These headstones are lasting symbols of remembrance and respect. It was incredibly moving seeing families, community members and veterans gather to honour these men and acknowledge their place in our history
In a moving tribute to South Australia’s wartime history, the Headstone Project SA recently held two ceremonies to honour World War I (WW1) veterans Private Ezra Glasson and Private Edward Phillip Britten Ragless.
In late May, dedications were held in Hawker and Quorn respectively, unveiling new headstones for the servicemen, as part of the Projects ongoing mission to ensure that no WW1 veteran lies in an unmarked grave.
Headstone Project SA is a volunteer-driven initiative committed to recognising the service and sacrifice of WWI veterans whose final resting places remain unmarked. It’s estimated that 2,500 veterans are buried in unmarked graves across 900 cemeteries in South Australia.
At Hawker Cemetery, the community gathered to remember Private Ezra Glasson, who served with the 16th Battalion of the Australian Imperial Force. Born in Moonta in 1878, Ezra enlisted in 1915 and served at Gallipoli and on the Western Front where he was later joined by his brother Thomas.. Sadly, his brother was killed in action during the battle of Bullecourt in 1917. After the war, Ezra returned to Australia and moved to Wilson near Hawker, where he worked as a farmhand until his passing in 1930.
At Quorn Cemetery, another ceremony honoured Private Edward Ragless of the 5th Pioneer Battalion. Born at Spring Valley near Clare in 1898, Edward enlisted at just 18 and served in France, enduring harsh conditions while constructing vital infrastructure on the front lines. After the war, he became a soldier settler and later served in WWII, rising to the rank of Captain. Edward was married to Ella Mackenzie in 1921 and they had four children; Nancy, Rosemary, Thomas and Margaret. He passed away in 1960.
The Headstone Project SA President John Brownlie said the recent dedications were a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving the memory of Australia’s servicemen and women.
“The services in Hawker and Quorn were deeply meaningful,” Mr Brownlie said. “They allowed us to pay tribute to two local men who served with courage and commitment, and to ensure their stories are not lost to time.”
“These headstones are lasting symbols of remembrance and respect. It was incredibly moving seeing families, community members and veterans gather to honour these men and acknowledge their place in our history.”
Both ceremonies featured traditional military honours, including the Last Post, a minute’s silence, and reciting the Ode of Remembrance. They were attended by local government officials, RSL representatives and descendants of the veterans’ families.
In 2024, the South Australian Government through Veterans SA, announced it would provide $60,000 over three years to support the work of the project. With continued support from the South Australian Government and local communities, Headstone Project SA is helping to restore dignity to those who gave so much for our nation.
