FAMILY LIFE

Linden Horace Blow was born in August 1894 in Kiama, son of Alfred & Francis “Fanny” (Jarman) Blow. He was one of 12 children. His brothers, Cecil & Norman, also enlisted. The Blow family came to the Tweed in 1907, living in Boatharbour, where Alfred was engaged in farming. Alfred was a member of the Masonic Lodge & a warden of All Saints Murwillumbah for many years.

ATTESTATION

Linden was single farm labourer, eager to do his bit. His application, dated 7^th June 1915, showed his next of kin as his father, Alfred, of Murwillumbah. He was still serving in the R.A.G.A. The Royal Australian Garrison Artillery (R.A.G.A.) was a pre-war permanent artillery unit responsible for coastal defences and heavy artillery within Australia.

He then signed a declaration confirming he had answered the questions correctly and was willing to voluntarily agree to service in the Military Forces of the Commonwealth of Australia

PAGE 2

CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTING OFFICER

On the second page of the attestation documents the attesting confirms the following

“The foregoing questions were read to the person enlisted in my presence. I have taken care that he understood each question, and his answer to each question has been duly entered as replied to by him

OATH

He also made the following oath in the presence of the Attesting Officer: “I, Linden Horace Blow, swear that I will well and truly serve our Sovereign Lord the King in the Australian Imperial Force until the end of the War, and a further four months thereafter unless sooner lawfully discharged, dismissed or removed therefrom: and that I will resist His Majesty’s enemies and case His Majesty’s peace to be kept and maintained; and I will in all matters appertaining to my services faithfully discharge my duty according to law

SO, HELP ME, GOD.” 

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

His medical showed he was 21 years 10 months old, 5ft 9 ½ inches tall (1.77m), weighed 161 lbs (73kgs). He had a scar on his right leg below his knee. Linden was Church of England.

CERTIFICATE OF MEDICAL EXAMINER

The medical examiner certifies I have examined the abovenamed person, and find that he does not present any of the following conditions, viz: -

Scrofula; phthisis; syphilis; impaired constitution; defective intelligence; defects of vision, voice, or hearing; hernia’ haemorrhoids; varicose veins, beyond a limited extent; marked varicocele with unusually pendent testicle; inveterate cutaneous disease’ chronic ulcers; traces of corporal punishment or evidence of having been marked with the letters D. or B.C; contracted or deformed chest; abnormal curvature of spine; or any other disease or physical defect calculated to unfit him for the duties of a soldier.

He can see the required distance with either eye; his heart and lungs are healthy; he has the free use of his joints and limbs; and he declares he is not subject to fits of any description

I consider him fit for active service

CERTIFICATE OF COMMANDING OFFICER

This is completed during the recruits training. The commanding officer certifies that this attestation of the abovenamed person is correct, and that the required forms have been complied with. He then states “I accordingly approve, and appoint him as a Gunner into the 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade with service number 66

THE 36TH AUSTRALIAN HEAVY ARTILLERY BRIGADE

The 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade served in England and on the Western Front during World War I, operating 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers in two batteries—the 54th and 55th Batteries. These were some of the heaviest guns used by Australian forces in the war, designed to pulverize enemy defensive positions, particularly German fortifications

MELBOURNE'S MARIBYRNONG ARTILLERY CAMP

Because Linden Horace Blow was one of the original men of the Siege Artillery Brigade (Heavy) formed in Victoria in April 1915, his training would have been far more intensive and specialised than that of an ordinary infantryman. The brigade was assembled in Melbourne from permanent artillerymen and militia gunners drawn from coastal defence forts around Australia. Many had already served with the Royal Australian Garrison Artillery before volunteering for overseas service.

In Melbourne the men were concentrated around the military establishments at Victoria Barracks and the artillery training areas associated with the harbour defences. They spent months learning the work that would later make them some of the most skilled artillerymen in the AIF. Unlike infantry recruits, who largely trained in marching, rifle drill and field exercises, the heavy artillerymen had to master mathematics, engineering and mechanical skills

A typical day involved gun drill from dawn until evening. The men practised:

·      Laying guns onto targets using maps, compasses and calculations.

·      Range-finding and observation of enemy positions.

·      Signalling by telephone, flag and lamp.

·      Construction of gun pits and defensive works.

