100 Days of Heroes: A single moment in a war has had lasting impacts through the generations

FALLEN soldier Charles Smith’s legacy extended to the wife and six children he left behind.

Margaret Davis, 84, of Mt Nelson, left, with her cousin Peter Smith, 74, of Lindisfarne, at the tree planted for their grandfather Charles Smith on the Soldiers’ Memorial Avenue. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

PETER Smith knows the toll of war isn’t limited to those who didn’t return.

His grandfather, Charles Edward Smith, enlisted with the 40th Battalion in February 1916, aged 32.

Born at Browns River Rd in 1894, Charles sailed for England in July 1916, leaving behind his wife Ella and six young children.

Wounded in action in June 1917, Charles was then killed in action in Belgium on October 12 in a battle which saw 79 Tasmanians killed and 168 wounded.

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Lance Sergeant Charles Edward Smith is remembered at tree 325 on the Soldiers’ Memorial Avenue.

Mr Smith said Ella — his grandmother — was remarkably resolute following his death. “The family bond was very strong,” he said. “She raised six children on the pension.”

Margaret Davies is Charles and Ella’s eldest grandchild and she was gifted the widow’s badge issued to her grandmother after Charles’ death.

“There is no glory in war when you leave behind six children,” she said. “It does affect family fortunes.”

In a letter received by Ella after his death it was advised Charles had been promoted to Lance

Sergeant four days prior to his death.

“This was significant in that if afforded her an increased pension,” Mr Smith said.

Charles Smith, back right, with mates at the Claremont Army Camp. Picture: JIM SMITH

Mr Smith said three generations of his family have visited Charles’ grave at Tyne Cot cemetery in Belgium.

“Personally, it was a very emotional experience. My son was with me, too, when we went,” he said.

Mrs Davies said her grandfather had left quite a legacy and she hoped to be able to visit his grave next year.

Lance Sergeant Charles Edward Smith is remembered at tree 325 on the Soldiers’ Memorial Avenue and on honour boards at the Hobart Town Hall and St Stephen’s Church at Sandy Bay.

Cameron Allen is a UTAS journalism student.

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