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Edward Robert (Bob) Langlands (1914–1941)

The first instance of the supreme sacrifice being made by one of Horsham's young soldiers overseas came on Tuesday afternoon when the news was received of the death in action of Lieutenant Edward Robert Langlands, of the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment. The sad intimation was received his father, Mr. Frank Langlands, at his office and the news quickly spread throughout the town. Born in Horsham 27 years ago deceased was the younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Langlands, of Darlot street. He was educated at the State and High schools here and at the Melbourne Grammar School. One of the town's popular, esteemed and progressive young men; it was natural that he should be linked up with activities for the welfare of his fellow men and the community in general. As an active member, he was soon guiding the presidential reins of the Apex Club. In church work he was a member of St. John's Church of England and secretary for many years of the Horsham Church of England Men's Society. His business career commenced after he left college, when he entered the well known firm of J Langlands & Sons Pty. Ltd. in January, 1931. When the furniture emporium was opened in Pynsent street, he was appointed manager and in February, 1939, he was made a director of the firm. His personality was such that he was a popular figure with the staff and the clients. His business ability was recognised in a wide sphere, for the Furnishers Societies of Victoria honoured him with the position of retailers' representative on its executive council. In the sporting world he was a prominent figure as was a player and president of the Horsham Tennis Club and a member of the Horsham Golf Club. He was also a valuable playing member of the Horsham Football Club.

The late Lieut. Langlands was one of the first men to join the First Armoured Car Regiment, which was formed in 1934. He displayed such ability and keenness that he was soon promoted to the rank of corporal in No. 2 Troop, which had as its leader then Lieut. (now Captain) J. S. Bolton. In 1936 Corporal Langlands, still with the troop, was made a sergeant and during part of the Seymour camp he acted as troop leader. It was due to his excellent work that he was asked to sit for examination for the rank of lieutenant. After passing easily, he was promoted to the rank of officer in 1937, when he took over No. 3 troop of the Armored Car Regiment. When war broke out, he felt it was his duty to enlist in the A.I.F., which he did while attending the camp at Torquay in 1940. Colonel Bastian, who was in charge of the Car Mechanised Regiment, selected the Horsham lieutenant out of quite a number as one of his troop leaders. A considerable time was spent in training at different centres, after which the regiment sailed for active service overseas.

Lieut.-Colonel D. Clark, of Horsham, who is in command of the 19th L.H.M.G.Regiment, paid the following tribute:"Bob was one of the best troop leaders anyone could wish to have. While I was in charge of the squadron the troop leaders were Russell Wilmoth, Tim Bolton and Bob, with Jack Bolton as second in command. It was a pleasure to work with them. Bob was very thorough in all he did and his first consideration was also was for his men. He would never ask his lads to do anything he would not do himself. We have lost a born leader and a thorough gentleman."

Deceased was married to Miss Nancy Barker, of Mount Barker, South Australia who survives him, together with a young daughter (Margaret). He also leave a brother (Bruce).

His late uncle (Mr. John Langlands) served in the great war.

In honor of deceased, the flags at the store, and at the Town Hall were flown half -mast, and business at the store was transacted behind closed doors. The deep sympathy of a wide circle of friends throughout the Wimmera has been conveyed to the bereaved.

Original publication

Additional Resources

Citation details

'Langlands, Edward Robert (Bob) (1914–1941)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/langlands-edward-robert-bob-17084/text28925, accessed 29 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

18 April, 1914
Horsham, Victoria, Australia

Death

19 June, 1941 (aged 27)
Syria

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.

Education
Occupation
Military Service
Key Organisations
Workplaces