9th Infantry Brigade Aif | Online Research Library & Membership site.
Born: 1895. Hamilton West, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:
Married:
Wife:
Died:
Father: David Jones.
Mother:
Rutherford Army Camp 1916
William was wounded in action on the 11th June 1917, 1st occasion
William was wounded in action on the 28th May 1918, 2nd occasion
William returned to Australia on the 12th of December 1918.
Under Construction 20/05/2008-25/10/2020.
Born: 10th March 1897. Taree, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert: 16832/1897
Married: 1936. Wickham, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert: 13263/1936
Wife: Ada Breese. nee: Inglis.
Died: 8th January 1949. Islington, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert: 3683/1949
Father: Charles Douglas G Breese.
Mother: Frances Florence Denoran. nee: Breese. nee: Brown.
INFORMATION
Robert Douglas Breese, enlisted with the 4th Reinforcements, 34th Battalion AIF on the 31st of January 1916 and left Sydney on board HMAT A30 "Borda" on the 17th of October 1916. Robert returned to Australia on the 3rd of July 1919.
Robert also served during World War 2 and enlisted on the 7th of January 1941 and served with the 20th Garrison Battalion AIF. Robert was discharged on the 14th of July 1942.
Robert's British War Medal PTE 2277 R D BREESE 34 BN AIF was acquired from Melbourne, Australia and is now in the collection with an unnamed Australian Service and British War Medal for his W.W.2 service.
Pte Robert Douglas Breese, 34th Bn, labourer and horse driver from 63 Maitland Road, Islington, New South Wales and 5 Dangar Street, Wickham, N.S.W., was laid to rest at Sandgate Cemetery on the 8th January 1949, age 51. Robert enlisted January 1916 at Rutherford, and returned home August 1919. Robert's name has not been inscribed on the headstone, and not being able to erect a cross, a couple of poppies I have placed to remind us of his service and sacrifice. An application for a Commonwealth War Graves Plaque submitted April 2016, but this was declined.
(Gary Mitchell; Jan 2018)
Family Information
Robert was a 19 year old Labourer from 63 Maitland Road, Islington, New South Wales upon enlistment. He served with the 16th Infantry Militia prior to World War 1 and his next of kin was his mother Mrs Francis Florence Denoran, who lived at 59 Morehead Street, Waterloo, New South Wales. After the war he moved to 5 Dandar Street, Whickham where he lived on the 28th March 1938 before he enlisted with the 20th Garrison Battalion.
His medals were acquired with a medal to Private: 2281 Robert Douglas BREESE 36th Battalion AIF.
Military Records
Under Construction: 01/06/2007-22/12/2013.
Born: 1895. Adamstown, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:786/1895.
Married: 1920. West Maitland, New south Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:4378/1920.
Wife: Gladys L Gardner. nee: Taylor.
Mother: Adelaide A Gardner. nee:
INFORMATION
Robert Talbot Gardner served with the 16th Infantry (Newcastle Battalion) prior to his enlistment with B Company 34th Battalion AIF on the 23rd of January 1916 and left Sydney on board HMAT A20 "Hororata" on the 2nd May 1916 and disembarked at Plymouth England on the 23rd June 1916.
HMAT A20 "HORORATA"
Robert was marched with the 34th Battalion the the Durrington Army Camp at lark Hill and commenced training with the 9th Training Battalion before proceeding overseas for France on the 21st November 1916. Robert was Wounded in Action on the 8th April 1917 where he received a Gun Shot Wound to his left thigh and evacuated to England on board the Hospital Ship "Newhaven" from Calais on the 12th of April.
Hospital Ship "NEWHAVEN"4th June 1917.
Informant; Sergeant: 434 Robert Talbot Gardner, B Company, 34th Battalion AIF. Sergeant: 165 William James RICHMOND was killed by shrapnel at Armentieres and buried in Cemetery at same place. I did not see him killed or buried, but saw his grave with cross and circle, and name and number and date of death. He was a pal of mine and we trained together on Salisbury Plain.
Dartford, England.
Robert returned to Australia on the 17th of March 1919.
Family Information
Robert was a single 21 year old Builder from Adamstown, N.S.W upon enlistment. His mother Adelaide Gardner was his next of kin and she lived at Brisbane Water Road Adamstown. His parents John and Adelaide Gardner were married and there children were George F Gardner born 1892 at Adamstown, N.S.W. Birth Cert:3548/1892. Robert Talbot Gardner born 1895 at Adamstown, N.S.W. Birth Cert:786 /1895 and died 1953. Eliza Gardner born 1897 at Adamstown, N.S.W. Birth Cert:19005/1897.
Military Records
Under Construction; 16/07/2007-31/05/2014.
Born: 13th November 1894. Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:6028/1894.
Married: 24th April 1920. Wallsend, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:7695/1920.
Wife: Ivy Jane Bliss. nee: Longworth. (1898-1986)
Died: 12th August 1968. Wallsend, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:26232/1968.
Father: George Henry Bliss. (1864-1927) Died Wallsend, N.S.W. Death Cert:15711/1927.
Mother: Susan Bliss. nee: Messett. (1865-1925) Died Wallsend, N.S.W. Death Cert:11317/1925.
INFORMATION
George Arthur Bliss served with the 16th Infantry Militia prior to his enlistment with the AIF on the 23rd August 1916 with the 5th Reinforcements 34th Battalion AIF and embarked from Sydney on board S.S. "Port Napier" for England on the 17th November 1916 and disembarked at Devonport England on the 29th January 1917. His Battalion was marched to the Durrington Army Camp at Lark Hill. Here the Battalion settled down to hard training, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and General Camp Routine. Later the Battalion moved to the No: 25 Camp and finished off their training, which included six days' battle practice and field work at the Bustard Trenches.
George proceeded overseas for France via Folkstone on the 25th of April (Anzac Day) 1917 and marched in to Estaples on the 26th of April. He was Taken on in Strength in the field on the 30th of April.
17th May 1917.
