Sgt. William Dobson Scorer, 8th Battalion, AIF.

William Dobson Scorer, 24th Battalion, of Essendon, Vic. A clerk prior to enlistment he embarked with the 6th Reinforcements from Melbourne on board HMAT Ulysses on 27 October 1915. He was taken on strength and transferred to the 8th Battalion on 24 February 1916. After a series of promotions he reached the rank of Sergeant (Sgt) on 27 July 1916. 

Sgt Dobson was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in an attack on Broodseinde Ridge east of Ypres on 4 October 1917. According to the recommendation "he assisted in guiding the battalion to the assembly position. During the advance he maintained direction on the flank in a most efficient manner, and, when held up by machine gun fire, crept forward alone and put the gun out of action. Though wounded, he continued at his task until badly wounded at the final objective, setting a fine example of courage and initiative.'" 

Sgt Scorer was admitted to hospital on 9 October from the extensive wounds he substained; he later developed pneumonia and died on 24 October 1917, aged 24. He is buried at Etaples Military Cemetery, France.

Gallipoli Landings - Lance Corporal Viv Brown, 8th Battalion, AIF.

This report from the West Wimmera mail comes from Lance Corporal Vivian Charles Brown, 8th Battalion AIF.

He was a carpenter from Natimuk, Victoria. He enlisted on 19th August 1914 aged 27, regimental no. 643. He returned to Australia on 17th March 1917, injured.

A newspaper report of the 23rd June 1920 updates “Mr. Viv Brown is back in Natimuk from the Caulfield Military Hospital, where he underwent an operation on his foot, which was shattered by a shell.”

This account gives a different angle and even has time for some humour, “As the hills were very steep many rolled down instead of walking”.

Mrs. EKMAN writes:-- I noticed in your last issue that you stated my brother, Viv. C. BROWN was at Malta (minding prisoners), I beg to inform you, that is incorrect, because Monday, 21st June, I received a letter from him, which runs as follows:--

"Just a few lines to let you know I am still able to eat three meals a day. We are right in the thick of it here, if you know where "here" is, as we are not allowed to say where we are at present. We landed on a Sunday and I do not think I will ever forget it. The first salute we got was a hail of shrapnel as we rowed ashore in the boats, and as we got ashore it was like someone throwing stones. They (the stones) were flopping all around us. It was all uphill work.

There was a funny side to it as well. As the hills were very steep many rolled down instead of walking. I experienced it myself, and it was not too pleasant, as there was a lot of prickly bushes where I lobbed. The fire was not too bad until we got to another hill. Colonel GARTSIDES (he is dead now poor chap) said we would be under heavy fire when we were going down the other side, and he was quiet right, we were. I reckon I could have given any of the crack runners of "Nati" a start and then have beaten them down the next gully. I will ring off now as paper is scarce. H. HALLAM was the only one from Natimuk that got hit, he is still in the hospital. Remember me to all over there as I cannot write to everyone."

Private Francis Douglas Ernest Aloysius Asker, 8th Battalion, AIF

Private Francis Douglas Ernest Aloysius Asker, 6383, 8th Battalion, AIF was awarded the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on 4th October 1917.

He enlisted on 14th August 1916, aged 24, his address being that of his father, W Asker, 618 Nicholson Street, North Fitzroy, Victoria

He embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A14 ‘Euripides’ on 11th September 1916. He was allocated to the 8th Battalion, 20th Reinforcements.

On New Years Day 1917, he was sent to hospital sick with Bronco, Catarrh and admitted to Middlesex War Hospital on 17th January 1917. After he was discharged from hospital he had a few weeks furlough before he was allocated to No 1 Com. Depot at Perham Downs.

He rejoined the 8th Battalion on 16th September 1917 and he was recommended and awarded the Military Medal for his work on 4th October 1917. The citation reads:

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty near ZONNEBEKE east of YPRES, on 4th October, 1917, this man rushed a German Machine Gun and despite resistance killed the crew and put the gun out of action.'

He was gassed on 1st August 1918 and invalided to the U.K. 3 days later.

He returned home to Australia on 20th December 1918.

He had two brothers who both fought with the 24th Battalion, 5786 Pte. Gerald Alphonsus and 5787, Pte. Joseph Anthony, who both survived the war and returned to Australia.

C.S.M. James Breeze, 8th Battalion, AIF.

C.S.M. James Breeze, 1345, 8th Battalion, AIF. Won the Distingushed Conduct Medal for his work at Polygon Wood on 20th September 1917.

He enlisted at the age of 24, on 21st September 1914 at Broadmeadows, his next of kin was James David Breeze, 207 Osborne Street, Williamstown, Victoria and he was previously employed as an Accountant.

On his enlistment form it said he served 5 years in the Victorian Scottish Regiment.

He was allocated to the 2nd Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion and embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A46 “Clan Macgillivray” on 2nd February 1915.

He was admitted to Hospital with Dysentery 28th August 1915 and sent to Hospital in Southampton, England. He eventually re-joined the 8th Battalion on 8th August 1916.

