FAMILY LIFE

Clarence Reginald Nichols was born in 1895 in Cobargo, son of Walter Herbert & Dina (Fitch) Nichols. He is one of 4 children. The family moved to the Tweed in 1914. Clarence’s brother Bert, enlisted the same day.

ATTESTATION

Clarence was single butcher, eager to do his bit. He travelled to Liverpool on 7^th February 1916 to complete his application which showed his next of kin as his father, Walter Herbert, of Tumbulgum. His medical showed he was 21 years old, 5ft 5 ½ inches tall (1.69m), weighed 125 lbs (57kgs), with a fair complexion, hazel eyes & brown hair. His eyesight was good. It was noted that he had peritonitis (inflammation of the abdomen) 17 years ago. Clarence was Presbyterian.   

The Examining Medical Officer stated that Clarence “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, Clarence Reginalds Nichols, 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 enlisted as a private into the 36^th Infantry Battalion with service No 526. He was transferred to 33^rd Battalion on 30^th April 1918

TRAINING AT LIVERPOOL

Now training for the new recruits began at Holdsworthy. They would spend several weeks there and then move to Newcastle to complete the training. 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

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.

VOYAGE OVERSEAS

On 13 May 1916 the brothers, with the other recruits, entrained for Sydney, where they embarked upon HMAT Beltana. 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. 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.

ENGLISH TRAINING CAMP

Clarence & Bert disembarked at Devonport on 9^th July 1916, & the battalion spent the next four months in training. They had already completed their basic training in Australia but over many more tough months, in the 36^th Battalion’s 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

On 22^nd November 1916 they proceeded to France, taking up a position on the Western Front on 4 December 1916, in time to sit out an uncomfortable winter in the trenches. 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, trenches were often completely waterlogged and muddy, and crawling with lice and rats

1917: FRONTLINE SERVICE

JANUARY – MARCH 1917: FIRST EXPOSURE TO THE WESTERN FRONT- INITIAL STAGING & INSERTION INTO THE TRENCHES

The 36th Battalion's first significant engagement in France was in January 1917. They were stationed in the Armentières region, near the French-Belgium border. This was considered a relatively quiet sector, but it was still a dangerous environment, with constant artillery shelling and sporadic attacks.

Clarence would have experienced the harsh realities of trench life, with freezing cold, mud, rats, and the constant stress of enemy shellfire. His tasks would likely have included maintaining trenches, standing sentry duty, and participating in minor raids

APRIL 1917: BATTLE OF BULLECOURT (FIRST BATTLE)

The Battle of Bullecourt (April 1917) was a significant and bloody battle in which Australian troops attempted to break through German lines at a village in northern France.

The 36th Battalion was not directly involved in the first phase of Bullecourt (April 1917), but they were part of the follow-up actions and spent time in the area under heavy artillery bombardment. As he had only newly joined the Battalion Clarence may not have been part of the initial assault, but he would have likely taken part in the mopping-up operations or defensive positions post-battle.

BATTLE OF MESSINES JUNE 1917

Over the course of the next six months the 36th Battalion was mainly involved in only minor defensive actions and it was not until 7 June 1917 the battalion fought in its first major battle, at Messines. After this the battalion participated in the attack on Passchendaele on 12 October 1917. During this battle, the battalion managed to secure its objective, however, as other units had not been able to do so, the battalion had had to withdraw as its flanks were exposed to German counter-attacks and there was a lack of effective artillery support. 

The Battle of Messines was a key engagement for Australian forces, marked by the successful detonation of a series of massive mines beneath the German lines. It was a strategically important battle.

The 36th Battalion played an active role in capturing German positions and holding newly gained ground. By this time, Clarence would have been deeply immersed in active combat, experiencing both the preparation for the battle and the intense fighting. He likely would have participated in the assault on the German defensive positions, which required moving through heavily defended trenches and strongpoints

JULY – NOVEMBER 1917: THE THIRD BATTLE OF YPRES (PASSCHENDAELE)

The Third Battle of Ypres, also known as the Passchendaele offensive, was a prolonged and brutal series of engagements fought in horrible weather conditions (rain, mud, and floods). The Australians were tasked with advancing in difficult terrain, often wading through mud and under constant artillery bombardment.

