Patrick Carlyon

The story takes you into the thick of the war fought, nearly 100 years ago, on Turkish soil, by ANZAC soldiers. The book retells the stories of some of the individuals involved, and puts a human face to the Gallipoli legend that most of us know about.
We have explained the reasons for the outbreak of the war and the Gallipoli campaign is put into context. We learn about Joe Cumberland, a young train driver from NSW, who was one of the first to enlist from the Hunter valley and of his brother, Oliver. We hear about the actions of Charles Bean, a journalist, who landed at Gallipoli with the Australian troops on 25th April 1915. He later became famous as the official war historian and was partly responsible for the growth of the ANZAC legend. The actions of William Birdwood, Colonel William Malone are related to us as well as learning more about John Simpson than just his donkey.
The book explores the decisions and choices made by soldiers, officers and politicians. The author also tries to fill in any gaps in stories and attempts the difficult task of separating fact from the myths and legends that have grown around Gallipoli.
There are maps, b&w photographs and diagrams and appendix containing letters and a good bibliography and index.
Also includes 16 unnumbered pages of plates… (más)

Very easy to read account of the Gallipoli battles of WW1. Includes detailed quotes from generals and ordinary foot soldiers as well as Turkish soldiers letters also. A fascinating look at the truths behind the legends – the terrible mistakes made by the Commanders, and the heroism of the New Zealand and Australian soldiers. Often gory, frustrating and yet moving, the account is interspersed with observations of the peninsula from present day. A fine take on the absurdity of war.
p.132 –“death” p.134 then ‘the second’ to ‘dark’ p. 135 then to p.137 ‘Mcgarvie’ to end p.138Talks about the famous attack on the trenches that is recreated in the movie Gallipoli and focuses on one soldier McGarvie who was a crack shot. P.14 intro… (más)