CHASE, Richard Henry - 42015, 83, 691
| Original items held by the Army Museum of Western Australia |
| Conflict | 2nd Anglo-Boer War, World War 1 |
|---|---|
| Service Arm | Australian Imperial Force |
| Unit | 2nd Mounted Infantry Contingent 10th Light Horse Regiment 16th Infantry Battalion |
| Service No. | 42015, 83, 691 |
| Service Arm | Army |
| Date of Birth | 10 Oct 1859 |
| Birthplace | St Lucia, West Indies |
| Residence | East Perth, Perth, WA |
| Date of Death | 28 Apr 1915 |
| Relatives | Brother - CHASE, William St Lucian |
Richard Chase fought in the 2nd Anglo-Boer War with the 2nd Scottish Horse before emigrating to Western Australia and joining the 2nd Mounted Infantry Contingent and returning to South Africa.
A letter from Sgt William Allan of No 8 Platoon, 16th Infantry Battalion giving details of the death of Richard Chase, dated 3 November 1915.
'Anzac',
Gallipoli
3.11.15
From Sgt Wm Allan
No 8 Platoon 16th Battalion
Dear Miss Chase,
Just a few particulars regarding your brother's death.
The 16th Battalion landed on the 25th of April at 'Anzac' about 5 p.m. A few got left behind including No 8 Platoon 'B' Coy. On the following
morning the Platoon landed and took up position on a ridge in 'Monash Valley'. Afterwards called 'Courtney's Position'. At this time the
Australians were hanging on to the ridges like grim death. At dusk on the 26th of April our Platoon No 8 started to entrench on the
extreme right of Courtney's Position. When day dawned on the morning of 27th we were fairly well dug in and looking forward for a shot at
the enemy. Your brother was on my right and Sgt Goss and Cpl Ford on my left. I was observing for those three men who put in most excellent
work and between the three of them they accounted for 19 of the enemy. Immediately in front of our Trench the ground dipped down for a
distance of 20 yards or so, and in front of that again there was a small round ridge about 150 yards distant. About this time it would be about
11 a.m. or there abouts. Suddenly without any warning fully 250 Turks charged over the round ridge making for the dead ground in front of
our trench. Immediately they made their appearance we got the order to start rapid firing. About 10 Turks reached the dip in front of our
trench. The rest got shot. Those ten started to make their presence felt straight away. They could see us but we couldn't see them. Major
Carter, Sgt Goss and your brother all got shot together. All instantaneously through the head. They all died game in their firing position.
I can honestly say it was a great blow to our Platoon when we lost your brother. If there was anything to be done he was one of the first
to volunteer, always punctual and willing. We buried him two days afterwards a few yards behind the firing line and erected a small cross. I
have sent to the base to have any papers left in his kit to be forwarded to you. If there is anything else you would like to know I will
be only too glad to write again. There are only four men left now out of the original No 8 Platoon out of 53 men and we all send our
deepest sympathy in memory of that grand man Pte Chase.
Yours Truly
Sgt Wm Allan
No 8 Platoon B Coy
16th Batt. 4th Bge
P.S. If you could get Mrs Goss' address in Perth would you kindly let her know how her son died & oblige.
This is a copy of the diary written by Richard Chase from 14th October 1914 until the day before he died, 26th April 1915.
Part 1 - 14th October 1914 to 8th March 1915.
Copy from original diary, by LB Chase
S/S 'Ceramic' 25.12.1914
R.H. Chase
D Company 16th Battalion 4th Brigade
Joined the 2nd Expeditionary Force on October 14th 1914, went to Blackboy and commenced Duty 19th Oct. Leave was liberal, but food was very
poor but one could supplement. The camp was an ideal site, but became very doubtful. Owing to lack of sufficient sanitary measures things
might have been better. The ground is against the movement of large numbers of Troops, small bodies could only be handled due to Fences,
Trees & Roads: was glad to leave this Camp but on reaching the Victorian one found that we were worse off.
Please return this Book to
Mrs Chase - Adelaide Terrace,
Perth - West Australia
Left Fremantle on 28th November 1914 for Victoria per S/S 'Katoomba' and arrived a week after at Broadmeadows which we found a cold, windy
and dusty spot. Here our work consisted in route marching, Company and Battalion Drill and Physical exercises. Just before leaving we
marched to Melbourne 10 miles distant (about 7000 men) and went by the saluting point where was the Governor General, and thence back to
camp, where we arrived footsore and satisfied that this duty was over. Our march compared very favourably with the marching of other
units.
