Walter Gilbert was born in Ballarat and was a Labourer by trade when he enlisted in the 8th Battalion, 14th Reinforcement on 14 July 1915 at the age of 21. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A32 Themistocles on 28 January 1916. Upon arrival in Egypt he was transferred to the 58th Battalion then in July he joined the 1st Infantry Brigade Headquarters, thus being spared the charge at Fromelles that cost so many 58th Battalion lives. Aside from a couple of periods of illness, it seems he came through the war without significant physical injury. He returned to Australia on the Plassy, disembarking at Melbourne on April 30th 1919.
Tree No: 3268