William Hanna
Rank:
Private
Serial No:
Serial No. 1757
Regiment:
30th Battalion
Suburb:
Thirlmere
William Hanna - Information
William enlisted in the AIF on the 9th of August 1915 in Holsworthy, aged 25. He was born in Thirlmere, and grew up with his family in Balmoral. When war broke out, William was residing at 107 Brighton St in Petersham, and working as a private detective. He left Sydney on the 17th of December 1915 onboard the HMAT Berrima as a Private with the 2nd Reinforcements, 30th Battalion.
William disembarked in Suez in January 1916. He joined the 30th Battalion at Ferry post in early April. Just a few days later, on the 7th, William was carried away by the 8th Field Ambulance, to the 2nd Australian Casualty Clearing Station. Working with his unit, he was putting too much strain on an old injury to his left hand, causing a severe fracture. Admitted to the 1st Australian Stationary Hospital in Ismalia, his thumb was amputated. After he recovered, he was placed on lighter duties at various bases and depots. He was then invalided home at the end of October 1917 for a medical discharge.
When William reached Sydney, he eventually reunited with his family. After he joined up, his two younger brothers, James Reginald and Lindsay Donald, both Balmoral born and bred, signed up as well. Sadly, on the 27th of April 1918, James was killed in action.