D.C.M., 22nd Bn. Australian Inf. Died of wounds 26th Feb. 1917, aged 20. 5.D.18”. CWGC record his as Private 37 Joseph Harvey Kruger DCM 22nd Battalion AIF aged 20 died 26th February 1917. He was the son of Charles and Annie Kruger, of 248, Bridge St., Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. On the grave record in 1920 his service number is written as 37 (had 57 crossed out) and he is in Plot 5 Row D Grave 18 and a cross was erected. The headstone was of badge design number 1200, layout number 1D and headstone number 1223, and was to have inscribed “37 Private J H Kruger DCM 22nd Bn Australian Inf 26th February 1917 Age 20. In memory of the dearly loved son of Mr & Mrs C Kruger.” A Grave Registration record, dated 28th March 1917, states he was buried at Dernancourt Sheet 62d SQ 20 A 7.7 France by Reverend T Lovery.
He is also mentioned here – https://firstworldwaronthisday.blogspot.com/2017/02/562-died-on-this-day-mon-26021917.html as one of 16 buried in that cemetery on that day.
In The Port Melbourne Standard of Saturday 24th March 1917 on page 3 was a heading of Late Corporal Kruger DCM which went on to say “The Port Council, at its last meeting, carried a resolution recording its regret at the death from injuries at the front of Corporal Kruger, D.C.M. The Mayor said that, after recovering from wounds received at Gallipoli, this young man joined up again, and finally made the supreme sacrifice.”
The Argus of Melbourne on Saturday 21st April 1917 in page 11 under Died on Service was “KRUGER.— Died at First Clearing Station on the 26th February, L.-Cpl. J. H. Kruger, D.C.M., beloved son of C. and A. Kruger, and dearly loved brother of Charles, Madge, and Peggie, nephew of J. H. Cornish and B. E. Porter (on active service), after two years’ active service, aged 20 years. Manly, unselfish, and brave. Nearer, my God, to Thee.” It was also published in The Age.
His mother Annie Kruger of 248 Bridge St Port Melbourne was granted a pension of 30 shillings per fortnight from 8th May 1917. On 27th August 1917 she requested a certificate of his death to be sent to her Bridge Street address.
On 15th June 1917 Miss Clare Whittington of ‘Risdon’ Martin Street Gardenvale wrote a letter to Base Hospital asking them “Could you oblige me with the name of address of the next-of-kin of Private Kruger deceased 22nd Battalion 6th Brigade. I Believe he came from Port Melbourne & won a military medal, but do not know his number or Christian name. A friend of mine was the stretcher bearer who carried him in & he would like to write to Kruger’s people & give them his last words. Yours sincerely”. Base Records received it on the 18th and replied to her on 20th June, giving her the name and address of his father as next of kin
A true copy of his will was extracted from form A.B.64 on 8th August 1917 by R Taylor ORS 22nd Battalion and checked by a Staff Sergeant in the 17th Battalion. It was dated 28th October 1916 and said “In the event of my death I give the whole of my property and effects to my (Mother- Mrs Annie Kruger 248 Bridge St Port Melbourne, Australia” It was signed by J H Kruger DCM No 37 C Company 22nd Battalion 6th Infantry Brigade.
On 30th August 1917 a form was filled out which showed “No. 37 Private Joseph Harvey Kruger 22nd Battalion Australian Imperial Force” died of “wounds received in action” at 1/1 South Midland Casualty Clearing Station” in France on 26th February 1917. This was extracted from “Cable No. C.I.B.L. 1136, from the Commandant A.I.F.Headquarters, dated London 6th March 1917, confirmed by Mail from the Commandant A.I.F. Headquarters, dated London 14th March 1917 and Army Form B.2090A.”
Base Records sent a form to Mrs A Kruger 248 Bridge St Port Melbourne on 31st October 1917 with a package containing the effects of Joseph, from the Euripides in registered packet No.2693 GPO Melbourne, asking her to sign and return the acknowledgement slip. The inventory showed it contained effects sent from 3rd Echelon No 9561 and contained “Money Belt, Wallet, Medal Ribbon Brooch, Letters, Cards.” The form sent it was to be forwarded to his father.
In the Port Melbourne Standard of Saturday 12th January 1918 on page 4 was an article titled “MEDAL WINNER’S DEATH. Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger. Writing to Mrs. Kruger, Bridge street, Port Melbourne, mother of No. 37, Lance-Corporal Joseph A. Kruger, D.C.M., 22nd Battalion, Warrant Officer R. Porter gives some particulars regarding the death of Corporal Kruger, which occurred on February 26, as the result of wounds received in France. Warrant Officer Porter says that he had considerable difficulty obtaining details, but he learned that Kruger was acting as a runner when he was wounded, and died when undergoing an operation. “The boys tell me”, Warrant-Officer Porter says “that he was just the same daredevil man that he was on Gallipoli. I believe he paraded before the commanding officer at Larkhill, when he arrived in England, and asked to be sent to France as soon as possible. He told – that he was going for the Victoria Cross when he got over, but he was unlucky.” Lance-Corporal Kruger left Australia early in the war, and served for some time on Gallipoli. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in January, 1916, for bravery in rescuing some comrades who had been overcome by gas in a sap which had been mined by the Turks. He returned to Australia soon afterwards, and the medal was presented to him at the Broadmeadows camp by Senator G. F. Pearce, Minister for Defence, on July 7, 1916.”
