As we commemorate Anzac Day – I’m sharing some local stories to recognise and remember those who sacrificed so much, so we can enjoy what we have today.
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Lance Corporal James Rhodes, also known as James Percy Wederall, was a man with a past when he enlisted with the AIF in Sydney on August 26, 1914.
Originally born in Timaru, New Zealand, James Wederall lived in Dubbo before he enlisted, working for Mr. G.W Bell, the licensee of the Court House Hotel.
He enlisted under the name Rhodes, and told military authorities that he was a 26 year old single man.
He was in fact married, and had left New Zealand after becoming bankrupt.
Rhodes served with the 3rd Battalion B Company, and in March 1915, he was promoted to Lance Corporal.
He ended up fighting at Gallipoli, and was killed in action during a charge at Lone Pine in August 1915.
His widow in New Zealand received Rhodes’ personal items, but his link with Dubbo remains.
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Commemorating those who served, and remembering those who died.
Lest we forget.