Major General Harold Elliott ands his Mansfield soldiers

MAJOR General Harold Edward 'Pompey' Elliott was a senior officer in the Australian Army during World War One, and probably the most outstanding personality in the AIF (Australian Imperial Force ) of those times. He commanded the 7th Battalion at Gallipoli and the 15th Brigade at the Western Front. There were several conscripts from Mansfield also served in the 7th Battalion under his command, including James Elvins who enlisted on July 8, 1915 and was killed on September 20, 1917 when hit by a shell at Polygon Wood, Belgium. Also serving in the 7th Battalion from Mansfield was Frederick Graves, killed in action at Gallipoli, Dardanelles on May 8, 1915; he had enlisted on August 19, 1914. James Fraser was another who was under the Major General's command having enlisted in Melbourne on September 23 1915; returned to Australia and was discharged on April 3, 1919. Elliott first volunteered for the South African War, departing as a trooper and returning as a lieutenant. He was awarded a DCM for daring exploit. Commanding the 7th AIF Battalion at Gallipoli, his men nicknamed him "Pompey." Wounded at the landing, he was prominent at Lone Pine, where four of his men were awarded the VC, these included Alexander Burton, Frederick Tubb and Leslie Maygar (all of Euroa/Longwood/ Strathbogie district). His duel with a Turk in a cramped, murky tunnel confirmed his conspicuous bravery. He was renowned for never sending anyone anywhere he was not prepared to go himself. Pompey Elliott was described by many as an exceptional leader, charismatic and inspiring, forthright and controversial. He had unimpeachable integrity and unwavering commitment. No Australian general was more revered by those he led, or more famous outside his own command. He was an outstandingly successful commander. One ceremony stands out following the war – Harold "Pompey" Elliott was a man of his word. The Brigadier General said he would travel here to the North East to see his comrades. On October 2, 1920, while on one such tour to the North East, he was outside the Euroa Public Hall, shaking the hands of old comrades, many of whom wore their uniforms, some proudly displaying the colour patch of the 7th Battalion. He then marched with the men, behind the band, to the Memorial Oval. The occasion was the presentation of Anzac Stars and Shire Certificates. "Pompey" was not only to speak at the memorial oval, a week later, he was to unveil a memorial at Strathbogie. He had been deputed by the Governor–General to present the Anzac stars to district soldiers who were entitled to them and had not yet received them.