There are numerous entries under “In Memoriam, On Active Service” in The Age on Saturday 23rd February 1918, Tuesday the 26th and Wednesday the 27th for Joseph from various family members.
On 16th July 1919, Charles Kruger of 248 Bridge St Port Melbourne wrote to the “Officer Base records enquiry office” asking “Would you kindly forward to Mr & Mrs Charles Kruger next of kin of deceased solider Joseph H Kruger D.C.M. No 37 22 Batt tickets for Parliament Steps Saturday next.” It was received on the 17th and formally acknowledged on the 18th. His British War Medal was sent out on 31st May 1920 and his 1914-15 Star was sent out on 22nd November 1920 with a booklet on his grave.
Charles was sent the pamphlet “Where the Australians Rest” on 4th August 1921, signed for the Memorial Scroll for Joseph on 26th August 1921 and sent the slip back to Base Records, who received it on the 31st. The Memorial Plaque (311879) for Joseph was received and singed for by his father on 4th August 1922 at Anzac House. Charles Kruger signed for a package being effects of Joseph on 27th February 1923, which was possibly his Victory Medal, the receipt being endorsed “1 VM D12049”. It had been sent out on 23rd November 1922, but was returned as unclaimed.
Base Records sent a letter to Mr C Kruger 116 Queen St Melbourne on 19th May 1925 advising him that “your son, the late No. 37 Pte. J.H.Kruger, D.C.M., 22nd Btn.” had his remains interred in Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension France. It had been extracted from the folder of the photo of his grave. They had changed address as an envelope for his war medal sent to the old address had been returned to Base Records.
The Age of Melbourne had on Saturday 26th February 1927 in page 7 under the heading “IN MEMORIAM. On Active Service.”, were the entries “KRUGER. — In loving and sacred memory of our dear son “(Joe), J. H. Kruger, D.C.M., died of wounds received in France on the 20th February, 1917, aged 20 years. Sweet memories. — Inserted by his loving parents. KRUGER.— In proud memory of our beloved and only brother (Joe), J. H. Kruger, D.C.M. Remembrance. — Inserted by his loving brother and sister-in-law, Maude and little nephew, Harry. KRUGER. — In loving remembrance of my darling brother (Joe), J. H. Kruger, D.C.M., died of wounds received in France on the 26th February, aged 20 years. Dear are the memories that never will fade. —His loving sister, Madge, and brother-in-law, W. H. Fullard. KRUGER. — In fond and loving memory of my darling brother (Joe), J. H. Kruger, D.C.M. Thoughts return to scenes long past, Years roll on, but memory lasts, — His loving sister. Peg. KRUGER.— In loving memory of my darling nephew, J. H. Kruger, D.C.M., died of wounds received in France 26th February. 1917. Ever remembered. — Inserted by loving Aunt Cissy and family. KRUGER.— In loving memory of my darling nephew, J. H. Kruger (Joe), D.C.M., died of wound received in France 26th February, 1917. Love lights the gloom of sorrow. Faith sees the dawn to be. Hope waits the glad to-morrow That brings us nearer to thee. —Inserted by his loving Aunty Ethel, and cousins, Kevin, John and Joe.”
The Age of Melbourne on Friday 26th February 1932, page 1 had under “IN MEMORIAM. On Active Service. KRUGER. — In proud and loving memory of our only brother, J. H. Kruger, D.C. M. died of wounds on the 26th February 1917, aged 20 years. We shall meet again, dear brother. On the dawn of a beautiful day. Inserted by brother and sister-in-law and nephew, Harvey. KRUGER. — A tribute of love to the memory of our brother. J. H. Kruger (Joe). D.C.M., died of wounds in France on the 26th February, 1917. Time will never take away, The love our hearts hold dear. —Inserted by his sister and brother-in-law, M. and W. Fullard. KRUGER. — In loving memory of J. H. Kruger, D.C.M., beloved grandson of Joseph and the late Annie Cornish, and beloved nephew of L. Plummer and J. H. Cornish. Remembrance. — Inserted by grandpa and Aunty Lea, Mildura. KRUGER. — A tribute of love to the memory of dear nephew and cousin, Lance-Corporal J. H. Kruger, D.C.M. All is repose and peace. Untrampled lies the sod ; The shouts of battle cease, ‘Tis the truce of God. — Lydia and cousins. KRUGER.— In loving memory of my nephew, Joseph Kruger, D.C.M., who was killed in France on the 20th February, 1917, loved cousin of Kevin, John and Joe. Always remembered. — Inserted by his loving Auntie Ethel. KRUGER. — In loving memory of our dear son, J. H. Kruger, (Joe), D.C.M., died of wounds received in France on the 26th February, 1917, aged 20 years. Ever lovingly remembered. —Inserted by his mother and father. KRUGER. — In fond memory of my beloved brother, J. H. Kruger (Joe), D.C.M., died of wounds in France on the 26th February, 1917. Beautiful, memories of one so dear. —Inserted by his sister, Peg.” In 1933 another list of memorials were entered in The Age for him from family members.
