FAMILY LIFE

Richard Sydney Dodds was born in 1892 in Chinderah, one of four children of Owen George & Mary Cecilia “Cissy” (Hill) Dodds of Murwillumbah. His parents were well known residents. Mary’s name is commemorated on the Banner St Memorial Park Memorial. Owen is buried in Bray Park Catholic Cemetery.

APPLICATION

He was single carter, living in Murwillumbah, eager to do his bit. He travelled to Brisbane on 2^nd October 1915 to complete his application which showed his next of kin as his father, Owen George Dodds, of Murwillumbah.  His medical which showed he was 21 years 11 months old, 5ft 7 inches tall (1.7m), weighed 10 stone 8 lbs (61kgs), with a fair complexion, blue eyes & dark hair.  His eyesight was good. He was Roman Catholic and had a scar below his chest.  He was enlisted as a private into the 25 Infantry Battalion – 11^th Reinforcements with service No 4422

25TH INFANTRY BATTALION

The 25th Infantry Battalion, part of the 7th Brigade, 2nd Division of the Australian Imperial Force, was raised in March 1915 at Enoggera, Queensland. Their service is remembered for their resilience and contributions to key victories

ENOGGERA TRAINING CAMP

As was the case with men from the Northern Rivers district in New South Wales, they trained at Rifle Range Camp, Enoggera near Brisbane. The Barracks Block was built as accommodation for men in two dormitories, each 36 feet by 22 feet (10.97 x 6.7 metres). Beds or bunks were not provided, instead each man slept on a palliasse with ground sheet on the floor. For many it was their first time away from home. Men from every walk of life, from clerks and teachers to factory and shop workers, were crammed together

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.

VOYAGE OVERSEAS

On the 31^st March 1916, the regiment left Sydney, sailing upon the HMAT Star of Victoria. They thought it was the start of a new adventure- for many it was their first time away from home. However, after some time at sea the biggest problem turned out to be boredom. 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.  It was a foretaste of what was to come.

EGYPTIAN TRAINING CAMP

When the men arrived in Egypt there was even more training. They had already completed their basic training in Australia but over many more tough months 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. Training would normally last 3 months

The 25^th Battalion had been in Egypt since July 1915. Arriving in September, the battalion's involvement was limited to mainly defensive operations, and it remained on the peninsula for only a couple of months before the Allied evacuation in December 1915. Richard joined the unit in May 1916.

TRENCH WARFARE

In mid-1916, after returning to Egypt the AIF was reorganised and expanded, and the 25th Battalion was returned to the 2nd Division, with which it subsequently served on the Western Front after being transferred to Europe.

The recruits 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.

BATTLE OF POZIERES JULY 1916

The 21^st’s first significant battle there came at Pozières on 28 July 1916 where the battalion suffered heavily during a night-time attack on the heights, losing 12 officers and 350 other ranks killed or wounded, many of whom were caught in thick wire obstacles that had been left intact by the pre-attack artillery bombardment. A follow-up attack on 4 August added more casualties, bringing the total loss for the 25th in its first battle on the Western Front to 785

ALBERT- BAPAUME ROAD LATE 1916

After this, the 25th Battalion spent a brief period around Ypres, where they undertook a series of raids, before returning to the Somme in the last part of 1916 where they undertook further attacks throughout November to extend their observation of the Albert–Bapaume Road. The Albert–Bapaume Road was a key location during the Battle of the Somme in World War I, which lasted from July to November 1916. This road connected the towns of Albert and Bapaume in northern France and was a critical supply route for the British forces. By November 1916, the battle had become a gruelling war of attrition, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.

The area around the road saw intense fighting as British and Allied forces attempted to push back the German defences. Despite some territorial gains, the offensive ended in stalemate, with the front lines only moving a few miles. The battle is remembered for its high human cost and the introduction of new military technologies, such as tanks

HOSPITALISED

Richard was admitted to hospital in Belgium on 11^th October 1916 with no details recorded.

FRANCE EARLY 1917

He rejoined his unit on 8^TH January 1917 in France. In January 1917, the 25th Infantry Battalion was stationed on the Western Front in France during World War I. This period was marked by harsh winter conditions and the ongoing stalemate of trench warfare. The battalion was involved in defensive operations and preparations for future offensives, as the Allied forces sought to break through German lines.

