Remembering, November 1915

This delightful silk-embroidered card was sent by Private Thomas Ham, 17th Divisional Ammunition Sub Park, in November 1915. It reminds us of those who were serving their country, vast distances from their families, in very unfamiliar situations.

Private Ham (1884-1961) from South Brisbane, had been working as station store keeper when he enlisted in October 1914. Originally appointed to the 8th Australian Army Service Corps, after embarking in December 1914, the troops were diverted England and by July 1915 they were one of the first Australian companies to serve in France.

Private Ham wrote to family in England from Steenvoorde, west of Ypres, France, with early seasons' greetings. His unit was an ordnance supply depot, from which ammunition was moved by motor-truck and railway, as far forward as practical. Staff and the depots were split and dispersed to suit the movements of Ammunition Columns and against the possibility of enemy attack.

In November 1916 Thomas Ham was promoted to Lance Corporal, with the renamed 1st Divisional Ammunition Sub Park , now at Le Carcaillot, south of Albert in the heart of the Western Front. According to the Unit’s War Diary - winter clothing was being issued at this time, and thoughts were of Xmas presents for the men.

Lance Corporal Ham remained with his unit throughout the fierce conditions in the Western Front until it was disbanded in March 1918. He was on his way home to Australia aboard the Kasir-a-Hind, when the armistice in Europe was declared on 11 November 1918.

Thomas Ham returned to his family in Chelmer and became a draughtsman like his father, Alfred Westbrook Ham; he married Vida Ambrose in November 1919.

Further reading:

• Service Record: Ham, Thomas William
• Australian War Memorial: Unit Diaries, Supplies & Transport
• Postcard located in 3284 Beech Family Papers, John Oxley Library