Hyland, Gerard Joseph (Private, b. 1921 - d.1943) and Gallagher, Francis Herbert (Major, b.1900 - d.1957)

Collection relating to the Second World War service of VX70049 Private Gerard Joseph 'Jerry' Hyland, 2/12 Australian Infantry Battalion, and NX34952 Major Francis Herbert Gallagher, Headquarters, New Guinea, 1943-1944.

Wallet 1 of 1 – Collection consists of two letters. The first letter, dated 25 February, was written by VX69918 Private John Thomas Williamson to Private Hyland’s mother, Mrs Elizabeth Bridget Hyland. In his letter, Private Williamson expresses his sympathy for the loss of her son, and shares the circumstances of his death and burial. The second letter was written by chaplain, NX34952 Major Francis Herbert Gallagher, to Mrs Short [identity unknown], dated 10 April 1944. In his letter, Major Gallagher informs Mrs Short that Harry [identity unknown] is well, and that he is a good example to the other men.

Private Gerard Joseph Hyland enlisted to the Second Australian Imperial Force on 30 December 1941. After periods of leave and training, he joined the 2/12 Australian Infantry Battalion and served with this unit in New Guinea. On 12 January 1943, Private Hyland was killed in action, and was buried between Buna and Sanananda, New Guinea. He was later moved to his current resting place at Port Moresby (Bomana) War Cemetery.