Left Melbourne per 'Ceramic' of 18400 Tons on 22nd December and at once went to sea. We were about 1700 men of the 16th and 15th
Battalions, also Army Service Corps, Divisional Amm, Pack & Div, Supply Column and re-inforcements for all Branches. We had very fine
weather and anchored in Albany on the 28th Dec, early. Here we rapidly commenced to gather and when we left for sea on the 31st Dec,
there were about 18 large Transports some of which had been German Prizes. Before our departure strict rules prevented any but some
officers leaving and no shore persons or trade of any sort were allowed on board. There were rumours of a Transport having caught fire
and of having to put her horses on shore. A submarine is with us and accompanied us to sea. We took up the positions; 3 lines of steamers
of 6 each. The submarine attaches itself to one steamer and remains just astern. We go easily and weather is very fine. Xmas passed as
Sunday, with a very limited supply of Plum Duff. Unnecessary strictness prevails in censoring letters & preventing shore people coming on
board. We sent on shore at Albany some unfit men, some others for offences and some for refusing to be vaccinated.
On the 1st January a
burial took place off one of the ships, the men on this one standing to attention. Pneumonia said to be the cause. We are apparently
bound for Colombo and should reach there about tomorrow week. Was vaccinated today amongst others. The submarine travels on ahead most
often, but just astern of a Transport. She is submerged by the seas excepting her conning tower. If we have a convoy of war ships with
us, it is certainly not visible, nor has it been so at any time, though it is said these visit us at night. Our Drill consists of Rifle
Exercises, Bayonet Drill & Physical Exercises. It often makes me smile to think that I am doing these contortions at my time of life, but
the Drill does me an immense lot of good.
10th January - I have been vaccinated but it has not taken. We are all to be inoculated later
on. We have sent our letters to the Flagship Ulysses for postage at Colombo as some of our Transports are not going in. We are about 17
or 18 bowling along in 3 lines with the Flagship in the centre. A submarine has accompanied us from Albany and can be seen very much
submerged except the conning tower. We are supposed to cross the line today and about Wednesday next should be in Colombo. Our fare has
fallen off of late and is not good enough to keep men fit had they to do what we usually did on shore. It is a great mistake to feed men
with poor food that sickens the stomach to look at, consequently we look forward to Egypt where we may be able to buy food to supplement
this fare. Our hospital has been fairly full, but beyond measles and a few such cases as Pneumonia and Entoric, the majority are slight
cases of men who are easily frightened about themselves. The warships that are accompanying us are never seen. I sometimes think they
must be a myth.
12th inst (January) This day has seen a parting. We were to arrive in Colombo this day or next, but our Vessel and two
others steamed towards Aden and the other twelve Transports continued on for Colombo. We were disappointed although no one was to be
allowed on shore. A second death took place on one of the ships and a third followed being a seaman. I have been inocculated and have
some more serum to be injected later on. Just passed an island of the Laccadives with Lighthouses, Fishing Catamarans. The sight of a
green island clad with palms was refreshing. The sea around this Atoll was a beautiful green. In consequence of vaccination and inoculation
having made so many sore arms our Bayonet Drill has ceased pro:tem and we are learning Semaphore. Aden is 1430 miles distant and six more
days should see us at anchor. An Indian Transport passed us today going towards Bombay. The Hospital is full but only a few cases are
serious. The ship is overcrowded, large as she is.
18th January 1915. The Island of Socotra is in sight. High land. About 80 miles
south of this I was shipwrecked in 1877. The Laccadive Islands we sighted some days ago was with about 3000 inhabitants. Should be in
Aden on Wednesday 20th January. I am more than ever determined to write to General Birdwood about my advancement. I have no hope here
under my C.O. and I am tired of these low class Associates.
19th January. This is the Mothers Birthday and I trust a good few more years
are yet to run for her. None of us, it is safe to say, will reach her age. We will reach Aden tomorrow.
20th January. Arrived Aden. How much larger than when I was here. An Auxillery Warship is here. We have cases of Scarlatine on board and so have one of our Consorts.
21st. Last night a Death took place on our ship. He is or was of our Battalion and was buried ashore. We hear that the Australians in
Cairo have been kicking up there and that at Colombo our New Zealand Re-inforcements have done ditto. There are a fair number of ruffians
on board whose respect for Soldiers behaviour is nil.
23rd: The rest of the Fleet turned up this morning and this evening we are all under
way for Egypt. Our Submarine is with us and two Auxilliary Cruisers are looking after our safety. Mails arrived by them from Colombo,
but none for this Child. We are now 16 Ships not including the Submarine, but the first Contingent I hear numbered 44 ships.