On the 17th of May the Germans tried to raid the 34th Battalion at Le Touquet. The enemy this time employed the British method of a very short, though heavy, preliminary bombardment. The preliminary registration however had been observed and the Australian counter-barrage came down within 10 seconds of the S.O.S signal fired by Lieutenant: 4559 Frederick Murchison WAUGH. M.C. 34th Battalion. A party of Bavarians attempted to enter by a gap in the front line. One climbed the parapet and said "Hands Oop!" He was at once shot, and fell dead into the trench. Lewis Guns, in particular that of Private: 1416 Joseph Edward KIRK. M.M 34th Battalion, drove the enemy off.
On the 18th of May the previous night's attempt against the 34th Battalion was repeated after a short heave bombardment. On the S.O.S. being fired by Lieutenant: 1118 William Wright EDMONDS. M.C. 34th Battalion, the protecting barrage again came down instantly, but the enemy entered a gap near a sector in which cylinders had been installed for an impending release of gas. Working alone the line, they bombed a Lewis Gun Team, wounding three. The remaining men, Lance Corporal: 1530 James HAM D.C.M. 34th Battalion and Private 1248 Bertram Guy TAYLOR M.M. 34th Battalion, continued to fire, and killed all five intruders.
Lieutenant: Benjamin Greenup BRODIE and the scouts afterwards went out, driving back the German covering party and stretcher-bearers, brought in a wounded Baverian Pioneer, and evidence and identification from 11 Germans who had been killed.
( History of World War 1. Vol IV. Bean)
THE BATTLE OF MESSINES
7th June 1917
The 3rd Australian Divisions first major offensive was at Messines Ridge on the 7th June 1917. The Australian 3rd Division was a part of the II Anzac Corps which was allotted to the first assault. The 25th New Zealand, 3rd Australian Division with the 4th Australian Division in reserve. The 4th Division were battle hardened troops who had fought many major battles.The 3rd Australian Division were having problems getting to the "jump off" point. The day before the 9th and 10th Infantry Brigades were bombarded by German Gas-Shells around Hill 63 and Ploegsteert Wood. Many of the Aussies were not wearing gas masks, but despite this they pressed on even though they received 500 casualties.
They made it to the "jump off" point but only just with some of the men from the 9th and 10th going straight over the top without stopping. The mines went up and the attack commenced behind a protective barrage. The II Anzac Corps were attacking on the right with their objective being the southern shoulder of the ridge which included Messines, the Dover and St Yves areas as far south to the east of Ploegsteert Wood.
Major General Sir John MONASH's 3rd Division had to contend with a tricky 3 mile approach out of Ploegsteert Wood and after the German gas attack, but they were not deterred. The 9th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General A JOBSON and the 10th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General W R NICHOLL had just made the jumping off point but some of the men did not stop, going straight into the assault from the approach march.
Their objective lay between St Yves and the Douve. The mines at Trench 127 and Trench 12 at Factory Farm were laid to aid this task. The explosions erupted a few seconds before zero hour and created craters of 200 feet in diameter, completely obliterating the German defense line as the 9th and 10th Infantry Brigades went over the top. The mine crates forced the 9th and 10th Brigades to veer to the left and right which caused some confusion with the main assault. It is testimony to the quality of training that every man knew the ground, tasks and objectives so well.
Private: 1804 John CARROLL 33rd Battalion, rushed the enemy's trench and bayoneted four of the German occupants. He then noticed a comrade in difficulties and went to his assistance, killing another German. He then attacked single handed a German Machine Gun Team, killing all three of them and capturing the gun. He later rescued two of his comrades who had been buried alive by German Shell Fire, and in spite of heavy shelling and machine gun fire he dug them out alive and saved them from certain death. John was awarded the Victoria Cross.
The German forward zone was completely engulfed and taken by the main assault. The two supporting battalions of each brigade then passed the leading battalion to continue the advance. The men were constantly re-supplied and the ridge was taken. There were many German prisoners taken during the offensive. The 3rd Division was well ahead with the 9th Infantry Brigade pushing on beyond Grey Farm, and on the right the 10th Infantry Brigade were veering left towards Septieme Barn north of Douve.
The German resistance was heavy but was generally brushed aside by tanks and artillery before the infantry had to become too involved.The 4th Bavarian Divisions Artillery had made little impact, but as the day wore on the 3rd Division and later the 4th Australian Division received many casualties from German artillery. (70% of all casualties during WW1 were from artillery).
By 9:00 am nearly 6 hours after the assault began the Germans were in dissaray, but there was a major problem as the Australians received less casualties as anticipated and when ordered to dig into the ridge they had so many men, that some could not find shelter. the 35th battalion were dug in around Seaforth Farm.
The second phase of the operation was to take the Oosttaverne Line. The 3rd Australian Division would now be in reserve with the 4th Division attacking. The 9th Infantry Brigade (33-34-35-36Bn) were near Thatched Cottage facing Warneton. The river Lys was to their right and the Ploegsteert Wood was now behind them.
Once their objectives were taken the troops consolidated. A barrage to stop and counter attack was shortened and caught three battalions which had to retire. By 9:00 pm this part of the Oosttaverne Line was abandoned. At 10:45 pm Lieutenant General: Sir Alexander John GODLEY ordered the 3rd and 4th Divisions to retake it. This they did by the early hours of the 8th of June.
The Battle for Messines Ridge during May-June 1917 saw 35 officers and 1,631 other ranks loose their lives.
9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.
| 33rd Battalion. AIF | 8 Officers | 382 Other ranks |
| 34th Battalion. AIF | 10 Officers | 378 Other ranks |
| 35th Battalion. AIF | 5 Officers | 431 Other ranks |
| 36th Battalion. AIF | 9 Officers | 421 Other ranks |
| 9th Machine Gun Company. AIF | 2 Officer | 17 Other ranks |
| 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery. | 1 Officer | 2 Other ranks |
1st October 1917.
