Regimental number: 17303 Rank: Gunner
Died of Disease (DOD) 14 August 1918
Alexander Swan Imber was born in Sydney to Catherine and George Imber. The family was living on Dalgety’s Wharf, Bulimba when Alexander enlisted on 26 November 1915. He was a 19-year-old diver’s assistant and because of his age, his parents needed to give their permission for him to enlist. His brother George and Uncle Charles also enlisted.
Alexander was assigned to the 3rd Field Artillery Brigade as a Gunner. On 22 May 1916, he embarked from Sydney on the “HMAT Warilda” A69 for England. During his service he was transferred a number of times and on 23 August 1916 he was sent to France with the 4th Division Artillery. On the 29 July 1918 Alexander was reported ill with pyrexia. He was sent to the 12th Casualty Clearing Station, and transferred to hospital at Le Treport, France where he died of cephalitis and an abscess of the brain on 14th August 1918 aged 22 years. Alexander was buried in the Mont Huon Military Cemetery at Le Treport, Haute-Normandie in France. He was entitled to the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
Alexander willed his estate to his father who had passed away on 16 June 1917. In March 1919, Alexander’s personal possessions were returned to Australia. They included 1 letter, photos, pocket and prayer books, knives, match box cover, 4 wallets, coins and 2 mirrors. His mother Catherine also received a photo of his grave, his Memorial Scroll, Memorial Plaque, and medals.
