The Kings Review 1916

After months of training, including drill, shooting (sometimes with gas helmets on), lectures, and long route marches, the 33rd Battalion attended Ceremonial Brigade Drill on 27 September 1916 in preparation for the Divisional March Past and King’s Review.

Private Turner noted in his diary that General Monash inspected the men near Bulford on 28th September. The following day General Monash led his men for the review by HM King George V of Australian and New Zealand troops. Over 30,000 men marched including Infantry, Light Horse, Artillery, Trench mortars and massed bands.

The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper, 29 September 1916, reported on the review stating that ‘The King, before leaving, expressed his pleasure in inspecting such a huge body of Australia’s and New Zealand’s best men. He had noted the steadiness of all the units, indicating a high level of training.  He was greatly impressed with their physique and soldierly bearing. He concluded “They are a fine body of men”.’ 

Photo: King George V reviewing troops 1916 Private Collection