The 36th Battalion participated in the battle at Polygon Wood and other areas in the Ypres sector. By this point, Clarence would have been part of several attacks and possibly witnessed massive casualties. Passchendaele was an especially hard battle for Australian forces, with very little territory gained for the tremendous cost. Clarence would have had direct exposure to gas attacks, intense shelling, and the deadly nature of trench combat.

LATE 1917: REST AND REAR AREA DUTIES

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 1917: REST & RECOVERY

POST-PASSCHENDAELE REST

After the heavy fighting at Passchendaele, the 36th Battalion and the entire Australian Corps were rotated out of the frontlines for rest and recuperation. During this period, Clarence’s duties may have included maintenance of equipment, rebuilding trenches, or preparing for the next phase of the war. He might have spent time in a relatively quieter area behind the lines, though artillery shelling and air raids were still constant threats.

The Winter of 1917: Winter in the trenches could be miserable, with cold and wet conditions making it difficult to stay dry and healthy. Clarence would have also likely experienced some form of illness, like trench foot, colds, or the more severe outbreaks of influenza.

DECEMBER 1917 TO FEBRUARY 1918

LEAVE & GAS SCHOOL

On 29^th December 1917 Clarence was given leave in Paris. On 9^th February he was detached to a gas school in Belgium.  Here he learnt some of the protocols to be used when soldiers have been attacked with gas. These included gas defence weapons, first aid for gas illnesses, exercises for handling of gas masks and oxygen-protection devices, weather forecasting on the front (the air pressure and wind direction were very important measurements to determine the effectiveness of a gas attack) and gas drill in the field.

For the next five months the 36th Battalion alternated between periods of duty manning the line and training or labouring in the rear areas in Belgium. He rejoined his unit on 23rd February 1918, but was given leave to the UK on 6th March.

TRANSFER TO 33^RD BATTALION

He rejoined on 24th March and on 30th April was transferred to the 33rd Battalion. This would have marked a significant change in Clarence’s service. The reasons for transfers between battalions can vary—sometimes it was due to the need for reinforcements, the merging of battalions, or changes in the line of command. He could have been transferred for logistical reasons, as the 36th Battalion might have needed more reinforcements, or the 33rd Battalion could have suffered higher casualties and needed experienced soldiers like Clarence

As part of the 33rd Battalion, Clarence would have faced new challenges, including adjusting to a different group of soldiers and officers. The 33rd, part of the same 3rd Australian Division, would have operated similarly, but every battalion had its own character and approach. The transfer would have meant another phase of intense fighting, though likely involving a change in the operational area and potentially new battles or defensive actions

MAY – JUNE 1918: ENGAGED IN DEFENSIVE ACTIONS AND COUNTERATTACKS (THE FINAL STAGES OF THE GERMAN SPRING OFFENSIVE)

MAY 1918: THE BATTLE OF THE LYS (SECOND BATTLE OF THE SOMME)

The 33rd Battalion, as part of the 3rd Australian Division, was involved in defending positions along the Lys River (near Hazebrouck and Bailleul) during the German Spring Offensive that continued through April and into May 1918. The Kaiserschlacht (Spring Offensive) had inflicted significant casualties, but the Germans were beginning to lose momentum in May as the Allies adapted.

Clarence would have been involved in holding defensive positions against the continued German attacks. The Allies, including Australian forces, were pushed back, but they managed to hold key positions along the Lys River. As part of a defensive action, he likely experienced intense artillery bombardments, small unit actions, and possibly some close-quarter fighting as the Germans tried to break through the lines.

Counterattack Preparations: The battalion would have likely participated in local counterattacks or defensive operations aimed at regaining lost territory or preventing further enemy advances

JULY 1918: THE BATTLE OF HAMEL

The Battle of Hamel (4th July 1918) was a successful Australian offensive where General John Monash demonstrated innovative tactics, including the use of combined arms (infantry, tanks, artillery, and air support). The 33rd Battalion participated in this key victory, which helped turn the tide of the war.

