Cooper, Joseph Thomas

Born in Gerringong, Joseph Thomas Cooper was a labourer from Barney Street, Kiama. As a 19 year old, Joseph took part in the famous Waratah March of 1915. His parents, Thomas and Mary, did not stop him from joining, as he showed great patriotism and heart.

Joseph embarked at Sydney on SS Makarini on 1 April 1916 as part of the 1st Australian Infantry Battalion.

Disembarking at Marseilles the day after his birthday, on 17th May 1916, Private Cooper reported to 1st Australian Division at Base Depot, Estaples.

Private Cooper was involved in the Battle of Pozières, primarily remembered as an Australian battle. The cost had been enormous, and in the words of Australian official historian Charles Bean, the Poziers ridge 'is more densely sown with Australian sacrifice than any other place on earth.'

Here, Private Cooper sustained wounds to his arm, face and leg somewhere between 22 and 25 July 1916. He died of these wounds a few days later, on 29 July 1916, at No.1 Stationary Hospital. Thomas and Mary, like many at the time, found it difficult to obtain information regarding their son’s death. This was until an Australian nurse, Sister Fairland, wrote to the family, informing them of the last days of their son.

According to the Kiama Independent at the time, Private Cooper was the first of the Waratahs to fall. A cigarette case, testament, metal watch, wallet and cotton bag were returned to his family.

Private Cooper is buried at St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen.

(JPG, 56KB)

(JPG, 26KB)

(JPG, 64KB)

(JPG, 15KB)

(JPG, 23KB)