| Place | Europe: Western Front |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL34261 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Brass |
| Maker |
Spandau Arsenal |
| Place made | Germany |
| Date made | c 1914-1918 |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
Engraved German shell case : Private W E McGann, 23 Battalion, AIF
Description
Engraved used shell case from a German 77mm field gun. The case has been engraved with a depiction of a church and the words 'Les Fontane France 1914-18'. Stamps on the base of the shell read 'St GFSP 286 DEZ 1916 SP197'.
History / Summary
This shell case is associated with William Earnest McGann who was born at Chiltern, Victoria. He was working as an engine-cleaner when he enlisted in the AIF on 16 February 1915 aged 22. McGann received the service number 196 and embarked as a private with A Company, 23 Battalion. Private McGann served on Gallipoli, but was evacuated sick in September 1915. He later returned to duty with 8 Field Company, Engineers in France with the regimental number 4551 and was with that unit when the war ended. He returned to Australia on 19 June 1919.