Birdie: More than 'Soul of Anzac' - Field Marshal Lord Birdwood of Anzac & Totnes

A Gallipoli Association lecture from the 2024 Annual Conference. Birdie: More than “Soul of Anzac” - Field Marshal Lord Birdwood of Anzac & Totnes by Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) Dr Richard Farrimond. Birdwood is renowned for his command of the Anzacs at Gallipoli, earning him the title from General Hamilton of ‘Soul of Anzac’. Before this, he had a very successful career in the Indian Army, which provided him with experiences that influenced his command at Gallipoli. Subsequently he led with distinction the Australian Imperial Force for the remainder of the War. He has received little attention from either British or Antipodean historians. Farrimond fills this void with a whole life approach, highlighting both Birdwood’s aggression when at the helm of his troops, and his contributions to harmony between Allied governments. His subsequent prestigious service after the war is covered in detail. Richard Farrimond had two working careers. He served with the Royal Signals in Germany, England, Northern Ireland and Canada. Between commands in Londonderry and Germany, he trained as a back-up NASA Payload Specialist for the Skynet 4 military communications satellite – cancelled following the 1986 Challenger disaster. This led him into the British space industry where he spent much time in Australia. Following final retirement, he undertook firstly a Master’s degree in World History and Cultures and then a history PhD, both completed part-time at King’s College London. He translated the PhD into his recent book and this was awarded the Chapple Prize for 2023. #gallipoli #australia #militaryhistory #anzac