2nd Lieutenant Norman James GREIG, CC
7th Battalion AIF
by Robert Simpson
“Pre-war studio portrait of Second Lieutenant (2nd Lt) Norman James Greig, 7th Battalion. A resident master at Scotch College prior to enlistment, 2nd Lt Greig embarked with the 3rd Reinforcements from Melbourne on HMAT Runic on 19 February 1915. Whilst serving at Gallipoli he was killed in action on 17 July 1915. Divisional Order 80 read “GALLANT CONDUCT recorded by the Lieutenant General Commanding: – “during an attack on German Officer’s Trench, when covering the retreat of his party, which was safely effected through his gallant action.” For this action he was awarded a Corps Complimentary. It was recorded on 1st August 1915 in his service record. Base Records in Melbourne sent a copy of an extract of the Order to his father on 25th January 1916 and noted in the letter that it was recorded in Australian Military Order 733. Having no known grave, he is commemorated on the Lone Pine Memorial, Gallipoli.” – From AWM.
Norman James Greig was born in Daylesford Victoria on 10th January 1891, with his birth registered in 1891 under the name Norman James Thomas Greig. It seems that that is the only time Thomas appears in his name; it appears he has two registration forms, both under registration number 2447, one with Thomas listed and one without. His parents were David Greig and Jane Agnes Harper, who had been married in Victoria in 1889. Their marriage was recorded in the Ovens and Murray Advertiser of Beechworth, Victoria on Saturday 21st December 1889 on page 6: “MARRIAGE. GREIG— HARPER. — On the 28th ult. at Independent Church, Beechworth, by the Rev. W. Currie, of Surrey Hills, David, third son of James Greig, of Albert Park, to Jane Agnes (Jeannie), second daughter of Robt. Harper, of Beechworth.” David may have been born in South Melbourne in 1862, but as he has a common name it has to be confirmed. David was the Bank Manager of the Bank of Victoria in Penshurst, as recorded in Australian electoral rolls from 1905 to 1928. In all they had 7 children. Norman was the first born, then Robert Charles Gordon Greig was born in 1893 in Bendigo, Isobel Florence Greig was born in Bendigo in 1896, Edith Constance Greig was born in 1900 in Terang, Harry Douglas Greig was born there in 1903 and David Lindsay Greig was born in Penshurst on 15th May 1909.
A couple of articles on them were in Penshurst Free Press on Friday 17th December 1909 on page 2 under:
“Notes and Comments.
Mr D. Greig, manager of the local branch of the Bank of Victoria, left Penshurst for two or three weeks’ holiday on Wednesday evening. Mr Symons is the relieving officer.”
Also on Friday 29th July 1910 on page 2
“Personal. — Mr Norman Greig, son of Mr David Greig, manager of the local branch of the Bank of Victoria, has been successful in obtaining a position as resident junior master in Scotch College, Melbourne. This is highly creditable for such a young man, and is a position requiring a considerable amount of learning, tact and integrity. All who know him wish him success.”
The Bank of Victoria building in Penshurst is now heritage listed: https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/23232
The Sydney Morning Herald has an article on Penshurst: https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/penshurst-20040208-gdkqvr.html , and in it refers to walking around the town and “Continue north along Martin St to Cox St. On the south-eastern corner is the former Bank of Victoria (1876) which is now a private residence. To the rear is a weatherboard house dating from c.1860.”
Norman was listed in the 1912, 1913 and 1914 electoral rolls as living at Scotch College, East Melbourne where he was a teacher. Founded in 1851, Scotch College has been educating boys for over 160 years. Notable people who studied there include John Monash. Norman also appeared with the same details in the 1916 electoral roll.
Scotch College Diamond Jubilee badge. From AWM.
The school has a Memorial website – https://www.scotch.vic.edu.au/ww1/indexc.htm and a Honours and Awards website – https://www.scotch.vic.edu.au/ww1/indexh.htm , but Norman is not mentioned in the second.
Isobel married Godfrey William Windsor in 1936 in Victoria. In the 1977 electoral roll, she is listed as Isabel Florence Greig, of 5/245 Burke Road Glenroy and had no occupation. She passed away on 7th December 1977 in Glen Iris, Victoria. Probate was granted on 31st March 1978, and her occupation was listed as widow.
Edith Constance Greig was living with her parents in the 1924 electoral roll, doing home duties. She married Henry William Stansfield in 1925 in Victoria. In 1935, Henry, Edith and their daughter Rosemary Sutherland aged 2 left England on Baradine for Melbourne. The record shows him to be a grazier. She died on 17th September 1988 in Queenscliff Victoria and is buried at Barrabool Hills Cemetery in Geelong in Plot HGH-RG-21-100-2. Probate was granted on 2nd August 1989 with her occupation listed as widow.
