Lt. Philip Edward Michael VOWELS (KIA) 11th May 1918 aged 27 years, Born in 1890 in Horsham, VIC (23994), 11th Battalion(Infantry) Military Cross and bar to Military Cross. He was the son of William Henry VOWELS and Bridget Maria (Whelan), who came over to Cioolgardie, Western Australia, in the late 1890s. He is acknowledged in the Coolgardie cemetery.
Phillip Vowels
THE WESTERN MAIL Western Mail 7 June 1918, page 19
VOWELS– In loving memory of Lieut. Phil Vowels M.C. and Bar, who died of wounds on May 10, somewhere in France, after three years and nine months active service. Inserted by his sorrowing mother, sisters and brother. Mrs Vowels and Mary, Perth, Dave, South Africa, Sister Mary Loyola, St John of God Convent, Subiaco, Mrs Baker, Coolgardie, Mrs Keleher, Melbourne.
Phillip Vowels, Coolgardie CemeteryInformation and photographs supplied by Kay Bell
Moya Sharp
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Philip Edward Michael VOWELS 729 was in the 11th Battalion (Infantry) which was among the first infantry units raised for the AIF during the First World War. It was the first battalion recruited in Western Australia, and with the 9th, 10th and 12th Battalions it formed the 3rd Brigade.
Consequently he travelled in the First Convoy on ASCANIUS Ship number A11, Gross tonnage 10048 ton, Fitted out for 70 officers, 1750 troops, 12 horses. Ship rollcall A total of 2038 men and women travelled on this ship
Kay, it was great to read your comments about Lt Vowels. I’m preparing material for a Horsham-to-Horsham tour to the Western Front in September. Obviously, Lt Vowels’ story is important to Horsham. I notice on the website a photograph of his brother’s grave in Coolgardie Cemetery and wondered if you knew more background detail about this? (The brother and the grave.)
He is one of Horsham’s most highly decorated men. Obviously he left Horsham as a child. I have much of his WWI service record, by any further details about his life in WA would be great.
Hi Pam I know the relative of Lt Vowles who I can put you in touch with. She will know a great deal more detail Im sure.
Thanks Moya. I would be interested. I do have to say, however, that I’m preparing a booklet and so have limited space and time. I’m interested in a photograph. But please go ahead and put me in touch with relatives.
Thanks
Thanks, Moya. I would like further contact, but I do want you to understand I am preparing a booklet only and time and space won’t permit much detail. I would be interested in discussing Lt Vowels with a relative, so do put me in touch. Thanks.