Corporal F.G. Mitchell and Flight Sergeant G.H. Knight Memorial Trees, Jiggi

About

These memorial pine trees are located on the grounds of the Jiggi Public School. They are dedicated in memory of two ex-pupils who died while serving in the Second World War: Corporal Francis Gordon Mitchell and Flight Sergeant Gordon Henry Knight. The tree planting was decided upon by the Jiggi Public School Parents and Citizens' Association at a meeting in July 1946, chaired by President Mr H.J. Shearman (Northern Star, 24 July 1946). Two years later, the trees were planted by Mr Shearman, Mr E.J. Knight, and Kevin and Neville Mitchell. The ceremony was well-attended and was reported in the Northern Star on 28 August. During his speech, Mr Knight expressed his appreciation for the creation of the memorial on behalf of both families.  Corporal Francis Gordon Mitchell was born on 12 October 1919 at Lismore. He enlisted on 5 March 1941 and died on 21 November 1942, as a member of the 2/1 Australian Infantry Battalion. Flight Sergeant Gordon Henry Knight was born on 21 June 1923, also at Lismore. A member of the 44th Squadron, he was killed on 7 June 1944. Both men are also listed on the Jiggi-Georgica Second World War Roll of Honour located in the Jiggi Hall.