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Walter Arnold Coulson - Information

In 1916, the Coulsons were enjoying a peaceful life in Bowral. Walter had originally come from the Campbelltown area, born in St Andrews in 1875. He did quite well for himself. He had served 3 years in the Militia, and served for a year in the Commonwealth Forces during the Boer War. He eventually settled in Bowral with his wife Agnes Maud, becoming School Master of Glenquarry Public School. As casualty lists poured in, Walter felt he should do his bit. At the age of 40, he enlisted in Bowral on the 28th of June 1916. He commenced his training at Goulburn Depot, and was appointed Acting Corporal on the 13th of July. Boarding the HMAT Anchises in Sydney, he left for overseas on the 24th of January 1917. While onboard, Walter was posted Voyage Only Corporal.

The Anchises sailed into Devonport, England in late March. A week later, he was marched out to Durrington Camp from the 9th Training Battalion. On the 11th of September, Walter was promoted Corporal and attended a Course of Instruction at Chisledon in November. Here, he became qualified as an assistant instructor. Walter remained in England training troops for service. He was sent back to Australia upon the City of York on the 14th of January 1919.