·      Handling shells weighing many dozens of kilograms.

·      Teamwork required to load, elevate and fire heavy weapons.

·      Maintenance of breech mechanisms, recoil systems and carriages.

Because Australia possessed very few modern siege guns, much of the early training was carried out using instructional equipment, smaller artillery pieces and mock gun positions. The emphasis was on discipline, drill and technical knowledge. Officers and NCOs spent considerable time teaching calculations for elevation, fuse settings and indirect fire, skills that would later be essential on the Western Front

The men also undertook route marches, physical training and military exercises around Melbourne to build stamina. Heavy artillery service was physically exhausting. An 8-inch or 9.2-inch howitzer shell could weigh around 90 to 130 kilograms, and ammunition had to be moved continuously during bombardments. The gunners therefore needed considerable strength as well as technical ability. The brigade's intended weapons were the huge 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, the heaviest guns continuously operated by Australians during the war.

By the time the brigade embarked from Melbourne aboard HMAT Orsova on 17 July 1915, the men were already well-trained soldiers. However, they had not yet completed instruction on the actual siege guns. After arrival in England they underwent further specialist training, including work on the heavy howitzers themselves, before eventually moving to France where the 54th and 55th Batteries became part of the 36th Heavy Artillery Group.

For Linden, those months in Melbourne would have been spent transforming from a civilian into a highly trained gunner of what was effectively the Australian Army's elite heavy artillery arm — men entrusted with operating the enormous guns used to smash German strongpoints, trenches and concrete fortifications on the Western Front.

Australians were given a range of inoculations while in camp. The most important jab was to protect against smallpox and typhoid – indeed, having this was an essential precondition of enlisting.

The recruits were issued with their uniform- service dress jacket was made of Australian wool and its loose fit gave the wearer more allowance for movement. The four large pockets were very useful. A unique feature designed for comfort was the pleated back, which provided a double thickness of cloth down the back that the pack rubbed against. Breeches were corduroy worn with wool wrap puttees. The famous khaki felt slouch hat or early service cap is probably the most distinctive part of the uniform. turned up on the left and featuring a plain khaki band, chinstrap and “rising sun” badge.

SOLDIER’S KIT

Australia's World War I soldiers went to war weighed down by almost 30 kilograms of clothes, weapons, tools and kit.

·      Breeches: made from khaki woollen cord fabric, with side pockets and button flies. Soldiers were issued with two pairs of breeches, plus a pair of dungarees. The breeches ended above the ankles and the gap was filled with puttees.

·      Braces: worn with breeches.

·      Puttees: The men wound these strips of woollen cloth, almost three metres long, upwards from the ankle to just below the knee. Soldiers disliked the puttees, probably with good reason: the tight binding restricted circulation and might even have contributed to the high incidence of trench foot. Mounted troops wore leather leggings.

·      Shirt: Soldiers were given two grey, collarless, flannel shirt, plus a military shirt.

·      Ankle boots: brown and lace-up.

·      Socks: Made from wool or cotton. Soldiers were issued with three pairs.

·      Greatcoat: the khaki woollen coat (which weighed about 3kg) often doubled as a soldier's bedding and was his chief protection against the cold and wet. The coat came into its own when snow hit Gallipoli in November 1915 and also on the Western Front.

·      Jersey

·      Singlets: Soldiers were issued with 2 woollen singlets.

·      Cotton "drawers" (underpants): Soldiers were issued with two pairs.

·      Abdominal belts: a sort of cummerbund that was issued to keep soldiers warm and supposedly ward off disease.

·      Backpacks and webbing: The main backpack was a rectangular sack measuring about 15 inches x 13 inches, closed at the top by a folding cover secured by two straps. The webbing included a web belt, cartridge pouches, small haversack, bayonet frog, an entrenching tool holder (plus another holder for its handle), and a water-bottle holder.

·      Identity disc: Soldiers were initially issued with one medal "dog tag" on a cord, but later in the war they were given two tags, made of compressed fibre.

·      Soldiers were also issued with a "housewife" - a sewing kit containing such items as needles, thimble, thread, wool and button so they could carry out running repairs.

·      Also in their kit were a short-magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) rifle, a rifle sling, a bayonet and scabbard, and an "entrenching tool" (they were "diggers" after all). This came in two parts, with the helve (handle) separate from the spade part.

