The 8th Infantry Battalion was formed in August 1914, and recruited
from Ballarat, central and western Victoria. Originally led by Lieutenant
Colonel Bolton, the 8th Battalion served with distinction in Egypt, Gallipoli,
France and Belgium.
Three members of the 8th Battalion were awarded the Victoria Cross -
Lieutenant Joynt, Privates Cooke and Beatham. The most decorated member of the
8th Battalion was Captain Percy Lay. During his service on the Western Front,
Percy Lay was awarded the Military Cross, the Distinguished Conduct Medal, the
Military Med and the Croix de Guerre.
Contents:
Foreword
Author's Note
1. Ballarat to Broadmeadows
2. The Sands of Egypt
3. Gallipoli: Baptism of Fire
4. Cape Helles and Krithia
5. The Trenches of Anzac
6. Off to the Western Front
7. 1917
8. Broodseinde
9. The Race for the Chanel Ports
10. Germany's 'Black Days'
11. Herleville Wood
12. The Final Months
Appendix 1. Battle Honours
Appendix 2. Honour Roll: 8th Battalion
Appendix 3. Honours and Awards
Appendix 4. Nominal Roll: The Original 8th Battalion
Appendix 5. Nominal Roll: Reinforcements to the 8th Battalion
Appendix 6. Guests of the Kaiser
Bibliography and Acknowledgements
Index
Subscription List
