Since that moment in April 1915, when troops of the Australian Imperial Force splashed ashore on a remote stretch of Turkish coastline, the 'Digger' has dominated Australian folklore.
In this book the exploits of those who created the Digger legend are recounted. The focus is firmly on who the diggers actually were--whether in army, navy, or air force--and on telling the story of a proud and distinctive military tradition through the lives of the many men and women who helped to forge the reputation as first-class soldiers.
We see a sample of the outstanding achievements of Australians at war, both in the colonial period, and in the cataclysm of 1914-18, and we gain an insight into what war meant to these people and to a new country.
Contents:
Preface
Editor's Note
Authors
Introduction
Colonial Beginnings
- Biographies
The First World War
- Biographies
Appendix 1. Honour and Awards to Australians to 1919
Appendix 2. Australian Victoria Cross Winners to 1919
Further Reading
Index of Biographies