·      Soldiers were issued with eating equipment (knife, fork, spoon, an enamel mug, water bottle (with two-point capacity), and a mess tin with carrier.

·      They also had a clasp knife (with marlin spike, tin-opener and lanyard), razor, shaving kit, soap, comb, two towels, field dressing (carried in the tunic's inside pocket), and a hold-all, in which they could pack their private possessions.

·      No item was probably looked after more carefully than their service pay book: privates were paid six shillings a day.

VOYAGE OVERSEAS FROM MELBOURNE TO ENGLAND

On the 17^TH July 1915 the recruits left Melbourne, sailing upon the HMAT                  Orsova. Alongside his comrades, Linden marched aboard, his boots ringing on the gangway. As the ship’s lines were cast off and the quay began to slip away, the reality of war lay ahead, but for now, the sea breeze carried only the sound of voices and the excitement of men bound for adventure, duty, and the unknown.

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 the voyage, due to overcrowding, training was limited to mainly to lectures and a little physical training.

SLEEPING & LIVING ARRANGEMENTS

Recruits likely slept in a crowded troop deck below, where rows of hammocks or three-tier wooden bunks were crammed close together.

Air below decks could be stuffy, especially in warmer climates, and seasickness was common during the first few days.

DAILY ROUTINE

Reveille early each morning, followed by physical exercises on the open decks (weather permitting). There were parades and inspections—officers ensured uniforms, rifles, and kit were clean and in order. Training was a little problematic—drill without much space, rifle maintenance, lectures on military discipline, signalling, and trench warfare theory. The ship’s decks were used for marching in tight circles or practising bayonet thrusts into stuffed sacks. Rifle shooting was impossible at sea, so soldiers learned to strip and clean their weapons until it was second nature.

MEALS

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. The meals were served in shifts from the ship’s galley. Queues were long, and eating on a rolling ship meant many tried to eat quickly before nausea set in.

HEALTH & SANITATION

Shipboard hygiene was critical—every man was ordered to scrub his section daily to prevent disease. Saltwater baths were the norm, with freshwater rationed for drinking.

THE VOYAGE EXPERIENCE

Entertainment included church drill, concerts, singalongs, card games, and makeshift cricket matches on deck when the weather allowed. In an attempt to keep up morale, an area of the ship was roped off where regular boxing and wrestling tournaments were held. This became commonly known as the Stoush Stadium. No letters could be sent until they reached port, but men often wrote diaries or unsent letters to be posted later.

The 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

CROSSING THE EQUATOR CEREMONY

The crossing the Equator ceremony, ‘Neptune’s Journey,’ was played-out on each troopship.

SIGHTS AT SEA

On the way to Egypt, where the ship would refuel & take on supplies, the ship would pass through the Great Australian Bight, cross the Indian Ocean, and stop at Colombo (Ceylon now Sri Lanka) for coal and supplies.

SECURITY

By late 1914, German raiders were active, so lifeboat drills were frequent, and lookouts kept watch for suspicious ships. Troopships generally sailed in convoys or at least took zig-zag courses to make torpedo attacks harder. Ships often travelled under blackout conditions at night, with lookouts specifically watching for periscopes or torpedo wakes. The danger was greatest in the Western Approaches near Britain, where U-boats patrolled choke points like the English Channel and Irish Sea.

EGYPT

After several weeks at sea, the men finally saw the dusty shoreline of Port Said or Alexandria. They could only wonder at the sights and sounds they could see as they watched the ship being refuelled and goods taken on board

ENGLAND

About a fortnight later the men finally saw the green shoreline of England. The reality of leaving home truly sank in. The recruits would soon exchange the ship’s cramped decks for the training grounds of England, preparing for what lay ahead.

ENGLISH TRAINING CAMP

They had already completed their basic training in Australia but over many more tough months, in the Larkhill training camp, the volunteers left their old lives farther behind. They began their training with physical fitness exercises, they were taught individual and unit discipline, how to follow commands, how to march, some basic field skills and how to safely handle his weapons. 

Larkhill Camp was the primary training ground for Australian heavy artillery units. It was a central hub for artillery instruction, particularly in gun drill (e.g., 6-inch and 8-inch howitzers), ammunition handling and logistics & range-finding, map reading, and fire control. It shared facilities with British Royal Garrison Artillery units, fostering cooperation and standardization.