Sunday 24th.
Last night another man died on board of pneumonia and was buried today over the ships side. The procedure is for at a pre-considered hour
all the ships stop their engines, the men standing at attention during the service and for a few minutes after the body has been committed
with the usual volleys and last Post.
26th inst: We shall arrive at Suez tomorrow morning and by evening should be through the Canal. There will be few of us sorry to step ashore. The crowding, the vile rations, the bad air down below and neglect by the Officers who fare
sumptuously, to see to it that their men who have to go through hard work ashore are physically fit, by at least enough of wholesome food,
but these men are apparently looking after No. 1 and the C.O. is a smiling figurehead whom we only see once a day. These leading Officers
should have been selected from those who had seen active service, but all of ours have come from Offices in which they have lived all
their lives. We have one good man whom everyone likes and that is Lt Curlewis. Australia should be pretty free of crime during the
absence amongst these ranks of so many thieves. Losses take place every day and are posted up, but no 'Finds', money, Field Glasses,
telescopes etc.
27th (January) another death has taken place in our ship and this body will be buried tonight as we should enter the
Canal tonight.
28th: Arrived Suez this morning and have been lying idle all day. The Bridge has been fortified by Sand bags and Maxim
Guns. Other ships ditto. Entered the Canal and found it held by New Zealnd and Indian troops. Both banks being trenched and honeycombed.
White men and brown men are working together for the one purpose of beating a common enemy, though the white man will not allow his
Indian brother soldier to become an inhabitant of Australia or New Zealand. I saw some Punjambis, Sikhs and Ghurkas. They all gave us an
ovation, their Officers were a great contrast to ours. We found the 1st Contingent of N.Z. men at the Canal end and our 2nd N.Z. joined them.
There is a rumour of a brush with the Turks by these men along the Canal. Our Bridges round the man at the wheel are sand bagged to
protect him from sniping, and machine guns are mounted there. A special guard is also mounted. Men of war are patrolling along. One
being French. This evening we are anchored in the Lakes and wondering where are we and when we are going.
30th: left the Lakes this morning and
commenced a rapid journey through the Canal. An aeroplane high up soured out on a scouting Trip. 4 British War ships and 2 French were
passed and the Banks of the Canal every mile or so on both sides are lined with Indian soldiers and British Troops all either entrenched or
busy doing so. I would not like to undertake the task of taking these Trenches, especially the Indian ones. Another death took place this
morning on this ship, making the 4th. It was from Sunstroke. Arrived at Port Said, a busy Eastern Town, with some good buildings. We do
not know where we are going. All Steamers are coaling. Saw three Hydro Planes which soared over us, then passed closely over our Vessels
and finally descended on the Canal. The first I have seen. It turns out that there was an engagement of a minor sort with the Indian
Troops and that the sound of the guns were heard in our ship. An Indian officer and one Ghurka killed.
At 4p.m. on 31st January we left
Port Said for Alexandria and arrived at 8 a.m. on 1st February. No fresh vegetables have been given to the men anywhere, though lots came
aboard for the Officers. We have been 6 weeks without vegetables such as lettuce and cabbage. One would think that our C.O. if he were
not anything else than a Clerk in Civil Life would have seen to it that we had something of the sort. The Officers have cared nothing for
us, whilst faring sumptuously themselves. They are only clap trap officers, such as I have not been accustomed to, I have literally
starved on this boat and must make up for it on shore if I want to be fit for Campaigning. We are landing tomorrow the 3rd inst.
Duly
landed on 4th instant and proceeded to one of Cairo's Suburbs called Heliopolis. The weather in Alexandria had been very cold and bleak,
quite equal to a winter in W.A. It was a 2 mile journey to Cairo but we were glad to leave the ship, she being to me a starvation
proposition; in addition to a heavy cough that I have not been able to shake off, I was run down for want of good nutritious food. Our
kit was equal to about 50 lbs. This we had to carry across 3 miles of sand to our camp at Heliopolis.
5th, everything in confusion as
yet, but todays work was heavy, drilling in the sand, and in the early morning doubling about. Too much for men who have lived poorly for
6 weeks. We were 41 days on the passage and 3 days in Alexandria which we were not allowed to go to. The officers have a Hotel allotted to
them, but we will see this business through and I shall prepare to write to Sir W.R. Birdwood to see if I can get something better than a
Private rank. I want to take advice first off some of the Officers of the 1st Contingent at the Pyramids. We saw these from the train but
a long way off.