His recommendation for the D.C.M. reads:

“During the attack on Polygon Wood near Ypres on 20th September 1917, C.S.M. Breeze did splendid work from start to finish. When some of his Officers became casualties during the advance, he took charge and led the platoons to the attack in a courageous and efficient manner. Throughout the action he showed a fine disregard for his personal safety, and handled his men with great skill and initiative.
At times when the line became disorganised through casualties he showed great ability and courage in reorganising under heavy fire.
He set a splendid example to his men throughout the action.”


He was gassed on 25th September 1917 and subsequently sent on temporary appointment to the 4th Army Musketry School. He rejoined the 8th Battalion on 29th September 1918.

He returned to Australia on 21st March 1919.

Private Albert Attwood, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Private Albert Attwood, 5330, 8th Battalion AIF won the Military Medal for his work at Broodseinde Ridge on 4th October 1917.

He enlisted in the A.I.F. on 1st February 1916 aged 26; he had been born in Kent, England. His next of kin is named as his mother, Anne Attwood from Ivy House, Orchard Street, Rainham, Kent, England.

His address at enlistment was Ardmona, Mooroopna, Victoria.

He was allocated to the 8th Battalion, 17th Reinforcements and embarked for Europe, from Melbourne on 4th April 1916 aboard HMAT A14 ‘Euripides’.

He was recommended for the Military Medal on 13th October 1917, the recommendation reads:

'During the attack on BROODSEINDE RIDGE east of YPRES on 4th October, 1917, this man showed great pluck and devotion to duty after being badly shaken by shell fire. It was mainly due to his guidance and grit that ammunition and stokes ammunition requisitions for the front line reached their destination. In spite of heavy fire this man stuck to his work continually passing over the shelled area where most casualties were inflicted. By his careful guidance fewer casualties were inflicted and the front line supply maintained.'

He was wounded in action in August 1918 and invalided back to Australia on 14th January 1919. However, before he left England on the 30th December 1918 at St. Johns Church, Tunbidge Wells, Kent, he married Miss Ethel Reynolds of 15, Thomas Street, Tunbridge Wells a 21 year old, spinster. On the wedding certificate his father is named as Horace Attwood, a Greengrocer.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Lieutenant Thomas Anderson, 8th Battalion, AIF

Lieutenant Thomas Anderson, 8th Battalion, AIF, was born in July 1886, the son of F. Anderson from Windermere, Ballarat, Victoria.

Lieutenat Thomas Anderson (in the centre of the picture) February 1918.

He enlisted on the 30th December 1914, aged 28, number 1703 and embarked with the 4th Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion from Melbourne on the 14th April 1915 on board HMAT A18 “Wiltshire”.

He was promoted through the ranks and as a Sergeant he won the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his incredible work on 4th October 1917 at the battle of Broodseinde Ridge. The citation reads:

“During the attack on BROODSEINDE RIDGE east of YPRES on 4th October 1917, this N.C.O. who was acting C.S.M. did splendid and courageous work during and after the advance. With 8 men he attacked and captured a pill box, inside our own barrage, which was punishing the attacking line with Machine Gun fire. To do this he had to penetrate our own barrage line.

He rushed the pill box and shot the Machine Gunners and captured the Machine Guns and three men, in spite of a strong resistance by the enemy with bombs and Machine Guns. He also rendered valuable work in reorganisation and consolidation showing no regard for his own personal safety."

He was promoted through the ranks to 2nd Lieutenant on 15th October 1917 and to Lieutenant on 28th February 1918.

He was awarded the Military Cross for his work on the 9th and 11th August 1918, the citation reads:

“For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the attack north of ROSIERES on the 9th August 1918.

Lieutenant Anderson was in charge of the platoon on the extreme right of the battalion and when the troops on our right flank failed to advance, he showed fine judgement and tactical knowledge in forming a defensive flank. He led his platoon with fine dash and personally mopped up several pockets of Germans who were putting up a strong resistance.

When his company commander became a casualty Lieut. Anderson took command of the company and led it in fine style, doing splendid work personally supervising consolidation and fighting the enemy back with Lewis Gun and rifle fire.

During the attack on LIHONS on the 11th August 1918 Lieut. Anderson, who was in charge of the right line company, again distinguished himself by fine leadership and courage.

Throughout the operation he sent frequent and accurate reports of the sistautaion to the rear. On reaching his objective he found that his right flank was in the air on account of the troops on our right not having advanced. He skilfully formed a defensive flank and beat off a strong German counter-attack.

He set his men a splendid example of courage, always leading them, taking his share of the hand-to-hand fighting and inspiring them to such an extent by his own courage that they threw back a far stronger body of the enemy numerically that themselves. He personally supervised the consolidation and established same on such a sound tactical basis that with a very weak garrison he was able to repel several attempts of the enemy to drive him back.”

Lieutenant Anderson returned to Australia on 23rd September 1919.

Sergeant Frank Alberry, 867, 8th Battalion AIF.

Sergeant Frank Alberry, 867, 8th Battalion was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his heroic action on 25th July 1916 at the battle of Pozieres on the Somme.

During this action he was badly wounded and had a leg amputated. After he was released from hospital he transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, where he was commissioned as a Lieutenant and qualified as a pilot. He was subsequently wounded again and returned to Australia 20th November 1918.