The No. 1 Siege Artillery Training Depot was specifically established for siege and heavy artillery training. Australian heavy artillery reinforcements were often sent here for specialized instruction before being posted to front-line units. Instruction covered technical subjects like gun maintenance, fortification targeting, and counter-battery work.

DISCIPLINED

While at the camp Linden went absent without leave on 2^nd September 1915 and forfeited 2 day’s pay, He also received 7 days illegible.

FRANCE FEBRUARY TO MAY 1916

Linden arrived in Boulogne, France on 27^th February 1916. The 36^th’s movement to France coincided with the initial buildup of Australian forces on the Western Front, particularly the I Anzac Corps. Once in France, they were attached to British heavy artillery groups—Australian heavy batteries were not under their own divisional commands but served as Corps or Army-level assets.

KEY ACTIVITIES

Deployment to the Western Front:

Batteries of the 36th AHAB (such as the 135th and 136th Heavy Batteries) were progressively sent to Flanders and northern France.

They were assigned to Heavy Artillery Groups, which were British-organized formations managing siege and heavy batteries.

Site Preparation & Calibration:

The gunners spent time establishing gun positions, digging in gun pits, and setting up ammunition supply lines. Artillery pieces had to be positioned, registered, and zeroed in for local conditions (terrain, range tables, etc.).

Limited Firing & Familiarisation:

Although not yet involved in major offensives, the batteries conducted intermittent firing missions, including:

·      Harassing fire

Registration shots

Counter-battery calibration

This allowed them to gain valuable experience in live-fire conditions before major battles. They were not yet heavily engaged in combat but were building up for full-scale operations during the Somme campaign, which began in July 1916.

THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME JUNE TO NOVEMBER 1916

Linden, as part of the 36^th had their first battle in the Somme and they played a significant role on the Western Front. This brigade was equipped with 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, some of the largest artillery pieces used by Australian forces during World War I. These heavy guns were crucial in counter-battery fire, aiming to neutralize German artillery positions. Conditions were extremely difficult—mud, constant enemy fire, and the challenge of moving heavy guns in a devastated landscape.

While the brigade was not deeply embedded in the Somme campaign, its heavy artillery was vital in breaking through German fortifications, which often included concrete blockhouses and deep underground dugouts. The brigade's firepower contributed to the broader Allied strategy of wearing down enemy defences through sustained bombardment. A key innovation during this period was sound-ranging, developed by Captain Lawrence Bragg, which allowed the Allies to locate enemy heavy guns with remarkable accuracy.

HOSPITALISATION- PUO- PYREXIA

Linden was admitted to the 38^th Field Ambulance on 27^th July 1916 with pyrexia. (A Field Ambulance was a mobile front line medical unit (it was not a vehicle), manned by troops of the Royal Army Medical Corps.) PUO- pyrexia of unknown origin, is a condition that was first reported from troops in Flanders in 1915, when individuals suffered from a febrile illness that relapsed in five-day cycles. Soldiers with pyrexia were usually sent to casualty clearing stations or field hospitals for rest, observation, and supportive treatment.  

REJOINED UNIT AUGUST 1916

Linden rejoined his unit on 3^rd August 1916. The 36^th was engaged in several large battles in 1916

THE BATTLE OF POZIERES JULY TO SEPTEMBER 1916

The 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade played a role in the broader Battle of Pozières, which took place between July 23 and September 3, 1916 as part of the Somme offensive. Pozières was a devastating battle for Australian forces, with 23,000 casualties, including 6,800 killed or dying of wounds. The brigade, equipped with 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, contributed to the intense artillery bombardments aimed at German fortifications. These heavy guns were crucial in counter-battery fire, attempting to neutralize German artillery that relentlessly shelled Australian positions.

The Australian 1st, 2nd, and 4th Divisions bore the brunt of the fighting, capturing Pozières village but suffering relentless German artillery bombardment. The 36^TH brigade’s firepower helped support these divisions by targeting enemy strongholds, but the battlefield was a nightmare of constant shelling and destruction. Pozières was a turning point in the Somme campaign, demonstrating the brutality of modern warfare and the importance of heavy artillery in breaking enemy defences

THE BATTLE OF MOQUET FARM AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 1916

The Battle of Mouquet Farm took place between August 10 and September 5, 1916, as part of the Somme offensive. It was a brutal and costly battle for Australian forces, particularly the 1st, 2nd, and 4th Australian Divisions, which suffered over 11,000 casualties. Mouquet Farm was a strategic German stronghold, with deep underground cellars that were converted into defensive positions.

