Fathers of Sailors and Soldiers Association

¹The first meeting was convened on the 22^nd February 1918 by Mr C.A. Degenhardt and with Mr. A. B. Forgan presiding, it was resolved to form the Fathers of Sailors and Soldiers Association. Six months later 102 fathers had been elected to full membership.

 ²In reference to admitting foster fathers or step fathers as members after considerable discussion, it was agreed that there being no such application before the association the matter remain in obeyance for the present. After an executive committee was formed, it was resolved to procure a suitable membership register by current members handing out circulars to prospective new members.

There were early motions put forward to substitute the name “Fathers” with “Parents” and also allowing mothers as honorary members but both were defeated by vote.

³The Port Pirie and District Fathers of Sailors and Soldiers' Association placed on record its heartfelt sympathy with all residents of Port Pirie and district whose loved ones had paid the supreme sacrifice on the field of battle, died of wounds or sickness, or who may have been wounded in battle and otherwise disabled while serving with the military forces of the British Empire or its Allies in this war or any previous campaign of the Empire. Monthly meetings of the Port Pirie and District Fathers of Sailors and Soldiers' Association were held in the Lodge Room of the Institute in Ellen Street.

¹The President Mr. Charles Edwards (who had six sons at the front) stated that its objects were to watch over and forward in any way the interests of all sailors and soldiers who are or have been on active service outside Australia; to foster closer associations between fathers of sailors and soldiers 'by mutual intercourse; to distribute literature and otherwise, as deemed advisable; to bring before the authorities the legitimate rights and demands regarding settlement of returned men on the land. Also, to assist in deserving cases, to secure for returned men reinstatement to positions held by them prior to enlistment; and to assist returned men by way of preference in obtaining employment.

Part of 1 of 2 Honour Boards on display in the Port Pirie RSL Sub Branch

Also, to assist men who enlisted in any part of the Commonwealth, and who may become residents of Port Pirie, to obtain employment best suited to them. Membership was set out to consist of fathers of sailors or soldiers who may have been on active service outside Australia, in the present or any previous campaign of the Empire. Also, nurses who have seen active service. One main point was that all members or candidates for membership must be loyal to King and Empire. A hospital visitation committee was appointed to visit returned men who might be in the institution, and supply them with comforts.

It was thought that the attention of the Mayor should be called to the fact that no public recognition had been given to soldiers returning home after serving their King and Country at the front. It was also considered by members of the association that ‘Some thought should be given to the men who had fought for us, and that they should not be allowed to arrive home without a cheer.’

A reception committee was formed that kept in touch with the military authorities to ascertain the dates of sailors and soldiers returning to Port Pirie to welcome them on their arrival and ‘attend to immediate wants’.  Goode Bros. and Prest Bros. stores showed a liberal display of flags of the Allies indicating to the public that a welcoming event was about to occur. Crowds gathered in Ellen Street opposite the Railway Station to welcome returned soldiers home with ‘a great display of enthusiasm.’ The Solomontown School Fife and Drum Band and The Excelsior Vice-Regal Band were present on many occasions to welcome home those from the front with several ‘patriotic airs’ including the National Anthem.

Sources:

¹Port Pirie Recorder, SA, Thursday 5 September 1918

²Port Pirie Recorder, SA, Saturday 9 March 1918 

³Port Pirie Recorder, SA, Thursday 6 June 1918