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From Bank to Battlefield

Centenary of the First Battle of Bullecourt, 11 April 1917

The Hindenburg Line was Germany’s strongest defence on the Western Front, with trenches stretching from Arras to Laffaux in northern France. Incorporated into this line were several villages, strongly fortified by Germany, including the village of Bullecourt. On 11 April 1917 Bullecourt was attacked by the 4th Australian and 62nd British Divisions. Although the infantry managed to break into the German defences, the Australians were forced to retreat. They suffered 3,300 casualties and 1,170 Australians taken prisoner, the ‘largest number captured in a single engagement during the war’.

Lieutenant D.O.L. Kitto was mentioned in despatches for his bravery and fortitude during the attack of the First Battle of Bullecourt. Read more

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