He enlisted on 24th August 1914, aged 21 at Broadmeadows in Melbourne. He came from Hobart Tasmania. Interestingly on his application form it stated that he had previously served for 1 ½ years in a Welsh Regiment, where he had deserted but had been granted a free pardon.

In March 1916, at the training school he gained a distinguished pass with Lewis Guns.

Below is the official recommendation for the D.C.M.

“At Pozieres France, on the morning of 25th July 1916. Sergeant Alberry controlled 4 Lewis Machine Guns & teams and showed great skill in their disposition. When our Right company “C” was checked during attack this N.C.O. personally took a gun to a flank & by the aid of this fire the Company was able to again push forward.

Whilst the Battalion was digging in, he took a gun forward into a shell hole and gave good covering fire. The following night the Battalion was ordered to establish a Strong Post East of Orchard. Sergeant Alberry again rendered valuable service by establishing his gun on a flank, thus giving good protection for this party. When the Strong Post was established this N.C.O. took a gun there and assisted to hold it during the next two days. He was under constant fire and showed a splendid example to his men. A good deal of success of this attack was due to his splendid handling of L.M. Guns and great credit is due to Sgt. Alberry for this. He was badly wounded whilst being relieved from this Strong Post, and has since had his leg amputated. He had never been away from the Battalion since its formation in August 1914.”

The published citation in the London Gazette on 20th October 1916 reads:

“For conspicuous gallantry in action. He controlled four machine guns with great skill and determination and did fine work with them throughout. He was wounded while being relieved from holding a strong post and has since lost his leg.”

Here is a summary of his service record:

24.8.14 Enlisted at Broadmeadows, Victoria, posted to the 8th Battalion.
19.10.14 Embarked from Australia.
5.4.15 Embarked to join M.E.F at Gallipoli.
27.12.15 To be Lance-Corporal.
7.1.16 Disembarked at Alexandria.
26.2.16 Promoted to Corporal.
15.3.16 Promoted to Sergeant.
26.3.16 Proceeded to Join the B.E.F. in France.
31.3.16 Disembarked at Marseilles.
26.7.16 Wounded in action, awarded the D.C.M.
1.8.16 Invalided to England, Leg Amputated.
26.3.17 Discharged ex Hospital to duty.
3.8.17 Joined No.1 School of Aeronautics, Reading.
13.9.17 Attached 29th, Training Squadron as Cadet.
6.11.17 Having graduated as Flying Officer (Pilot) is appointed 2nd Lieutenant in AIF.
4.4.18 Proceeded to France, attached to A.F.C. Depot.
16.6.18 Taken on strength No.2 Squadron.
13.8.18 Wounded in Action (2nd Occasion).
15.8.18 Rejoined No. 2 Squadron.
20.11.18 Embarked for Australia.
5.1.19 Disembarked 3rd. Military District.
6.3.19 Appointment Terminated at Melbourne.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Lance Corporal John Schmidt, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Lance Corporal John Schmidt, 6142, 8th Battalion, AIF.

He enlisted on 2nd May 1916 at the age of 26 and a farmer from Quantong, Victoria.

He was awarded the Military Medal for service on the night 13th April 1918, during the battle of LYS.

The official recommendation was initially for the D.C.M, but the Military Medal was awarded.

“For gallant and distinguished service in front of Petit SEC BOIS near STRAZEELE on the night of 13th April, 1918. Lance Corporal SCHMIDT was in charge of a Lewis Gun Section in an isolated post guarding a road through No Man’s Land when he saw a party of the enemy about 40 strong approaching. With great coolness and presence of mind he allowed then to approach to within 10 yards of his gun post when he opened fire, killing 1 officer and 20 Other Ranks, the remainder retiring in disorder, leaving 6 machine guns, ammunition and tripods in our hands. He immediately put the captured Machine Guns into section against the enemy.

The presence of mind and great coolness displayed by him enabled us to inflict numerous casualties upon the enemy and gained valuable identification.”


The Official History of Australia in the War of 1914–1918 by C.E.W. Bean, covering the Battle of Lys records the action taken by Lance Corporal Schmidt.

“The first attack on the 1st Australian Division’s new front at Hazebrouck was made shortly after midnight of the 13th’ when a company of Germans came marching up a cross-country lane leading from Verte Rue to the Rue du Bois, across the Australian front. Behind a hedge bordering this lane was a Lewis gun post (Lance Corporal Schmidt’s) of Lieutenant Murdoch’s’ platoon of the centre company (Captain Fox’s), 8th Battalion.

The approaching troops, who were seen at some distance, were allowed to march without alarm to within twenty yards, when the Victorians blazed at them from every barrel, and continued to pour a withering fire into the Germans, whose survivors panicked and fled. Murdoch and some of his men went out and found a German officer and twenty men of the 141st Infantry Regiment dead and five abandoned machine-guns. Two nights later a sixth gun was found.”

He survived the war and returned to Australia. The West Wimmera Mail, 15th August 1919, reports his arrival and gives some extra details of his deeds on the night he won the Military Medal.

