William Garnet Westcott was born in Leigh Creek, VIC and was a Labourer by trade when he enlisted in the 8th Reinforcements 24th Battalion on 12 August 1915 at the age of 30. He trained with the 22nd Depot Battalion then embarked from Melbourne on January 5th 1916 aboard the Afric. While in Egypt in March 1916 he joined the 58th Battalion and in June he sailed to France. He was wounded in action in the disastrous charge at Fromelles on July 19th and evacuated to hospital at Wimmereux suffering from a gunshot wound to his thigh. He was fit to rejoin his unit in October and in January 1918 his father Frederick received an extract from Routine Orders issued by Lt. General Sir William Birdwood, æThe Army Corps Commander wishes to express his appreciation of the gallant services rendered by the undermentioned soldier (Private G.W.Westcott) during recent operations'. He served through until April 17th 1918 when he was gassed. Again he recovered, and after the war returned to Australia on the Devanha, disembarking in Melbourne on June 23rd 1919.

Tree No 2769