Gallipoli Campaign - 1915-16

18th Infantry Battalion

AIF

Roll of Honour

Poppies on the Roll of Honour, Australian War Memorial, Canberra

The Roll of Honour contains the names of all the men from the 18th Infantry Battalion known to have given their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign - 1915 - 1916.

Roll of Honour

 

1127 Private Arthur Jack ADDISON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

Second Lieutenant Wilfred Emmott ADDISON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1128 Private Alexander Walker AITCHISON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

803 Private Frederick ALLISON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

477 Lance Corporal James Richard ASHTON, Died of wounds, 28 August 1915.

350 Private James ASPIN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

702 Private Jack Western ASTLES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

18775 Private Raymond Harold ATKINSON, Died of wounds, 21 October 1915.

 

Captain Leonard John BANFIELD, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1141 Lance Corporal Harold Edward BANGLE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

166 Private Frank BARDON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

821 Corporal Charles BARKER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1372 Private Alfred Irwin BARR, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

813 Private Arthur Thomas Lewis BARWICK, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1077 Private Percival BATTY, Died of wounds, 4 September 1915.

1506 Private William Henry BAYLY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

820 Private Harry BELL, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

807 Sergeant Ernest BENNETT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

810 Corporal Thomas BENNETT, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1779 Private Lionel Samuel BENTLEY, Died of wounds, 28 August 1915.

1024 Private Richard Henry BIGGS, Killed in action, 21 August 1915.

752 Private Thomas Stephen Sydney BISHOP, Died of wounds, 1 September 1915.

409 Private Alfred Richard BOWDEN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

492 Private George BRADLEY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1045 Private Robert Henry BRAY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1136 Private John George BREBBER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

774 Private Frederick BRIDGER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1656 Private Vincent BRINKMAN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

816 Private Maurice BROADHURST, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

177 Private George BROWN, Died of wounds, 28 August 1915.

1393 Private George Harman BURKE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

1154 Private David Daniel CAHILL, Died of wounds, 23 August 1915.

1602 Private Francis Sidney CARR, Died of wounds, 8 August 1915.

495 Private Richard Charles James CHANDLER, Died of wounds, 22 August 1915.

1151 Private Alfred Aidrian CHARITY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1056 Private William Henry CHARLES, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

845 Private Cyril Roy CHISHOLM, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

838 Private Henry John Thomas CLARKE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1147 Private Percival Michael CLARKE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

498 Trooper Simon Fraser CLAYTON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

356 Private Clive Sedgwick COOPER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

191 Private George Norman COPSON, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1145 Sergeant Walter Goulburn CORNELL, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1155 Private Clarence Theodore Augustus CREGAN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1152 Private James CROTHERS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1736 Private Thomas CROWLE, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

201 Private George John CURRY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

842 Private Albert Edwin CUTHBERT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1143 Private Fredric William CUTTRISS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

854 Private Herbert Clarence DALMAIN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

Lieutenant Joseph Kenneth DONALDSON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

505 Private John William DONOVAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

859 Private John Walley DOYLE, Died of wounds, 3 September 1915.

216 Private Benjamin DUFFIN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

856 Private George DUFFIN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1683 Private Thomas John DURACK, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

280 Private George Douglas EASTWOOD, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1384 Private Randolph Edward EDGE, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

521 Private Henry EDWARDS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

519 Company Sergeant Major Charles Richard Hargraves EVANS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

735 Private Mure Robertson FARQUHAR, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

530 Private Alexander Thomas FEAGAN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1924B Private Logie FERGUSON, Killed in action, 13 December 1915.

1088 Private Bertie Edward FILGATE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

225 Private Walter Robert FLACK, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1054 Private Thomas Wright FLAVELL, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

864 Private Harry FODDY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1172 Private James FORBES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

22 Private Frederick George GABRIEL, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

873 Private Francis Worton GIBBS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1399 Private Charles Frederick GILLATT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

547 Private Charles GILLMAN, Died of Accident, 7 December 1915.

1031 Private Arthur GOLDTHORPE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1690 Private Frederick Stephen GOWER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1693 Private Alexander GRANT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1692 Private Fred GREENLAND, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

228 Private James Turnbull GRIEVE, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

282 Private Rubin Henry GULLOFSEN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

1188 Private Charles William HARDAKER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

568 Private Peter HARDIE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

50 Private Sydney Arnold HARRINGTON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1096 Private Percival HARRIS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

882 Private John HARVEY, Died of wounds, 27 August 1915.

878 Private Henry Aguilar HAYNES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

556 Company Quartermaster Sergeant Wallace HICKS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

558 Private Albert Henry HODGES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

246 Corporal John Edward HOTSON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1699 Private Nicholas HOYNES, Killed in action, 20 November 1915.

1702 Private Charles HUBBARD, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1786 Private Harold HUGHES, Died of wounds, 24 August 1915.

1785 Private Robert Edward HUNT, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

874 Private Frederick Emerton HUNTER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

879 Sergeant Hector Norman HUNTER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

574 Private Maurice James Emerton HUNTER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

51 Private George IRELAND, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

1034 Private Charles James JAKEMAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

896 Private Edwin Sydney JONES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

892 Private Walter Nelson JONES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

1053 Lance Corporal James Joseph KELAHER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1714 Private Charles KENNY, Died of wounds, 30 August 1915.

1371 Private Sydney John KINGSLAND, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

589 Private Richard Alphonsus KINSELLA, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1405 Private Archibald Henry Richard KNOX, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

59 Warrant Officer Class I Charles Robert LAMONT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

Major Cyril Herbert Dodson LANE, Killed in action, 29 August 1915.

738 Private Sydney LAWRENCE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

19 Private James LENNIE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

Lieutenant William Leichhardt LESLIE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1961 Private Henry Reginald Donald LEVETT, Killed in action, 6 December 1915.

599 Private Mervyn Clive LEWIS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

904 Private James LILLIE, Died of wounds, 30 August 1915.

32 Lance Corporal Harry LINKLATER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1032 Private William LYALL, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1408 Private Francis Patrick LYNCH, Died of wounds, 9 November 1915.