ZONNEBKE; Good visibility the Boshe put a heavy Barrage of 5.9 and 4.2 H.E. on our right Support Company (A Company) from 7 am to 9:30 am. The half made trenches were badly knocked about vicinity of 2nd Lieutenant: 11921 Stanley Robert CALLAGHAN. who was killed and 53 other ranks. Airplane activity 2 Huns flew low over front line at 4:00 pm machine gunning out trenches.
34th Battalion War Diary.
12th October 1917
THE BATTLE OF PASSCHENDAELE I
At 1:30 am rain showers began. By 2:30 am it was raining lightly but steadily, by 3:30 fairly heavily. the infantry moved through the pitch dark in single file. In some battalions each man held on to the equipment of the man ahead of him; if touch was broken, those in front had to come back. The news that the line as reported by the 66th division was not held only just reached the incoming troops. Accordingly, in the right brigade (9th) the leading Company Commanders Captain: Clarence Smith JEFFRIES. V.C. and Captain: Telford Graham GILDER M.C. both of the 34th Battalion stopped their men at the entrance to Broodseinde railway cutting, and themselves went to make sure that their column might not run into the enemy.
At Keerselaarhoek Cemetery they found the tape duly laid, and met the officer of the 36th Battalion who had laid it, and by 3:00 am the time set, the 34th battalion was extended on its jumping-off position. But during the previous halt and afterwards, as it lay on the tape, the battalion was persistently shelled and suffered many casualties.
The first shell killed three signallers. Lieutenant: Albert Leslie WATSON. a signal officer of the 34th Battalion, a brave and enterprising leader who also was at the head of the column was severely wounded and all his staff hit. After establishing a forward command post Lieutenant: Thomas Fraser BRUCE 36th Battalion was also killed. Lieutenant Colonel: John Alexander MILNE. 36th Battalion supervising the assembly was knocked down by a shell but continued to command. Captain, Chaplain: Charles MURPHY was also wounded.
(BEAN; History of World war 1 Vol IV p:911) Charles Edwin Woodrow BEAN
Only one Australian Division, the 3rd, was wholly employed in the days offensive. but the division was to capture Passchendaele an in spite of the depressing conditions, it was eager to achieve the distinction of doing so. One unit carried the Australian flag,to be planted in Passchendaele, and although officers and men in general were not enthusiastic concerning such "stunts" the Commander-in-Chief had been informed, and had told General: MONASH that, when this flag was planted, the news would be immediately cabled to Australia.
Some keen spirits looked on the operation simply as a dash for Passchendaele. One young company commander of Monash's reserve battalion, the 33rd, in face of a strict prohibition, led on his company as soon as the barrage fell. Starting from a line 350 yards in rear of the general alignment, the 3rd Division was out of touch with its neighbours from the outset. The heavy shelling on the tapes had made orderly disposition there almost impossible, as German Machine-Guns, undisturbed by the barrage now opened immediately, no opportunity offered of restoring proper formation.
The 9th Brigade went forward in the utmost confusion and a terrible mix up as reported by Captain: Robert Derwent DIXON D.S.O 35th Battalion at 6:40 am and "Great Confusion" was the description given by Captain: Henry Vince CARR 35th Battalion. Even on the ridge, the mud was difficult, the hope, if there ever was one, of catching up before the quick barrage finished.
The 9th Infantry Brigade's intendered direction lay not along the ridge and the Passchendeale road, but diagonally across them, and parallel to the railway, which most of the brigade could not see. As the jumping-off line was practically at right angles to the ridge, the brigade tendered to advance alone the heights. The Machine-Gun fire at the start came, on the 9th Brigade's right, from the ruined house near Defy Crossing; on its centre from, "Hillside Farm"; and on its left from Augustus Wood.
The pillbox opposite the centre was supported from the rear by a trench in which were Germans with Machine-Guns, and here occurred a delay which threatened to wreck to whole attack. it was not until an hour after the programme time that these places were rushed by the neighbouring portion of the line under Captain: Henry Vince CARR and Captain: Robert Derwent DIXON. D.S.O of the 35th Battalion. The trench contained 35 Germans and 4 Machine-Guns. Part of the line was also held up by a pillbox close to Passchendaele road near the highest point of the ridge.
Here there was practically no shelter from attack, but Captain Clarence Smith JEFFRIES. V.C. of the 34th Battalion managed to organise a party, with Sergeant: 21 James BRUCE and another N.C.O Corporal: 2036 Vere Cummings STEVENSON and a dozen men, and outflanking it, charged the place from the rear, capturing 25 Germans and 2 Machine-Guns. These actions set free the advance. The pillbox captured by Captain Clarence Smith JEFFRIES. V.C. being not far short of the first objective, the 34th Battalion dug in there.
Great loss had been uncured; the 34th Battalion had only three officers left and there were wide gaps in the line. The right flank had swung far away from the railway, along which the 4th Division was attacking, but on the left Captain: Telford Graham GILDER M.C.of the 34th Battalion who had been wounded by a Machine-Gun bullet, but was carrying on found the 10th Brigade digging in slightly to his left under Captain: LATCHFORD, 38th Battalion, and fell back seventy yards to join it.
The Advance to the second objective was to begin at 8:25, the low clouds had opened, and fleecy cirrus with patches of blue were widening overhead and the sun had come out. The 9th Brigade had been so late in reaching the first objective that, while most of the 34th Battalion dug in, the 35th Battalion, allotted for the second phase, moved straight on. Standing on the Passchendaele road, Captain: Henry Vince CARR and Captain: Robert Derwent DIXON. D.S.O of the 35th Battalion endevoured to decide where the barrage then was; at first Carr thought it may be behind them, but finally decided that it was ahead.
The confusion at the start had split the brigade into mixed parties of all battalions and many of the 34th went on with the 35th, the main body of which, about 100 in all, now advanced along the south-eastern side of the ridge in order to catch the barrage. The hour was probably a little before that for the second advance. A German Machine-Gun in the gap between the brigade's right and the railway immediately opened with deadly effect.