Saturday 6th inst: went into Cairo and saw the place. Much of it is dirty and the usual tumble down Native Tenements. Not nearly such fine buildings as at Heliopolis where there is a Hotel with close on 3000 rooms now used as a Hospital. Troops are
quartered everywhere and there must be many thousands in this neighbourhood.
Sunday 7th February, visited the Pyramids by train and saw the
Tombs of Pharoah's Mother and Daughter, also the Sphinx and the great Pyramid. A wonderful piece of Native Buildings and Architecture 470
feet high. Some Australian Troops have managed to fall down them and be killed. Now only one side is allowed to be climbed. Some of the
death chambers are wonderfully built with Granite slabs morticed but no mortar, brought down from Upper Egypt and rolled from the Nile by
thousands of slaves. 3 000 000 slaves are supposed to have built the great Pyramid, in 30 years. Our work is heavy and carried on over
loose gravel which tries us one and all. May it cease soon and may we go to the front.
Sunday - Went down to Menas Camp and saw Major
Frank Parker and Astley Cooper. The former advised my writing General Birdwood without sending it through my C.O., but I have since
thought that this might do me harm. Any recommendation or reference as to suitability for promotion would have to come through my C.O. and
if I did not send it through him which would be by the proper channel, he might be tempted to say little or nothing, and if my application
was not successful with General Birdwood, I should be left worse off. Our work last week was a heavy march over rough ground and an
attack by us of the 4th Brigade on a ridge supported by Artillery. The short are severe on everyone. It was watched by a number of English
Officers and some Ladies & we have been told that the 4th is the best seen from Australia, but that we are not quick enough in rising and
getting down under fire. The fact is that our men won't worry to do this until under actual fire. The Ghurka Troops have arrived in Cairo
from the Canal and appear to be going home to the German arena. We might take their place on the Canal if there is any more trouble.
17th. Field Skirmishing and Route Marching in fighting order is the work now being done. We take one meal out, heavy gravel and sand are
traversed with ditto Hills & Ridges with no vegetation whatever. We double and march over country which is littered with what has been
old time building ground. The very roads are laid with this concrete material sifted out. We had a night alarm last evening after a heavy
day, but only mustered at the appointed place and marched round the Camp finishing at 10 p.m. Bayonet practice and target shooting on the
double in Sections is also carried out. Old 'D' Company is now merged into 'B' and a good Officer in Capt. Margolam instead of our Major
Carter who has only commanded Trainees in Perth and who is unpopular by reason of his indifference to his men and their welfare.
19th.
Today from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. we took on a very heavy route march and sham fight in full marching order. The going was fast and many men fell
out en route. The mileage was about 20 & after the fight at about 5 p.m. we had to move back about 9 miles to Camp and tea.
25th Inst: We
are working hard every day except Monday & Sunday, the latter day is a nuisance with its Church Parade which keeps us in Camp when we
might be on leave sight seeing. Some of the 1st Contingent are leaving Egypt tomorrow for some other front, probably Turkey. I am
handing in my application for advancement to General Birdwood tonight. What it will bring forth must be left to the future. It is going
through my C.O. who may not be pleased, but who would be distictly displeased should I not send through him as Birdwood must refer to him
as to me & C.
6th Inst: Very heavy week. One divisional day is when we marched about 22 miles in heavy gravelly country finishing up with
usual skirmish and rushing of the ground and a night march leaving Camp at 9 p.m. and returning at 9 a.m. in the morning, working all night
at Trench construction and at marching over ground before 12 midnight. At 6 a.m. 9 miles away from Camp & breakfast. This had happened
twice now. Once at 5 p.m. we were further away & had to march the intervening distance before entering Camp & eating. The old Brigadier
rushes about in a Motor & after the day straight home. He gave our Colonel fits last night & one of our Lieutenants & seems a short
tempered old grampus. We cursed him heartily on both occasions for quite unnecessary work and fasting for the men, whose friends have
provided Cooks, which should accompany us but do not.
Strong rumours of our early leaving for Turkey.