259 Private Augustus LYNES, Died of wounds, 30 August 1915.

 

275 Private Charles Oram MACKENZIE, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1214 Private William Robert MADDEN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

85 Private Percy Benjamin MAILEY, Died of wounds, 1 October 1915.

921 Private James Alfred MALONEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1209 Private Frank MALTBY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

267 Private Joseph MARA, Died of wounds, 22 August 1915.

Lieutenant Leonard MARJASON, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

615 Private Reginald Ralph MARTIN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1212 Private John MAY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1879B Private John Knox McALLISTER, Killed in action, 12 December 1915.

910 Private Joseph Clement McAULEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

916 Private James McDONALD, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1218 Private James McGEACHIE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1359 Private Frederick McGLASHAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

918 Corporal John Thomas McKAVANAGH, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

613 Private Joseph McKEON, Died of Accident, 16 November 1915.

1230 Lance Corporal Ernest Stanley McKNIGHT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

934 Private Herbert McLENAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

936 Private Robert McMILLAN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1221 Private John McNICOL, Killed in action, 29 August 1915.

Major Thomas Roy McPHERSON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

266 Private Phillip MEDLIN, Died of wounds, 24 August 1915.

1215 Private Frank Reginald METCALFE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

147 Private Thomas MIDGLEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1211 Private James Russell MILLER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1326 Private Frederick John MILLS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1084 Private Charles MITCHELL, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

363 Private Leslie Valentine MOGG, Died of wounds, 4 September 1915.

927 Private Harold Charles MONSEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

389 Private Frederick Charles MONTEITH, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

Lieutenant James Anderson MOORE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1790 Private William Edwin Cecil MORRIS, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1411 Private George Adolphus MORTON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1030 Private Philip Henry MUNRO, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

944 Lance Corporal Arthur Reginald NELMES, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

619 Private Ernest Verril NUNN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

1738 Private Michael Thomas O'BRIEN, Died of wounds, 22 August 1915.

952 Private Stanley O'GRADY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

293 Private Henry Augustus O'LEARY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

1793 Private Joseph PARKER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1744 Private Harry Hubert PARKHOUSE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1792 Private Thomas PARSONS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

393 Private Leonard Francis PEASLEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

962 Private Cecil Hubert PERROTT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

626 Lance Sergeant William George PETERS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

429 Private Hugh Arthur PHILLPOTTS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

984 Private Norman Wallace PILE, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1745 Private Edmund PITTENDRIGH, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

966 Private Phillip PLUMB, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

407 Private Thomas Alexander PROTHEROE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1791 Private William Roy PUGSLEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

634 Private Harry RAFTON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

307 Private Jesse RAPSEY, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

633 Private Alfred Stanley RAYNER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

592 Private Frederick REEVES, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1249 Private John REID, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

35 Private Stanley Clement RICH, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

305 Sergeant Wallace Purcell RIDLEY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

980 Private John Hastings RIORDAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

756 Private Robert Melville ROBINSON, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1246 Private Francis Henry ROEBUCK, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

974 Sergeant George Rowland ROGERS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1593 Private Harold Herbert ROSE, Died of Disease, 23 December 1915.

639 Private Philip Andrew Rowan ROSS, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

977 Private Walter Charles ROSS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

979 Private William Andrew ROSS, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1244 Private Robert Whitfield ROWLANDS, Died of wounds, 28 August 1915.

140 Private George Robert RUBIE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

311 Private Percy Benedict RUSSELL, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

637 Private Frederick William Gaberl RUTTER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

972 Private James RYAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

1262 Private David SACLIER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1260 Private William Edward SADLER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1351 Sergeant Henry John SANDY, Died of wounds, 24 August 1915.

324 Private Herbert SCARBOROUGH, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

690 Lance Corporal Norman Phillip SCHEIDEL, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1414 Private Arthur William Reginald SHEARSTON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1266 Sergeant Edwin Douglas SHORT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

401 Private George SKINNER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

113 Private George Edward SLOPER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

992 Private Arthur William SMITH, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1255 Private Harold Bathurst SMITH, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

649 Private Alfred SPENCER, Died of wounds, 30 August 1915.

1099 Private Harold John SPENCER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

15 Private Frank SQUIRES, Died of wounds, 23 August 1915.

57 Private Edwin STEPHEN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1333 Private James STEWART, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1764 Private John Donald STEWART, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

368 Sergeant George Arthur STONE, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

749 Private Alfred Victor STONELL, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

995 Private Vincent Mortimer STUBBS, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

994 Private Herbert SWAFFER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

 

1274 Private Leslie Richard TAWELL, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1289 Private James TAYLOR, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

372 Corporal Arthur Evan Ridout THOMAS, Died of wounds, 27 August 1915.

408 Private Albert James THOMPSON, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

130 Corporal John Cecil THOMSON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

999 Private William THROWER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1601 Lance Corporal John Bermingham TORPY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

62 Sergeant Charles TRUNEMAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

655 Private Alfred James TURNER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1767 Lance Corporal Charles TURNER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1340 Private John TURNER, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

404 Private Thomas VARLEY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

94 Private James Robert WADDELL, Died of wounds, 1 September 1915.

669 Private Joseph Benjamin Harold WALDEN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1312 Corporal Reginald John WALKER, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

359 Sergeant Stuart WALLS, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1386 Private Cyril WANSBROUGH, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

345 Private John WARD, Died of wounds, 27 August 1915.

1590 Sergeant Edward WATSON, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1589 Lance Sergeant Thomas William WATSON, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

673 Private Oscar WATT, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

1308 Lance Corporal Charles Henry WEBB, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

370 Company Sergeant Major Thomas WEBB, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1315 Private Wilfred George WESTCOTT, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1336 Private Glyndwr Montague WHALAN, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

670 Private Jack Smithurst WHITELEY, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

121 Private Herbert WILLIAMS, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

682 Private Basil Bruce WILLIAMSON, Killed in action, 22 August 1915.

1012 Private Charles Henry WOODLOCK, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

677 Private Laurence Charles WORKMAN, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

167 Private John Wynn WYATT, Killed in action, 27 August 1915.

 

Lest We Forget

Sources Used:

National Archives Service File.

Embarkation Rolls, AWM8.

Nominal Roll, AWM133, Nominal Roll of Australian Imperial Force who left Australia for service abroad, 1914-1918 War.

AWM Roll of Honour

Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Finding more about a service person.

