Francis Peter Sloan

Francis Sloan (Service No 303) was born in Wollongong, N.S.W. around 1890.  He was 24 years old, single, and working as a labourer when he enlisted.  Francis had served 18 months with the Wollongong Garrison Artillery CMF.   Frank's next of kin was his mother.

He sailed from Sydney with the first contingent on HMAT A8 Argylllshire on 18th October 1914 as a member of the Field Artillery Brigade.  He arrived in Egypt in December 1914 but was sent home to Australia in February 1915 and discharged on 11th March 1915 due to disciplinary problems.

On 5th June 1916 Frank re-enlisted in the AIF and named his wife Esther as his next of kin.  Frank subsequently embarked on HMAT A24 Benalla with A Company, 1st Battalion on 9th November 1916.

He attended a machine gun school in England and received good remarks.  He joined his Battalion in France on 22nd November 1917 and saw service on the Western Front. 

On 21st May 1918 Frank was wounded (gassed) in action.  He was evacuated to hospital for treatment.

Frank returned to Australia in June 1920 and was discharged on 25th August 1920.