“Corporal C.J. SCHMIDT, of the 8th Battalion, and Sergeant C.A. SCHMIDT, 6th Battalion, who have just recently returned by the Port Darwin, are at present spending a few days with their uncle, Mr. John SCHMIDT, of Natimuk.

Both lads are very well known in the district, being sons of Mr and Mrs W. SCHMIDT, formally of Quantong, but who now reside in Footscray, Melbourne.

Corporal J. SCHMIDT, who has seen three years' service abroad, has been awarded the Military Medal for distinguished conduct in the field, having personally accounted for 40 Germans (killed), 8 machine guns captured, together with a number of rifles, ammunition, etc. "Jack" was keeping night guard (while the battle of Neippe Forest was raging) with six of his comrades who during a lull in the fighting were indulging in a much needed "forty-winks". Seeing a number of shadows advancing, Jack challenged the approachers twice, and on not getting any response unaided, lifted his machine gun over the hedge behind which they were ambushed, to a more advantageous position, but right out in the open road in a very perilous position to himself, and opened fire, with the result as above stated, the rest of the enemy advance party of an estimated number of 60, retreating in wild disorder.

"Charlie," who is now only 21 years, has also seen 3 years' active service abroad, and was twice badly gassed at Paschendaele.”

Private Daniel Leonard Beames, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

Private Daniel Leonard Beames, 5038, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

He was born in Portland, Victoria the Son of Daniel and Rebecca Beames, of Hurd St., Portland, Victoria, Australia

He was 5’ 9” tall, weighed 143 lbs, had brown eyes and dark brown hair.

He served in the Australian Naval reserve for 3 years.

31st January 1916 he enlisted at Portland, Victoria.

His job at enlisted was a labourer.

4th February 1916 he joined 14th Depot Battalion at Ballarat.
22nd March 1916 he transferred to Broadmeadows and was allocated to the 16th reinforcements of the 8th Battalion.
1st April 1916 he embarked on “Suffolk”.
14th May 1916 he disembarked at the Suez.
28th May 1916 he embarked on the “Tunisian” for France.
4th June 1916 he disembarked at Marseilles.
7th June 1916 he arrived for training at Etaples.
29th July 1916 he joined the 8th Battalion.
18th August 1916 he was wounded in action.
20th August 1916 in No. 44 Casualty Clearing Station.
21st August arrived at 22 General Hospital at Estaples with a gun shot wound in the back.
4th September 1916 joins the training at Etaples
4th October 1916 he re-joins the 8th Battalion.
9th November 1916 sent sick to hospital.
12th November 1916 admitted to 11 Sty Hospital at Rouen with Trench Fever.
14th November 1916 sent to England on the “St. George.”
17th November 1916 admitted to 1st London General Hospital for observation.
25th January 1917 he is discharged from hospital, given furlough.
10th February 1917 he reports to Perham Downs (1st Command Depot).
15th March 1917 he goes back to France via Folkestone.
16th March 1917 he arrives at the training depot at Etaples.
10th April 1917 he re-joins the 8th Battalion.

4th October 1917 He was killed in Action aged 32.


He is buried in Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood, Zonnebeke, Belgium.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Private Alexander Munro, 8th Battalion A I F.

Private Alexander Munro, 4342, 8th Battalion A I F.

He was the son of Andrew and Janet Munro, of Boyco, Victoria, Australia.

A native of Nhill, Victoria.

He was 5’7” tall, weighed 150 lbs, had blue eyes and sandy hair.

His occupation at enlistment was a Farmer.

Enlisted at 26th July 1915, Nhill, Victoria.

23rd November 1915 he was allocated to the 13th Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion at Broadmeadows.
29th December 1915 he embarked at Melbourne on the “Demosthenes” for Egypt.
3rd February 1916 admitted to hospital with measles.
19th February 1916 he was discharged from hospital.
29th March 1916 he departed from Alexandria on the “Transylvania” for France.
4th April 1916 arrived in Marseilles.
7th May 1916 he was admitted to hospital with mumps.
31st May 1915 rejoined Base Depot.
29th July 1916 joins the 8th Battalion.

18th August 1916, he was killed in action aged 22.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery Ovillers-La-Boisselle

Source : National Archives of Australia

Corporal Walter Clarence Gehan, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Corporal Walter Clarence Gehan, 2365, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Born on 9th January 1898 at Stawell, Victoria, the son of Mr. A. Gehan, Post Office, Stawell, Victoria.

He was 5’ 5” tall, weighed 10 stone and had brown eyes and brown hair.

8th May 1915 he enlisted at Stawell, Victoria aged 18 years and 5 months. His job at enlistment is recorded as a labourer.
(His younger brother Herbert James Gehan enlisted 4 days before).

28th May 1915 he was allocated to the 14th Battalion reinforcements.
22nd June 1915 he reallocated to the 7th Reinforcements 8th Battalion.
16th July 1915 he left Australia for Egypt on the “Demosthenes.”
23rd November he joined the 8th Battalion at ANZAC.
7th January 1916 he disembarked at Alexandria.
26th March 1916 he left Egypt for France.
31st March 1916 he disembarked at Marseilles.
1st October 1918 he was appointed Lance-Corporal.
19th December 1918 he was promoted to Corporal.
23rd March 1919 he returned to Australia on the “Kildonan Castle.”
29th June 1919 he was discharged from active service.

