Bombardier Cyril Sabine Warner-bubb
Service #: 21028
Summary
FAMILY LIFE
Cyril Sabine Warner-Bubb was born in Condong in 1897, son of Oswald Charles & Melena Hardcastle (Sabine) Warner-Bubb. He was one of three sons, all of whom were born in Condong & enlisted in the war.
APPLICATION
He was single mail assistant, eager to do his bit. He travelled to Brisbane on 29th October 1915 to complete his application which showed his next of kin as his father, Oswald, of Condong. He had spent 4 years as a cadet in Murwillumbah
His medical showed he was 18 years 7 months old, 5ft 9 inches tall (1.75m), weighed 154 lbs (70kgs), with a fair complexion, olive eyes & black hair. His eyesight was good.
The Examining Medical Officer stated that Cyril “can see the required distance with either eye; his heart and lungs are healthy; he has the free use of his joints; and he declares he is not subject to fits of any description. I consider him fit for active service.” On the second page of the Attestation Paper, he made the following oath in the presence of the Attesting Officer: “I, Cyril Sabine Warner-Bubb, swear that I will well and truly serve our Sovereign Lord the King in the Australian Imperial Force until the end of the War … SO HELP ME, GOD.”
He was Church of England and had a scar on his left thigh & on the bridge of his nose. He was enlisted as a gunner into the 9th Field Artillery Brigade, 34th Battery with service No 21028
FIELD ARTILLARY BRIGADE
A Field Artillery Brigade was responsible for delivering fire support through a range of artillery tactics, from preparing infantry assaults with preliminary bombardments to providing suppression fire during infantry movements and attacks. The brigade played a critical role in shaping the battlefield, using artillery to destroy enemy positions, neutralize artillery, support infantry, and create the conditions for offensive and defensive actions.
The combination of firepower, tactics, and coordination between artillery, infantry, and other branches of the military made field artillery a central part of WWI’s strategic and tactical operations.
TRAINING IN AUSTRALIA
Field Artillery soldiers received specialized training in Australia before being deployed overseas. This training was crucial to ensure they could effectively operate the artillery and support infantry operations in the brutal and complex environment of trench warfare on the Western Front. Before any specialized artillery training, all soldiers, including artillerymen, underwent basic military training. This included physical fitness with drills, marching, and maintaining overall physical endurance & discipline by learning military customs, regulations, and the hierarchy of the AIF. Weapons handling with basic rifle training and familiarization with standard infantry weapons, (although their primary role was with artillery) was held.
Drills and formations which familiarised soldiers with movement, commands, and unit coordination.
Once basic training was completed, soldiers selected for field artillery roles would undergo more specialized training at artillery schools and camps. Specialised training included gun operation, calculating range & targeting, ammunition and loading techniques, shell handling, tactical & field training. They learnt signalling & communication & were trained to handle challenging occasions.
Before deployment, the Field Artillery Brigade would engage in live-firing exercises to practice their gun operations, aiming, and firing on range targets. These exercises helped them simulate real combat scenarios and become more familiar with the sound and recoil of firing live artillery rounds.
Before heading overseas, artillerymen participated in final preparations for deployment, including medical checks, inspections, and ensuring that all equipment and ammunition supplies were in order. Soldiers would then embark for Egypt or England for further training and acclimatization before they were sent to the Western Front. This training took many months
VOYAGE OVERSEAS
He embarked at Sydney, New South Wales aboard HMAT Argyllshire on 11 May 1916. The epic voyage across the ocean has been described as “the longest journey to war in the history of the world.” They thought it was the start of a new adventure- for many it was their first time so far away from home. However, after some time at sea the biggest problem turned out to be boredom. On-board, Officers organised rigorous training drills and exercise sessions for the men. They were expected to do their own washing, sweep the decks and carry out other chores
Attempts at breaking up the boredom, apart from the regular drill, varied. Shipboard activities included regular church parades and concerts. Troops engaged in lifebelt drill; a cookhouse on deck; soldiers on fatigues peeling potatoes 'spud bashing'; going to the dentist; barber, pay day; soldiers cleaning personal equipment; medical inspection. Sports and recreation included boxing, deck quoits, draughts. Also, the commanding officer's morning inspection; kit inspections; submarine drill; recreation such as the on deck 'open air' library, deck billiards, pillow fighting and card games including Nap. As well, conditions on the ships were cramped and the risk of illness was constant.
Three hearty meals a day were served; breakfast usually consisted of porridge, stew, and tea. Lunch included soup, meat, vegetables, and pudding. Meat, bread with jam and tea was served for dinner. Many of the troops experienced bouts of seasickness on the voyage. The crossing the Equator ceremony, ‘Neptune’s Journey,’ was played-out on each troopship.
ENGLISH TRAINING CAMP
Although not recorded when the ship arrived according to Chat GPT it reached England on 10th June 1916. In the United Kingdom, Field Artillery Brigades from the Australian Imperial Force were sent to various training locations to prepare for deployment on the Western Front. The training focused on adapting the soldiers to the different conditions of warfare in Europe, refining their skills in artillery operations, and ensuring coordination with other military units. For example, Larkhill was a hub for artillery training, where AIF units trained in gun operation, firing techniques, range estimation, and shell handling. The flat, open terrain of Salisbury Plain was ideal for live-fire exercises and simulating real battlefield conditions.
Field Artillery Brigades used Larkhill for their basic and advanced artillery training. The soldiers practiced techniques such as setting up gun positions, firing in rapid succession, and coordinating artillery with infantry movements. Cyril and the other recruits would spend another few months learning all these duties.
HOSPITALISATION NO DETAILS AUGUST 1916
On 9th August 1916 Cyril was admitted to the Military Hospital, Sutton and rejoined his unit on 25th August 1916. The brigade was still undertaking training.
PROCEEDED TO FRANCE DECEMBER 1916
On 30th December Cyril sailed for France
TRANSFER TO 3RD DIVISION JANUARY 1917
On 6th January 1917 he was taken on strength with the 3rd Division Artillery
DETACHED FROM 3RD DIVISION & ATTACHED TO 7TH DIVISION JANUARY 1917
He was attached to the 7th Division on 24th January 1917
During World War I, soldiers were often detached from one brigade to another for several reasons, typically related to operational needs, reinforcements, specialization, or emergency situations. The concept of detachment was common, especially as the war evolved and the demands of frontline service became more complex. Certain soldiers with specialized skills (such as signallers, medics, gunner, engineers, or machine gunners) could be detached to provide expertise where it was needed most. These specialists were in high demand and could be reassigned to different brigades or units that required their specific knowledge or skill set.
BETWEEN JANUARY 1917 & NOVEMBER 1917
Between January 1917 and November 1917, the 7th Division Artillery played a critical role in some of the major battles on the Western Front during World War I. The division was involved in intense artillery operations and key actions, including support for large-scale attacks and artillery duels against enemy positions
BATTLE OF THE SOMME (JANUARY – MARCH 1917)
In early 1917, the 7th Division and its artillery were still engaged in the aftermath of the Battle of the Somme, which had ended in late 1916. The 7th Division Artillery, which had played a significant role in supporting the Australian and British forces during the battle, remained in the area to provide artillery support in the Somme sector.
THE GERMAN WITHDRAWAL TO THE HINDENBURG LINE (FEBRUARY – MARCH 1917)
In early 1917, the German army conducted a strategic withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line in the Somme sector. The 7th Division Artillery was part of the effort to neutralize any remaining German strongholds and prepare for the next phase of the Allied offensive.
The 7th Division Artillery participated in a series of fire missions, targeting enemy positions as the Germans retreated, especially targeting rear-guard positions and supply lines.
As part of the Allied artillery coordination, the 7th Division's guns continued to provide support, ensuring that the retreating German forces had limited freedom of movement
THE BATTLE OF MESSINES RIDGE (JUNE 1917)
One of the major actions the 7th Division Artillery participated in was the Battle of Messines Ridge in June 1917. This battle was part of the broader Third Ypres Campaign and was designed to capture the Messines Ridge and break through the German defensive positions.
Artillery Role: The 7th Division Artillery was instrumental in providing heavy bombardments to prepare for the infantry attack, especially targeting German machine gun positions and artillery along the ridge.
The preliminary bombardment before the infantry assault was one of the most effective of the war, with the artillery firing in support of underground mines placed under the German trenches.
The 7th Division Artillery also conducted a rolling barrage, providing close fire support for the advancing Australian infantry.
Outcomes: The battle was a significant success for the Allies, with Messines Ridge being captured on 7 June 1917. The battle demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated artillery-infantry tactics and preparation.
THE BATTLE OF PASSCHENDAELE (THIRD YPRES) (JULY – NOVEMBER 1917)
The 7th Division Artillery played a crucial role in the Third Battle of Ypres, also known as Passchendaele. The campaign, which began in July 1917, was aimed at breaking through the German lines in Flanders and capturing the ridges around Passchendaele.
