John Patrick Desmond (SN 651) born in Ballarat, was a 21 year old soldier when he enlisted in the A.I.F. in Queenscliff on January 1st 1916. On July 27th he embarked aboard the Orsova for service as a bombardier with the 36th Heavy Artillery Group. He reached France in January 1917 and the highlight of his service came later that year when he earned the Military Medal ‘During the occupation of the position near VERBRANDENMOLEN the heavy and almost daily shelling during September and October, 1917, frequently cut the lines between the B.C. post and the Exchange some 600 yards distant. Day or night and without regard to shelling these men never hesitated to go and repair their lines so that communication was always maintained with Brigade Headquarters. No. 651 Gunner DESMOND has a fine example of true courage and devotion to duty.' After the war he returned home on the Karmala, disembarked at Melbourne on August 17th 1919 and was discharged on October 2nd.

His brother Robert also served in the AIF and is honoured with a tree in the Avenue.