AUSSIE digger descendant Glen Simon has finished a story that began 94 years ago after a DNA sample he provided was used to identify the remains of his great uncle who was killed in the battle of Fromelles.
The remains of 250 soldiers were found in a mass grave in Fromelles, France, in 2008.
The WWI battle of Fromelles on July 1916 is the bloodiest day in the history of the Australian Army, with 5533 men killed, wounded or captured.
The remains of 203 soldiers have been identified as Australians, and of these 75, including Mr Simon’s great uncle Victor Simon, have been identified by name.
Mr Simon said when he received the phone call yesterday morning informing him of the identification, he felt overwhelmed.
“When I got the call I just went completely numb, I don’t actually remember half the phone call,” he said.
“Victor’s brother, who was my great grandfather, never gave up hope that one day Victor’s body would be found so he could be laid to rest properly.
“In a way I feel like I’ve finished a story my great grandfather started.”
Defence Personnel Minister Greg Combet said the number of soldiers who had been identified exceeded even the most optimistic predictions.
“I am also pleased to say that we have strong reason to believe that more identification could occur in the future,” he said.
There will be a dedication ceremony at the new Fromelles Cemetery on the 94th anniversary of the battle on July 19.
Mr Simon said he hoped to visit France for the dedication ceremony with his father.