Initial Bombardment: The 7th Division Artillery supported the initial offensive by providing heavy artillery barrages. However, this battle proved difficult due to the weather conditions (especially heavy rain), which turned the battlefield into a quagmire. The mud made both infantry and artillery movements extremely difficult.
Ongoing Bombardment Support: The artillery continued to support the infantry through sustained bombardments, focusing on enemy positions and supply routes. Their tasks included counter-battery fire to suppress German artillery and fire support for the advance of Australian and British forces.
Mud and Attrition: The battle of Passchendaele was marked by significant attrition. The 7th Division Artillery had to deal with the challenges of the flooded terrain and the difficulties in moving artillery guns and ammunition. Despite these challenges, the artillerymen continued to carry out their tasks in very difficult conditions.
THE BATTLE OF POLYGON WOOD (26 SEPTEMBER – 3 OCTOBER 1917)
During the Third Ypres offensive, the Battle of Polygon Wood was another critical engagement where the 7th Division Artillery was involved. The battle was part of the broader effort to capture the area around Ypres and establish control over key high ground.
Artillery Bombardment: The 7th Division Artillery provided a creeping barrage to support the Australian infantry’s attack on the heavily defended Polygon Wood. The artillery’s role was to disrupt German defensive positions and neutralize machine gun nests while providing close fire support to protect the advancing infantry.
Coordination with Infantry: This was a complex operation where the artillery had to maintain tight coordination with infantry to ensure precision targeting and avoid friendly fire. The 7th Division Artillery was responsible for maintaining a steady bombardment throughout the battle to keep German forces suppressed and prevent reinforcements from reaching the front
THE BATTLE OF BROODSEINDE (4 OCTOBER 1917)
The 7th Division Artillery also played an essential role in the Battle of Broodseinde on 4 October 1917, another part of the Ypres offensive. This battle was designed to break through German defences along the Passchendaele ridge.
Artillery Support: Like previous actions, the 7th Division contributed to the artillery bombardment that preceded the infantry assault. The division’s guns provided preparation fire to target German defensive positions and to support the advance of the attacking forces.
Tactical Role: As with earlier battles, the 7th Division Artillery was also heavily involved in counter-battery fire (targeting enemy artillery) and the continuous suppression of German positions to prevent them from effectively retaliating against the advancing infantry.
FINAL PREPARATIONS AND REORGANIZATION (NOVEMBER 1917)
By November 1917, after several months of heavy fighting in Flanders, the 7th Division Artillery had suffered considerable wear and tear. This was a time of reorganization, as the division’s artillery units were rotated out of the line to rest and refit, with artillery units moving into reserve positions for recovery.
Maintenance and Replacements: After the intense fighting during the Third Ypres offensive, the artillery needed time for maintenance, equipment replacement, and the reintegration of soldiers who had been wounded or killed.
Refitting and Reinforcements: Artillery pieces were repaired, and new recruits and replacements were brought in to ensure that the 7th Division Artillery was ready for any upcoming offensives
BETWEEN DECEMBER 1917 AND NOVEMBER 1918
Between December 1917 and November 1918, the 7th Division Artillery continued to play a crucial role in the Allied efforts on the Western Front. This period saw some of the war's most significant battles, including the German Spring Offensive, the Allied Hundred Days Offensive, and the final push towards victory in November 1918. The 7th Division Artillery was involved in intense combat and artillery operations throughout these campaigns, supporting infantry assaults, conducting counter-battery fire, and helping shape the battlefield with barrages and suppression tactics.
WINTER OF 1917-1918: REORGANIZATION AND REST
After the intense fighting during the Third Ypres Campaign (Passchendaele), which ended in November 1917, the 7th Division Artillery took part in reorganization and rest during the winter months. This period was essential for recovering from the gruelling conditions of the previous campaigns, repairing equipment, replacing casualties, and refitting units
THE GERMAN SPRING OFFENSIVE (MARCH – APRIL 1918)
The German Spring Offensive, which began in March 1918, marked one of the most intense and desperate phases of the war. The Germans launched a series of well-coordinated attacks, and the 7th Division Artillery was heavily engaged in countering the offensive and supporting Allied defences.
MARCH 1918:
The Germans launched their attacks on the Somme and other sectors, and the 7th Division Artillery had to quickly adapt to a defensive role, providing artillery support to hold lines and suppress German advances.