By the time of the Battle of Hamel, Clarence would have been engaged in the planning and preparation for the assault. The battle was relatively short but intense, lasting for several hours, and involved careful coordination of artillery bombardments, machine guns, and tanks. Clarence would likely have been part of the initial assault, advancing across open ground under heavy artillery support.

Casualties and Victory: While Hamel was a success, it still came at a cost. Clarence would have witnessed both the brutality of combat and the success of a well-coordinated attack, gaining ground and pushing the Germans back.

AUGUST 1918: THE BATTLE OF AMIENS AND THE START OF THE "100 DAYS OFFENSIVE"

The Battle of Amiens (8th August 1918) marked the beginning of the Allied “100 Days Offensive”, a series of coordinated attacks that would lead to the eventual defeat of Germany. The 33rd Battalion took part in actions around the Amiens sector, where the Australians made significant advances.

Clarence would have been involved in assaults and advancing through German positions, likely facing heavy resistance from the retreating German forces. The “100 Days Offensive” was characterized by high mobility, with Australian troops pushing forward through previously entrenched German positions, sometimes encountering guerilla warfare-style resistance.

The 33rd Battalion would have been involved in reconnaissance, securing territory, and pushing forward, likely working with tanks and aircraft to coordinate attacks. This was a fast-paced period, requiring soldiers to be ready for rapid movements

SEPTEMBER 1918: THE BATTLE OF ST. QUENTIN CANAL (AND THE FINAL PUSH)

The Battle of St. Quentin Canal was part of the larger Hundred Days Offensive and was one of the key successes in breaking through the German defences.

The 33rd Battalion participated in this attack, pushing through the Canal du Nord area. The battle was significant because it marked the breaking of the German Hindenburg Line defences. Clarence would have been part of attacks on entrenched positions along the canal. The fighting here was particularly brutal, with many soldiers engaging in close-quarter combat as they cleared German positions from the canal and surrounding defences. Heavy artillery and machine-gun fire would have made this a dangerous and exhausting period.

OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 1918: ADVANCING INTO THE HINDENBURG LINE AND BEYOND

Late October 1918 saw the Allied forces continuing their advance, breaking deeper into the Hindenburg Line, and pushing German forces back towards their own borders.

The 33rd Battalion, still engaged in pursuit and mopping-up operations, would have continued to face sporadic resistance from retreating German forces. The pace of advance increased, and Clarence likely took part in smaller engagements or patrols behind enemy lines to ensure that enemy forces were not regrouping.

By now, German morale was faltering, and many soldiers were retreating rather than fighting, but the battalion still faced challenges, including attacks on supply lines, enemy snipers, and harassment by aerial bombardment

HOSPITALISATION NOVEMBER INFLUENZA

On 22^nd November Clarence was admitted to the 9^th Field Ambulance (A Field Ambulance was a mobile front line medical unit (it was not a vehicle), manned by troops of the Royal Army Medical Corps), dangerously ill with influenza. 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.

DIED OF ILLNESS NOVEMBER 1918

However, his disease developed into bronchial pneumonia & on 29^th November Clarence died at the 3^rd District General Hospital. Clarence is buried Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension Picardie, France, plot V. Row E. Grave 30.

FOR HIS SERVICE

For his service, Clarence was awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, and the Victory Medal and his name is recorded on the Murwillumbah War Memorial. His name is recorded on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial Np 122 among almost 62,000 Australians who died while serving in the First World War. His will was forwarded to his mother on 4^th August 1919.

He had left 8 pounds to a Miss Mary Booth, of Duranbah and all other belongings to his mother. A photo of his grave was sent to his parents on 2^nd February 2020. His father received his memorial scroll on 17^th June 1922 and his Victory Medal on 16^th April 1923. Clarence’s effects were returned to his mother and consisted of his wallet, razor, pocket watch & chain, one wristwatch (broken), 1 metal cigarette case, 1 metal ring, a diary, a disc & chain, 4 French coins totalling 70 centimes, letters & photos

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