George Robert Thurling was born in Ballarat, Victoria, was single and a Labourer when he enlisted with the 13th General (Victorian) Reinforcements on 23 March 1918 at the age of 18. His unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board SS Zealandic on 5 October 1918. The armistice essentially ending the conflict in Europe was signed a month later, on 11 November 1918, and Pte Thurling completed the remainder of his service in England. The country was celebrating, and oftentimes soldiers found themselves caught up in the fervour. Pte Thurling was admonished on more than one occasion for excusing himself without permission. He returned to Australia 6 October 1919.
Tree No. 3586