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December 1915
The Gallipoli campaign ends in evacuation, and Australian forces begin redeploying to the Western Front in Europe. -
Late 1914 - Early 1915
The Australian Imperial Force (AIF) is formed, and training camps are set up. -
August 4, 1914
World War I begins with Britain declaring war on Germany. Australia, as part of the British Empire, automatically enters the war. -
July 19, 1915
Herbert Joel Harbour enlists in the AIF at Melbourne. Around this time, the Gallipoli Campaign is ongoing (April-December 1915), with the AIF heavily involved -
October 11, 1915
Harbour embarks from Adelaide on the HMAT Nestor to join the war effort. He is part of the reinforcements for the 8th Infantry Battalion -
July 1916
The Battle of the Somme begins. It becomes one of the largest battles on the Western Front, with heavy casualties. -
Early 1916
Australian forces are transferred from the Middle East to France. This marks the start of Australia’s involvement in trench warfare on the Western Front. -
August 1916
Herbert is transferred to the 6th Australian Field Artillery Brigade, taking on the role of a driver. His duties would likely involve transporting artillery and supplies to the front lines -
April-May 1917
The battles of Arras and Bullecourt are fought, involving Australian troops. -
February 1917
Harbour is killed in action on February 27, 1917, during fighting in France. Around this time, the Germans begin their strategic withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line, resulting in fierce skirmishes. -
Post-War
Herbert’s remains are buried at the AIF Burial Ground in Flers, France. He is commemorated on war memorials, including the Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour.