1st Pioneer Battalion
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John O’Keefe (SN 2732) born at Ballarat, was a 24 year old labourer when he enlisted in Melbourne on July 28th 1915. He embarked for overseas service on October 27th and sailed to Egypt where he was transferred from the 7th Infantry Battalion to the 1st Pioneer Battalion. He crossed to France in April 1916, and aside from a charge of rendering himself unfit for duty due to the consumption of alcohol, he completed his service without significant injury or illness. He returned to Australia aboard the City of Poona, disembarked at Melbourne on May 14th 1919 and was discharged on July 6th.
His brothers Peter, James and Edward also served in the AIF and are honoured with a tree in the Avenue.