Major: John Bruce BUCHANAN 36th Battalion, the senior forward officer was killed. At this critical juncture Captain: Clarence Smith JEFFRIES. V.C. of the 34th Battalion, again accompanied by Sergeant: 21 James BRUCE, led out a few men from the first objective and made for the gun. it was shooting in short bursts, and he was able to work up fairly close. Seizing a moment when it was firing to the north, he and his men rushed at it from the west. It was switched round, killing him, and sending his men to the ground.
But when its fire eased they worked round it, rushed the position, seized 25 Germans and 2 Machine-Guns. This gallant and effective action Captain: Clarence Smith JEFFRIES. V.C.was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for removing the chief danger to the advance along the crest, but as soon as the 35th Battalion crossed to the eastern side of the hill it became the target of a number of field and heavy guns which, from the hedges and other cover in various parts of the landscape, fired over open sights.
After passing a corpse on its right, the 35th Battalion settled down on what its officers took to be the second objective, although on the extreme right they were actually short of the first. Captain: Henry Vince CARR, now the senior officer on the spot, reported; 8:35. On objective, with about 100 Captain: Robert Derwent DIXON. D.S.O. and three officers. Casualties 25 or 30 per cent. Captain: Henry Charles Dight CADELL M.C Lieutenant: Charles Teesdale MAIN Lieutenant: Keith Maitland DAY reported killed and Lieutenant: Frank HORNE Lieutenant: Christopher Kyffin MEARS Lieutenant: Charles John HENRY were wounded. Prisoners sent back 400-500. Contact on flanks uncertain, being heavily shelled.
Three posts were established under surviving officers, right Lieutenant: Norman Beade D'ARCY M.C center Lieutenant: Joseph Francis ADAMS left Lieutenant: Harold Sydney WYNDHAM. In this brigade the battalion for the final objective was the 36th, and a report came along that it had gone through. Actually, it had advanced with the 35th, but, on the left, penetrated to the second objective, which bad been reconnoitered during the previous halt by the commander of the company Captain Robert Austin GOLDRICK. M.C.
He went up the road towards Passchendaele. The barrage, he said afterwards was no hindrance to him, although he left the line lying as close to it as possible "or where he thought it was." He was unable to detect the intensification of the barrage for the second phase, but led his men forward at the proper hour.
As no other battalion was there, he now established the line with its left on the road 600 yards from the church, about the point reached by the 66th Division's troops on October 9th. In front of the position Captain: Robert Austin GOLDRICK. M.C. and Lieutenant E.H FLEITER (39th Battalion) found hidden in a shell hole men of the 66th Division. One had a broken arm, the other trench-feet. They took the Australians at first for Germans. When reassured,"we knew the Australians would come," they said, 'We prayed hard."
From the direction of the church, which lay straight down the highway, no fire came. two Germans ran up the road and surrendered. South-east of the village, along the Moorslede road, were the Germans who seemed "very windy," and near the road two 5.9-inch howitzers began to blaze at the troops digging in.
The 9th Brigade had taken its second objective and the 10th its first, but the position of the officers in charge of these advanced lines was full of anxiety. On the eastern slope Captain: Henry Vince CARR 35th Battalion, the senior officer in this part of the 9th Brigade's front, could see the 4th Division somewhat ahead of its right, and by 10:55 he had discovered that the 36th was on the left, but farther left than the 10th Brigade was far behind on its first objective . The German Guns ahead were sniping with dreadful accuracy. Carr on the western slope, sent back for instructions: "what am I to do?"
Word of the true situation reached headquarters slowly. As on the 9th, the first news was all encouraging. General: MONASH in the Ypres ramparts heard shortly after 7 that both brigades were "well away"; but by 8:26 he had ample evidence that the first objective was taken. At 9:25 the intelligence officer examining prisoners (Lieutenant: Frederick Morley CUTLACK Official War Correspondent) reported having heard from the wounded men that the second objective had been reached.
At 10:28 headquarters was informed of a statement of a wounded man, that the 38th Battalion had gone through. A further report that Australians had been seen at Crest Farm although quickly contradicting but probably true nevertheless. Which confirmed Monash's impression that his division was succeeding. Concerning the New Zealand brigade on his left, however, there was no word until, at 10:50, there arrived the tragic information that the New Zealand Division was stopped by the enemy alone the entire front.
MONASH has already heard at 9:55 that the 10th Brigade was held up by fire from Bellevue Spur. Believing that his division was still advancing, he asked that every gun that the New Zealand Division could spare should be turned upon that ridge to suppress the fire. Meanwhile, he would order the reserve (39th) battalion of the 10th Brigade to be ready to assist in holding the ground already won. The reserve battalion the (33rd) of the 9th Brigade he was still keeping back to assist in the capture of Passchendaele.
Shortly after noon news of the true situation arrived. Lieutenant Jackson of the 40th Battalion had established at Waterfields pillbox near the Ravebeek a forward report-centre from which a series of messages, admirably accurate, was flashed by lamp to the headquarters of Lieutenant Colonel Lord of the 40th Battalion. Thus Brigadier General McNICOLL of the 10th Brigade was able to inform MONASH of the precise position of Giblin's Line. He added that the situation was very serious and the casualties very heave. At the same time from the front line of the 9th Brigade arrived a pigeon message, sent by Captain: Richard GADD of the 36th Battalion.
We are on the Blue Line (second objective) with composite force all three battalions, both flanks in the air.
The New Zealand Division was to make a second attempt at 3:00 pm, and MONASH was of the opinion that from the 9th Brigade, well forward on the ridge, patrols might still work northward around Crest Farm. His reserve, the 33rd Battalion (9th Brigade), was accordingly ordered to attempt this at 4:30 pm and the 10th Brigade's forward line being meanwhile reinforced by its own reserve, the 39th Battalion.
These orders went out, but none of them were fulfilled. The New Zealand Division had been defeated by obstacles which no hastily renewed bombardment could have overcome. no infantry in the world could have crossed the Ravebeek mud, penetrated the dense wire, and attacked the crowded pillboxes of Bellview with the assistance of a barrage which did not even screen the advance. No blame can attach to the artillery. Its commander, according to the New Zealand official history, had reported on the previous day that his guns might be unable to give efficient support.
