DNA Test

I thought my extended Duperouzel family would be interested to know that I carried out a DNA test and submitted the kit, together with a copy of the Duperouzel family tree, to the Unrecovered War Casualties – Army, Department of Defence, in Canberra, in July 2016.

As many of you know the Battle of Pozières, just over a 100 years ago, claimed the lives of 6800 Australian troops, of whom 4000 are still ‘missing’ with no known grave. Uncle Jim, 4783 Private James Ross Duperouzel 51st Bn. AIF, from York, Western Australia, is one of those who is missing having been KIA at Mouquet Farm on 14/16 August 1916.

Taking your own DNA samples and the necessary form filling for this important test was indeed an emotional experience…coming so soon after our Duper family pilgrimage to the Somme last April. This test is very worthwhile to help the UMC to make a match in the event of discovering an unidentified AIF serviceman near Mouquet Farm. Should this ever happen then future generations of the Duperouzel family will eventually have a grave and headstone they can visit on the Somme and be justifiably proud of Uncle Jim knowing at last where his remains have finally been laid to rest.