Private Gordon Reginald Greenaway
Service #: 5020
Summary
FAMILY LIFE
Gordon Reginald Greenaway was born 11 Jan 1899 at Grafton, son of John & Annie Katherine Greenaway. He was one of 11 children.
APPLICATION
According to his marriage certificate dated 14th June 1919, Gordon was living in Murwillumbah in November 1915 but travelled to Casula, in Sydney to complete his medical and application. He was 19 years 3 months old and a dairy man with his father, John Greenaway of Coraki, as his next of kin. His father signed a letter giving him his consent to enlist. He had been an apprentice for 5 years with H.E. Sparks of Hunter River. His medical showed he was 5ft 9 inches tall (1.75m), weighed 140 lbs (63kgs), with a dark complexion, brown eyes & brown hair. His eye sight was good.
The Examining Medical Officer stated that Gordon “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, Gordon Greenaway, 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. He was enlisted as a private into the 20th Infantry Battalion with service No 5020.
THE 20TH INFANTRY BATTALION
The 20th Infantry Battalion of Australia was raised in March 1915 in Liverpool, New South Wales, as part of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). It was part of the 5th Brigade, 2nd Division. The 20th Infantry Battalion is remembered for its resilience and dedication throughout World War I. He was then transferred to the 2nd Machine gun company on 23rd March, 1918
AUSTRALIAN TRAINING CAMP
Now their training began. Firstly, a recruit had to be inducted into military forms of discipline, command, and order. This was partially achieved through a program of basic training carried and, in a sense, was maintained for a long as a man was in the service.
It involved marching and drilling with the rifle, cleaning and caring for personal equipment and being supervised and inspected in ways quite different to ordinary civilian life. For example, no boots should be allowed to get in a bad state of wear but must be sent to the bootmaker without delay for repair. Men who were found with hair long and unshaven had to have a haircut and shave
Secondly, after basic training there followed the far more serious exercise of turning a man into a fighting soldier at least partially prepared for the kind of warfare he was about to experience overseas
The topics and exercises in the syllabus of training were a world away from their former lives and included daily physical training, entrenching, wiring, firing rifle grenades, firing the Lewis light machine gun, dealing with gas attack, using hand grenades, using the bayonet, and the routines to be followed in the trenches.
This training was then put into practice during what were called ‘Field Days,’ when men would practice using the skills they had acquired in mock attacks both by day and by night. How well men had learnt to use their weapons, in cooperation with each other in training, would be tested in the harsh reality of the front line. Training would take several months
The recruits were issued with their uniform: a khaki woollen jacket, heavy cord breeches and the famous slouch hat – turned up on the left and featuring a plain khaki band, chinstrap and “rising sun” badge. A soldier’s equipment also included a dixie (mess tin), water bottle, mug, .303 Lee-Enfield rifle and bayonet.
On the 5th July 1916, the regiment left Sydney sailing upon the HMAT Ajana. 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. They disembarked at Plymouth on 31st August 1916
HOSPITALISATION AND CONVALESCENCE
On 1st September he was admitted to the Military Hospital in Devonport (no details except sick, slight). He was sent the convalescent camp till 9th October then to the English training camp.
ENGLISH TRAINING CAMP
They had already completed their basic training in Australia but over many more tough months, in the English 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. Later, as soldiers specialised in a particular area (for example, machine gunner or signaller) they would be trained in specific skills and would take part in practice manoeuvres and sham fights. They would spend many hours learning training in the use of bayonets, anti- gas training and guard duty along with lectures on camouflage or trench warfare and much more
WESTERN FRONT & TRENCH WARFARE
He sailed on the Arundel to join his unit in France on 7th February 1917. The soldiers now found themselves fighting the German in trench warfare. On the Western Front in 1914–1918, both sides constructed elaborate trench, underground, and dugout systems opposing each other along a front, protected from assault by barbed wire. The area between opposing trench lines (known as "no man's land") was fully exposed to artillery fire from both sides. Attacks, even if successful, often sustained severe casualties. Trench warfare created a living environment for the men which was harsh, stagnant, and extremely dangerous. Not only were trenches constantly under threat of attack from shells or other weapons, but there were also many health risks that developed into large-scale problems for medical personnel. Apart from the inescapable cold during the winters in France & Belgium, trenches were often completely waterlogged and muddy, and crawling with lice and rats
The time soldiers spent in the trenches varied depending on factors like their army's rotation system and the intensity of the conflict in their sector. On average:
· Front-line trenches: Soldiers typically remained here for about 4–6 days at a time. This was where the fighting was most intense and the conditions were the harshest.