The 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade, equipped with 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, played a role in bombarding German fortifications, attempting to weaken their defences before Australian infantry assaults. Despite repeated attacks, Australian forces were unable to capture and hold the farm, and the British advance eventually bypassed it, leaving it an isolated outpost. The battle was marked by relentless artillery exchanges, trench warfare, and devastating losses. Many Australian soldiers recorded their experiences in diaries, highlighting the harsh conditions, constant shelling, and the psychological toll of the battle

SEPTEMBER 1916 TO JUNE 1917

Between September 1916 and June 1917, the 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade was engaged in counter-battery fire and heavy bombardments on the Western Front. The brigade, equipped with 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, played a crucial role in targeting German artillery positions and supporting infantry operations. During this period, the brigade was part of the broader Allied efforts to weaken German defences, particularly in the Somme region. Heavy artillery units like the 36th Brigade were tasked with destroying enemy fortifications, including concrete blockhouses and deep underground dugouts, which were impervious to lighter field artillery.

HOSPITALISATION- PEDICULOSIS JANUARY 1917

On 29^th January 1917 Linden was admitted to a clearing station with pediculosis which is an infestation of lice—tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp, body, or pubic area. Soldiers in World War I frequently suffered from this due to the harsh conditions. The soldiers were crowded together, damp, and unsanitary, making them the perfect breeding ground for lice. Soldiers often went weeks or months without changing clothes, and their uniforms were rarely properly cleaned, allowing lice to thrive.

Soldiers received various forms of medical treatment, though conditions made complete eradication difficult.

Methods Used:

·      Chemical Treatments: Soldiers were given insecticidal powders and creosote to kill lice, though these were often harsh on the skin.

·      Hot Baths & Delousing Stations: When possible, troops were sent to delousing stations, where they were bathed and their uniforms were treated with steam or chemicals.

·      Burning Lice: Many soldiers resorted to burning lice with candles or hot irons, a crude but effective method.

REJOINED UNIT FEBRUARY 1917

Linden returned to his unit on 2^nd February 1917. The 36^th now had several actions in front of them

THE BATTLE OF MESSINES 7 JUNE 1917

The Battle of Messines, fought on June 7, 1917, was a crucial engagement in World War I, aimed at securing the Messines Ridge in Belgium. While the 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade was not directly involved in the infantry assault, its 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers played a vital role in the preliminary bombardment and counter-battery fire. The battle was notable for the detonation of 19 massive mines beneath German positions, creating one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. The Australian, British, and New Zealand forces then advanced under the cover of intense artillery fire, which helped neutralize German defences.

The 36th Brigade’s heavy guns were instrumental in targeting German artillery positions, ensuring that the advancing troops faced minimal resistance. The brigade’s firepower contributed to the successful capture of Messines Ridge, which was a major tactical victory for the Allies

THE THIRD BATTLE OF YPRES, OFTEN REFERRED TO AS PASSCHENDAELE- JULY 31 AND NOVEMBER 10, 1917.

The Third Battle of Ypres was one of the most brutal and costly battles of World War I, fought in appalling conditions of mud and relentless artillery fire. The Australian forces played a significant role, particularly in battles such as Menin Road, Polygon Wood, and Broodseinde2

The 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade, equipped with 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, contributed to the intense artillery bombardments that preceded infantry assaults. These heavy guns were crucial in counter-battery fire, aiming to neutralize German artillery positions that posed a severe threat to advancing troops. The brigade’s firepower helped support the Australian 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Divisions, which suffered heavy casualties in the muddy, cratered landscape of Passchendaele. Despite the tactical gains, the battle ultimately failed to achieve its strategic objectives, with 310,000 Allied casualties, including 38,000 Australians. The Australian War Memorial preserves the history of this battle, commemorating the sacrifices made by Australian forces

LEAVE IN ENGLAND

On 26^th August 1917 Linden was given leave in England.