This magnificent division, which lost nearly 3,000 men, had been held up in almost exactly the same position as the 49th three days before-the left brigade penetrating half-way to the first objective, the right stopped almost at the start.The Germans were reinforcing. The New Zealand battalion commanders knew that their men had no chance of succeeding by renewed attack, and the order was eventually cancelled.
As for the Australians, of the two battalions that MONASH had now ordered to participate, the 39th had already to a large extent been involved in the fighting, and the 33rd, endevouring to reach its position of readiness for outflanking Passchendaele,had suffered great loss. No less than 6 of its Officers were killed or mortally wounded.Captain: Wilfred Frank HINTON in command of the forward company, Lieutenant Leonard Rockley BROWNLOW Lieutenant: Thomas Acheson ARMSTRONG Lieutenant: Albert George KILPATRICK Lieutenant William REES-REYNOLDS and Lieutenant: Norman Francis GOBLE.
By the time Lieutenant Colonels HENDERSON D.S.O 39th Battalion and MORSHEAD attempted to carry Monash's orders, they found that the attacking force of both brigades was back almost at its starting point. What had happened was as follows.
Neither Major: GIBLIN near the Ravenbeek nor Captain: Henry Vince CARR on the ridge had received their messages sent several hours earlier. The 9th Brigade's line was still being battered by the German Guns. Captain: Richard GADD 36th Battalion, whose troops were being wiped out, informed Captain: Henry Vince CARR 35th Battalion that Lieutenant Colonel: John Alexander MILNE D.S.O 36th Battalion had now come forward to Hillside Farm. CARR accordingly sent Captain: Robert Derwent DIXON. D.S.O with GADD to explain to Milne the desperate nature of their situation. Milne said that he would try to get their troops relieved after dark, but till relieved they must hold on.
(BEAN; History of Word War 1 Vol IV page 921) Charles Edwin Woodrow BEAN
Meanwhile, however, the German artillery was annihilating some parts of their line. All leaders of Carr's three posts were out of action. Lieutenant: Joseph Francis ADAMS was Killed in Action and Lieutenant: Norman Beade D'ARCY M.C and Lieutenant: Harold Sydney WYNDHAM were wounded. Of the remaining officers of the 36th Battalion, Major: John Bruce BUCHANAN and Lieutenant: Fredrick William PUTNEY had been Killed in Action and Captain: Robert Austin GOLDRICK M.C wounded. Farther back Lieutenant: Sydney COOK had been Killed in Action and Lieutenant: William WAND and Lieutenant: Herbert Reginald MAILER were wounded.
At 3 o'clock rain began to fall steadily. at 3:15 pm Captain: Richard GADD 36th Battalion, thought agreeing with Captain: Henry Vince CARR 35th Battalion that to hold on meant annihilation, refused, in view of his Colonel's orders, to retire. Carr consented to wait while Gadd again sent word to Lieutenant Colonel: John Alexander MILNE D.S.O. Carr himself at 12: 30 had sent Captain Robert Derwent DIXON. D.S.O to the headquarters of the 35th Battalion at " Seine", from which no word had been received all day.
At 3:45 pm, no reply having come from Milne, and Dixon not having returned as he had been kept at 35th Battalion headquarters awaiting the arrival of an order from brigade headquarters concerning the projected operation by the reserve battalion, Gadd agreed to withdraw and Carr sent along the line a note: The 35th Battalion will retire.
When visiting Gadd, Carr had warned the troops of the probable order to withdraw, and he now saw that the left had already begun to retire. He told men whom he passed to get back as fast as they could to the 34th Battalion (which he believed to be on the first objective). Captain: William James GORDON M.C 36th Battalion, strongly dissatisfied with the order, went straight to Lieutenant Colonel: John Alexander MILNE D.S.O urged that the forward position was tenable, and with Milne and Major: John Martin HAWKEY M.C rushed out to stop the withdrawal. But it was too late.
The 34th was not, as Captain: Henry Vince Carr 35th Battalion, believed, on the first objective. The Commander of the line, Captain: John William RICHARDSON 34th Battalion, on hearing of the extreme weakness of the force at the second objective, had reinforced it. He and his only remaining officer's Lieutenant: James Clement BURGES Lieutenant: Bruce Gray McKENZIE Lieutenant: John Abbott LONGWORTH had all been Killed in Action while organising on the first objective, and the first objective now lay empty. The retiring troops, being without orders as to the position to be taken up, streamed back past Milne's headquarters.
All that Hawkey, Gordon, Gadd, and others could then do was to lead a fraction of them forward again to the first objective, where they remained during the night. Captain: Robert Derwent DIXON. D.S.O. with Captain: John Grieve PATERSON adjutant of the 35th, went up to organise the 35th there, but could find none of it's men. When eventually re-formed the remnant of the 35th was temporarily attached as a Company to the 33rd Battalion.
9th-12th October 1917 saw the 3rd Division, 9th and 10th Infantry Brigade in action during the Battle of Passchendaele, which saw massive losses and suffering in the Australian ranks. The casualties numbered 3,199 men in 24 hours during the height battle. The 34th Battalion lost every officer that day, either killed or wounded including their Medical Officer, Major: Gother Robert Carlisle CLARKE and some of his staff were killed while dressing the wounded. The spirit of some of the wounded is illustrated by the case of Corporal: 3170 Winsleigh Alexander MURRAY 35th Battalion, (formerly a Methodist Minister from Newcastle) gave up his place in a queue waiting for stretcher bearers and was never heard of again.
The Battle of Passchendaele saw 60 Officers and 1,322 other ranks loose their lives.