· Support and reserve trenches: After time on the front line, soldiers were rotated to these positions for around 6–12 days. These trenches were set further back and offered slightly better conditions.
· Rest periods: Soldiers were then moved away from the trench system entirely for rest, training, and recovery, often lasting several weeks, depending on operational needs.
The rotation system helped prevent complete physical and mental exhaustion, but the constant dangers of trench life meant there was rarely any true respite.
THE HINDENBURG LINE MARCH 1917
Between February and June 1917, the 20th Battalion was actively engaged on the Western Front in France. During this period, the battalion participated in operations related to the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line, which began in February 1917. This strategic retreat by the Germans aimed to consolidate their defences and reduce the territory they had to defend
The 20th Battalion, as part of the 5th Brigade in the 2nd Division, was actively involved in pursuing the retreating Germans and engaging in operations to secure the vacated territory
During this period, the battalion faced challenges such as booby-trapped towns and strong German rear-guard actions. Notably, the 20th Battalion participated in the defence against a German counterattack at Lagnicourt in March 1917, where they successfully repelled a force significantly larger than their own. These actions were part of the broader Allied efforts to pressure the German forces and prepare for subsequent offensives.
DISCIPLINED
On 23rd April 1917 Gordon went AWL till 24th April and was awarded 28 days FP No.2 and 46 days forfeiture of pay @ 5/-pd = 11 pounds, 10/-. He was awaiting trial in 16 days.
FP NO.2
In Field Punishment Number Two, the prisoner was placed in fetters and handcuffs but was not attached to a fixed object and was still able to march with his unit. This was a relatively tolerable punishment.
THE BATTLE OF POZIERES 23 JULY TO 3 SEPTEMBER 1916
The 20th participated in major battles such as Pozières, Flers, and the Hundred Days Offensive. The Battle of Pozières took place during the Battle of the Somme. Australian forces played a crucial role, capturing the village of Pozières and enduring relentless German artillery bombardments, losing as many men in a few weeks as they did over eight months on Gallipoli.
The battle was marked by intense fighting, with Australian divisions suffering heavy casualties—over 23,000 men, including 6,800 killed or dying of wounds. Despite the losses, the Australians secured the high ground, which was vital for further Allied operations. On 29 July 1916 official Australian war correspondent Charles Bean recorded in his diary: “Pozieres Ridge is more densely sown with Australian sacrifice than any other place on earth”
HOSPITALISATION & CONVALESCENT DEPOT
On 18th September 1917 he was admitted to the Field Ambulance, sick- no details. A Field Ambulance was a mobile front line medical unit (it was not a vehicle), manned by troops of the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was then sent to the 13th Convalescent Depot. 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. This ensured they did not lose their sharpness for battle and that a unit’s cohesiveness was retrained
HOSPITALISED VENEREAL DISEASE
He must have had some furlough while in the convalescent depot as he was admitted to the 39th General Hospital with venereal disease. The sense of adventure, the loneliness, and the loss of family life that overwhelmed many of the overseas volunteers during the First World War often found them on leave in large cities or small towns where alcohol and women were plentiful, and a lack of available prophylaxis allowed the spread of diseases such as gonorrhoea and syphilis to reach epidemic levels. Historians claim that the average incidence rate for this disease in the AIF was around 12 per cent
Treatment for VD was a punishment in its own right. Special hospitals for VD patients were set up and often regarded as deterrent. Patients would be treated with Salvarsan and mercury which offered uncomfortable and sometimes serious side effects such as jaundice and convulsions. Other treatments included irrigation, which was painful and undignified resulting in many men to opt for chemical treatment instead. These long and uncomfortable stays in VD hospitals had most patients recovering and returning to the front. Gordon was discharged on 31ST December 1917.
EARLY 1918
In early 1918 the 20th Battalion was involved in routine trench warfare, including patrols, raids, and defensive operations. This was a quieter phase compared to the major battles earlier in 1917, as both sides prepared for the German Spring Offensive that would begin in March 1918.
The battalion would have focused on maintaining their positions, improving fortifications, and enduring the harsh winter conditions. They also likely participated in training and reorganization to prepare for the challenges ahead.