The battalion's activities during this time included maintaining trenches, conducting patrols, and enduring the challenges of life on the front lines. Their efforts contributed to the broader Allied strategy in the region, setting the stage for later battles in 1917. He was in hospital again (no details) on 10^th February 1917, rejoining the unit on 20^th February.

SECOND BATTLE OF BULLECOURT 3-17 MAY 1917

The 25th Infantry Battalion played a supporting role in the Second Battle of Bullecourt.  This battle was part of the British Army's Arras Offensive and aimed to capture the fortified village of Bullecourt, which was part of the German Hindenburg Line.

 

The 25th Battalion, as part of the 2nd Division, supported the main assault by providing reinforcements and assisting in holding captured positions. The battle was marked by intense fighting, with Australian and British forces facing fierce resistance from German troops. Despite heavy casualties, the Allies eventually succeeded in capturing the village, but the strategic value of the victory was limited. The Second Battle of Bullecourt was costly, with the Australian Imperial Force suffering over 7,000 casualties.

HOSPITALISATION VENEREAL DISEASE

On 22^ND June 1917 Richard was admitted to the 39^th General Hospital, Le Havre with venereal disease. Since the early dawn of military manoeuvres and activities, sexual hygiene and behaviour have proven to be a major problem for the Worlds’ Armies, and WW1 proved to be no different. Soldiers on assignment overseas were often lonely, had time to spare, got homesick, or were just looking for female companionship.  VD was a great source of military inefficiency: although it had a low mortality rate, it resulted in loss of manpower, and the cure was expensive, time-consuming, and often ineffective. He rejoined his unit 61 days on 27^th August 1917.

THE BATTLE OF MENIN ROAD 20-25 SEPTEMBER 1917

The Battle of Menin Road was a significant engagement during the Third Battle of Ypres. The 25th Infantry Battalion, as part of the 2nd Division, played a key role in this battle. Their objective was to advance along the Menin Road and capture strategically important positions on the Gheluvelt Plateau.

The battle was marked by intense artillery bombardments and fierce resistance from German forces, including well-entrenched pillboxes and strongpoints. The 25th Battalion was part of the first wave of the attack, and their efforts contributed to the overall success of the operation. The British and Australian forces managed to secure their objectives, inflicting heavy casualties on the German defenders.

This battle demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated infantry and artillery tactics, as well as the resilience of the soldiers involved. The 25th Battalion sustained significant casualties but played a crucial role in achieving the Allied objectives.

THE BATTLE OF BROODSEINDE RIDGE 4 OCTOBER 1917.

The Battle of Broodseinde was a significant engagement during the Third Battle of Ypres. The 25th Infantry Battalion, as part of the 2nd Division, played a crucial role in this battle. Their objective was to advance and secure positions on Broodseinde Ridge, a strategically important area in Belgium.

The battle was marked by intense artillery bombardments and fierce resistance from German forces. The 25th Battalion was part of the first wave of the attack, and their efforts contributed to the overall success of the operation. The Allied forces achieved a decisive victory, inflicting heavy casualties on the German defenders and capturing key positions. This battle demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated infantry and artillery tactics, as well as the resilience of the soldiers involved. The 25th Battalion sustained significant casualties but played a vital role in achieving the Allied objectives

HOSPITALISED VENEREAL DISEASE

He was admitted to the 7^th Australian Field Ambulance on 10^th December 1917, then transferred to the 39^th General Hospital, Le Havre with venereal disease again and this time it took 79 days to clear.

BATTLE OF VILLERS- BRETONNEUX 24-25 APRIL 1918

He rejoined his unit on 30th March 1918. After wintering in Belgium, in early 1918 the 25th Battalion moved south to Somme as the Australian divisions were transferred there to help blunt the German spring offensive in March and April, undertaking a defensive action around Villers-Bretonneux as the Allies fought to defend the vital railhead of Amiens.

The 25th Infantry Battalion played a supporting role in the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux, a pivotal engagement during World War I. This battle took place as part of the German Spring Offensive on the Western Front. German forces had captured the town of Villers-Bretonneux, which was strategically significant due to its proximity to the vital transport hub of Amiens.