9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.
| 33rd Battalion. AIF | 11 Officers | 273 Other ranks |
| 34th Battalion. AIF | 15 Officers | 323 Other ranks |
| 35th Battalion. AIF | 18 Officers | 296 Other ranks |
| 36th Battalion. AIF | 15 Officers | 383 Other ranks |
| 9th Machine Gun Company. AIF | 1 Officer | 36 Other ranks |
| 9th Light Trench Mortar Battery. | - Officer | 11 Other ranks |
George was appointed Lance Corporal on the 26th October 1916 to bring the ranks up to full compliment after the losses at Passchendaele but had to wait until the 18th February 1918 before he was granted leave to England. He returned to France on the 9th of March and was Accidentally Injured when he received a Contused Shoulder on the 25th of March and was transferred to the 7th Canadian Stationary Hospital. George was transferred to the 7th Convalescent Depot at Boulogne on the 8th of April and discharged to Base Details on the 10th of April and rejoined his unit on the 28th of April and promoted to full Corporal on the 29th of April.
26th May 1918.
RIVERY Weather fine: 3:45 am Enemy Shelled with 4.2 Gas and H.E about 300 Rounds. Our planes very active all day. No sign of Enemy Planes.
(34th Battalion War Diary)
George was Wounded in Action during this enemy bombardment and was Gassed, SEVERE and was treated by the 11th Australian field Ambulance. George was transferred to the 41st Stationary Hospital at Port Remy the same day. He was discharged to duty on the 21st and rejoined his unit on the 22nd of June 1918 where he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL.
Sergeant: 2518 George Arthur BLISS For Conspicuous Gallantry and Devotion to duty during operations against enemy positions South of the SOMME on 8th August 1918. Sergeant BLISS was Platoon Sergeant in the Company allotted the task of attacking ACCROCHE WOOD in co operation with other units. During the advance through the wood under a very dense fog many men became separated from their units. Under instructions from his Platoon Commander, Sergeant BLISS took under his command a Platoon so separated and led them forward under a heavy artillery barrage through the wood and joined up again in line with his Company. Sergeant BLISS personally led a party of these men against an enemy machine gun position in LONG VALLEY where he captured three machine guns. He inspired his men with great confidence by his gallant deeds and afterwards with another party rushed an enemy 4.2 gun position capturing two guns and 12 prisoners. He then led his men on to the objective where he assisted his Platoon Commander to re organise. The bravery fearlessness of this N.C.O. was splendid. He greatly assisted the advance of his Company by forming a solid flanking position on its right.
London Gazette 5th December 1918. Page 14458 Position 4.
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 14th of March 1919. Page 423 Position 12.
George was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on the 15th of July 1918 in the field.
18th August 1918.
Weather threatening but clearing, following project bombardment on our right, heavy bombardment followed. C.O. called on left headquarters. Our planes brought down enemy plane in flames but it dropped behind BRAY. C.O. visited posts. 3 O/Rs Killed 1 Officer Lieutenant: 10480 Robert WIGHT and 6 O/Rs wounded.
(34th Battalion War Diary)
George was admitted to the 3rd Australian General Hospital suffering from Influenza and was transferred to the No:1 Ambulance Train. Ambulance trains were first used during the First World War in France and Belgium to transport wounded or sick soldiers to hospital.
George was evacuated to England and admitted to the Southwark Military Hospital on the 21st February 1919 suffering from Influenza
George was discharged and transferred to the 3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Dartford on the 14th of March 1919 before being granted furlo from the 17th until the 31st of March when he was ordered to report to the No: 1 Command Depot at Sutton Veny. George was being demobilized to return to Australia and embarked on board the "Sardina" on the 19th of April 1919.
The S.S SARDINIA was Torpedoed on the 4th February 1918 in the starboard bow by a German submarine while in a Mediterranean convoy. Her passengers and most of the crew transferred to a warship, but her master officers and 32 crew remained aboard. To prevent one of her forward bulkheads from collapsing, she steamed for over 60 miles astern at 3.5 knots, to Oran, where she was given temporary repairs, before proceeding to Gibraltar for more permanent repairs.
Source clydebuiltships.co.uk clydesite.co.uk
George disembarked at Melbourne on the 8th of June and was transported by Train to Sydney for the ANZAC BUFFET before being discharged from the AIF on the 21st of July when his Period of enlistment was terminated.
(Discharge Certificate number 114014). Returned Active Service Badge number 154096.
Family Information
George was a single 21 year old Locomotive Fireman from 4th Street, Boolaroo, N.S.W. upon enlistment. He was serving with the 16th Infantry Militia prior to enlistment. His parents George and Susan Bliss were married and had at least 5 children. George Arthur BLISS born 1894 at Bathurst, N.S.W. Birth Cert:6028/1894 and died 1968 at Wallsend, N.S.W. Death Cert:26232/1968. Victor L Bliss born 1898 at Bathurst, N.S.W. Birth Cert:1395/1898. Fanny A Bliss born 1900 at Bathurst, N.S.W. Birth Cert:19974/1900 and died 1900 at Bathurst, N.S.W. Death Cert:8245/1900. Alma May Bliss born 1902 at Bathurst, N.S.W. Birth Cert:17494/1902 at Wallsend, N.S.W. Birth Cert:17494/1902 and died 1965 at Sydney, N.S.W. Death Cert:2167/1965. Thelma G Bliss born 1904 at Wallsend, N.S.W. Birth Cert:37729/1904.
10 February 1914
Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. His father started a brick works in 'Booloroo' and John and George worked with their father.
George and Ivy Bliss had 2 children Lorna Muriel Bliss (1921-1988) Neville Raymond Bliss (1923-2013) Neville served with the 2nd AIF during World War 2
(Portrait Photos, George on Left. Courtesy of Michael Fisher) 2013.
George's medals and documents were offered to me in 2013 but I was unable to secure the funds to purchase them at the time. In April 2020 these items were placed on auction and I successfully acquired this collection attributed to Sergeant: 2518 George Arthur BLISS. D.C.M. for the Harrower Collection. Distinguished Conduct Medal SJT 2518 G.A. BLISS 34 INF BN. War Medal: 64965 and Victory Medal: 102645 to SJT 2518 G.A. BLISS 34 BN AIF
George Bliss with mate in England and with his best man on his Wedding Day 24th April 1920
Military Records
©
Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction; 28/04/2013-13/03/2020.
