AN incredible community effort is ensuring a local veteran’s service and sacrifice will no longer go unrecognised, with Redlanders rallying behind a campaign to honour one of their own.
Through the “Redlands Remembers” campaign, launched by Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike and the volunteer Australian Remembrance Army, funds have been successfully raised to install a proper military headstone for Private William Arthur Mobbs at Cleveland Cemetery
In less than 24 hours, the campaign reached its initial target of $4800, securing the resources needed to permanently mark his final resting place with the dignity Private Mobbs deserves.
Mr Pike said the response from the community had been remarkable.
“This is what remembrance looks like,” Mr Pike said.
“To see the community rally so quickly to ensure Private Mobbs is properly honoured is something we can all be proud of.”
Private Mobbs’ story reflects extraordinary commitment to his country.
Enlisting in 1916, he served more than three years overseas, including on the Western Front.
More than two decades later, at 49 years of age, he stepped forward again to serve during the Second World War.
After his service, he lived a quiet life in the Redlands, residing in Birkdale and working as a labourer.
Until now, there had been nothing to indicate that a man who served his nation twice was laid to rest in the community, with Private Mobbs buried in an unmarked grave at Cleveland Cemetery.
“Thanks to the efforts of volunteers from the Australian Remembrance Army, this oversight was uncovered and with the support of Private Mobbs’ family, I am proud to join with our community to come together to put it right,” Mr Pike said.
A contribution through the Australian Government’s Marking (First World War) Private Graves Grants Program is available, but it only covers a small portion of the cost of manufacturing and installing a memorial headstone.
While the initial fundraising goal has been achieved, efforts will continue, with three additional unmarked graves of local veterans at Cleveland Cemetery currently progressing through the approvals process.
Redlanders wishing to contribute to the ongoing effort can find more information via the Australian Remembrance Army fundraiser page.