To enter the burial Rooms in the Pyramid of Cheops is well worth a visit and the heavy climbing. The King was buried in a hidden vault
above the room he had built to deceive any Explorers, but it was discovered when the vault had been found empty. The pseudo Vault is
situated in the middle of the largest Pyramid equidistant from the top and bottom and also from the outside walls. The Chamber is led up
to by a long passage of beautiful granite slabs & the footway is about 45 deg on the slope & the footway is of marble. Boots must be taken
off to allow one to ascend. The Queen's Vault is immediately below this and one must descend through similar passages and on the ground
floor. The Rooms are 18 x 18 and solid granite slabs 18 x 9 x 11
Part 2 - 9th March 1915 to 26th April 1915.
form the Apartment. No present day hands could lay them better and these
slabs were brought up these slopes of 45 deg. How, no one knows. This Pyramid is constructed over a small hill of rock. Both of the
Mummies are in the British Museum. The Battalions are sharpening Bayonets now in view of an early departure. The Brigadier gave us great
praise (the men) for good endurance over heavy Country & the way we did what was required. Our Officers have not one of them seen actual
service & are only theory read men and their experience is nil and all before them. They don't like to see men with war ribbons on I
think.
9th, did Target practice today and also Company Drill in the afternoon. Our Company managed to be the best as far as good shooting
is concerned, and the Drill which was watched was called very good. We shall, when we leave this place be classed as effective. The 3rd
Contingent have landed & I hear are to go to Mena Camp at the Pyramids where the 1st are stationed. 10th March, Today we did Divisional
Training about 6 miles out on the Suez road, a hateful locality to us. We were back at 2.30 p.m. so the day was not hard. Revielle at
5 a.m., breakfast at 6, moved out 7.15 a.m. The usual Camp rumours of movements which largely contradict themselves. On Sunday last I
revisited the Pyramids and entered the second one, clambering through some of the passages was done on one's stomach, the descent and
ascent being steep, I think I have had enough of them.
14th March, heard from Gen Birdwood's Adjutant. Must await anything he may do for me
in the future, though he says the matter is in the hands of the C.O. he hopes to meet me at the front. My chance may come then, who
knows. I have what has stuck to me consistently during the last 5 months, viz. a cough and cold. There is no earthly way of getting rid
of them in Camp life. The blankets are never sunned and are rolled up damp every morning & put on the ground outside. The General (Brig.
Monash) says that we are shortly going to a cold country & needed every warm thing that we had. He was more than satisfied with us & felt
certain that we would do our duty when called on, that we were the best men from Australia that he had seen and had fully caught up the 1st
Contingent. The men now look well on Parade and walk like Soldiers when on the march. Most of them have had 6 months & I have had 5
ditto. I have however plenty of soldiers camp life. Rumours are current that some of the West Aust of the 1st Contingent have come into
contact with the enemy in Turkish Territory and that some of them have gone under.
17th March, Frank Parker died today at the great
Hospital at Heliopolis of meningitis. I had no idea he was there or I would have gone to say hi. He was quite well & lively 3 weeks ago
at Mena Camp when I saw him. This day also saw Sir Henry McMahon riding through our lines. He did not seem to have altered since last I
met him at Quetta. Heard from Mrs Peirce of Quetta also same time. The appearance of Sir Henry McMahon points to our early departure. It
seemed to be a goodbye. Posted to Mrs Peirce of Quetta also to the Mother.
22nd March, so far as one can see no fresh move for us seems
immediate, but a sudden move will come and I am all ready. I think the Transports are not ready. I saw Jack Ferguson in Cairo today, but
not to speak to.
24th, Visited at the site of ancient Heliopolis, the tree whereunder the Virgin Mary and Child Christ rested and at the
same spot the Well where She drank. This Well is working away gaily & is never supposed to run dry. It is on a level with the Nile and
no doubt that River ran close there in those days. An Obelisk of solid granite also marked the the site of the old city. It is about 60
feet high, of one piece of granite throughout & how it was reared in those days is a secret. Obtained some seeds from some trees
overlooking the Well & will send them home for planting. Had a great Field day this week. The whole Division being present, about 15,000
to 20,000 men. General Birdwood told our Colonel that within 15 days we should be in line with the flower of the British Army in Action.
We will see. This looks as if we were bound for Marseilles and then on to Russia. We can only wait.
26th March, Here we are still.
Rumours say Aldershot, but I think that when the forcing of the Dardanelles is further advanced or completed that we will go forward &
that is the objective. I can scarcely think that from Egypt wehere we have completed our Training supposedly, that we shall be further
delayed by being sent to England to waste time.
30th March, Yesterday afternoon 20,000 Colonial Troops paraded before Gen. Ian Hamilton
satisfactorily. The dust was awful. Rumours are still rife and uncertain, some are depressing by suggesting our being intended for Egypt
alone, but I know better. We are I am sure required for Turkey, & after for an advance through the Eastern Frontier of Austria and
Germany. We are still working hard at Field Firing, Route Marching, & sham fighting. Trench making also Battalion Drill &c &c. The Dust
Storm last Sunday stopped a Church Parade, the only good service it has rendered me so far.