REJOINED UNIT- THIRD BATTLE OF YPRES CONTINUING SEPTEMBER 1917

He rejoined his unit in 9^th September 1917, where he rejoined the Third Battle of Ypres

WOUNDED IN ACTION- HOSPITALISATON & CONVALESENCE

One of the casualties of the battle was Linden who was wounded in action with shrapnel wounds to his left shoulder. He was admitted to the 14th General Hospital in Boulogne then he embarked on the H.S. Jan Breydell for England on 29th September. He was admitted to the 1st Birmingham War Hospital and discharged to Hurdcott command post. Here he would convalesce but continue with drilling & training as the technology and techniques were rapidly changing and soldiers had to be up to date when they were ready to rejoin their units.

On 18th November he was classified B1A1 which meant a soldier was fit for light duty only and required four weeks of recovery before being reassessed. On 5th December he was classified B1A2 which meant he was fit for Overseas Training Camp in three to four weeks. However, he did not join the training camp until 2nd March 1918.

REJOINED UNIT APRIL 1918

He rejoined his unit 19^TH April 1918, just in time for the German Spring Offensive.

GERMAN SPRING OFFENSIVE MARCH 1918

During the German Spring Offensive of 1918, the 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade played a crucial role in counter-battery fire and defensive bombardments. This offensive, launched by Germany in March 1918, aimed to break through Allied lines before American reinforcements could tip the balance of the war.

The brigade, equipped with 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers, was tasked with neutralizing German artillery positions and supporting Australian and British infantry as they fought to hold key defensive positions. The Battle of Amiens, which began on August 8, 1918, marked a turning point in the war, with Australian forces playing a decisive role in halting the German advance. The brigade’s firepower helped disrupt German troop movements and weaken enemy fortifications, contributing to the eventual Allied counteroffensive.

The 36^th were then engaged in the Hundred Days Offensive which began with the Battle of Amiens

THE BATTLE OF AMIENS 8 AUGUST 1918

The Battle of Amiens, fought on August 8, 1918, was a turning point in World War I, marking the beginning of the Allied Hundred Days Offensive that ultimately led to Germany’s defeat. The 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade played a crucial role in this battle, providing heavy artillery support with its 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers.

The brigade’s firepower was instrumental in counter-battery operations, targeting German artillery positions to ensure the success of the Australian, British, Canadian, and French infantry. The battle was characterized by speed, surprise, and overwhelming firepower, with tanks, aircraft, and artillery working in coordination to break through German defences.

The Australian War Memorial describes Amiens as “the black day of the German Army,” a phrase coined by German General Erich Ludendorff, who recognized the devastating impact of the Allied assault. The 36th Brigade’s contributions helped secure a decisive victory, leading to the rapid collapse of German resistance in the following months

THE HUNDRED DAY OFFENSIVE AUGUST 1918

The Hundred Days Offensive, which began on August 8, 1918, marked the final phase of World War I, leading to the collapse of German resistance. The 36th Australian Heavy Artillery Brigade played a crucial role in this campaign, providing heavy artillery support with its 8-inch and 9.2-inch howitzers.

The brigade was instrumental in counter-battery fire, targeting German artillery positions to weaken their defences. Its firepower supported Australian, British, Canadian, and French forces as they advanced across the Western Front, pushing German troops into retreat. The Battle of Amiens, which launched the offensive, was a decisive victory, described by German General Erich Ludendorff as “the black day of the German Army.”

PROMOTED TO ACTING BOMBARDIER 5^th OCTOBER 1918

During this campaign Linden was promoted to Acting Bombardier on 5^th October 1918. A bombardier was equivalent to a corporal in the infantry or other units. He supervised a gun crew or detachment and was responsible for directing and managing the loading, aiming, and firing of artillery pieces (e.g., field guns, howitzers). He was often in charge of maintaining discipline and ensuring that orders were carried out on the gun line.