Harry Douglas Greig was living at Wangaratta in the 1931 Sands Directory. In the 1934 electoral roll, he was living at the Bank of New South Wales in Horsham as a bank official. He died on 1st July 1993 in East Kew. Probate was granted on 16th November 1993 and showed his occupation as a retired Bank Manager.
David Lindsay Greig married Mabel Annie Williamson (born in 1916 in Victoria) in 1940 in Victoria. In the 1931 and 36 electoral rolls he was living with his parents at 5 Scott Grove Henty and was a Chemist. He served in WW2 as N377810, joining on 10th March 1942 in Canberra. His next of kin was Mabel. He was discharged on 5th October 1944 as a Corporal with the Volunteer Defence Corps 21st Battalion PTD. It appears that at some time they moved to the ACT, possibly before 1942 and after marrying, as by the 1943 roll, they were living at 14 Forrest Lodge, Forrest, and he was a chemist. In the 1949, 1954 and 58 rolls, they were living at 6 Ovens Street Griffith and he was listed as a pharmacist. He died on 22nd August 1968 (according to a family tree). There is a record for a David Lindsay Greig dying in Australian Capital Territory on 23rd August 1968 with registration number 20006023, but unfortunately no parents are listed to clarify if it is him (but it is good possibility it is him).
Robert Charles Gordon Greig enlisted in 2nd Reinforcements 22nd Battalion on 3rd May 1915. He was a natural born British subject and he stated he was 21 years on 8th September 1914 (so his birthday must have been 8/9/1893). Robert was a clerk and gave his Father as next of kin, whose address was originally written as Bank of Victoria Queenscliff and was later changed to Commercial Banking Company of Sydney at Penshurst. Robert had previous service with the 17th Light Horse for 6 months at Rochester. He enlisted at Rochester and then reported to Sturt Street Depot on the 5th. His description was age 21 years 8 months, 5 foot 4 inches tall, weighed 138 pounds, had chest measurement of 36½ to 37½ inches and he had fair complexion with blue eyes and light brown hair. Presbyterian was his Religious Denomination. Robert had no vaccination marks and had a mark on his back where he was kicked by a horse. He was given number 1679 and was with AIF Depot from 3rd May 1915 to 11th June 1915, the with 2nd Reinforcements 22nd Battalion as a Private from 12th June 1915 to 23rd August 1915 and a Lance Corporal with 22nd Battalion from 24th August 1915 to 28th October 1916. He was then transferred to 6th Infantry Machine Gun Company as a Private from 29th October 1916 to 12th April 1917, before being promoted to a Lance Corporal. The 1915 and 1916 electoral rolls show he was a clerk at Rochester. He proceeded to join the MEF at Gallipoli on 30th August 1915. He had dysentery on 28th September 1915, going from 6th Field Ambulance to 1st ACCS to HS Glenart Castle on that day. He was admitted to 21st General Hospital at Alexandria on 4th October and was sent to England on Salta on 1st November 1915. On 25th July 1916 he embarked for France from Rolleston and joined the 22nd Battalion on 10th August 1916. Robert was awarded a Military Medal on 20th October 1916. Another entry says it was awarded In the Field on 18th September 1916. He had scabies on 23rd April 1917, returned to his unit from the hospital on 5th May before returning to the hospital with trench fever on the 11th and being discharged to duty on the 16th. He was killed in action in Belgium on 9th October 1917. His recommendation for the MM by GOC 6th Australian Infantry Brigade read: “22nd Battalion. 1679 L/Cpl Robert Charles Gordon GREIG. For plucky work in charge of Brigade carrying parties by day and night to the front line at POZIERES and MOQUET on the 26th August 1916. He distinguished himself by his coolness and determination under fire, at times extremely heavy, and succeeded in getting his loads delivered regularly and at the appointed hours, thanks to his excellent example.” It was recorded in the London Gazette of 21st October 1916. In his service record is a piece of paper which says: Extract from folder of photo of Memorial Cross for 1679 Lance Corporal R C G Greig 6MGC and that the Memorial Cross was erected at Perth China Wall Military Cemetery in plot 5 row M grave 3; yet he is remembered on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial on Panel 31. A record on CWGC shows a list of erected crosses found with no remains and they were re-erected at the above cemetery. There was two names on the cross, the other being 145 Lance Corporal H L Deslands who was killed on the same day as Robert. The map reference where the cross was found was given as H.23.b.3.7. His father was sent a picture of the grave, Memorial Scroll and Plaque (which had surname Grieg and was fixed after being returned) and his medals. His will was held by his father at the bank. Probate for his will was granted on 6th March 1918 at Penshurst. His medals were Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals.