See: Navigating the National Archives Service File 

Further Reading:

Gallipoli Campaign - 1915-16

Gallipoli Campaign - 1915-16, Unit Casualties, AIF, Roll of Honour

Light Horse Battles

Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920

Posted by Project Leader at 12:01 AM EADT

Updated: Friday, 22 July 2011 3:25 PM EADT

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The First Battle of Gaza

Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

Headquarters 160th Infantry Brigade, 53rd Division War Diary Account

Headquarters 160th Infantry Brigade, 53rd Division War Diary Account.

The following is a transcription of the Account from the War Diary of the Headquarters 160th Infantry Brigade, 53rd Division detailing its role at the First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917.

Extracts from War Diary of
Headquarters 160th Infantry Brigade, 53rd division
Brigade General Commander, Brigadier General WJC Butler


25 March 1917

Brigade remained in the orchard at Khan Yunis until 1630.

1100 The Brigade General Commander 160th Infantry Brigade went to El Briej and saw General Dallas and n conference was held, the plan of attack of 26th being explained. The crossings of Wadi Ghuzze reconnoitred with Officers Commanding 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment and 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment.

1630 The Brigade marched to Deir el Belah and went into bivouac at BIR, about 1 mile north north east of Hill 130.


26 March 1917

The Brigade less 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment left Deir el Belah and marched to Wadi Ghuzze near El Breij crossing about 0345. 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment received direct orders from Desert Column and moved across Wadi Ghuzze about 600 yards south west of caves and took up a line from Caves to about the first "T" of Tel el Ajjul to protect 15th Heavy Battery Royal Garrison Artillery firing from Sabkhet 600 yards west of caves. They took no further part in the Brigade operations.

0400 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment advanced on to El Sire and made good the bridge-head before daybreak, the Brigade crossing on to El Sire ridge.

0450 Brigade Headquarters established at south west end of El Sire Ridge.

0520 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment reported they had occupied prominent knoll on El Sire Ridge at 0510. At dawn a thick mist arose, but advanced scouts moved on to El Sheluf.

0520 BMT 700 received saying no artillery communication would be laid except through Division at present.

0540 Wired Division through 159th Infantry Brigade that Brigade was across Wadi and ready to move. (BM 534)

0600 Instructions from 53rd Division to try to push on to Sheluf irrespective of action of 158th Infantry Brigade who were reported to have crossed Wadi Ghuzze. (G 10)

0630 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment reported "all clear" 1,000 yards east of El Sire.

0645 158th Infantry Brigade reported by Division to be at Burjabye and ordered to feel their way to Mansura (G 13) 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment and 2/10th Middlesex Regiment informed.

0755 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment reported occupation of what they make out to be El Sheluf Ridge. Division and 158th Infantry Brigade informed.

0805 Divisional Headquarters moved to El Burjabye.

0815 Mist which had been very thick, cleared.

0846 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment report they have direct observation on Ali Muntar. Reported to Division. (BM 554)

0921 158th Infantry Brigade report they are advancing and only meeting slight opposition. Orders received verbally by orderly.

0950 Brigade General Commander to meet General Officer Commanding 53rd Division at Mansura to arrange plan of attack. Brigade General Commander moved at once.

0956 G. 19 received instructing Brigade to push troops forward and reconnoitre as far as possible to direction of Ali El Muntar.

1100 and 1120 Brigade ordered to push on (G.22 and 23) as far as possible and await artillery support if necessary.

1130 Orders were given to 160th Infantry Brigade to attack position known as the "Labyrinth" 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment attacked the objective marked by the mosque ALI Muntar on right and the niche between two hillocks apparently north of the mosque on the left. Officer Commanding 2/10th Middlesex Regiment was ordered to attack on left of 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment between points indicated to Officer Commanding. The Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment were to reserve.

1222 Informed Division that Ali Muntar to and including "Labyrinth" position appeared to be strongly held and asked for artillery support, 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment scouts then 1,200 yards from enemy and being fired on.

1318 Orders to push on with attack received and 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment reported that attack had been launched.

1330 2/10th Middlesex Regiment had cleared left of "Labyrinth" and seized prominent position on grass ridge. 158th Infantry Brigade were attacking from South. The advance of 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment was checked by barrage fire on the slope beyond the well defined gully or donga on right. There were posts for an entanglement not far below the crest of the further slope in front of 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment and 4 strands of wire already up in front of 2/10th Middlesex Regiment. Lieutenant Colonel Ashworth, Officer Commanding 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment was killed about this time.

1349 53rd Division wired that Gaza had been cut off from north.

1414 2/10th Middlesex Regiment captured "Labyrinth" – Division informed. Owing to heavy casualties to 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment a gap was caused on right of 2/10th Middlesex Regiment.

1430 Brigade Major wounded and Captain Herbert, Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment assumed temporary duties.

1530 2/10th Middlesex Regiment asked for reinforcements and Small Arms Ammunition. 2½ Companies Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment sent forward in answer to this request and Small Arms Ammunition was sent up with them.

1540 Information received 161st Infantry Brigade ordered to attack Green Hill south west of Ali Muntar between 160th and 158th Infantry Brigades.

1555 Information reached 271st Brigade Royal Field Artillery ordered into action south east of Ali Muntar to support right of attack (159th Infantry Brigade).

1650 Word received 159th Infantry Brigade had taken Ali Muntar.

1700 1 Company of Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment arrived on right flank of 2/10th Middlesex Regiment and at the same time 161st Infantry Brigade was seen advancing. Remainder of Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment advanced to reinforce 2/10th Middlesex Regiment and arrived shortly afterwards.

1800 Battalion of Essex (161st Infantry Brigade) arrived on right flank and contact was gained with them. The advance at this point was hung up by very hot fire from concealed positions in cultivation.

1900 Left flank of front line was thrown back and Officer Commanding 2/10th Middlesex Regiment reported that unless reinforced, position would be untenable. At this tine communication was most difficult, but orders were given to consolidate position pending further orders.

2000 Owing to impossible nature of country for camel transport, water and Small Arms Ammunition, had to be carried up by hand for a mile and a half. Orders were accordingly issued to 1½ Companies Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment in reserve, and this was done.

2300 Orders were received for front line to be withdrawn to line Green Hill - El Sheluf, keeping touch with 161st Infantry Brigade. At this time troops were disposed on a considerable front and communication exceedingly difficult. Staff Officers and patrols were sent out to deliver necessary instructions and after much difficulty all were withdrawn.


