What a riveting presentation we had from Dr Mark Fielding on Remembrance Day. There was such a great vibe in the room with guests from other Rotary Clubs and friends joining us.
When researching for this talk Mark found inspiration for his presentation in "Book For Valour" by Blanch and Pegram which documents all Australians who won VCs. In the 100days between July and early Oct 1918, 24 VCs were awarded to Australians.
The extraordinary contribution of the Australian Imperial Force during the final phase of the First World War—the Hundred Days Offensive of 1918—when Australian troops played a decisive role in breaking German resistance. Under the leadership of Lieutenant-General Sir John Monash, whose appointment was initially opposed by influential figures of the time, the Australian Corps undertook a series of brilliantly coordinated operations at Le Hamel, Amiens, Mont St Quentin, and the Hindenburg Line. In just 100 days, they advanced 50 kilometres, liberated more than 100 villages, captured nearly 30,000 prisoners, and earned 24 Victoria Crosses—more than were awarded to Australians in the entire Second World War.
Here is an example of one soldiers bravery
Lt Alfred Gabby – 28th Battalion (8 August)
Worked on family farm Tasmania, before moving to Western Aust to work as a labourer. He single-handedly forced his way through barbed wire and approached machine-gun placement and while running along the parapet of the enemy’s trench emptied his revolved into the Germans killing many, capturing four machine guns and taking 50 Germans prisoner. Awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery. He was killed by a sniper three days later while walking along the line to encourage his men .
Despite their exhaustion and heavy losses, the Australian soldiers forged a reputation as one of the most effective fighting forces on the Western Front. Yet their achievements, and the sacrifices of the more than 60,000 Australians who died in the Great War, remain lesser known today. Remembrance Day stands as a reminder of their courage and of Australia's enduring promise, made in 1918 and upheld ever since—to never forget those who served and fell in war.
Mark has kindly agreed to share his presentation and notes.
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