Born: 10th July 1889. Muswellbrook, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:24067/1889.
Married: 27th November 1926. St Stephen's Presbyterian Church, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:14566/1926.
Wife: Linda May wheeler. nee: Fell. (1890-1973)
Died: 25th December 1982. Garden Suburb via Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:100205/1983.
Father: Harry Lambert Wheeler. (1861-1946)
Mother: Sarah Wheeler. nee: Dixon. (1859-1950)
INFORMATION
Harry Lambert Edward Dixon Wheeler enlisted with B Company 34th Battalion AIF with the rank of captain and was an original member of the Battalion on the 24th April 1916. He embarked with the 34th Battalion from Sydney on the 2nd May 1916 on board HMAT A20 "Hororata"
H.M.A.T. A20 "HORORATA"
(1) The voyage to England was without any unusual incidents and a good passage throughout. The first port of call was Albany, where three days were spent. Columbo was reached on Empire Day, 24th May. Here two days were taken up coaling and taking on provisions, etc. During the stay the Battalion carried out a route march through the town. Suez was reached on 8th June, where a party of Light Horse and some details were disembarked. Arriving at Port Said on 9th, the ship coaled and proceeded to Alexandria which was reached on 11th June 1916.
Here the Battalion transferred to S.S."Aragon", E867. Some Australian Details were on board, also a number of Tommies going to England on Furlough. Devonport was reached on the 23rd June, the Battalion disembarked at Plymouth at 1:00 pm and en trained during the afternoon for Amesbury, arriving at midnight and marching to hutments at No: 1 Camp, Larkhill. Here the Battalion settled down to hard training, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and general Camp Routine. Later the Battalion moved to the No: 25 Camp and finished off their training, which included six days' battle practice and field work at the Bustard Trenches.
Four days' disembarkation leave was given from 6th to 10th July and later King's Leave from November 5th to 9th. Whilst here the Official Colours were issued. Purple over Green (Oval), these replacing the Colours presented to the Battalion (Old Gold on Shoulder Straps) by the Ladies of West Maitland. A Signal Section was formed at Larkhill under Lieutenant: Harold Henry McMINN. The weather in England was mostly fine until the latter part of training, when a good deal of rain and snow caused inconvenience. In October the 34th Battalion was reviewed at a Divisional Parade by His Majesty King George V at Bulford.
The 34th Battalion left Larkhill on the 21st November and en trained at Amesbury for Southampton, embarking on the S.S "Arundel". The transport section left by S.S. "Princess Victoria". The Battalion arrived at Le Harve, France on the 22nd November 1916. Disembarkation commenced at 8:00 am and the Battalion marched to No;1 camp on the Hill, arriving at 2:00 pm. The men carried heavy loads, in some cases amounting to miniature Q.M.' Stores. The march over cobblestones was very tiring, notwithstanding the many route marches which had been carried out at Larkhill. However, after bathing their feet and receiving treatment, as well partaking of a good meal, some spent a comfortable night.
The following morning the Battalion moved to Le Harve Railway Station, leaving D Company behind. On arrival at the Station en training commenced at 8:00 am and the train left at 11:15 am. The journey was slow and occupied until 4:30 pm on the 24th. On arrival at Bailleul the men de trained and marched to Outtersteene. D Company arrived at 4:00 pm the following day. The Battalion rested here in billets for two days previous to taking over garrison duties in the Line at Armenties. The Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel. Malcolm St John LAMB. with the Adjutant, Company Commanders, N.C.O's and Specialists went into the Line to inspect Trenches, Stores, Plans and to arrange for the taking over this Section of the line on the following day.
The specialists and N.C.O's remained in the Line. On 27th November the Battalion went into the Line in the L'Epinette Sector. The men were taken up by motor lorries as far as the Square near Houplines Station, and marched via Butterne Avenue and Willow Walk to the Line, carrying their packs and blankets into the trenches. Lewis Gun ammunition was taken into the Line with the tin cases. The going was difficult owing to the conditions of the Trenches and the heavy and bulky loads. Later the blankets were dumped near Tussage Dump, from which most of them disappeared. This was the main incident of our relief in the Line.
MENTIONED in DISPATCHES
Major: Harry Lambert Edward Dixon Wheeler 34th Battalion AIF.
London Gazette 28th December 1817. Page 13566 Position 143.
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 18th April 1918. Page 844 Position 20.
7th February 1919
Major: Harry Lambert Edward Dixon WHEELER 34th Battalion AIF.
Lieutenant: George Edward HODGES 34th Battalion.
Lieutenant: 108 Reginald Thomas KERSLAKE 34th Battalion.
London Gazette 11th July 1919. Page 8831 Position 83.
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 30th of October 1919. Page 1656 Position 75.
Bert was Awarded to rank of Brevet Major.
34th Battalion Transport Section
Rear Row: Left-Right Lieutenant: Donald GRANTER. - Major: Harry Lambert WHEELER. - Lieutenant: Augustus Gibson FARLEIGH.
3rd March 1918.
(2) 9:00 am. Weather dull and very cold. Our Artillery fairly active throughout the day, Enemy Artillery quiet. 11:4 5 am. 9th Infantry Brigade Raiding Party of 300 strong racked enemy trenches opposite 33rd Battalion Sector on our right. Raid very successful 1 Officer 11 other ranks being brought back prisoners. 34th Battalion casualties in the raid were 1 other ranks Killed 3 other ranks Wounded. There was no Artillery retaliation on our Sector.
Lance Corporal: 2597 John Henry JOHNSTON.
(1) At 11.45 pm on the 3rd March a combined 9th Brigade Raid took place, which proved most successful. One Officer and 11 Other Ranks were brought back as prisoners. Our casualties were 3 wounded. The following night the brigade Raiders again entered the enemy Trenches and succeeded in killing 40 of the enemy.
Private: 7533 Walter Godfrey SMITH. 34th BN AIF. Killed in Action 05/03/1918 France.
