5^th Pioneers around Picardie on the Somme, September 1918. AWM

Frank Allan Hiddle

Frank Hiddle, Service No. 4804, enlisted in August 1915. He was aged 34 years and eight months, single and employed as a Bio Operator (cinema projectionist). His next of kin was listed as Arthur Hiddle of Albert Street, Kilmore. Frank was born in Williamstown though was living in Sydney at the time of enlistment. A previous attempt to enlist failed due to “hammer toes”.

Following training at Royal Park and Bendigo Frank embarked for overseas active service in early 1916 attached to the 5^th Pioneer Battalion, ranked Private.

In May 1917 he was promoted to Lance Corporal though in December of that year he reverted to Private at his own request.

Frank returned to  Australia in September 1919 have served 1230 days abroad and 1400 days in total. He was awarded the 1914/15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. His name appears on the Presbyterian Church Honour Roll. Post discharge Frank returned to Sydney. Little record can be found of his life post war.

Compiled by Kilmore Historical Society.