31st, Went out on a bivouac about 8 miles into
an Oasis of Date Palms, wheat & lucerne fields, with water wheels that were hoisting water, as was done in the times of Moses I suppose.
This form of irrigation is the only way in which the soil can obtain water. It was quite a treat for the eye to rest on green verdue
everywhere instead of a stony & bare desert such as we have been accustomed to, with not one blade of any vegetation. Came in today.
1st April, Oranges are the only fruit one can obtain on our marches and the Natives run alongside our Columns night or day & sell this fruit
& other things. I have eaten more Oranges in Egypt than all my previous life. We pay about 1/2d each. The Cookers now come out with us &
we are better fed on these Marches than in Camp where we have only one hot meal to two on bivouacs.
3rd March Went out today on a
march which took us to Mary's Well & the Sacred Tree under which she rested with the Infant Christ.
A disturbance in Cairo which resulted in the shooting of some of the Rioters, who it is needless to say were Australian and New Zealanders
has placed us out of bounds of Cairo and now Heliopolis is out of Bounds for the same reason. Drunken Australian & N.Z. scoundrels are
again the cause. Serious rumours are current of our early departure for Turkey. Some say early this week. I believe the rumour this time
as we are packing tomorrow & no leave is allowed out of Camp. 5th March, Today was marked by a Parade in which certain undesirable
men were weeded out and sent back to Australia, Malingerers, Drunks & other wasters & some sent back to the Reinforcements for further
stay in Egypt. This day was one of awful storm of dust such as I have never seen equalled. We have received new Boots, Putties & socks &
are now standing by for a move towards the Dardanelles. Our training is considered fit for war now & we have to face the real thing and
to justify ourselves as units of the best army in the world viz British.
9th April, It is now probable that tomorrow may see our
departure for Alexandria.
Left Cairo on 10th April having marched with very heavy kits up from our camp at Heliopolis at 8 P.M. Reached
Cairo Station at 10.30 & entrained at 3 A.M. on 11th for Alexandria where we arrived about 9 A.M. same date. At 5 P.M. we went on board
the "Haidar Pascha" and found everything dirty and in chaos. Our quarters are on the dirty quarter deck, wet & slippery, but it is only
for a short time & we shall be on Terra Firma. It is rumoured that we are going to the Island of Lemnos near the entrance to the
Dardanelles for concentration. This ship is not feeding the men. The rations are issued as usual on shore, & consists of biscuits, bully
meat & jam & cheese. There must be at least 60 steamers in this Harbour engaged on either loading up troops or stores of all sorts.
Left
Alexandria about 5 P.M. on 12th April, weather being fine. Ship very light. Hope for fine weather as there are horses on board which
would be the principle sufferers if bad weather came on. These old Hookers Engines have broken down twice and we are now lying stationary
with limited water supply. The Orsava has just passed us full of passengers. We have no wireless. I hope fine weather as she is light
and would roll her sides under. Once more this old derelict is going forward. Land birds & dragon flies on board.
14th Inst. Blew last
night but fine this morning and Islands of the Greek Archipelago on either side. Picked up a large derelict pontoon of iron tarpaulined
down and loaded up with some sand cargo & took it in tow. The Islands are bare and rocky. No apparent habitation or verdure. Several
Lance Corporals made. One of them being a wretched little Salvationist. The choice is a reflection on the Officers who gave this Rank.
My hope is for a complete lift out of these surroundings, by General Birdwood. I want no contemptible stripes, but a Commission &
nothing short of it.
