Shellfire cuts short a bright future
Ivor Bevan Rhys had the world at his feet in early 1916 at age 19.
He was bursting with ability and potential studying science at the University of WA after graduating from academically-selective school Perth Modern as captain and top student.
He was also a talented artist.
But Rhys was rocked when his two best mates died on the battlefields of Gallipoli in August 1915.
He was determined to do his bit too and won his parents' consent to enlist under the age of 21.
On December 23, 1916 Rhys sailed for western Europe as a reinforcement for the 5th Pioneer Battalion. Like so many young men who went to World War I he was killed - by shellfire in April 1918 in northern France.
But his service has not been forgotten and Rhys will be among 849 men from Fremantle - who paid the ultimate price in WWI - whose names will be added to the Fremantle War Memorial on bronze plaques.
The plaques will be unveiled as part of the Fremantle dawn service on Anzac Day. His nephew, Rhys Gray, of North Fremantle, said his uncle's death was felt keenly by his family.
Mr Gray said his uncle lived in Ellen Street near the memorial and it was tremendous to know his service would be honoured so close to home.
Fifty relatives of the 849 men have been invited to the service.