The Hamilton Spectator in Victoria had on Tuesday 19th January 1915 on page 4:
“COMMISSION IN AUSTRALIAN FORCE
Lieutenant Norman J. Grieg, son of Mr. David Grieg, manager of the Bank of Victoria at Penshurst, has been successful in obtaining a commission in the 3rd battalion infantry reinforcements, now in camp at Broadmeadows and will sail with the next Australian contingent. Lieutenant Grieg was until recently a master at the Scotch College, Melbourne, which position he relinquished to join the colours. He is a well-known athlete, being a first-class tennis and hockey player, a member of the University team, and has figured for several years past in intercolonial contests on behalf of this State.”
In his Application for a Commission in the Australian Imperial Force, Norman James Greig stated his educational qualifications were 1st year Arts and Education and he passed Junior and Senior Public Schools. He had 10 years with Senior Cadets 64th Infantry for previous Military Service. He had qualified at a competitive examination for first appointment as 2nd Lieutenant on November 1912. His present civilian employment was Resident Master at Scotch College. He was born 10th January 1891, was a British Subject, was single and his religion was Presbyterian. His postal address was Scotch College East Melbourne and his next of kin was his father, David Greig, Bank of Victoria Penshurst. The medical certificate showed he was 5 foot 8½ inches tall, had a chest measurement of 35 inches, weighed 11 stone and had normal eyesight in both eyes. He was appointed as 2nd Lieutenant on 16th January 1915. Norman embarked with the 3rd Reinforcements of the 7th Battalion at Melbourne on HMAT A54 Runic on 19th February 1915. The 7th Battalion had been raised in Victoria by Lieutenant-Colonel H. E. “Pompey” Elliott. In the embarkation roll he was listed as a 24-year old 2nd Lieutenant. No occupation was listed and he was single. David Greig, father, of Bank of Victoria Penshurst was his next of kin. He was serving with the 64th Infantry AMF when he enlisted. His pay was 15 shillings a day.
Norman joined the 7th Battalion at Gallipoli on 8th May 1915. He was one of two officers as reinforcements on that day. Ten days after they landed on Gallipoli on 25th April, the 2nd Brigade (which included the 7th Battalion) was transferred to Cape Helles to help in the attack on Krithia. While there they captured little ground, but the Brigade lost a third of its’ strength. Returning to ANZAC on 16th and 17th May, they helped in defending the beachhead. Their war diary on 25th May noted the sinking of the Triumph and that it rained hard in the afternoon. On the 29th, they were involved in sapping and some men who were experienced miners were on duty at Courtney’s Post. In June they had training and work parties as usual. They were camped on the left side of Razor Back Ridge. On the 11th, they moved to Walker’s Road opposite Braund’s Hill. In early July they relieved the 8th Battalion in the trenches. The Turks shelled them on the 3rd, but no casualties. On 4th July they blew in an enemy sap opening from German Officers Trench. This resulted in heavy enemy fire for about 20 minutes. On the 5th they repaired damage to the trenches and the next day they rifled enemy loopholes vigorously, which resulted in the Turks bombarding them, so they had to repair trenches that night. The next couple of days was more of the same. On the 9th they ascertained that the Turks were trying to enter the gap that had been blown in their works. The area was bombarded by the Australians on the 9th and the Turks were still in the end of the trench. A sandbag parapet was done 20 feet from the tunnel end and the engineers started protective saps. On the 10th, an explosive charge was placed beyond the barricade in the tunnel and fired. A party followed and cleared out the crater and formed a new barricade. There was no sign of the Turks, but voices were heard during the night. The Turks shelled the area but to no effect. On the 11th a Turkish attack there was repulsed. An attempt to blow up the Turks sap head opposite D21, but the gun cotton burnt away instead of exploding. On the 12th, the war diary has a note that 2nd Lieutenant Greig was missing (originally written in with wounded officers, but then crossed out).
His father wrote to Base Records on 20th June 1915 from Bank of Victoria Penshurst, saying “I have a Son at present fighting on the Dardanelles – could you tell me if the address – 3rd Reinforcements 7th Battalion Australian Imperial Force Egypt. The address I have been using while he was in Egypt, would be sufficient & would letters be forwarded if possible.” Their reply on 25th June 1915 noted his address should be “2nd Lieutenant N. J. Greig, 7th Battalion, 3rd Reinforcements, 2nd Infantry Brigade, 1st Australian Division, Alexandria, Egypt.”
