I would like to see the contribution made by clergymen during World War 1 to be included in the commemorations of the centenary of the Gallipoli landings.
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Clergy not only volunteered as chaplains, but also for work with the Australian Comforts Fund via the Salvation Army and the YMCA.
Others volunteered as servicemen, some in medical units, some in the infantry or light horse in the belief that they could offer spiritual support “in the trenches”.
A lot of chaplains were decorated or mentioned in dispatches.
Reverend Andrew Gillison of St Kilda, a chaplain, and Reverend Robert Pittendrigh of Lithgow, a stretcher bearer, were killed in action when they went to the rescue of a wounded lighthorseman near Aghi Dere.
Chaplain Walter Dexter was one of the first Anglicans appointed to the chaplaincy and served all of WW1 as a chaplain.
He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his work on Gallipoli and the Military Cross for his gallantry under fire in France. He was the most decorated Australian non-combatant in WW1.
Garry Sharp
Former pupil at Bithramere and Westdale
Regency Downs, QLD
