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The Gallipoli campaign ends in evacuation, and Australian forces begin redeploying to the Western Front in Europe.
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The Australian Imperial Force (AIF) is formed, and training camps are set up.
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World War I begins with Britain declaring war on Germany. Australia, as part of the British Empire, automatically enters the war.
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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
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Harbour embarks from Adelaide on the HMAT Nestor to join the war effort. He is part of the reinforcements for the 8th Infantry Battalion
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The Battle of the Somme begins. It becomes one of the largest battles on the Western Front, with heavy casualties.
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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.
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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
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The battles of Arras and Bullecourt are fought, involving Australian troops.
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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.
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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.