27 March 1917

0430 The withdrawal of firing line was completed at this time and the Brigade took up a new line as ordered. Disposition of Troops - Front line - 2/10th Middlesex Regiment; Reserve - Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment and 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment.

0600 Orders received to send out strong patrols to reconnoitre positions won previous day with a view to reoccupying same. 2/10th Middlesex Regiment pushed forward patrols.

0802 Wire received from Division saying our troops in possession of Green Hill and Ali Muntar.

0815 Colonel Money reported an increase in enemy numbers north and north west of Gaza.

0815 Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment ordered to get in touch with 161st Infantry Brigade who had captured Green Hill and Ali Muntar and to consolidate on their left when in touch. The Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment advanced across deep nullah north of El Sheluf and were clear of it by 0930 picking up outpost companies en route. When across the nullah, our troops were seen on skyline in direction of Ali Muntar and east of it.

0948 Colonel Money reported enemy consolidating trench and redoubt between Sea and Ali Muntar (WK 36).

1000 These troops commenced to withdraw. The Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment ordered forward, 1 Company advanced towards "Labyrinth" with a Second Company in support. The withdrawal of our troops on right stopped for about a quarter of an hour, but commenced again shortly afterwards. Troops retiring comprised portions of 158th and 161st Infantry Brigades with which the two leading Companies The Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment were mixed up. The latter remained until all troops had withdrawn.

About 1100 The Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment reported Turks retiring through GAZA, north north west.

1105 53rd Division Order G. 52 received ordering 53rd Division to withdraw to line on El Sire - Ali Muntar Ridge. 160th Infantry Brigade to hold ridge in rear of 161st Infantry Brigade and protect left flank (Copy of G.52 attached). The Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment were ordered to fall back slowly on El Sheluf Ridge, 2/10th Middlesex Regiment being placed in position with their right in touch with 161st Infantry Brigade. The shelling during this period was intense and accurate. It came obliquely from direction of town of Gaza. Also heat was terrible and men suffered considerable hardship from want of water.

1118 53rd Division Headquarters moved to Burjabye.

1130 Word received a Mounted Brigade was being sent up on our left.

1400 Orders received from 53rd Division (GB 555) that line El Sire - Ali Muntar must be consolidated and held stoutly. Brigade General Commander 160th Infantry Brigade went to Headquarters 161st Infantry Brigade and saw Brigadier General Doddington. Disposition of troops explained and future action discussed.

1459 Orders received GT 557 to advance to support of 161st Infantry Brigade who were asking for support as their left flank.

Assistant Director Medical Services at El Burjanye. Bearer subdivision ordered to fellow Brigade and collect all casualties.

1500 Brigade advanced to conform with line of 161st Infantry Brigade up on their left flank. A defensive line was formed with the left thrown back - 1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment on right. Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment left, 2/10th Middlesex Regiment in reserve and this line was held until orders were received to withdrawn.

1700 Orders received from 53rd Division (G 56) that 160th Infantry Brigade would retire across the Wadi Ghuzze at 2200 and take up an outpost line on high ground between Rafa-Gaza Roads at Sheikh Raschid and Belah-Gaza.

2155 Message received from 53rd Division that 161st Infantry Brigade were being attacked and ordering 160th Infantry Brigade to support stoutly. By this time 160th Infantry Brigade had formed up ready to move off, all firing having ceased.

2200 The Brigade assembled at Sheluf at 2200 and moved off crossing the Wadi Ghuzze at "A" crossing at 2400 (approx.) and reaching Sheikh Raschid at 0130 on 28th.


28 March 1917

Outpost Line was taken up and steps taken to put it in a state of defence.

Disposition of Troops:

2/10th Middlesex Regiment on left in touch with 159th Infantry Brigade with 1 Section Machine Gun Company.

2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment in centre with 1 Section Machine Gun Company.

1/4th Royal Sussex Regiment on right with 1 Section Machine Gun Company.

Queen's Own 2/4th Royal West Kent Regiment in reserve at Sheikh Raschid with Brigade Headquarters.

No. 160th Machine gun Company (less 3 Sections) in reserve at Sheikh Raschid with Brigade Headquarters.

War Diaries

All War Diaries cited on this site should be read in conjunction with the Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy which may be accessed at:

Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy 

Further Reading:

The British Army

British Forces, EEF, Roll of Honour

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Allied Forces, Roll of Honour

The Palestine Campaign, 1917 - 1918

Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920

Citation: The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Headquarters 160th Infantry Brigade, 53rd Division War Diary Account

Posted by Project Leader at 12:01 AM EADT

Updated: Saturday, 19 February 2011 8:27 AM EAST

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The First Battle of Gaza

Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

54th (East Anglian) Infantry Division War Diary Account

The following is a transcription of Report on the attack from the War Diary of the 54th (East Anglian) Infantry Division detailing their role at the First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917.

54th (East Anglian) Infantry Division War Diary Account.

 

25 March 1917

0400 54th Division marches Order No. 14 to In Seirat, halting at Beni Selah concealed from aircraft (hostile) between 0800 and 1600. On arrival Brigades go into bivouac covered by Outposts found by 163rd Infantry Brigade on the line Pt. 320 (Sq J.3.7.7. ) through point 310 (Sq.J.3.9.8) to the foot contour south of the first "E" in El Breij. This line is continued north to the sea by 53rd Division.

2000 Division Order No. 15 for operations on 26th inst. issued.


26 March 1917

0530 Division moved as follows - 1/1st Hertfordshire Yeomanry following the Imperial and Anzac Mounted Divisions eastwards over the Wadi Ghuzze secure Sheikh Abbas by 0955.

163rd Infantry Brigade following the 1/1st Hertfordshire Yeomanry march direct to Sheikh Abbas which they reach at 1055 on arrival they prepare a position there, against attack from east and south east.

162nd Infantry Brigade following the Mounted Divisions crosses the Wadi Ghuzze and establishes itself in a position of readiness one mile north of Wadi Ghuzze which was reached at 1030. This Brigade remained here throughout the day covered by day outposts. 161st Infantry Brigade with 486th Field Company Royal Engineers and 1st/3rd East Anglian Field Ambulance move into a reserve position in the Wadi Ghuzze at Sheikh Nebhan, which was reached by 0800. The Divisional Artillery (270th and 271st Brigades Royal Field Artillery) moved behind 163rd Infantry Brigade to a position in the vicinity of Um Jerrar. At 1100 271st Brigade Royal Field Artillery joins 161st Infantry Brigade Group and proceeds with it.

