Laurence Gerald Finn

FINN, Laurence Gerald- – – – – SPC 1900-1904

DoB:- – 1891, Port Fairy, VIC

Father:– – John Finn

Mother:- – Norah, nee McNamara

Laurence Finn was one of four brothers at St Patrick’s, all boarders from Port Fairy; Cyril, Laurence, Claude and Jack. Jack also enlisted and returned from war in 1919.

Service No:– – – 212 (the first volunteer from the Port Fairy district)

Rank:- – Trooper

Unit:- – 8th Light Horse, B Squadron

Laurence Finn enlisted on 9th September 1914, aged 23 years. He was a farmer, five feet, seven and a half inches tall, with dark complexion, light hazel eyes and black hair. He embarked from Melbourne on 25 February 1915 aboard the Star of Victoria, which transported him to Alexandria. From there, on 16 May 1915, he embarked on the Menomince to the Gallipoli Peninsula.

Initially reported as missing in action, Trooper Laurence Finn was confirmed killed in action on 7 August 1915 at Walker’s Ridge, Gallipoli. He was buried at Lone Pine Cemetery.

His personal effects were returned to his father, and included two brushes, a handkerchief and a notebook.