Born to William Williams and his wife Louisa (nee Dawson) at Williams River, Raymond Terrace, on the 7th of March 1889, Alfred was the eldest of 4 children. The family later moved to Stratford where Alfred attended Stratford Public School.
Having previously spent 3 years with the 4th Australian Light Horse, Hunter River Lancers, Railway Porter Alfred enlisted at Newcastle on the 16th of August 1915 with the 3rd Reinforcements, 30th Battalion, aged 26 years and 4 months. He listed his next of kin (NOK) as his father, of Rosemont House, Stroud
Having formed in Australia in early August 1915, the 30th Battalion concentrated at Liverpool, New South Wales and drew most of its personnel from various parts of New South Wales, with a large contingent coming from Newcastle. The battalion was not formed in time to see action at Gallipoli. Having arrived in Egypt in December 1915, they remained there for the consolidation period with those that had returned from Gallipoli and was assigned to the 5th Division.
Embarking aboard the ‘HMAT A70 Ballarat’ at Sydney, the 3rd Reinforcements arrived at Suez 23rd of March 1916. After transiting to Zeitoun, arriving on the 1st of April and then joining the 30th Battalion at Ferry Post the same day.
Alfred embarked Alexandria aboard the ‘HMAT A20 Hororata’ on the 16th of June 1916 to disembark at Marseilles on the 23rd. Shortly after arrival at the front in France, Alfred was charged on the 8th of July with ‘leaving ranks without permission’ He was awarded 2 days forfeiture of pay.
The battalion’s first major action came at Fromelles on the 19th of July where they were initially tasked to provide a supporting role, carrying ammunition to the assault troops, but they were later committed to the fighting as the situation deteriorated for the Australians. Alfred was ‘Killed in Action’ at Fromelles on the 20th of July 1916, aged 27 years. He was buried the same day at Eaton Hall, Croix, Blanche Map sheet 36 square N3, b, 5, 3 (approx. 3 miles due East of Laventie) by the Reverand G. Crantson.
Alfred’s personal effects comprised of: Identity Discs, Cards, Photos, Letters, Wallet, Metal Broach, Purse, 2 Military Certificates, French Book, which were forwarded to his father.