484th and 495th Field Companies Royal Engineers follow Divisional Artillery to the Wadi Ghuzze and develops the water supply at Tel el Jemmi, el Adar and Um Jerrar.

Battle Headquarters of the Division on a Hill 1 mile north of Point 310 (J.3.7.7.)

0845 161st Infantry Brigade Group moved into a reserve position near the road at El Burjaliye.

1240 161st Infantry Brigade Group moved into reserve to 53rd Division at Mansura coming under the orders of Desert Column there.

1500 Battle Headquarters of Division moved to "S" of Sheikh Abbas on Gaza - Beersheba Road. Outposts put out for the night facing east on a line in front of the Sheikh Abbas position from cross road ½ mile north of a point 325.

1758 Orders received from Eastforce to move the Division and put out Outposts connecting with 161st Infantry Brigade on left and Imperial Camel Brigade on right on the line El Burjaliye Ridge one mile north east of Sheikh Nebhan through El Burjaliye and Mansura to point 1 mile north of Mansura. Considerable enemy reinforcements reported and all transport camels ordered to be west of Wadi Ghuzze before dawn.

2345 162nd a 163rd Infantry Brigade on the line ordered, 162nd Infantry Brigade holding the outposts and 163rd Infantry Brigade in reserve at north of Mansura which was also the position of Battle Headquarters. Night passes quietly.


27 March 1917

0500 At dawn Mounted Divisions are seen to be withdrawing in the direction of Wadi Ghuzze followed by Turks coming from east and south east.

0630 Brigades occupy line taken up by the Outposts last night. 162nd Infantry Brigade on right in connection with Imperial Camel Corps Brigade and 163rd Infantry Brigade on the left connecting with 161st Infantry Brigade at Mansura and dig themselves in. 1/1st Hertfordshire Yeomanry Squadron, located at Sheikh Nebhan.

0720 Patrols of 160 and 161st Infantry Brigade reported to be in occupation of green hill immediately south of Ali Muntar, which was being shelled by enemy.

0845 Right flank of position reported to be 100 yards south of "L" in El Adar. The line being subjected to heavy occasional bursts of shrapnel and at the same time about 300 enemy appear on crest line north and south of Sheikh Abbas. Owing to cramped position enemy's shelling causes damage among transport and teams of wagons. Heavy firing about Ali Muntar.

0900 Close present Report Centre and reopen again with 53rd Division.

0930 Situation remains quiet on front held by 162nd and 163rd Infantry Brigades. A strong counter attack by Turks launched from Gaza and Ali Muntar.

1021 54th Division put under the command of Major General Dallas CB Commanding 53rd Division. 161st Infantry Brigade forced back from Ali Muntar. Line of resistance selected from left of 163rd Infantry Brigade to be the western edge of Mansura to a point on the main El Sire - Ali Muntar Ridge.

Turks reported to be retiring from Crest Line on front of 162nd Infantry Brigade. Brigades improve their trenches.

1010 52nd Division on right reported to be in position to launch a counter attack eastwards.

1130 - 1300 Turkish attack forces back 53rd Division. Brigade on left of line along the sand dunes, 163rdInfantry Brigade conforming to the movement. 54th Division line not under fire otherwise. Troops dig themselves in and situation remains unchanged during the afternoon. Desultory Artillery and Musketry firing continues.

1340 Battle Headquarters moved to "A" in Burjaliye.

1420 Turks estimated at 2000 make an attack on section to left of the position held by 53rd Division. No movement takes place on section occupied by 54th Division. Attack soon dies down.

1715 Orders issued for the withdrawal of 53rd and 54th Division from the position held under cover of darkness to former positions covering In Seirat. Field Artillery Brigades, 60 pounders and Field Troops 54th Division to retire via Sheikh Nebhan as soon as dark. 158th and 163rd Infantry Brigades to cover the retirement which would begin for Infantry at 2200, as follows 162nd Infantry Brigade to cross the Wadi Ghuzze at Sheikh Nebhan 161st Infantry Brigade by crossing at El Breij at reserve position due north of first "I" in Seirat. 163rd Infantry Brigade for covering the crossing of the Wadi took up a position from El Sire to El Rafa. The withdrawal throughout was carried out without any interference from the enemy.

2030 Artillery Brigades completed the crossing of the Wadi.

2345 162nd Infantry Brigade and Camel Transport completed crossing without incident.


28 March 1917

0315 163rd Infantry Brigade crosses Wadi Ghuzze and proceeds to bivouac at In Seirat.

Artillery Brigades march to bivouac at Deir el Belah. 162nd Infantry Brigade marches to take up an Outpost line covering El Seirat from Point 320 through Point 310 to 200 foot contour south of first "E" in El Breij. 161st Infantry Brigade after crossing the Wadi Ghuzze at El Breij moved into reserve due north of first "I" of In Seirat. By 0600 all Units had arrived on their bivouac areas.

Casualties sustained during the Operations were as follows.

On 26th - Officers killed 12, Other Ranks killed 95; Wounded - Officers 28, Other Ranks 647; Missing - Officers 3 Other Ranks 130.

On 27th - Officers killed 4, Other Ranks killed 45; Wounded - Officers 24, Other Ranks 361; Missing - Officers 3 Other Ranks 168.

Total killed, wounded and missing, Officers 74, Other Ranks 1,446.

During the day the Outpost line was strengthened. A few small Turkish patrols were observed approaching the Wadi Ghuzze but none attempted to cross.

War Diaries

All War Diaries cited on this site should be read in conjunction with the Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy which may be accessed at:

Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy 

Further Reading:

AIF, MEF and the EEF

The British Army

British Forces, EEF, Roll of Honour

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Allied Forces, Roll of Honour

The Palestine Campaign, 1917 - 1918

Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920

Citation: The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, 54th (East Anglian) Infantry Division War Diary Account

Posted by Project Leader at 12:01 AM EADT

Updated: Wednesday, 23 February 2011 9:23 AM EAST

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The First Battle of Gaza

Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

2nd Light Horse Brigade, Brigade Order No. 11

2nd Light Horse Brigade War Diary Brigade Order No. 11.