On 10-12th July 1915, he was listed as missing (also recorded as 11-13th). His service records show some confusion as to what happened to him, one record stating he was killed in action and the next stating the Battalion did not confirm that report but stated he was missing. It was being investigated and a reply was urgently needed. The next entries in December 1915 stated he was missing on 12/7/15, cannot confirmed killed and the missing report was confirmed.
Military Order 733 of 1915 read “Army Corps Routine Order, dated 28th July, 1915. The Lieut.-General Commanding has great pleasure in recording the gallant conduct of the undermentioned officers and N.C.O.’s: – “, and the list included “2nd Lieut. N. J. Greig 7th Battalion, A.I.F. Who was killed during an attack on German officers’ trench when covering the retreat of his party, which was safely effected through his gallant action.”
Divisional Order 80 read “GALLANT CONDUCT recorded by the Lieutenant General Commanding: – “Was KILLED during an attack on German Officers trench, when covering the retreat of his party, which was safely effected through his gallant action.”” It was recorded on 1st August 1915 in his service record. Base Records in Melbourne sent a copy of an extract of the Order to his father on 25th January 1916 and noted in the letter that it was recorded in Australian Military Order 733 as above.
He was mentioned in Daily Order No 93 as killed but now reported missing in an Army Order in 1915. Another said “No definite information of death is available.” In December 1915, notes were sent saying “Missing cannot confirm KILLED” and “Your Part 2 Order No 82 dated 29-7-15 para 282 shews 2/Lieut Greig 7th Battn Killed in Action Battn does not confirm this report but say MISSING Investigate reply urgently.” The missing report was confirmed. An entry in his service record on 25th September 1917 showed that the proceedings and findings of Court of Inquiry held at Rouen France on 3rd to 5th September 1917 determined he was killed in action at Gallipoli on or about 12th July 1915 and they were confirmed by Lieutenant-General W E Birdwood on 23rd September 1917.
Norman died on 12th July 1915, as reported in an army order in 1917 that he was killed in action on or about that date. A Court of Enquiry in September 1917 had determined this and it was confirmed by Lieutenant-General Birdwood. His service record originally had written that he was Mentioned in Despatches, with the last word crossed out and Divisional Orders written.
A from sent by Major Lean of Base Records to Mr D Greig of Bank of Victoria Penshurst advised him that no further official news had been received on his son who was reported missing on 12th July 1915. He asked if he would mind adding a statement to the letter if he had received any news on Norman from any other source or post cards from him, or any letter detailing his death or being a POW, could they be sent to Base Records. The reply by his father, signed and dated on 25th July 1917, was received by Base Records on 27th July and said: “re 2nd Lieut. N.J.Greig, 7th Battalion. Having reference to your enquiries re the above soldier, I have to state :- (1) That I have not obtained any news of my son from any source since he became missing. (2) I have made enquiries from various sources, his soldier comrades and others, and nothing was known of him after that date 12th July 1915 upon which he became missing. The last news of him was, that after having made with is son an attack on the German Officers Trench at Gallipoli, he was last seen alive covering the retreat of his men and firing his revolver at the Turks to keep them back. (3) The last letter we had from him was dated 7th July 1915 and we have had no communication with him since. (4) I have communicated by cable with the American Consul at Constantinople asking him to make enquiries as to whether he was a prisoner amongst the Turks and the reply received was that nothing was known of him. (5) The Defence Department after making enquiries could not confirm his death and I would be glad if you would make further enquiries as to whether he may or not be a prisoner of War.”
The AIF Kit Store in London sent David some of Norman’s effects that had been sent to them from Egypt on 15th December 1916, which was one black kit bag (sealed); the contents of which were: a Sam Browne belt, 2 pairs of underpants, a body belt, a polishing cloth, a towel, 1 pair of socks, a tie, a military book and 2 photos in a wallet. It was sent on the Beltana. He was also sent Norman’s sword and scabbard which had come “Ex. K.B. 16/3/17”. His trunk was sent in July 1917 on Port Sydney and the contents are listed below.
The inventory of effects of “Lieutenant Greig N.J. 7th Battalion, A.I.F. of one valise despatched on 20th August 1917 was: “1 Brown bag containing Blankets, Pr Razors in case, 1 Revolver& Holster, 1 Binocular case (Empty), 1 Pr Boots, 1 Tobacco pouch, 1 Note Book cover, 1 Pr Riding Breeches, 1 Pyjama Suit, 1 Short, 2 Face Cloths, 1 Pr Drawers, Singlet, 1 Housewife, 2 Prs Socks, 4 Handk’fs, 1 Testament. 1 Wrist watch strap, 1 Muffler, 1 Tie, 1 Pr Mittens, 1 Cap cover, 1 White bag containing Brushes, Cigarette case & Stars, 1 Sheepskin jacket in Pillow.” It was sent from Australian Depot Stores at Ghezireh on Boorara.