 

The Australian forces, including the 25th Battalion as part of the 2nd Division, were instrumental in the counterattack to recapture the town. The operation was a well-coordinated night assault, and the Australians successfully reclaimed Villers-Bretonneux, halting the German advance. This victory was a turning point in the campaign and is remembered as a testament to the bravery and determination of the Australian troops

THE GERMAN SPRING OFFENSIVE- ATTACK ON MORLANCOURT 10TH JUNE 1918

In April 1918, the unit took part in the fighting during the German Spring Offensive, in which it fought a series of long-running skirmishes against German troops in and around the village of Morlancourt. The 7th Brigade, which included the 25th Infantry Battalion, was actively involved in the attacks on Morlancourt during 1918, as part of the Allied efforts to push back German forces on the Western Front. These attacks were part of a series of operations aimed at regaining control of key positions near the Somme River.

The Third Battle of Morlancourt, fought on June 10, 1918, saw the 7th Brigade, including the 25th Battalion, carry out a successful dusk assault on the Morlancourt Spur.

This position provided critical observation over the village of Sailly-Laurette. The attack was well-coordinated, with diversionary demonstrations on the flanks to confuse the enemy. The Australians secured all their objectives, capturing a significant number of German prisoners and inflicting heavy casualties.

This victory was part of the broader Allied strategy to regain momentum after the German Spring Offensive and demonstrated the effectiveness of Australian troops in offensive operations.

THE BATTLE OF HAMEL 4^TH JULY 1918

The Battle of Hamel was a successful attack by Australian Army and US Army infantry, supported by British tanks, against German positions in and around the town of Le Hamel, in northern France, during World War I. The attack was planned and commanded by Lieutenant General John Monash, commander of the Australian Corps, and took place on 4 July 1918.

 

Many of the tactics employed, such as the use of combined arms, illustrated the evolution of military tactics, from the massed attacks mounted earlier in the war. All the Allies' objectives were achieved within 93 minutes, just three minutes longer than Monash's calculated battle time.

The 25th Battalion, as part of the 7th Brigade, supported the main assault by securing positions and providing reinforcements. The operation was a resounding success, with all objectives achieved in just 93 minutes, slightly longer than Monash's calculated time. This victory demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated tactics and marked a turning point in the Allied efforts on the Western Front. This battle took place before the Allies launched their Hundred Days Offensive around Amiens in August. The Hundred Days Offensive (8 August to 11 November 1918) was a series of massive Allied offensives that ended the First World War. Beginning with the Battle of Amiens (8–12 August) on the Western Front, the Allies pushed the Imperial German Army back.

THE BATTLE OF AMIENS 8^TH -11^TH AUGUST 1918

The Battle of Amiens was a pivotal engagement during World War I, marking the beginning of the Allied Hundred Days Offensive that ultimately led to the end of the war. The 25th Infantry Battalion, as part of the 7th Brigade in the 2nd Division, played a significant role in this battle.

The operation was meticulously planned and involved a combination of infantry, tanks, artillery, and air support. The 25th Battalion contributed to the initial assault, advancing through German lines and capturing key positions. The battle was a resounding success, with the Allies achieving a breakthrough and inflicting heavy casualties on the German forces.

The Battle of Amiens is often remembered as a turning point in the war, showcasing the effectiveness of coordinated tactics and the resilience of the soldiers involved. The 25th Battalion demonstrated exceptional bravery and played a vital role in this historic victory.

WOUNDED IN ACTION

On the 10^th August Richard was one of the casualties, being wounded in action with gunshot wound, left shoulder shattered, severe. He was shipped to the Bowen Military Hospital, Sandgate, on 13^th August.  He was then transferred to a convalescent camp at Weymouth where he would rest & recuperate

DISCIPLINED

He was given furlough on 26^th October to 3^rd December when he weas to report to the camp at Sutton Veney. He went awl till 9^th December and was awarded forfeiture of 7 days’ pay

 WAR ENDED & GETTING HOME

The end of the war was in sight and on 11^th November the fighting was officially over. By this time the war was officially over so he prepared to return to Australia. After the Armistice of 11 November 1918, 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 several months before they were headed back to Australia. Richard returned home per Karmala on 2^nd January 1919.  

FOR HIS SERVICE

He was discharged 11^th April 1919. For his service, Richard was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and the Victory Medal

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