Peter Beckett Posted 21 April , 2008 Share Posted 21 April , 2008 On Saturday 19th April 2008 at the Somerville Mechanics Hall, Echoes from the Front by Val Latimer was launched by Mr Len Streets, Frankston RSL President. There were over 90 present at the launch and the hall was laid out with flags and a display of WW1 memorabilia. The book brings to fruition Val's dream to see all of those from Frankston (men and women) who volunteered to serve in the Great War. Originally there was a tree lined Avenue of Honour on the Melbourne road (now Nepean Highway) with a plaque listing each of those who volunteered. The Memorial was for all from Frankston, not just those who made the Supreme Sacrifice. Over the years and with the road becoming a 6 lane highway in the seventies, the trees and most of the plaques disappeared. The book lists all and also includes their war service and where available snippets of their lives. Sandra and I were happy to be able to assist Val with some of the research and supply photos from Belgium and France of the graves and memorials of those who died in service from our trip in 2006. Wayne Saillard from Malta very kindly supplied photos of graves and memorials for those who died in Gallopoli. The book is published by the Mornington Peninsula Family History Society and anyone requiring a copy, please contact me by PM Peter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peter Beckett Posted 21 April , 2008 Author Share Posted 21 April , 2008 Some of you may be wondering why the launch was not held at the Frankston Mechanics Hall and the answer is simple. The Frankston City council has advised that the building was not fit for use anymore. Both Val and the President of the MPFHS gave the Frankston Mayor a bit of a serve, seeing that many functions and send-offs for the Frankston men and women were held at the Hall. The Mornington Peninsula Shire had recently spent $500,000 on the Somerville Mechanics Hall and it's a terrific venue for all to use. The following pic shows Val busy signing books for purchasers. Peter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
frev Posted 21 April , 2008 Share Posted 21 April , 2008 Hi Peter - great to hear of another book commemorating local men. I'd definately like a copy. Pity to hear that the Frankston Mechanics Hall has fallen into disrepair - one of many around the country unfortunately. Will email you for details. Cheers, Frev Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now