His brother Herbert James Gehan, was killed in action on 18th August 1916 aged 20 at Pozieres.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Private Herbert James Gehan, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Private Herbert James Gehan, 2364, 8th Battalion, AIF.

He was form Lake Lonsdale, Victoria and the son of Mr. A Gehan Post Office, Stawell, Victoria.

He was 5’ 6” tall, weighed 154 lbs and had grey eyes and dark hair.

4th May 1915 he enlisted at Stawell, Victoria aged 19 years and 8 months. His job at enlistment is recorded as a labourer.
(His younger brother Walter Clarence Gehan enlisted 4 days after).

28th May 1915 he was allocated to the 14th Battalion reinforcements.
22nd June 1915 he reallocated to the 7th Reinforcements 8th Battalion.
1st October 1915 he was temporarily transferred to Divisional Headquarters at Lemnos.
23rd November he joined the 8th Battalion at ANZAC.
7th January 1916 he disembarked at Alexandria.
26th March 1916 he left Egypt for France.
31st March 1916 he disembarked at Marseilles.

18th August 1916 He was killed in action aged 20.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery Ovillers-La-Boisselle

National Archives of Australia - Digital Image 4025083.

Mr A Gehan's letter of permission for his son to join up.

His brother Walter Clarence Gehan, survived the war and returned to Australia on 23rd March 1919.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Private Richard Saxon, 8th Battalion AIF

Private Richard Saxon, 3915, 8th Battalion AIF

Son of Margaret Saxon, 36 St Johns Street, East Brunswick. His father had died by the time he had enlisted.

He was 5’ 10” tall, weighed 12 stone and had brown eyes and black hair.

27th May 1915 He enlisted at East Brunswick, Victoria aged 43 years and 6 months. His occupation is given as a miner.

4th November 1915 he joined the 12th Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion.
29th March 1916 he left Alexandria on the ‘Trannsylvania” for Europe.
4th April 1916 he arrived in Marseilles.
25th June 1916 he joined the entrenching Battalion at Etaples.
14th July 1916 he joined the 8th Battalion.

18 August 1916 Killed in action aged 44.


The Red Cross reports into his death:

“I knew Saxon who was in my platoon. I was told by Corporal de Weir, D Company, 14th Platoon , that he was in charge of a bombing party of whom Saxon was one near Contalmaison about 18th August 1918. He said he had seen Saxon killed and that his body was left. It was at night.” Pte. B.H. Beaton, 1742, 8th Battalion.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery Ovillers-La-Boisselle

Source : National Archives of Australia

Private John Leo Egan, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

Private John Leo Egan, 4779, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

He was the son of William and Mary Egan, of 20, Hopkins Street, Richmond, Victoria, Australia

He was 5’ 5” tall, weighed 9 stone 5 lbs, and had blue eyes and dark hair.

16th November 1915 enlisted at Richmond, Victoria aged 18 years and 7 months. His Occupation at enlistment was Leather Worker.

3rd December 1915 He was placed in 14th Depot Battalion at Ballarat.
13th January 1916 he was moved to the 15th Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion at Broadmeadows.
7th March 1916 embarked on the ‘Wiltshire’
28th May 1916 he embarked from Alexandria for Europe.
4th June 1916 he disembarked at Marseilles.
7th June 1916 he was marched into Etaples.
29th July 1916 he joined the 8th Battalion.

18th August 1916 he was killed in action, aged 19.

The Red Cross reports into his death:

“He was on my gun. Pte. Braybook told me that he was killed. His pay-book and disc were handed in to the office. He was a dark young fellow of about 18 and was in C. Company, Machine Gun Section.” L/Cpl Wilton, 5258, C Company

“He was amote of mine and went into action about August, at or near Pozieres. He was on the same gun as myself, and we both went over the parapet together and we were about hundred yards from the enemy trench, and a shell burst close to us and knocked me into a shell hole and I never saw him after, and the next I heard was that his pay book was found, if so he is dead, but he never suffered any pain because I was in the same shell-hole for about ten minutes, and he could not have been more than ten yards away at the time, when he got killed and I could have heard him.” Pte. L. Braybrook, 5049, 8th Battalion, A.I.F. Machine Gun Section.

“While retiring from an unsuccessful battalion raid when about a third of the way back I saw him struck by Machine Gun fire and killed instantly. His pay-book and disc were brought in with us. He was buried later in the vicinity. Short, slight, fair, clean shaven, about 20.” H. Ladkins, 4317.

“He was killed at Pozieres on the 8th august 1916. I know this because Father O’Heran, the Roman Catholic Chaplain to the Brigade had his pay boo. Somebody had found it on his body and gave it to the padre. Pte. Ladkins, of c. Company Machine Gun Section told me this. I saw Ladkins in April. He was then with the battalion.” Pte. O’Laughlin, 5429, C Company.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery, Ovillers-La-Boisselle.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Corporal Trevor David Lovell Anderson, 8th Battalion AIF.