HOSPITALISATION- HAEMORROIDS  11^TH OCTOBER 1918

On 11th October 1918 Linden was admitted to the 25th General Hospital with haemorrhoids severe, also known as piles, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. Haemorrhoids were treated using basic medical interventions, though soldiers often had limited access to proper care. These included topical ointments such as creams and ointments to reduce inflammation and pain & warm Sitz Baths where soldiers were encouraged to soak in warm water, when possible, to relieve discomfort. He rejoined his unit on 27th October 1918.  The 36th were still involved in the Hundred Offensive

HOSPITALISATON INFLUENZA 31^ST OCTOBER 1918

However, Linden was obviously not as strong as was thought, as 4 days later, he was admitted to No 4 Casualty Station Hospital with influenza. (A casualty clearing station was a medical facility located relatively close to the front lines, but far enough back to be out of immediate danger. It was part of the chain of evacuation and treatment for wounded soldiers.) This was a dangerous disease to have in an area with a lot of people who would continue to spread the infection. Many people died with this disease which could cause trouble breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, seizures and/or severe weakness or muscle pain.

There was no effective medical treatment for Influenza. The Army Nurse Corps was critical for soldier’s care. Symptom management by skilled supportive nursing care was the best predictor of positive patient outcomes and decreases in mortality rates. This care consisted of duties such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs, fever control, providing hydration, rest, dressing changes, open-air therapy, bed baths, clean bedding, feeding, back and chest rubs with camphorated sweet oil, and cleaning the ward. He rejoined his unit on 20^th November 1918

END OF WAR

On 11^th November the fighting was officially over so he prepared to return to Australia. 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.

LEAVE TO PARIS JANUARY 1919.

HOSPITALISATION- PILES JANUARY TO FEBRUARY 1919

On 22^nd January 1919 Linden was given leave to Paris, but by 30^th January his piles had flared up again & he was admitted to the Station Hospital in Rouen. On 16^th February he was invalided to England and was admitted to the King George Hospital in Standford St. London.

NO 1 COMMAND DEPOT WEYMOUTH FEBRUARY TO MARCH 1919

On 25^th February he reported to the No 1 command depot in Weymouth. This depot was for the rehabilitation, training, and reconditioning of soldiers who were recovering from wounds, illness, or fatigue. Here he would convalesce until it was time for him to return home

DISCIPLINED

On 11^th March he went absent without leave until 13^th March. He forfeited 2 day’s pay

RETURNING HOME

Linden returned to Australia 5 April 1919 on the Armagh. He disembarked on 21^st May and was discharged on 7^th March 1920 as medically unfit

CLOTHING AND NECESSITIES GIVEN TO SOLDIERS FOR SOLDIERS PROCEEDING TO AUSTRALIA FOR DEMOBILISATION

Badges Hat                    Badges Collar (2)                    Bags kit universal

Bags kit sea                   Braces (pair)                            Brush, shaving

Brush, tooth                  Breeches M.S (Military service)

Cap comforter (warm cap)                                           Comb, hair

Disc identity with cord                                                  Drawers (2 pairs)

Great Coat                     Hat, Khaki fur                          Hat, white

Holdall                           Housewife (compact sewing kit)

Jackets Cardigan           Jackets S.D (service dress)

Leggings 1 pair             Laces, leather 1 pair

Puggarees, small (a traditional Indian head wrap, worn in warm conditions

Puttees, 1 pair (cloth bandages worn by soldiers, to provide support and protection for the lower leg)

Razor                              Shirts, flannel (2)                   Socks, 3 pairs

Singlets (2)

Strap chin                      Soap piece                               Suit, working

Towels, hand (2)

Titles “Australia” (4)-
Australian soldiers and non-commissioned officers wore an “Australia” title at the base of their shoulder straps. Each serving soldier also wore unit titles above this which indicated the units to which they belonged

FOR HIS SERVICE

For his service, John was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and the Victory Medal and he has a plaque in the New South Wales Garden of Remembrance.

The New South Wales Garden of Remembrance is a significant memorial site located within the Rookwood Necropolis in Sydney, adjacent to the Sydney War Cemetery. It features commemorative walls adorned with bronze plaques bearing the names of these individuals. Currently, over 73,500 plaques are displayed, with the capacity to accommodate up to 100,000. The central archway at the main entrance houses register books that list the wall and panel numbers for each plaque, assisting visitors in locating specific commemorations.

AT HOME

Linden married Eunice Madelaine Salmon in 1926 in Murwillumbah. He died on 23rd January 1965, aged 70, in Murwillumbah and is buried in Murwillumbah General Cemetery in Church of England section Plot G 19

If you have any additional information about this individual, we invite you to email us at rsl@msmc.org.au.