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RE: Showcase-Sunday: The Australian Light Horse
A visit to the western front and Gallipoli are on my bucket list.
Unfortunately when I was in my mid 20’s and living in the UK I really didn’t have a clue on my Grandfathers story as he died in 1947, It’s only since the WW1 war service records were digitised I found out about his story, my search was prompted by this photo hung in my aunts home.
If you look closely at the photo you’ll notice a few anomalies, my Grandfather was a letfy and held the riffle in the incorrect side, also look at the rifle, it’s not a standard issue .303 Enfield but a Winchester lever action.
I noticed the rifle - I have SMLE .303 rifle which saw service in WW1 and the lever action stuck out to me in the image. Having said that maybe the photo was taken the day he got his plume, at home, and that's the rifle that came to hand? Who knows? Unlikely he would have gone to war with it I think.
Planning to do a post about my .303. I have the bayonet and all the numbers match too. Fired it a few times as well. She's a beauty. Scratched and dented but works a charm.
If you get the chance get to the WF. My sis went to Gallipoli, I haven't been yet.
Not been to Gallipoli and Beersheba is on my bucket list too as I had a great uncle served in both campaigns. My Grandfather signed up in Maryborough QLD and I believe the photo was taken then. I know I saw a display in WA about the light horse and they initially had a lever action rifle but were issued the standard weapons when they shipped out. Makes sense from a logistic point.
Agree, doesn't make a lot of sense for one unit to be using non-standardised weapons.