Corporal Trevor David Lovell Anderson, 517, 8th Battalion AIF.

He was born in Horsham Victoria, the Son of David and Alice Elizabeth Anderson, of 36, Noble St., Newtown, Victoria, Australia.

He was 5’ 10” tall, he weighed 11Stone 8lbs, had grey eyes and fair hair.

He went to school at Doonen.

His job at enlistment was a plumber.

He enlisted on 18th August 1914 at Horsham, Victoria aged 22 years and 11 months.

19th October 1914 He embarked on “Benalla”
8th May 1915 He received a Gun Shot Wound to Leg and hand.
17th May 1915 He was admitted to Tinge Hospital, Malta.
9th June 1915 He was discharged.
8th June 1915 He embarked for Egypt on the “Archia”
14th June 1915 He left for Gallipoli on the “Southland”
20th June 1915 He rejoined the 8th.
7th February 1916 He was appointed Lance-corporal
26th February 1916 He was promoted to Corporal.
26th March 1916 left Alexandria.
31st March 1916 Arrived in Marseilles.

27th July 1916 he was killed in action aged 24.

The Red Cross report of his death:

“Informant states that – On Monday, 24th July 1916, at Pozieries, Corporal D.T. Anderson was killed by shell-fire, about 2 or 3 o’clock in the afternoon. His burial is doubtful. Pte. Nelson (1st Aus Div, 8th Btn, A Coy) was killed by the same shell.

Lieutenant Luke P. Fay, 8th Battalion, A.I.F. 1st London General Hospital, 31/07/16.

Note: Informant was reliable.

Letter to his parents from the Base Records Office

Dear Sir,

With reference to the report of the regrettable lose of your son, the late no.517, Corporal T.D.L.Anderson, 8th Battalion. I am now in receipt of advice that he was killed in action on the afternoon of 27th July 1916., in France; death caused by a shell was instantaneous. His company had advanced into Pozieres and dug-in that morning. He was buried in Pozieres British Cemetry, France.

Major Base Records Office.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery Ovillers-La-Boisselle

Source : National Archives of Australia

2nd Lieutenant William Richard Doolan, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

2nd Lieutenant William Richard Doolan, 8th Battalion AIF

He was born on 12th January 1890, the son of Charles Doolan, Oakridge, Victoria.

He was married to Mrs Louisa Florence Doolan, of Dandenong Road, Oakleigh, Victoria.

He was Civil Servant at the Crown Law Department of the State.

1st year Law Degree at Melbourne University.

He was in the Melbourne High School Cadets for 2 years – Sergeant for 8 months, 2nd Leiutanant 4 months

He enlisted at Oakleigh, Victoria.

15th June 1916 He completed the Officers course at 6th Officers School at Broadmeadows.
22nd June 1915 applied for commission.
16th July 1915 He is allocated to 8th Battalion, 12th Reinforcements.
7th August 1915 His commission is gazetted.
23rd November 1915 He embarked for Egypt.
27th March 1916 He embarked on the “Saxonia.”
2nd April 1916 He disembarked in France
25th May 1916 He proceeded to join the 8th.

18th August 1916 He was Killed in Action aged 25, his rescue was attempted by Private Richard Waltham who was himself killed in the attempt.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery Ovillers-La-Boisselle

Source : National Archives of Australia

Private Richard Waltham, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

Private Richard Waltham, 3983, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

Richard Waltham died in an attempt to carry back the injured Lieut Doolan from No Man’s Land. He had originally been with the 28th Battalion in Egypt, but after returning to Australia, was transferred at his own request to the 8th Battalion.

He was born on 19th February 1894, son of Joshua Frederick and Constance Winifried Waltham, of Tangil Hills, Victoria, Australia. A Native of Heidelberg, Victoria.

He went to Guildford Grammar School, Western Australia.

He was 5’ 11” tall, weighed 169 Lbs and had Brown eyes and Dark brown hair.

His job at enlistment is given as a Farmer

4th March 1915 he enlisted at Wanneroo, Western Australia with the 28th Battalion.

15th April 1915 He was promoted to Corporal.
9th June 1915 He left Australia with the 28th Battalion
7th August 1915 He was admitted to Hospital (V.D.), same day was reverted back to Private.
31st August 1915 He returned to Australia on “Wiltshire” with V.D.
23rd November 1915 He embarked on “Ceramic” for Egypt, transferred to the 8th Battalion.
18th February 1916 He was admitted to Hospital again, this time with mumps at Abbassia.
4th March 1916 He was discharged from 4th Auxiliary Hospital
8th March 1916 He was sent to Australian Reserve
29th march 1916 He left Alexandria for Europe on the “Transylvania”
4th April 1916 Disembarked at Marseilles.
10th May 1916 He was disciplined for disorderly conduct.
17th May 1916 Joined the 8th Battalion from Etaples

18th August 1916 He was Killed in Action, at Martinpuich near Pozieres whilst trying to rescue Lieut Doolan, aged 22.