15th, Snow clad hills on one side of us on one of the many Islands passed by us. Coming up to the Island of Lemnos where
we can see other Transports and a British Man of War. This morning disclosed a green clad Island with an Inner Harbour filled with War
Ships & Transports, scattered buildings & 2 or 3 small villages around this coastline. We hear that there are about 20,000 Greeks living
there. Torpedo Boats & Gun Boats, French & English are patrolling around us & there are some big War Ships inside this Harbour, which
seems to be protected by something like a boom. Transports are coming & going and we wonder where. We have been served out with 200 Rounds
of Ammunition, & are to have 3 days Rations, making an appalling weight to carry. With any marching men will be falling out under this
task unless our Packs are carried by the Transport. We have now moved into the Inner Harbour of Lemnos, and a very fine deep water place
of shelter, green grass & cultivation and small settlements everywhere & Rocky highlands. Inside, sheltered, are about 30 or more British
& French War Ships and one Hospital Ship, also numerous Transports, British & French. The Queen Elizabeth with her 8 fifteen inch guns is
here and others, some bearing shot marks through the Funnel. We are truly a War group of ships. The only feminine thing are the nurses on the
"Sicilia". It is as fine a Harbour as one could wish for, being large & deep, close in shore, and perfectly land locked. I think old
England will freeze on to this Island from this time forth. Our C.O. told us tonight that a certain warship that we had seen yesterday had
been a Turkish vessel following us, that a French warship had been following her, & that the British cruiser "Minerva" had chased her &
driven her on to some Island. He then told us that we were destined for the Western side of the Dardanelles & that we should be landed
there, probably under fire, on the beach; that there were said to be 150,000 Turks & 18,000 Germans to oppose us; that we would take 3
days tucker & full water bottles which would have to last us indefinitely; that we would have a "Historical Landing" such as had never
been carried out on an open beach and that an Australasian Army Corps had been gven this job and that it was in our hands to do what was
expected of us and that only 2 of the Forts had been reduced at the entrance to the Straits and not 13 miles as had been stated by the
Press; that we should be required to take these Forts as fast as they were reduced etc etc. Saw 2 Sea Planes or Aero Planes many miles off.
Reconnoitering, but whether they were ours or not is unknown. It being only 40 miles to the Dardanelles, several Platoons went ashore
today, fully loaded up with about 70 lbs dead weight & marched & bathed & came aboard. Four men found time & chance to get drunk.
18th Sunday. Yesterday our Adjutant lectured and among the things told the men that about 20% would be lost in going ashore, a stupid blunder
for even a young Officer to make even if he knew how heavy, which no living soul can know. I am astonished to hear such babble. It
should I think be faced when the task is before us, not given to the men to oppress some of them & my own view is that we shall probably
not be opposed on landing but on advance over country that is favourable for the enemy to hold. This morning, our Clergyman, Revnd Wray
preached on the fact that we were on the verge of action, that shortly he might be preaching over us instead of to us. I myself don't
look for much bloody contact with the Turk, our Forces are as numerous as his, and the only disadvantage will be landing on a poorly
supplied Country & awaiting our supplies & transport-wagons. Water and fuel are scarce and we are to carry a small bundle of wood each.
There is a report that is verified by our Officers that a Transport bringing Troops from Alexandria to this Island was encountered by the
same destroyer that nearly had us & that the Troops were given a limited time to get off the Vessel, in doing so about 100 were drowned.
Before anything else could happen, the "Minerva" came up & drove the Vessel on the rocks & blew her to pieces. The Transport in question
has since arrived. Also, that Transport containing A.M.C. & being our West. Aust. Ambulance Field Corps among others, is missing & some
time overdue, but she may yet turn up as we were about 10 hours late. This Harbour must now hold over 100 Vessels, Warships & others,
bent on this offensive & our time for a descent must now be close up. We are supposed to be about last to land. The missing Army Medical
Ship which was overdue has come to hand this evening. A Sea Plane belonging to one of the War Ships has been flying over this Harbour at
a good height, like a great bird, two men aboard.
19th April. Today the whole Brigade landed on Lemnos as a test landing. It was a long
and tedious process. Some landed in Ships Boats. A slow but sure way. In our case a Naval Mine Trawler came alongside and about 500 men
in heavy marching order (just as they will land on the Dardanelles coast), went down the side on rope ladders & were taken close in shore
where we transhipped in boats & cleared for the beach. After landing we marched about a mile inland and camped for dinner. The Villagers
(all Greeks in native costume) bringing for sale their various. I was glad of some bread as no such thing has been issued since leaving
Alexandria. Afterwards went to the beach & had a swim & then the tedious process of getting on board was repeated, first by boat, then by
Naval Trawler. The Trawler commanded by a Lt R.N. was damaged by the Turkish Forts lately & had a shell & shrapnell on board which killed
her Cook. The shell went right through her. She belongs to the Dreadnought Queen Elizabeth. On shore we came across the 11th Infantry of
West Australians, or 1st Contingent. This is a first class Island for a Naval Base to watch these Dardanelles after Russia has perhaps secured
predominance and as fine, spacious & deep water Harbour as one could wish for. It would hold the Navies of the World & our Flag should
float over it. It is fertile and could support a fair population. These Turks captured a few of our first party of Royal Marines who
attempted a landing & mutilated badly the men taken. This will be remembered against them. If they are savages like the Germans then we
can teach them that the arm of Britain is long and remorseless. They will get scanty treatment (except the wounded). Our time for
departure must be very close now and we may go in a Warship as some did last evening.