The following is a transcription of the Brigade Order No. 11 from the War Diary of the 2nd Light Horse Brigade detailing their role at the First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917.

Secret

Brigade Order No. 11

by

Brigadier General G. de L. Ryrie, CMG
Commanding 2nd Light Horse Brigade AIF

24 March 1917

Reference Map: Sinai Sheet North H36 EIII

1. Information: Tomorrow March 25th, a reconnaissance will be carried out by the Anzac Mounted Division of the line of the Wadi Ghuzze from Tel el Jemmi to the sea. On completion of this reconnaissance, the whole Division will bivouac for the night 25/26th at a site selected at Deir el Belah.

2. Moves

(a) The Brigade will leave Camp at 0230 on the 26th march and move to a point ¾ mile east of the Desert Column Headquarters.

Head of Main body will pass starting point, mound North of Machine Gun Squadron at 0230. Brigade will march in column of troops.

Order of march:

Brigade Headquarters

2nd Signal Troops

5th Light Horse Regiment

6th Light Horse Regiment (less one troop)

2nd Australian Machine Gun Squadron

7th Light Horse Regiment

7th Mobile Veterinary Section

2nd Light Horse Field Ambulance

(b) The Officer Commanding 6th Light Horse Regiment will detail one Troop as escort to 1st Line Camels proceeding by beach road to Camp at Deir el Belah.

3. Ammunition: 220 rounds per man and the usual amount for Lewis and Machine guns will be taken.

Rations & Forage: One day's rations and one extra ration will be carried by each man. 3 days Mobile ration will be taken on pack horses. One day's forage will be taken.

5. Limbers: All limbers will march with their units.

6. 1st Line Camels: All 1st Line Camels will be formed up on the beach north of Camp at 0300.

7. Entrenching Tools: All entrenching tools will be taken by units on pack horses.

8. Marching out states: Marching out states will be rendered to Brigade Headquarters by 0200.

JH Whyte Major
Brigade Major 2nd Light Horse Brigade

War Diaries

All War Diaries cited on this site should be read in conjunction with the Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy which may be accessed at:

Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy 

Further Reading:

2nd Light Horse Brigade, AIF

2nd Australian Light Horse Brigade, AIF, Roll of Honour 

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Allied Forces, Roll of Honour 

The Palestine Campaign, 1917 - 1918

Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920

Citation: The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, 2nd Light Horse Brigade, Brigade Order No. 11

Posted by Project Leader at 12:01 AM EADT

Updated: Saturday, 19 February 2011 8:58 AM EAST

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The First Battle of Gaza

Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

Desert Column, Signals, In and Out Messages, 27 March 1917

The following is a transcription of the Desert Column, Signals, In and Out Messages, 27 March 1917, from the War Diary of the Desert Column detailing the part of the battle plan for the First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917.

 

27 March 1917

In and Out Messages


Desert Column
GT 881
Cannot understand your A. 216 of 25th beginning it has been decided that the infantry division will be withdrawn to the west of the Wadi Ghuzze aaa If It is to be withdrawn how is it to dig in

53rd Division 0605


Desert Column
GT 908
Following Information obtained from prisoner captured on 26th aaa Strength of garrison infantry seven battalions each eight hundred strong aaa Machine gun companies two German and one Turkish aaa Heavy guns four 15 cm. mounted against attack by sea aaa These guns have been brought from Shellal and are German aaa Austrian field artillery regiment much under strength probable number of guns ten aaa Cavalry fifty aaa Camel corps sixty aaa Trenches were knocked to bits by our gun especially Ali Muntar aaa Lt-Col temp Major Gen Tala Bey a German is in command and all agree that he will fight to the last aaa Possibly one battalion of this force proceeded to Jaffa before the battle

53rd Division 0200


Desert Column
EF 35
Following interrupted wireless from Von Kress to Gaza timed 2225 begins Having regard to disposition of the Turkish troops and leaders can an attack be successful at early dawn aaa I beg you to do your utmost to hold out so long ends aaa Acknowledge aaa Desert Column repeated 53rd Division

Eastforce 0200


Desert Column
EF 36
Intercepted wireless Gaza to Sheria timed 2300 begins your telegram received please attack at all costs at two o'clock tonight ends Intercepted wireless Gaza to Expeditionary Force begins position lost at 1905 I am still is possession of town help required at once or it will be too late ends Addressed Desert Column repeated 53rd Division

Eastforce 0205


Anzac Mtd Divn
Imp Mtd Divn
SE 17
Please report position of both cavalry division immediately and that of IC Bde and motor batteries and light car patrol aaa It is most important that both cavalry divisions should be concentrated as soon as possible in valley near In Seirat aaa Both divisional commanders will report personally to Desert Column H.Q. Immediately on receipt or this at HILL 310

Desert Column 0500 (sd) SH Kershaw


53rd Division
AP 21
You will feel forward with patrols to Ali Muntar as early as possible aaa If the enemy is not occupying that position Column Commander directs you to occupy it without delay aaa Acknowledge

Desert Column 0520 (sd) AM Pirie


OC Cav Regt
Imp Mtd Div attd 53rd Divn
53rd Divn
Ap 22
Push patrols forward at once and ascertain situation west and north of Gaza aaa open your helio and get touch with Eastforce HQ hill 310

Des Col 0536 (sd) AM Pirie


Desert column
BM 609
Enemy infantry and guns attacked brigade 8 miles southeast of Gaza aaa Estimated number 2000 aaa Likely they are moving on Gaza aaa enemy held off in time to allow brigade to pass

3rd Light Horse Brigade 0747


IC Brigade
WO 11
Are you getting into position on the right of the 54th Divn

Des Col 0725 (sd) VM Fergusson


53rd Divn
WO 12
Report urgently on situation Gaza

Desert Column 0740 (sd) VM Fergusson



Desert Column
BM 224RM 11
Am in position aaa have reported 54th Divn

IC Bde 0750


Desert Column
EF
You sill come under direct orders of Eastforce on time of receipt of this message aaa Acknowledge aaa Addressed 53rd Divn reptd Des Col

