FAMILY LIFE

Gilbert Henderson Murray was born in 1892 in Woonona, son of William & Lydia (Lavender) Murray. He was one of 3 children, the other two being his sisters, Dora & Lydia. All his family, save his youngest sister lived and died in Murwillumbah and are buried in the local cemetery

 

He was single farmer, living in Midginbil, eager to do his bit. He travelled to Brisbane on 14^th August 1916 to complete his application which showed his next of kin as his mother, Lydia. He had previously been rejected due to varicose veins. His medical showed he was 24 years 6 months old, 5ft 7 ½ inches tall (1.71m), weighed 125 lbs (57kgs), with a fresh complexion, blue eyes & black hair. His eyesight was good and he was dentally fit. The Examining Medical Officer stated that Gilbert “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, Gilbert Henderson Murray 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.”  Gilbert was Church of England. He was enlisted as a private into the 26^th Infantry Battalion – 19^th Reinforcements with service No 6585

26^TH INFANTRY BATTALION

The 26th was originally raised in April 1915 during World War I as part of the Australian Imperial Force and was assigned to the 7th Brigade. The legacy of the 26th Infantry Battalion is deeply rooted in its remarkable contributions during both World Wars. It is remembered for its bravery and resilience in key battles

TRAINING AT RIFLE RANGE CAMP, ENOGGERA

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 training for the new recruits began. Firstly, the men received their vaccinations for smallpox, rabies & plague, then 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
His unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A18 Wiltshire on 7 February 1917. 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.

ROLLESTONE TRAINING CAMP

They disembarked in Devonport on 11^th April 1917. 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

They left England for Le Havre, France in July and Gilbert was taken on strength on 11^th August 1917. 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

AUGUST 1917

In August 1917, the 26th Battalion of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) was actively engaged on the Western Front, specifically in Belgium, preparing for and participating in operations related to the Third Battle of Ypres (also known as the Battle of Passchendaele). It was preparing for the major offensive at Menin Road, scheduled for September 1917August was used for rehearsals for attacks, map studies, coordination with artillery and tanks & training in new tactics, such as creeping barrages and leapfrogging waves.

Excerpts from the 26th Battalion's war diary (Australian War Memorial) describe frequent patrols and minor raids on German positions, artillery duels and preparatory bombardments in advance of the Menin Road attack. There were reports of gas warnings, particularly at night, casualties from trench mortar fire and shelling & occasional reconnaissance and intelligence gathering missions.

BATTLE OF MENIN ROAD SEPTEMBER 1917

The 26th joined the battles at Menin Road in September. The 26th Battalion, played a crucial role in the Battle of Menin Road Ridge, which was part of the Third Battle of Ypres (also known as the Battle of Passchendaele) in September 1917. This battle marked a shift in British and Allied tactics, focusing on bite-and-hold advances with strong artillery support. Their objective was to advance behind a creeping barrage, secure the first objective line, and help consolidate gains.

The troops moved up into position during the night in preparation for the assault. The terrain was waterlogged, and enemy shelling made movement difficult.

20 SEPTEMBER: MAIN ASSAULT

The attack began at 5:40 a.m. with a creeping artillery barrage. The 26th Battalion advanced through thick mud and shell craters. Despite resistance and heavy machine-gun fire, they successfully reached and secured their objective, captured several pillboxes and dugouts, and took prisoners and enemy machine guns. After the attack, they consolidated their position under frequent counter-attacks and shelling. Heavy rain and artillery made holding the line difficult and the battalion was relieved after a few days and withdrawn for rest. The two AIF Divisions sustained 5,013 casualties in the action

BATTLE OF BROODSEINDE OCTOBER 1917

The battalion then joined the Battle of Broodseinde in October. The battle was the most successful Allied attack of the Third Battle of Ypres. Using bite-and-hold tactics, with objectives limited to what could be held against German counter-attacks, the allied devastated the German defence, prompted a crisis among the German commanders, and caused a severe loss of morale in the 4th Army. Preparations were made by the Germans for local withdrawals and planning began for a greater withdrawal, which would entail the abandonment by the Germans of the Belgian coast, one of the strategic aims of the Flanders Offensive.

During the first attack, the 26th was in support of the 28th Battalion, but later it led the 7th Brigade's follow up attack on the second line of defences around Broodseinde.

The attack began before dawn on 4 October 1917. The Australian troops involved were shelled heavily on their start line and a seventh of their number became casualties even before the attack began. When it did, the attacking troops were confronted by a line of troops advancing towards them; the Germans had chosen the same morning to launch an attack of their own. The Australians forged on through the German assault waves and gained all their objectives along the ridge. During this time, the 26th Battalion have been given credit with exceptional bravery and the capture of the first German tank and crew. It was not without cost, however. German pillboxes were characteristically difficult to subdue, and the Australian divisions suffered 6,500 casualties with 400 killed.

MENTIONED IN DESPATCHES

Gilbert was mentioned in despatches for his work at Broodseinde

OCTOBER 1917

During October, they experience Heavy shelling, deep mud, and atrocious weather. They rotated in and out of the front lines near Passchendaele. There were casualties from exposure, disease, and intermittent enemy shellfire. In November, the battalion was withdrawn from the front line and moved into rest areas near Ypres, then later to northern France.

