They know practically nothing: The AIF's learning between Gallipoli and the Western Front
In this presentation, Aimee Fox asks 'Did the Australians know practically nothing, did they learn anything useful from their time in Egypt and Gallipoli?'
The starting point is a quotation from a general, who wrote in February 1916 "The Australians frankly terrify me. Their want of discipline is something awful, and after all the laudatory accounts of their doings as soldiers which have appeared in the press for the past year or so, it is very difficult to convince them that for the purposes of fighting in France they know practically nothing!"
Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:
The WFA regularly makes available webinars which can be viewed 'live' from home. These feature expert speakers talking about a particular aspect of the Great War.
Featured on The WFA's YouTube channel are modern day re-interpretations of the inter-war magazine 'I Was There!' which recount the memories of soldiers who 'were there'.
Explore over 8 million digitized pension records, Medal Index Cards and Ministry of Pension Documents, preserved by the WFA.