Eastforce 0800


H.Q. Desert Column
G. 48
Capt Tollemache liaison officer Eastforce has come to my Headquarters to find out situation It is this The enemy has appeared on Sheikh Abbas and he is shelling my reserves and back while I am holding and fighting on the line Ali Muntar Sheluf aaa 54th Division is facing Sheikh Abbas On line NE of Mansura and along the line Tel el Ahmar Burjaliye - El Adar aaa We are in a bottle neck but can hold our position provided Ali MUNTAR can be retaken by fresh troops aaa Enemy has only recently appeared on Sheikh Abbas and can not have yet deeply entrenched aaa I presume l am still under your orders till I hear contrary as Am arranging close cooperation with Gen Hare who is as you know under Eastforce command aaa Orders regarding our movements until Sheikh Abbas is taken should be addressed to both of us

General Dallas 0830


Desert Column
BM 225
Bde at Um Jerrar aaa Any instructions

IC Bde 0925


Desert Column
SC 288
Two aeroplanes landed near group near El Dammats aaa not known whether cavalry or planes are hostile

Camel Bde 1215


Desert Column
GLY 25 DC 4
Beach patrol reports from close to Sheikh Ajlin that they are drawing fair amount of fire from the Gardens but are trying to proceed

Glos Yeo 1249


Desert Column
SC 289
Our firing line being shelled out of Its position by our own field batteries on southern slope Tel el Ahmar aaa An aeroplane was spotting Address desert column repeated Eastforce

ICC Bde 1305


Eastforce
IC Bde
SK 17
Will you please Issue instructions direct to IC Bde for night position of that brigade Address Eastforce repeated I.C. Bde

Desert Column 1400 (sd) SH Kershaw


Desert Column
G. 181
Divisional H.Q. established about 600 yds NE by E of Sabkhet at Deir el Belah

A & NZ Mtd Divn


Des Col
WT 85
Active enemy battery reported and silenced this forenoon about 3000 yards NNW of Gaza aaa Also at 1215 two active batteries seen one between point 200 and Abu Zeid other just apex of first A in Gaza aaa Artillery machine sent out to engage these aaa

Aeronautics 5th Wing 1622


Desert Column
WT 26
Artillery observer returned 1350 report our line running about 800 yds south of enemy trenches round south of Gaza then SSE to El Sire Wadi aaa Our camel corps about K of Baiket Abu Mailek aaa About 2000 enemy infantry close to extremity of our right flank being shelled by our artillery

Aeronautics 5th Wing 1640


Eastforce
WO 18
Both cavalry divisions have been ordered to be ready to move at 1650 to take up a night line from Abasan to IN Seirat If so ordered by you aaa Please do not forget position of IC Bde as regards supplies and water namely water tomorrow and supplies for four or five days Acknowledge
Desert Column 1500 (sd) VM Fergusson


Desert Column
GLC 30 DC6
Attack driven off aaa Have been relieved by 22nd Mtd Bde aaa Please inform an where 5th Mtd Bde is

Glos Yeo 1628


Des Col
EF 59 WO 18
Approved but keep one brigade back in present bivouac aaa Air reconnaissance about 1515 puts about 2500 Infantry and mounted troops five miles east Of Camel Bde position

Eastforce 1605


Anzac Mtd Div
Q
Imp Mtd Div
DDMS
Eastforce
Signals
WO 20
Reference my WO 19 left boundary of left section will end at In Seirat inclusive at which joint outposts of Anzac Mtd Divn will connect up with right of 52nd Divn outposts Addressed Anzac Mtd Divn Imper Mtd Divn repeated Eastforce Q DDMMS Signals

Desert Column 1645


Desert Column
EP 61
You will withdraw 53rd and 54th divisions during night to position west of Wadi Ghuzze to a defensive line extending from the sea to the spur of Goz el Taire immediately west of Sheikh Nebhan with drawing under cover of strong rearguards which should not cross Wadi Ghuzze till after daylight aaa 54th Division must extend right flank to admit prior retirement of camel brigade instructions sent Camel Bde to begin retirement at 2100 and to cross ffrom Um Jerrar to Abu Teibig aaa 22nd Mtd Bde with 1 Bn 53rd Divn attached will not begin withdrawal from its position as your left till midnight and will then fall back to west of wadi to line about Sheikh Rashid Sheikh Shabasi aaa Desert Column w111 have mounted troops picketing right flank of force west of Wad1 Ghuzze from Abasan el Kebir to In Seirat from this evening aaa Acknowledge Addressed 53rd Divn repeated Desert Column

Eastforce 1637


2nd L.H.Bde
N.Z.M.R. Bde
A
O/C Sigs
O/C RE
CRA
22nd Mtd Bde
Desert Column
Imp Mtd Divn
G.158
On night 27/28 Mtd troops Desert Column will hold outpost line as follows aaa Left section held by Anzac Mtd Div (less 22nd Mtd Bde) commander Major-General Sir HG Chauvel from point 310 one mile S of J in El Breij (inclusive) along Goz el Taire to NE end of spur with single tree at I of Goz el Taire (inclusive) aaa Right section held by the Imp Mtd Divn commander Major General Hodgson from single tree exclusive to Abasan el Kebir inclusive aaa Standing patrols will be pushed as far as Wadi Ghuzze and Wadi Imaain aaa Details will be settled on the ground aaa NZMR Bde will hold the picquet line with 2 LH Bde in reserve at Hqrs left section aaa HdQrs left section will be on westward slopes of Goz el Taire about ½ mile S of In Seirat aaa Hqrs right section will be about Sheikh Hamuda aaa Picquets will be in position at 1730 aaa Division will be ready to turn out at short notice and will be saddled up by 0500 tomorrow aaa Communications by cable helio lamp aaa Fires may be lighted except on picquet line aaa all other units of division will bivouac at Hdqrs left section

Anzac Mtd Divn 1700


Desert Column
FSM 252
Aeroplane 1630 reported 500 Turk cavalry coming down Wadi
ICC Bde 1705


Des Col
WR 38
Reconnaissance from 1427 to 1630 reports at about 1450 between 2500 and 3000 troops resting in wadi just SW of Sihan aaa Road from Beit Durdis to Huj no movement seen Hospital with about 250 men south Of wadi between Burier and Tel el Hesi or on roads is triangle Bureir Faluje and Tel el Hesi aaa No movement soon Between Falujey Mejdel aaa No movement soon in Mejdel or on road Mejdel Ejje or Ejje Deir Seneid or Deir Sineid to Jedalie aaa In wadi about 2nd A In Meshahkera scattered small bodies of enemy in broken ground aaa Above was not dropped on report centres Addressed Eastforce Battle H.Q. rsptd Desert Column Advd H.Q.