21st April - Gale blowing. no shore Parties, we
have discovered that some of the Transports are feeding their Troops well, whilst we have no bread or fresh meat or vegetables since
leaving Alexandria, a thing which could have been prevented as men are now about a hard task there should have been no lack of good food
start them for the fighting & to privations we shall doubtless have next week. If some ships can feed well, why not ours? Our sleeping
accomodation is on a dirty iron deck, as cold as the South Pole. No windsails provided on hot days or shelter from rain in the event of
wet weather occurring. Indifference on the part of those who are leading us.
The following letter has been just received & read to us
Force Order Special - General Head Qrs 21st April 1915. Soldiers of France & of the King, before us lies an adventure unprecedented in
Modern War. Together with our Comrades of the Fleet, we are about to force a landing upon an open beach on face of positions which have
been counted by our enemies as improbable. The Landing will be made good by the help of God & the Navy; the positions will be stormed &
the war brought one step nearer to a glorious close. Remember," said Lord Kitchener, Remember once you set foot on the Gallipoli Peninsular
you must fight the thing through to a finish, the whole world will be watching our progress, let us prove ourselves worthy of the great
feat entrusted to us. Ian Hamilton. General.
23rd April. Received letters from the Mother and Lionel & will reply & this is the last
time so far as we can see for letters. The rest must be post cards. We have been informed that we shall land on the European side of the
Straits. The 29th Division which is English will land on the extreme point of the Dardanelles & move forward. We, that is the 4th Brig.
, will land on the land opposite Chanak & the 11th & A's Division between us & the Regulars.
The 29th: We are to hold back the Turk when
he is running from the 29th & also to prevent Reinforcements from coming to the Turks assistance.
Sunday 25th is a day in our Annals to
be remembered for at 11:20 a.m. we proceed towards the Dardanelles reaching there at about 5:30 p.m. in the evening. The sound of guns
from Navy ships is audible & our Colonel told us this morning that the 29th Division (English) & the 3rd Brigade are in it already having
landed this morning. We are to land about 14 miles further North than the rest & have about 4 1/2 miles to march to reach the Dardanelles
side. The Col. told us that as soon as we had reached & taken the Forts, about 35 in number, the programme was that we again embark & go
out to Constantinople by water. We are taking one pint of water, 3 days rations, & 200 rounds per man, this with firewood & macintosh
sheet & full pack weighs about 80 or 90 lbs dead weight including water bottles & Rifle, an appalling weight for men to move forward under
& perhaps climb hills, but if unsupportable must get rid of certain things, keeping ammunition, food & water first & foremost. I can do
my bit as well as any of the bigger & stronger men, judging by past experience. I am carrying Quinine, Chlorodyne & Bovril & about 2 tots
of brandy. We left at 10.30 & should be at our rendezvous about 4.30 or 5 p.m. The sound of the big guns is reverberating over the water &
tells us that the Navy is doing its share. The first Troops ashore already last evening were at daylight to storm at the point of the
bayonet the machine guns. The day is beautifully fine and there are in this last division only 4 ships Transports. The rest are there
already. Arrived about 5 p.m. & anchored, there being a length of about 14 miles of Transports and Warships, the latter firing away &
making fine practice on the forts & trenches ashore. Occassionally the enemy replies but seems to do no harm as his shells fall far away
from the targets. A Hydro Plane & Dirigible were both up directing the Warships fire. The 12 inch & 15 inch guns were going all around
us & the shore was black with our men that had arrived first. The Shore is precipitous & all the highlands are trenched & armed by the
enemy, and it will be our business to turn them out. A Destroyer came alongside & signalled that she was coming for us and forthwith some
loaded her up & away & now we are awaiting our turn. Several Boats with wounded men have passed us bound to the Hospital Ship, all in good
spirits. They say they have stormed & captured guns & trenches & have lost few men so far.
Monday 26th April. Last night was wet & we
remained on board, some of our men who went ashore must have had a miserable night in the wet. Fighting was going on this morning early
by the sounds, and I venture to predict that in 3 weeks we shall be knocking on the door or Constantinople. The Dirigible is up this
morning & there should be a busy day for us.
This soldier has been researched by The Australians in the Boer War Database Project. Information can be accessed on this link.
Richard Chase