The Anzac centenary was a time of reflection and pride for the descendents of Bert Poole, a Maitland miner who lies beneath a lush wheat field outside the French town of Bullecourt.
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Killed in action in 1917, the documents and portraits of Mr Poole now hang in the Lochinvar home of his granddaughter Ruth Wilkes.
The family affectionately refers to the prominently displayed, fresh-faced Digger only as Soldier Bert.
“My daughter Anna and I went in 2009 and placed a crucifix and plaque in a chapel in the field where he died,” Mrs Wilkes said.
“It was very emotional, even today I still find the grief and the effect it had on our family quite overwhelming.”
One of Soldier Bert’s great-granddaughters, Meredith Wilkes, has transcribed his life into a meticulously researched biography which will be printed for the members of his family.
Ruth said she was grateful for the hospitality of the Bullecourt residents, who every year hold a service to remember the Australian fighters who perished on the doorstep of their town.
“We made contact with Claude and Colette Durand who have been awarded the OAM for helping Australian families find their fallen loved-ones in France – I can’t overstate their kindness,” she said.
The Wilkes said they planned on returning to Bullecourt in 2017 to mark the centenary of Soldier Bert’s death.
