-
Enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) as a private in the 16th Battalion. This was the beginning of his military career.
Enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) as a private in the 16th Battalion.
This was the beginning of his military career. -
Landed at Gallipoli as part of a machine-gun crew. He fought in one of the most important and dangerous campaigns of World War I.
Landed at Gallipoli as part of a machine-gun crew.
He fought in one of the most important and dangerous campaigns of World War I. -
Becoming Sergeant
Promoted to Sergeant, commissioned as Second Lieutenant, and transferred to the 13th Battalion.
He quickly rose through the ranks during active service. -
Arrived in france
Arrived in France with the 13th Battalion to fight on the Western Front.
A major shift from Gallipoli to the brutal trench warfare in France. -
Wounded & Awarded
Wounded at Mouquet Farm and awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for bravery and leadership.
One of his first major awards for courage in battle -
Became one of Australias most Decorated Soldier
Led the attack on Stormy Trench and awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military award for bravery.
This made him one of Australia’s most decorated soldiers -
Attack on Hidenburg Line
Took part in the attack on the Hindenburg Line at Bullecourt and received a Bar to his DSO.
This was his second DSO for exceptional leadership. -
Temporary Lieutenant Colonel
Promoted to Temporary Lieutenant Colonel and made commanding officer of the 4th Machine Gun Battalion.
He now led a major unit during critical stages of the war. -
Awarded for his War Service
Awarded the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for his war service.
Another high honour for his leadership and contribution to the war effort. -
1939-1944
Returned to serve in World War II, leading units again despite already being a decorated war veteran.
He continued serving his country into a second major conflict.