Military History The first aif man to die whilst serving

The first AIF man to die whilst serving

Article by Neil Smith

Australia’s First to Fall in the Great War

The Australians had landed stealthily at Kabakaul in the early morning of 11th September 1914. Their mission was to capture the German Wireless Station at Bita Paka several miles south through the jungle of the Gazelle Peninsular in German New Guinea, now known as New Britain. Moving cautiously in tactical formation with rifles cocked, the Australians, a mix of Royal Australian Naval Reserve sailors and newly enlisted soldiers, followed the bush path deeper into the hills.

Suddenly gun fire rang out from well entrenched dug-outs on both sides of the track. The Australians dived for cover and returned fire. It was clear that the enemy outnumbered the Australians so messages were sent to the rear for reinforcements. In the meantime several men edged forward to get a better view of the enemy positions.

Photo above right of Commander, Joseph Beresford who led assault troops from the Tropical Force.

Photo of Navy Officer Charles Elwell was one of seven killed in the fighting near New Britain..

Lieutenant Colonel Neil C SMITH, AM - Mostly Unsung Military History Research and Publications
Lieutenant Colonel Neil Smith spent 24 years in the Army throughout Australia and overseas including active service in Vietnam and Explosive Ordnance Disposal duties for which he was decorated with the Order of Australia. Since resigning 20 years ago Neil and his wife Sylvie have developed Mostly Unsung, a unique military history research business using resources in London and around Australia.

//i.findmypast.com.au/websites/au/anzac/others/neil-smith-120.jpg Neil has researched and compiled scores of publications and articles on servicemen and women, various regiments and conflicts ranging from the British garrison in Australia through the Boer War, both World Wars and post 1945 conflicts such as the Malayan Emergency. He is well known for his media and documentary work and frequently provides presentations on military history, where the emphasis is always on those who served.

For those who seek to trace the service of their military ancestors in Australia and Great Britain, Neil Smith and Mostly Unsung will have the solution.