His notes on Roll of Honour give this description of his service:

“He left Western Australia as a Corporal, on 9th June 1915 in the 28th Battalion. He left Egypt returned as Corporal on board troopship with wounded soldiers to Victoria. At own request he was transferred to 8th Battalion. He was killed in night raid, stuck in the forehead by shell while assisting to carry Lieutenant Doolan who was wounded to safety. (Lt. Doolan died of wounds, while prisoner).


He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery, Ovillers-La-Boisselle.

Source : National Archives of Australia

Private William John Hawkey, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Private William John Hawkey , 3796, 8th Battalion, AIF.

Born in Geelong, Victoria

Father was William Henry Hawkey, of Cave Hill, Lilydale, Victoria.

He was only 5’ 3” tall, weighed 10 Stone 7 Lbs, and had Brown eyes and Light Brown hair.

Enlisted in Melbourne Victoria on 5th July 1915 aged 30 years.

He was a Barman at time of Enlistment.

17th July 1915 He was joined the 12th Reinforcements of the 8th Battalion at Broadmeadows.
4th November 1915 He was sent to Egypt on the “Ceramic”.
29th March 1916 He left Alexandria for Europe.
4th April 1916 He disembarked at Marseilles and went to Etaples.
24th May 1916 He proceeded to join the 8th battalion.
26th May 1916 He was taken by the 8th.

25th July 1916 he was Killed in Action aged 31.

The Red Cross reports into his death, were as follows:

“Pte. Hawkey was killed by shrapnel in an attack by us, while on fatigue duty at night. I saw the body several times lying in the open. I believe it was buried later as the Pioneers were digging and burying all they could find.” Pte. J.A. Hantot, 3794, 8th Battalion.

“C Company were moving up the Pozieres road between 10 & 11 pm on July 25th to reinforce the front line. The Germans were shelling this road and a shell landed in the 12th Platoon. Killing Hawkey instantly and wounding 10 or 12 others. Informant who was in the following platoon no 11 some 10yards behind saw all this.” Pte. A.J. Lechte, 3166, 8th Battalion, 11 Platoon, C Company AIF.

“I saw Hawkey killed on July 25th near Pozieres village, he was in the M.G.S. I don’t know his Company. He was caught by a splinter of a shell. Two shells came along one after another and caught him. We managed to get out of the way. It was not a regular advance; we were just going up bombing. We could not bring in his body, but in the ordinary course it would be brought in and buried. Eyewitness: Yes. Description : Small, fair, thin hair, age 25 or 26, came from Melbourne.” Pte. Lionel Miller, 3407, AIF. H.Q.Company Bomber.


“Was told he was blown to pieces near the chalk pit at Pozieres. It was common knowledge amongst them.” Parsons, 3888, 8th Battalion.


He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery Ovillers-La-Boisselle .

Source :National Archives of Australia

Private Charles Frank Church, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

Private Charles Frank Church, 4752, 8th Battalion A.I.F.

Born in Dorking, Surrey, England.

Son of John Edmond Church and Dora Annie Edith Church, of 68, McLaren St., Adelaide, South Australia.

Enlisted at Adelaide, South Australia on 16th November 1915.
Age given at enlistment 18 and 2 Months. (But was 15 or 16)
He was 5’6” tall, weighed 9st 6lbs had grey eyes and dark hair.

He was a Labourer before he joined up.

Name of next of kin on enlistment papers was Uncle James Edward Cole, Dorking, Surrey. (This was probably done to hide his real age).

22nd November 1915 at 2nd Depot Ballarat.
3rd December 1915 To C Company, 14th Depot Broadmeadows.
13th January 1916 Transferred as a Reinforcement.
25th May 1916 Embarked on the “Tunisian” from Aleaxandria
4th June 1916 Arried in Marseilles
7th June 1916 arrived at Etaples
29th July 1916 Joined the 8th Battalion , 15th Reinforcements.
18th August 1916, Killed in Action by machine gun bullet aged 16.

He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery, Ovillers-La-Boisselle.

The Red Cross report of his death:

“I knew Church well: he used to be in my tent. A man called Johnson told me that he saw Church’s dead body lying in No Man’s Land in the attack later that day.” Pte J.Hawkins 4796 1.A.D.B.D

“On August 18th at 9.pm we made a raid on the German trenches. Church, Johnson and myself were in a shell hole together at one time during the raid. When we got back Johnson told me that Church was killed by a machine gun bullet before he got to the German trench.” Pte. J.Hawkins 4796, 8th Battalion.

“He was killed on 18th Aug at Mouquet Farm, just after we left Gordon Dump to go to the trenches. He belonged to my section (number etc. checked from my section roll). Lt Mair C.Co was in charge of the party Church was with. I heard about the casualty about a fortnight later. The facts were given to me by Pte S,H. Diamond, 5077, C. Co. He was an eyewitness.” Pte C.M.Owen 4282, C.Co 1A.D.B.D.

“I was Company clerk in C Co. Church was also in C.Co. A relative of his came to the Battalion to make enquires about him 5 or 6 weeks from when we were in billets at Buire. I don’t know his name. I introduced him to two men, George Boden and J. Lawton who told him they had seen Church killed right on the parapet as they “hopped over” the second time at Pozieres on 18th August 1916.” L/Cpl A. Morris 5163, C.Co. No 5 General Hospital Rouen.

