Jack Raymond Dobson
Rank:
Private
Serial No:
Serial No. 3572
Regiment:
1st Pioneer Battalion
Suburb:
Picton
Jack Raymond Dobson - Information
Jack was the first of his brothers to enlist for war service. Born in Picton, Jack moved with his family to Ryde Rd in Gladesville. Here, Jack worked as a labourer with his siblings. At the age of 33, he signed up on the 17th of June 1916 at the Royal Showground Camp in Sydney. Commencing his training at Cootamundra, he was designated to the 9th Reinforcements, 1st Pioneer Battalion. Jack was then sent overseas onboard the HMAT Anchise, which departed Sydney on the 24th of January 1917.
On the 27th of March, Jack stepped off the ship in Devonport, England. He was immediately rushed to the Pioneer Training Battalion for further instruction. However, he was having much difficulty completing exercises. He was classed as having low intelligence, as a result of mental disability or ill education. Described as simple minded, childlike and could not count money. The authorities thought it best to send him home. He left for Australia on the 27th of July 1917 for a discharge.