Aeronautics Rafa 1615


Desert Column
G 159
Reference my G. 158 left boundary of left section will end at In Seirat inclusive at which point outposts of Anzac Mtd. Divn will connect up with Right of 52nd Div outposts

Anzac Mtd Divn 1720


Imperial Mtd Divn
SK 17
Gloucester Yeomanry will rejoin 5th mounted Bde tonight

Desert Column 1735 (sd) SH Kershaw


Desert Column
G. 160
Divisional HQ established about ½ mile S of In Seirat

Anzac Mounted Division



Eastforce
53rd Div
Anzac
Imperial
No. 11 - 12 LAMB
No. 7 LCP
Q
SK 18
The following is the result of yesterdays operations round Gaza Prisoners taken l8 officers 627 other ranks, includes 4 Austrian Officers 32 Austrian Other Ranks and 5 German other ranks aaa Total number expected to exceed 800 including Divl Commander and Staff 53rd Division aaa 2 Austrian 4.50 inch gun captured and brought by the NZ Mtd Bde aaa Heavy casualties inflicted on the enemy by the 53rd Division and in addition to prisoners taken the A.& NZ Mtd Division caused heavy casualties both NE of Gaza and in the street fighting that followed one battalion being almost annihilated by the M. Guns of the 2nd LH Brigade so the former debouched from the town aaa The Imperial Mtd Division and the IC Bde supported by No. 7 Light Car patrol caused enemy serious losses, stopped his advance and forced him to dig in aa No. 11 and 12 LAM Batteries found themselves in the middle of a hostile division on the morning of the 27th and Inflicted several hundred casualties in fighting their Way through aaa Addressed Eastforce repeated 53rd Divn, Anzac Mtd Divn, Imperial Mtd Divn, No. 11 and 12 L.A.M. Batteries and No. 7 Light Car patrol

Desert Column 1812 (sd) SH Kershaw


Eastforce
WO 81
The crew and machine gun of the armoured car which broke down this morning are near the bend in the Wadi E of El Breij aaa Could efforts be made to get men and machine guns away tonight

Desert Column 1815 (sd) SH Kershaw


Des Col
WR 19
Observer of Akra reconnaissance which reported column of 8000 infantry 1½ miles SW of HUJ states column was marching in fours head of column 1½ SW of Huj at 1700 column stretched in direction of Akra No guns observed small amount of transport at tail of column total length of column 1½ miles including transport aaa Infantry screen in front of column was in touch with our patrols aaa Flank guards on both flanks aaa

Aeronautics Rafa


Desert Column
EF 69 WO 21
52nd Division are taking this on

Eastforce 1925


Desert Column
G. 41
Situation as far as I know it at present is that the Division holds the Labyrinth - Ali Muntar and hill 1000 yards north of latter aaa In accordance with verbal instructions from Desert Column as withdrawing my right flank to join with 54th Division on Sheikh Abbas aaa If 160th and 161st Brigades report that the can deal with situation about Labyrinth where enemy still holding spurs to west I shall include Ali Muntar in the line aaa If not I shall withdraw my left so that the point held on the ridge running from El Sire to Ali Muntar passes through El Sheluf aaa Will report later

53rd Division 1940


Des Col
AM 226
Large body enemy cavalry moving west towards Wadi aaa Apparently near Dammats

IC Brigade 1945


Desert Column
GB 554
Message begins aaa 53rd Division aaa OC 1/4th Cheshires reports as follows aaa At 1800 am holding sandy Hill east of Ali Muntar enemy retiring NW aaa Ground immediately West full of snipers aaa Have counted 14 prisoners and more to come aaa Casualties estimated between 40 and 50 aaa New Zealanders have made good ground east of my hill aaa Am putting Hill in state of defence aaa 4th Welsh and 5th Welsh are holding ridge between Ali Muntar and 4th Cheshires Hill aaa OC 7th Cheshires reports Conical Hill with hut on top taken by joint units of 159th Bde at 1632 aaa Am holding same aaa Please warn 161st Inf Bde and those of our troops to the north aaa ends aaa from 159th Bde

53rd Division 2000



CRA
Desert Column
W153
During today’s cooperation the following points may interest your units dump near enemy battery destroyed aaa Heavy fire of field and heavy batteries directed on to numbers of enemy without cover aaa On one occasion 500 and on another occasion 600 Turks came under such fire and suffered heavily as Cooperation with 60 pounders very good

Aeronautics 2240


Anzac Mtd Divn
Imp Mtd Divn
Eastforce
WO 22
At 0600 tomorrow patrols will be pushed forward 2 miles from the outpost line aaa If and when they report that there is no sign of enemy movement from the direction towards Rafa Khan Yunis or Deir el Belah each mounted division will alone on its left and concentrate withdrawing outpost squadrons aaa Small dip observation posts will be left out on the left out on the line Abasan el Kebir In Seirat aaa Horses other than those of observation posts may be unsaddled aaa Divisions will proceed to water as soon as the situation permits under orders from Desert Column aaa Acknowledge aaa Addressed Imperial and Anzac Mtd Divisions repeated Eastforce

Desert column 2100 (sd) VM Fergusson


Desert Column
EF 74
Detail half a company infantry to guard prisoners of war brought to Deir el Belah and escort then to Khan Yunis aaa Escort to report to Q Office Desert Column as soon as possible aaa Acknowledge aaa Addressed 52nd Division reptd Desert Column and Eastforce Rafa for information.

Eastforce 2227

War Diaries

All War Diaries cited on this site should be read in conjunction with the Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy which may be accessed at:

Australian Light Horse Studies Centre, AIF War Diaries of the Great War, Site Transcription Policy 

Further Reading:

Desert Mounted Corps

The Desert Mounted Corps, Roll of Honour

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917

The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Allied Forces, Roll of Honour

The Palestine Campaign, 1917 - 1918

Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920

Citation: The First Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 26 to 27 March 1917, Desert Column, Signals, In and Out Messages, 27 March 1917

Posted by Project Leader at 12:01 AM EADT

Updated: Friday, 4 March 2011 1:41 PM EAST

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