FREEMAN, Thomas Dann (1903-1971)Thomas Dann Freeman, the son of Benjamin James Freeman his wife and Emily nee Dann was enrolled as a day student at the College from 8 February 1915 to 1920. His entry address was Waverley, Westen Beach, Geelong. He was born on 22 December 1903.
He was an Associate of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) having graduated from the Gordon Institute of Technology, and obtained the Diploma of the Melbourne Architectural Atelier. Before commencing practice as a partner in the firm of Yuncken, Freeman, Freeman & Griffith, Thomas Dann Freeman had obtained experience in architectural offices in London, New York and Melbourne.
During World War II, he enlisted (No. 127370) in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on 1 March 1943 and served as a Flight Officer at RAAF Headquarters, having attended the School of Administration, Melbourne. His appointment was terminated at his own request on 14 May 1944, to enable him to resume his civilian occupation, architecture.
Following his death on 12 June 1971 funds were bequeathed to the School from his Estate, and at his request, to fund scholarships. The
Thomas Dann Freeman Music Scholarships are current scholarships at the College and are open to students entering Year 7 or Year 9 who demonstrate significant proficiency and interest in instrumental or vocal music.
His brother,
Harvey Freeman MC (1897-1917) was awarded the Military Cross at Ypres on 4 October 1917 shortly before he was killed at Gravenstafel Spur, on 12 October 1917 He was buried at Tyne Cot Cemetery, Passchendaele. His oldest brother,
James Arthur Freeman DCM (1896-1966), was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal at Martinpuich on 2 February 1917. Both brothers as well as a fourth brother, John Russell Freeman (1899-1964) were educated at Geelong College.
Sources: Based on an edited extract from Geelong Collegians at the Great War compiled by James Affleck. p 236 (citing The Pegasus; Australian War Memorial; National Archives).