DECEMBER 1917 – FEBRUARY 1918

Location: Northern France (around Ploegsteert and Armentières sectors)

This period was spent in "quiet sectors", often referred to as a "nursery" area used to rest and train troops after major operations. Their main activities included holding front-line trenches, conducting routine patrols, defensive wiring, trench repair, and minor skirmishes & training in open warfare tactics (in response to anticipated German offensives). They had periods of rest and reorganisation in reserve billets. Conditions were cold, often snowy, with the threat of gas shelling and trench foot.

MARCH 1918

Location: Still in northern France, but preparing for German offensive

In mid-March, German forces began preparations for Operation Michael, the Spring Offensive. The 26th Battalion was alerted and moved south in readiness for rapid deployment to critical areas. It was positioned to reinforce sectors under threat when the German offensive began on 21 March 1918. Although not immediately involved in the first days of the offensive, the battalion would be drawn into heavy fighting in the coming weeks.

LATE MARCH TO APRIL 1918

In late March 1918, the 26th Battalion was rushed south to help stem the German advance during Operation Michael, the first phase of the German Spring Offensive. The battalion was involved in Defensive actions near Amiens and Villers-Bretonneux. It was digging and holding emergency defensive lines under pressure & counter-patrolling, maintaining contact with enemy forces. They were supporting the stabilization of the front around Strazeele and Heilly. Despite intense artillery and infantry attacks, the 26th and other Australian units helped halt the German advance before Amiens

MAY – JUNE 1918

Location: Defensive positions around Villers-Bretonneux, France

The 26th Battalion continued holding the line east of Amiens, especially near Villers-Bretonneux, a key rail junction. Their duties included trench warfare under constant threat of shelling and gas attacks & reinforcing outposts, trench raids, and patrols. They participated in limited counterattacks and intelligence-gathering patrols. The area remained tense but static, as the Allies prepared for a counter-offensive.

JULY 1918

Location: Somme front line

Continued defensive work but also intensified training and reconnaissance in preparation for an Allied offensive. The 26th Battalion was involved in probing attacks, gathering intelligence, and harassing German positions.

The battalion's strength was gradually built up with reinforcements and supplies in preparation for a large-scale offensive.

BATTALION AT MONUMENT WOOD – JULY 1918

In July 1918, the 26th Battalion was actively engaged in operations near Villers-Bretonneux, France. During this period, the battalion conducted a series of "peaceful penetration" operations aimed at improving their tactical position by capturing enemy outposts and straightening the front line.

CAPTURE OF GERMAN TANK "MEPHISTO" – 14 JULY 1918

On 14 July 1918, the 26th Battalion participated in an operation near Monument Wood, during which they captured a German A7V tank, designated No. 506 and nicknamed "Mephisto." This tank was the first of its kind to fall into Allied hands. It had been abandoned by German forces after becoming bogged down. The 26th Battalion, in coordination with the British 1st Gun Carrier Company, recovered the tank, which was later transported to Australia and is now housed at the Queensland Museum in Brisbane.

ASSAULT ON THE MOUND – 17 JULY 1918

Following the success at Monument Wood, the 26th Battalion, alongside elements of the 25th Battalion, launched an assault on a German-held position known as "The Mound" on 17 July 1918. This operation was part of the ongoing efforts to consolidate gains and apply pressure on German forces. The attack resulted in the capture of the position after intense fighting. digitize-vwma.s3.amazonaws.com These actions by the 26th Battalion contributed to the overall weakening of German defensive capabilities in the region and set the stage for subsequent Allied offensives.

HUNRED DAY OFFENSIVE AUGUST 1918

In August, the Allies launched their Hundred Days Offensive, which ultimately brought an end to the war. On the opening day of the offensive, the 26th led the 7th Brigade's attack around Villers-Bretonneux. After a period in reserve, in late August they advanced on the brigade's left during an attack at Biaches which saw the Allies push towards the Somme River. PROMOTED TO CORPORAL

During this action Gilbert was promoted to Corporal on 15^th August.

WOUNDED IN ACTION AUGUST 1918

He was wounded in action with a gunshot wound to his left forearm on 29^th August. He was evacuated to the Central Military Hospital, Weymouth, England ON 5^TH September 1918 and reverted to the rank of private.

 

REST CAMP SEPTEMBER 1918

After hospitalisation Gilbert went to Westham Camp 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.

DISCIPLINED

While in the camp, on 16^th October, Gilbert neglected to obey an order and was admonished by the camp commander

WAR ENDED

However, the end of the war was now 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 several months before they were headed back to Australia.

GOING HOME

Gilbert returned to Australia on the Somali on 10^th December 1918, disembarking on 8^th February 1919. He was discharged 31^st March.

FOR HIS SERVICE

For his service, Gilbert was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and the Victory Medal and his name is recorded on the Murwillumbah War Memorial

HOME LIFE

Gilbert married Emily Isabel Smith in Murwillumbah in 1921 and they had two sons. Gilbert died 22 November 1960 in McLeans Ridge, in the Ballina Shire and is commemorated at Mount Thompson Memorial Gardens and Crematorium, Holland Park,  Columbarium 12, Section 12 & Columbarium 1, Section 11

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