OFFICER, Gus

Augustus "Gus" Officer was a strong half-forward and defender from Warrnambool who played in Essendon's inaugural League game in 1897. Although not the star his brother Ned was, Gus managed 48 games over four seasons and missed only one game in his last two seasons: 1899 and 1900.

Aged 40, he paid his own way overseas to enlist in the British Army in the Royal Field Artillery. He received a Military Cross for gallantry while fighting in France in 1918, and was twice Mentioned in Despatches.

His brother Ned, played many Association games for Essendon and 18 League games in 1897 and 1898.

Gus Officer died on 25th February, 1935.