The division was tasked with counter-battery fire (targeting German artillery) and destructive bombardments to slow the German advances. As the Germans broke through certain sectors, the artillery's job was also to delay them, buying time for reinforcements and to organize a counterattack.
BATTLE OF VILLERS BRETONNEUX APRIL 1918
One of the most significant actions during the Spring Offensive was the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux in April 1918. The 7th Division Artillery supported the Australian infantry's defence of the town and engaged in intense artillery exchanges with German forces, ensuring that the Germans could not break through and recapture important ground.
THE ALLIED COUNTEROFFENSIVE (AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 1918)
In August 1918, after the German offensive had stalled, the Allied powers launched a series of counteroffensives, culminating in the Hundred Days Offensive. This marked the final phase of the war, during which the 7th Division Artillery played a key role in breaking the German lines and pushing towards victory.
AUGUST 1918 – BATTLE OF AMIENS:
The 7th Division Artillery was part of the Allied forces that launched a massive offensive at Amiens, where the Allies achieved a significant breakthrough. The artillery provided crucial supporting barrages to neutralize German defences and protect the advancing infantry.
The artillery bombardments were conducted as part of a coordinated barrage to disrupt German positions, with rolling barrages to support the infantry as they moved forward.
The 7th Division Artillery worked in close coordination with infantry and tank units to deliver fire support, aiming to create gaps in the German defences.
SEPTEMBER 1918 – BATTLE OF THE HINDENBURG LINE:
As the Allied forces moved closer to the Hindenburg Line, one of the most formidable German defences, the 7th Division Artillery was crucial in the artillery assault that helped breach this strong defensive position.
The artillery was tasked with preparing the way for infantry assaults by conducting heavy bombardments on key strongpoints, supply lines, and German artillery positions.
The 7th Division also participated in the artillery bombardment designed to weaken the German morale and infrastructure before the infantry attacked.
FINAL PUSH: OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 1918
In the final months of the war, the 7th Division Artillery played a crucial role in the final Allied push that led to the collapse of the German Army.
OCTOBER 1918 – THE BATTLE OF THE SAMBRE:
In the final months, the 7th Division Artillery supported the Allied advance through intense artillery barrages aimed at disrupting German positions and supporting infantry movements. The artillery engaged in targeting German strongholds and artillery positions, helping to facilitate the advance toward the German border.
NOVEMBER 1918 – ARMISTICE:
As the German army continued to retreat, the 7th Division Artillery continued to provide artillery support, but in the final days leading up to the Armistice on 11 November 1918, the artillery's role shifted toward mopping up operations and providing final support in the last offensive actions of the war. After the Armistice, the Australian Prime Minister Billy Hughes insisted Australian troops be repatriated (returned home) as quickly as possible. This logistical challenge was enormous with 135,000 troops brought home from Britain in 147 voyages, and 16,773 troops from the Middle East in 56 voyages, mostly on a first come, first go basis. There was a lack of suitable ships to transport personnel home and many had to wait many months before they were headed back to Australia.
ATTACHED TO AIF HQ FOR DUTIES
Cyril was one of the any soldiers who were attached to AIF HQ or duties after the war. After WWI, Depot HQs shifted from training and deployment centres to processing, medical, administrative, and demobilisation hubs, ensuring a smooth return to civilian life for thousands of Australian soldiers. Their role was vital in transitioning from war to peace and laying the groundwork for veterans' support in the 1920s.
Depot HQ coordinated the gradual disbandment of wartime units and repatriation, and medical processing. Depot HQs acted as intermediaries with the newly formed Repatriation Department, helping veterans receive war pensions, land settlement schemes (soldier settlement) & vocational training and employment assistance
They finalised service records, war gratuities (final pay, bonuses), honours and awards processing.
GOING HOME
Cyril returned to Australia on 10th November 1919 on the Ascanius and was discharged on 18th January 1920.
For his service Cyril was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and the Victory Medal and his name is recorded on the Bundaberg Christ Church Roll of Honour
HOME LIFE
Cyril married Mona Cheers in Sydney in 1928. He died aged 72, in St. Leonards on 20th February 1969 and is buried in Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium
North Ryde, East Terrace 2 Wall 1
If you have any additional information about this individual, we invite you to email us at rsl@msmc.org.au.
Memorial Location
Bundaberg Christ Church Roll of Honour
Buried Location
Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium North Ryde, East Terrace 2 Wall 1