“About Pte. C. Church. He was about 5’6” fairly stout and had a fair complexion. He was about 18 years of age and was a happy young chap. He was with the Battalion 3 or 4 weeks up to the 18.8.16.” Letter from Pte.G.S.Boden. France 14.6.17.

“He was in C Company and was killed straight out at night in our trenches at Pozieres by machine gun bullets. He was buried in a spot just behind our lines. I do not think his grave was marked.” Pte F.H Kells 4245, C.Co. 8TH Battalion.

“Pte F. Keys of C. Coy. 8th A.I.F told me just after the 18th Aug. /16 “Stunt” at Pozieres that Church had been killed during the attack. I last saw Keys on the 14th April/17. I knew Church personally and was enquiring about him when Keys gave me this information.” Pte. O. Laughlin. 5429. B.coy.

A letter from John Thomson, Agent Mutual Life Assurance Company furnished these details.

“Corporal A. Lawton 803, C Company 8 Batt saw Church lying alongside platoon Sergeant dead. Killed by concussion – 18th August 1916.

Pte. C.R.Bowen, No 5373, B Co. 8th Batt. 2nd Brigade saw church go over the parapet, but did not see him come back.

Pte. A.R Muirhead, Machine Gun Company, 8th Batt. Visited camp where Sergeant Neck took Muirhead to Church’s mates who told him Church was killed on the parapet.

The last named (Muirhead) used to write often to Church’s people, but has lately ceased to do so, and probably has himself made the supreme sacrifice.”

Source :National Archives of Australia

Private Sidney Victor Long, 8th Battalion AIF.

Private Sidney Victor Long, 5715, 8th Battalion AIF

(Private Long's story is truly amazing. He first enlisted in 1914 with the 11th Battalion and was sent to Gallipoli where he was invalided out and returned to Australia with a Gun Shot wound to the neck. 10 Months later he re-enlists with the 8th Battalion and is sent to France, only to be killed at the Battle of Menin Road on 25th October 1917).

Born in Long Gully Victoria. Son of the late James William Long of Long Gully, Victoria, Australia.

He attended the Camp School, Bendigo.
He was employed as a Miner.

Height 5’ 7” Weighed 11 stone 10 lbs, Brown eyes and Brown Hair and he spoke with a slight stutter.

His younger brother Roy Neville Long was K.I.A on 29th July 1916 whilst serving with the 28th Battalion (no. 893) aged 20.

Prior to the war he served 3 years in the 5th Victorian Infantry.

He first enlisted at Blackbay, Western Australia on 3rd November 1914, service no.1580 aged 29.
7th May 1915 3rd Reinforcements of the 11th Battalion.
10th June 1915 Admitted to Hospital with Septic wound to hand.
12th June 1915 Discharged and rejoined 11th Battalion.
6th August 1915 Admitted to Hospital from 2nd Field Ambulance with a Gun Shot Wound in the Neck from at Charge. Subsequently transferred to the C.C.S.
8th August 1915 embarked on Hospital ship “Delta” to Alexandria.
12th August 1915 Admitted to no. 1 Auxiliary Hospital at Heliopolis.
16th September 1915 Invalided to Australia.
17th September embarked on the “Beltana” for the purpose of returning to Australia for Discharge.
17th October 1915 Disembarked at Freemantle.
10th November 1915 He was medically examined where the finding said that he had had a bullet wound to the neck and his neck was stiff and inclined to one side and held forward.
15th November 1915 Discharged from 8 A.G.H as permanently unfit, incapacity of one quarter.


He re-enlisted in 4th August 1916 at Bendigo, Victoria.
3rd July 1916 embarked on the “Ayrshire”.
2nd September 1916 arrived in Plymouth, England and proceeded to the 2nd Training Battalion at Perham Downs.
15th September 1915 sent overseas to reinforce 8th Battalion
17th September 1916 arrived at Etaples.
18th September 1916 appointed Lance corporal.
30th September 1916 reverted back to Private.
2nd October 1916 Joined 8th Battalion.
13th November 1916 sent to Hospital
14th November 1916 rejoined Battalion.
21st December 1916 Wounded in Action, Gun Shot Wound in Right Arm and admitted to C.C.S.
22nd December 1916 Admitted to Hospital at Rouen with G.S.W and Trench Feet.
23rd December 1916 Transferred to England.
24th December 1916 admitted to Cambridge Hospital, Aldershot, England.
5th February 1917 He was discharged from Hospital
22nd February 1917 Marched into Perham Downs Depot joined 1st Com Depot.
15th March 1917 Transferred to Wareham and the 4th Com Depot.
19th March 1917 Back to Perham Downs with the 4th Com Depot.
23rd March 1917 Transferred to the 65th Battalion from the 8th.
19th September 1917 Transferred back to the 8th.
14th October 1917 proceeded oversees to join the 8th.
18th October 1917 joined 8th Battalion in France.

25th October 1917 he was Killed in Action aged 32.

He is buried in Tyne Cot Cemetery Passchendaele .

Source: National Archives of Australia