Historical information

John Leslie Shepherdson joined as a private on 31st August 1914 from Tatura, Victoria. His father lived at Birregurra, Victoria. John's military number 857. Australia declared war on Germany on the 4th August.

Wounded (shot in the head) landing on the beaches at Gallipoli, 25th April 1915, John recuperated in hospital and rejoined 7th Battalion 25th July 1915. Just in time for Lone Pine where he was wounded a second time 9th August 1915.

While recovering was promoted to Sergeant and sent to 7th Battalion headquarters as part of 3rd Echelon B.E.F. This unit was reinforcements and returning wounded/sick who could not go back to active service due to wounds.

He remained at headquarters as a clerk until the end of the war and was promoted to Lieutenant on recommendation of Secretary of State for valuable services rendered to Australia.

John returned to Australia via America (at his own expense) in 1919. He left 7th Battalion Headquarters 26th October 1918.

Significance

This picture is of national significance as it is a photo of a World War 1 Gallipoli veteran, wounded twice.

Physical description

Private John L Shepherdson of Birregurra- wounded at Gallipoli

Inscriptions & markings

Yeoman & Co.....Bourke St.Melbourne .