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World War 1, Europe, 51 Battalion, 1919
1919Overview
Civilians and Australian soldier at site of "Crucifix Corner"
Historical information
The 51st Battalion was formed in Egypt in March 1916, as part of the AIF's expansion. It comprised Gallipoli veterans from the 11th Battalion and new recruits from Western Australia, reflecting the 11th's composition. The battalion joined the 13th Brigade of the 4th Australian Division.
Arriving in France on 12 June 1916, the 51st quickly moved into the Western Front trenches and fought its first major battle at Mouquet Farm in August and September, suffering significant casualties. For the rest of 1916, it alternated between front-line duty and rear-area training.
In early 1917, the 51st advanced following the German retreat to the Hindenburg Line and attacked Noreuil on 2 April. Later, it fought in the Ypres sector, participating in the battles of Messines and Polygon Wood in mid-1917. Another winter of trench warfare followed.
Anticipating a major German offensive after Russia's collapse, the 51st defended Dernancourt in March 1918 and counter-attacked on 5 April. On 24 April, it launched a significant assault at Villers-Bretonneux. During the Allied offensive in August, the battalion was active until mid-month, then moved to rear-area duties. It rejoined the front for its final operation on 18 September at the Hindenburg "outpost line". After the Armistice on 11 November 1918, the battalion disbanded on 5 May 1919 as men returned to Australia.
Details
Details
Registration number
cwa-org-32-P1985.176.1a
Item type
Themes
Contextual Information
There were many "Crucifix Corners" on the Western Front in France during World War I. This one, on the Somme battlefield between Bazentin-Le-Grand and High Wood is perhaps the best known. During the Somme battle of 1916, it was an assembly point for Allied troops going up through what was known as "Death Valley" to attack High Wood.
Year
Australian Army Museum of Western Australia
Australian Army Museum of Western Australia
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