ANZAC Search

Patrick Michael Fitzgerald - Information

Patrick Michael Fitzgerald was born in Campbelltown in 1878. As talk of war dominated conversation, Patrick was living in Lidcombe with his family and working as a labourer. On the 9th of July 1915 after watching many boys join up, Patrick enlisted in Liverpool. He commenced his training at Liverpool Camp, however, found it difficult to adjust to army life. A Court Martial was held on the 6th of March 1916, and he was discharged on the 22nd under the adage ‘services no longer required.’

Patrick then re-enlisted on the 21st of August 1917. After initial training at the Showground Camp in Sydney, he was stationed at Liverpool Depot. Patrick again found it difficult to fit into the military, and was subsequently charged for various infractions. In December 1917, he was sentenced to 120 days imprisonment at hard labour. On the 1st of May 1918, he deserted and went home. A warrant was issued. He was then arrested and taken to Lidcombe Police Station, before Darlinghurst Detention Barracks. Another Court Martial was held on the 21st of November 1918. He served some time, however, the war had ended and he was discharged.