Topic: Gen - St - WA
The following pictures were taken in late August 1914 and give a reasonable impression as to the training conditions experience by the raw recruits. Even by the standards of the time, these facilities are what could only be described as primative.
1. Tucker Time
Western Mail, 28 August 1914, p. 24.
[Click on picture for larger version.]
The lads from a section are lining up for some delicious tucker in an al fresco setting. The fellow getting served looks like he is wearing a prison skivvy. The young fellow hanging back appears to look quite disgusted at the food, possibly wondering what actually he had let himself in for by enlisting.
2. Right wheel!
Western Mail, 28 August 1914, p. 24.
[Click on picture for larger version.]
The new recruits are now capable of marching in synch and even executing a basic piece of parade ground drill.
3. Artillery heavy hauling
Western Mail, 28 August 1914, p. 24.
[Click on picture for larger version.]
To build up the stamina of their young charges coupled with a concept of team work, this rather exquisite form of torture was devised - manhandling complete artillery pieces including the gun and caisson. I suspect the caisson is fully loaded to be more realistic. Just one look at these fellows struggling with the task gives a clear indication that there was nothing easy about the exercise.