Henri Hermene TovellPrint Page

The tombstone on the grave commemorates Henri Hermene Tovell. It was erected by public subscription and the original memorial was vandalised in the 1950s.  The grave was restored with a new headstone in June 2009. 

Henri Hemene Tovell was a young French orphan who was “adopted” by the men of No 4 Squadron Australian Flying Corps during their service in France in World War One. Henri was eventually “smuggled” to Australia where he was later formally adopted by Mr Tim Tovell (who had planned and conducted Henri’s journey to Australia). Tragically, Henri was killed in a motor cycle accident on the 24th May 1928 while returning to the Laverton Air Base.

Although not formally a member of the Air Force, he was accorded a military style funeral and the Australian Flying Corp erected a striking monument over his grave at the Fawkner Cemetery in Melbourne.

Memorial To Henri Tovell. To The Editor Of The Argus. 
Sir, I have been approached by members of the 4th Squadron Australian Flying Corps to request you to open a subscription to provide funds for the erection of a tombstone over the grave of the late Henri Tovell, who recently met his death in tragic circumstances. It is desired to have the stone suitably engraved in order that the memory of the circumstances under which he came to Australia may be perpetuated. The estimated sum required is £150. I enclose my cheque for £5 to open the subscription -Yours, &c , R. KING, Late Capt 4th AFC Chancery House, 485 Bourke street, June 5. [Cheque for £5 received]. We shall be glad to acknowledge subscriptions to this fund -Ed. "A." 
Argus (Melbourne),  7 June 1928.

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