FURLOUGH & DISCIPLINED
During this time Gordon was granted furlough in London where he went AWL from 7.30am on 14th February 1918 to 7.30am on 15th February when he reported to Victoria Station. He was awarded 7 days FP No.2 and forfeited 7 days’ pay.
WOUNDED IN ACTION
He rejoined his unit and was wounded in action on 11th March 1918 during one of their routine raids. The wound was not detailed but was slight as he rejoined his unit on 17th March.
TRANSFER TO 2ND MACHINE GUN COMPANY
On 23rd March 1918 he was transferred to the 2nd machine gun company.
THE SECOND MACHINE GUN BATTALION
The 2nd Machine Gun Battalion was an Australian Army unit formed during World War I as part of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Established in March 1918, it consolidated the machine gun companies of the 5th, 6th, and 7th Infantry Brigades, along with the 22nd Machine Gun Company. This battalion was equipped with Vickers medium machine guns, renowned for their reliability and firepower. Its legacy highlights the evolution of machine gun tactics and their critical role in modern warfare
MARCH TO MAY 1918
Between March and May 1918, the 2nd Machine Gun Company, which became part of the 2nd Machine Gun Battalion in March 1918, was involved in key engagements during the German Spring Offensive. This period saw intense fighting as German forces launched a series of offensives to break through Allied lines before American reinforcements could fully arrive. The 2nd Machine Gun Company played a critical role in defensive operations, providing sustained fire to repel German advances and protect Allied positions. Their Vickers machine guns were essential for enfilade fire, covering barbed wire defences, and disrupting enemy movements. Specific battles during this time included actions around Villers-Bretonneux, where Australian forces famously counterattacked to recapture the town in late April 1918.
THE BATTLE OF VILLERS-BRETONNEUX
The Battle of Villers-Bretonneux was a significant engagement during World War I, fought on 24–25 April 1918 as part of the German Spring Offensive. The town of Villers-Bretonneux, located near Amiens in northern France, was strategically important due to its proximity to vital transport hubs.
German forces launched an attack on the town using infantry, artillery, and tanks—the first time tanks were used in combat by the Germans. The British defenders, including inexperienced troops, struggled to hold their positions, and the town fell into German hands. However, the Australian 13th and 15th Brigades were brought forward for a counterattack. In a well-coordinated night assault, the Australians successfully recaptured the town, marking a turning point in the battle. This victory demonstrated the effectiveness of the Australian forces and their ability to adapt to challenging conditions. Villers-Bretonneux remains a symbol of Australian bravery and sacrifice during the war.
HOSPITALISATION PUO- PYREXIA OF UNKNOWN ORIGIN- TRENCH FEVER
On 8th May 1918 he was taken to England and admitted to Fulham Military Hospital with PUO. Trench fever, often classed as “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.
Human louse was rife in the trenches of the Western Front. It was the cause of much discomfort to the troops who found it almost impossible to get rid of them. But the body louse did cause another disease that became to be known as 'Trench Fever'.
The body louse was infected by biting a soldier suffering from Trench Fever. The infected soldier did not show any signs, or symptoms, for anything from a week to a month, when a severe head-ache developed with debilitating muscle pains; characteristically of the shins - hence the commonly used alternative name 'Shin-bone Fever'. With a duration of around five days, the fever went into remission and often reoccurred (relapsed) one or more times. There was no effective treatment for Trench Fever other than bed-rest
DISCIPLINED
On his furlough in London, he was again charged with being AWL from 8th June to noon on 10th June. He was awarded loss of 4 days’ pay. He rejoined his unit in France on 2nd October but was disciplined for being drunk in town- Boulogne. He was awarded loss of 14 days’ pay.
The end of the war was in sight and on 11th 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.
MARRIAGE
On 4th June 1919 Gordon married Mary Robertson Paterson at Crosshill Street, Lennoxtown in the Campsie, Stirling, Scotland registration district. They were married under the Church of Scotland ceremony. Gordon was stationed at Sutton Veney at the time.
RETURNED HOME
Gordon & Mary returned to Australia 25 September 1919 on the Mahanal, arriving home 12th November 1919. He was discharged 17th January 1920
If you have any additional information about this individual, we invite you to email us at rsl@msmc.org.au.
Memorial Location
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Buried Location
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