This Raid however was not so successful as the previous night. The Battalion losing one of its efficient Officers Captain: 717 Benjamin Greenup BRODIE. These Raids were well organised and the men, who had been especially trained, were well equipped. On the second night 100 men of the Battalion took part. The object of the Raid was to blow up Dug Outs and Tunnels. The Assembly Point was in the front of the 33rd Battalion Outpost near No: 7 Post in the front of the Sugar Refinery. Our men were in "C" Company of the Raiders, with Captain: 717 Benjamin Greenup BRODIE in charge. Lieutenant Colonel John Alexander MILNE, 36th Battalion was in charge of the Brigade Raid. Each man carried three of four Bombs. Some were Rifle Grenades, others Lewis Gunners, some Bombers and also Bayonet Men. Most were dressed in Tommy Uniforms. The Demolition Party carried special charges and detonators. It rained heavily during march to the Assembly Point and the men enjoyed the hot Cocoa and Coffee supplied by the Y.M.C.A on the way up.
The Barrage opened at 12:50 am 1 Officer and 4 Other Ranks went forward to lay the tape for direction. Seven minutes later the Covering Party went out and laid in the enemy wire, 45 yards from his Trenches. This Party was armed with Lewis Guns, Bombs and grenades and was in charge of Sergeant: 841 William Samuel MUDFORD. The Main Raiding Party followed the tape and passing through the gaps cut the wire, entering the Trenches. Some strong opposition was encountered from the enemy, with Grenades and Machine Gun fire. Captain: 717 Benjamin Greenup BRODIE while standing on the parapet, directing operations, was hit in the chest and side by Machine Gun Bullets. Lieutenant: 64 Alfred James FELL. and his Party proceeded up the Communication Trench, while Sergeant: 145 Charles Henry NUNN worked along the Front Line to the left. Much opposition was met, as the enemy was apparently waiting in strong force. After six minutes they withdrew, bringing Captain: 717 Benjamin Greenup BRODIE out, who died on the way back. Lieutenant: 12944 Mervyn REES who was in charge of another Party, also returned after doing good work. Shortly afterwards the Covering Party under Sergeant: 841 William Samuel MUDFORD. returned and the 33rd Battalion again took over the Post. Later the enemy retaliated with heavy Shell Fire.
During the afternoon enemy Planes were very active and a squadron flew over. One of the Planes released a paper balloon carrying pamphlets. These were collected and sent to Divisional Headquarters. At 2.40 pm on 6th March Warneton Tower was brought down by the 5th shot of a 15 inch Gun, much to the delight of the Troops who heartily cheered its downfall. On 7th March the Battalion, on being relieved by the 24th Battalion marched to Hyde Park Corner and were conveyed by light railway to Romarin Camp. The following day the men marched to Steenwereck and en trained for Desures. Having de trained, the Battalion marched to Billets at Le Wast, arriving at 11.00 pm on 9th March. The Billets were comfortable but somewhat scattered. The weather was fine and mild.
The Transport travelled by road from Romarin Camp, arriving in grand condition and were complimented on their smartness. Training was carried out in the mornings, while the afternoons were devoted to sports. The men were given leave to Boulogne and St Omer. A Brigade School was formed under Major: Walter Arnold LeRoy FRY. and Major: Harry Lambert Edward Dixon WHEELER. became Commanding Officer of the Battalion. On 22nd March the Battalion left Le Mast and after marching to Lottinghem, en trained for Abeele, where it arrived the next day and marched to Waton. That evening Orders were received to be prepared to move and that all surplus baggage, including Officers' valises, was to be dumped. Leaving Waton on 24th March the Battalion marched to near Abeele and em bused for Wallon-Cappel in the Sercus area. On arriving at Hazebrouck the men de bused and marched to Le Belle Hotesse, and were under Orders to be ready to move at any moment.
34th Battalion AIF Rugby Team November 1918
Middle Row. Third from Left: Major: Harry Lambert WHEELER.
(1) A Short History of the 34th Battalion, Illawarra Press; 1957.
(2) 34th Battalion War Diary
(3) BEAN; History of World War 1 Vol V page 334.
Australian Dictionary of Biography
Harry returned to Australia on the 14th October 1919.
Family Information
Bert was a 26 year old Solicitor from Newcastle, N.S.W. upon enlistment and was a member of the Newcastle Club. He served with the 16th Infantry Militia prior to World War 1 and was a member of the Newcastle Club. His parents Harry and Sarah Wheeler were married in 1885 at Greta, N.S.W. Marriage Cert:5388/1885. and had 7 children. Alice Mildred Millard Dixon Wheeler born 1886 at Muswellbrook, N.S.W. Birth Cert:201024/1886 and died 1958 at Mosman, N.S.W. Death Cert:29063/1958. Maria M S Dixon Wheeler born 1887 at Muswellbrook, N.S.W. Birth Cert:24667/1887. Harry Lambert Edward Dixon born 1889 at Muswellbrook, N.S.W. Birth Cert:24067/1889. and died 1983 Newcastle, N.S.W, Australia. Death Cert:100205/1983. Frank Millard Dixon Wheeler born 1892 at Muswellbrook, N.S.W. Birth Cert:24128/1892 and died 1970 at St Leonards, N.S.W. Death Cert:11249/1970. Doris K I Dixon Wheeler born 1894 at Hamilton, N.S.W. Birth Cert:15804/1894 and died 1871 at Gosford, N.S.W. Death Cert:41503/1971. Gwendiline M Wheeler born 1902 at Hamilton, N.S.W. Birth Cert:22477/1902. Neville Dixon Wheeler born 1907 at Hamilton, N.S.W. Birth Cert:3824/1907.
Bert lived with his wife Linda at 45 Church Street, Newcastle, N.S.W. when he enlisted to serve during World War 2 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Wheeler had commanded the 2nd Battalion (City of Newcastle) in 1921-24. In World War II he served full time (1942-43) on the camp staff, Newcastle, before transferring to the Reserve of Officers.
TROVE: Maitland Mercury 10th April 1909 Promotion approved by His Excellency the Governor.
Military Records
© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)
Under Construction; 26/07/2007-15/07/2020.