MemorialsPaddy Bugden VC Memorial, Alstonville
About
This war memorial is dedicated to Private Patrick Joseph Bugden VC, who was killed in action in the First World War. It consists of two distinct elements. The focal point is a stylised sculpture of a soldier pulling three others out of trench. The figures are accompanied by a stack of sandbags and a single slouch hat. The artwork is positioned on a three-step platform and backed by a cement-rendered brick wall that has a jagged top, resembling mountainous terrain. The second element is a black granite pillar, positioned on the grass to the left of the platform. The front is inscribed with details of Bugden's war service. It also states the work was a 25th anniversary project of the Alstonville Rotary Club and it was unveiled on 28 September 1997. Bugden's 1917 Victoria Cross citation is recorded on the back of the pillar. It was added in 2001 by the 2/7th Commando Squadron WWII. The two other sides have illustrations of rifles on them and the pillar is topped by a sculpture of a slouch hat. The memorial is located alongside Bugden Avenue, Alstonville, a road and avenue of trees dedicated to Bugden in 1948. The closest intersection is South Street. A timber signpost identifies the memorial from the road. Read more about Private Patrick Joseph Bugden VC on the NSW War Memorials Register.