Charles Thomas Mersh

Driver, Australian Imperial Force

Age 14, Class III A: 'Steady, reliable boy. Has done well.'

Charles Thomas Mersh was a student at Alleyn’s until 1907. During this time, he lived with his parents, Thomas and Harriet, at 62 Tweedy Road, Bromley. After leaving school, Charles found work as an apprentice motor mechanic and married his wife, Annie, before deciding to move to Australia. During his time abroad, Charles found work in his chosen trade and lived with his wife at 242 New Canterbury Road, Petersham in New South Wales. After the outbreak of war in August 1914, he remained in Australia and continued to work as a motor mechanic until September 1915 when he decided to join the Australian Imperial Force. Charles’ skill as a mechanic saw him assigned to the Mechanical Transport Companies of the AIF. These companies were responsible for the supply of goods, equipment and ammunition to the frontline which was essential to the smooth running of Allied operations. Charles served in this role with 4^th MT Company and 5^th MT Company in France until being discharged in September 1919. For his service in the war, he received the 1914-15 Star and the British War and Victory Medal.