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John Cadell Dight (1886–1917)

The news of the death in action of Acting Sergeant John Cadell Dight (late C.P.S. and Registrar at West Wyalong) was received locally on Wednesday with genuine and widespread regret. During his term of office here, extending over a period of nearly 3 years, he manifested such sterling qualities, both in his official and private capacity, as won for him the high respect, esteem and good-will of the general community, and the affectionate regard of his personal friends. He was not one to make friends lightly, but once having extended his friendship, it was not lightly broken. Prior to the outbreak of war, he displayed commendable public spirit, performing splendid work for the School of Arts (of which he was Hon. Secretary), St. Barnabas Church, and other institutions. From the time the war started until he enlisted for active service here some 18 months ago, he applied himself assiduously to patriotic work. He was one of the most energetic and earnest member of the War Service Committee, and took a prominent part in all patriotic movements. He took a keen interest in the Volunteer Corps, of which he was a most capable officer. Quietly he enlisted, and it was only a few days before relinquishing his official duties that local residents learned of his intention to go to the front. After a short period in an officer's school, he qualified for a Sergeant, and after some months in Bathurst Camp he sailed for England. His services as an instructor were so much appreciated in England, that he was retained on the Instruction Staff for about six months. In a letter which we received from him lately he stated: "My lengthy stay here has not been through any action of mine, and I would certainly resent being accused of 'swinging the lead."' He could only have been in the firing line a short space of time, as he is reported to have been killed in action on September 24th.

Deceased was the fifth son of the late John Dight, of Boonal, Mclntyre River, and of Mrs. Dight, of Whiporie, N.S.W. His wife is at present residing at 50 Burlington Street, Crow's Nest, North Sydney. Three other brothers are on active service.

The deep sympathy of local residents goes out to the aged mother, wife and infant daughter, in their sad and overwhelming loss.

Original publication

Additional Resources

Citation details

'Dight, John Cadell (1886–1917)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/dight-john-cadell-17619/text29267, accessed 29 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

5 April, 1886
Yetman, New South Wales, Australia

Death

24 September, 1917 (aged 31)
Polygon Wood, Belgium

Cause of Death

killed in action

Religious Influence

Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.

Occupation
Military Service