Joseph is noted “as one of three casualties at the unveiling of the City Mission Honour Board, Standard, 8 September, 1917, and again as paying the supreme sacrifice at the unveiling of a third panel of the Honour Board at the Graham Street Methodist Church, Standard, 23 March, 1918.”
Joseph Harvey Kruger’s name is located at panel 96 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial. His name will be projected onto the exterior of the Hall of Memory on:
Tue 30 July 2019 at 5:43am
Thu 26 September 2019 at 12:54am
Thu 26 December 2019 at 1:46am
Mon 30 March 2020 at 9:53pm.
His father filled out a form for the AWM for the Roll of Honour, in which he stated his full name was Joseph Harvey Kruger No 37, 22nd Battalion, who was born in and connected with Port Melbourne, Melbourne Victoria. He died on 26.2.17 in France. Joseph was a Labour(er) aged 20 when he died. His school was “Grahame St State Port Melbourne” and for any other training and previous service it was recorded he was a “Naval Cadet”. His father also wrote for biographical details “Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous Gallantry and Devotion to Duty during rescue operations near Anzac Gallipoli.” He signed the form C Kruger, relationship to soldier – Father and address as 248 Bridge St Port Melbourne. The AWM also added on another sheet that he died of wounds along with some of the details his father had filled out.
The Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Repatriation wrote to CARO in Albert Park Barracks Victoria, requesting form AFB 103 for Private 5173 Joseph Harvey Kruger 24th Battalion (DOW 26.2.17) on 18th June 1968. It was received on the 19th and sent to them on the 20th.
He also has a file at NAA under “KRUGER, Joseph Henry – Service Number – 37 B73, M115740 Contents date range 1915 – 1968” which is open but not online (error in middle name).
With his family: –
The 1912 electoral roll had them living at 248 Bridge Street. Annie did home duties and his father was listed as Charles Albert Kruger, a labourer. In the 1915, 1919 and 1921 rolls, all the details were the same. Listed as Charles Albert Kruger in the 1924 and 1927 electoral rolls, they were living at 116 Queen Street Port Melbourne and he was a labourer. Albert (no occupation listed) and Annie were living at 403 Dorcas Street Port Melbourne in the 1943 electoral roll. Albert passed away in 1948 in Port Melbourne. Due to her common name, it is not known what happened to Annie.
Not much can be found on Charles Frederick William Kruger, but it appears he may have changed his name to be the same as his father’s. He died in 1955 in Melbourne. Nothing else can be found on Lydia.
Ethel married Joseph Alfus Clive Vercoe in 1923 in Victoria. Joseph was born in 1901 in Richmond and served in the Navy with the service number 11221. His trade was a photographer. He joined on 6th May 1919 for 7 years. His description was 5 foot 5½ inches tall, brown hair, hazel eyes and a fresh complexion. He had a long scar on the back of his right hand. He was at Cerebus with the rank of Stoker III from 6th May 1919 to 1st August 1919. His character was very good and ability satisfactory. He was then on Australia from 2nd August 1919 to 24th September 1919 at the same rank and then as Stoker II from 25th September 1919 to 19th December 1919. There are some comments on his service records about further service, but they are unreadable. He was entered in various state Police Gazettes in 1920 under “Deserters from His Majesty’s Service”, where he was one of seven deserters “From H.M.A.S. “Australia.” at Sydney, on the 19th December 1919.” He was listed as “Clive Alfus Joseph Vercoe, stoker, born in Victoria, 19 years of age, 5 feet 5½ inches high, fresh complexion, brown hair, hazel eyes.” “A reward not exceeding £6 will be paid for the apprehension of each of the abovenamed deserters.” He is also listed under B883, VX18132 at NAA with the details “VERCOE JOSEPH ALFUS CLIVE : Service Number – VX18132 : Date of birth – 25 Sep 1906 : Place of birth – RICHMOND VIC : Place of enlistment – CAULFIELD VIC : Next of Kin – VERCOE ETHEL” 1939 – 1948 but the file is not yet examined. The Nominal Roll shows he enlisted as VX18132 and his Date of Discharge was 26th May 1944 with the rank of Staff Sergeant and his Posting at Discharge was 2 ORDNANCE VEHICLE PARK AAOC. In the 1954 electoral roll they were living at 403 Dorcas Street Port Melbourne and he was a storeman, with Ethel doing home duties. Joseph died in 1968 and Ethel in 1983.
403 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne. Having been extensively refurbished, it sold in 2016 for $ 1 730 000. Set over 3 levels, it features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, living and entertaining zones, gourmet style kitchen opening to landscaped outdoor living, breath taking roof-top ‘winter garden’ terrace with entertainment bar and panoramic city viewing.
Joseph Kruger’s medals are Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals. The museum only has his DCM.
The purchase of this significant medal was made possible through the generous support of the Copland Foundation.
ANZAC Biographies
On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women
whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the
Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,
Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.