A package of Norman’s effects from Base Records was signed by David on 14th June and another on 18th July 1917. His father signed for an effects package that had been sent by Port Sydney on 8th September 1917. Another package, ex Boorara, was signed by him on 16th October 1917. A letter was also sent out by Base Records on 19th June, 16th July, 3rd September and 13th October, advising David the parcel was coming and when received the attached receipt was to be signed and returned. The last one also interestingly stated “Should these not come to hand in a reasonable time …. allowances being made for the present strike conditions …”, suggesting the postmen had some issues at that time.
The Australian Red Cross Society has a file on him which includes a statement from 1529 Private Cottler of the 7th Battalion, who it is recorded as having said “that Lieut. Greig called for volunteers to charge an enemy trench and out of 14 only 2 came back.” He also said “that it was officially given out, when he was in Gallipoli” that he “was killed while gallantly trying to save two of his men during a charge.” The statement was given at Gezirah Hospital at Cairo, mid-1915. Another statement by 576 Private N Leach of 7th Battalion while in 1st AGH at Heliopolis and stated he knew of the attack, gave details of it and that 3 or 4 bodies were brought back afterwards, including Lieutenant Greig. He added that Norman “was a reinforcement Officer and exceedingly well liked.” Another witness at a Heliopolis hospital said that other men had seen his body on the enemy parapet by periscope and gave a description of Norman. A couple of Lieutenants from the 7th Battalion in hospital recalled the attack and said that he had “not been seen since, but no one saw him shot, so he may be still alive.” Private Sinden agreed with the Lieutenants that 20 men went out and only some returned. The last two records state that missing had been changed to KIA 12.7.15.
Army Form B 2090A (report of a death of an officer) was filled out for 2nd Lieutenant N J Greig 7th Battalion AIF, reported by GOC AIF that he died on or about 12th July 1915 at Gallipoli Peninsula Turkey with the cause of death being killed in action and his burial place was unknown. A will was not received. It was signed on 30th October 1917 at Alexandria.
The Warrnambool Standard on Saturday 17th November 1917 on page 9 had:
“HEROES AT THE FRONT. CORPORAL GORDON GREIG. Intense regret will be expressed by the many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Greig of Penshurst, at the announcement that their second son, Corporal Gordon Greig, was killed in action in France on 9th October. This additional blow follows closely on the receipt of the news a few weeks since that their eldest son, Lieut. Norman James Greig had been killed in action in Gallipoli on 12th July, 1915, having previously been posted as missing and a wave of sincerest sympathy will go out towards the sadly bereaved parents in their hour of poignant sorrow. Gordon was formerly a student at the Warrnambool Agricultural High School. On leaving that institution he went to Dookie College, where he won gratifying distinction and after wards he entered the Engineering and Surveying Department of the State. When “the call” came he heard it, and responded in that brave and self-sacrificing spirit which has entwined the laurel wreath of chivalry around the rows of tens of thousands of Australia’s noblest sons. He was one of the dauntless heroes who fought through Gallipoli, and also took part in the historic fights of Pozieres, Bapaume, Bullecourt and elsewhere. He therefore saw much strenuous service, and whilst in France was mentioned in despatches and decorated with the Military Medal for bravery in the field. Paying the supreme sacrifice at the youthful age of 24, he was of a particularly fine and upright character, and of him it may be truly said – “Those who knew him best, loved him most.” He has now joined his gallant brother and although no longer visible to mortal ken, he still lives, and will continue to live for years, in the memory of an admiring circle of friends who held him in the highest esteem.”
Their parents entered a family notice in the Age on Saturday 17th November 1917 on page 8 under the In Memoriam section: “The Anzac Heroes. GREIG. — on the 12th July, 1915 at Gallipoli in action (previously reported missing). Lieut. Norman James Greig, A.I.F. much loved eldest son of David and J. A. Greig, Bank of Victoria Ltd., Penshurst, in his 25th year, late master at Scotch College, Melbourne; also Lance-Corporal Robert Charles Gordon Greig, Machine Gun Company, killed in action on 9th October, late of State Rivers and Water Supply department, Rochester, second dearly loved son of above, aged 24 years. Two Anzac brothers now reunited. Our brave boys.”
Base Records sent to Mr D Greig, Bank of Victoria, Penshurst a note on 12th February 1918 stating “In accordance with your personal request herewith please receive a certificate of report of death of your son, the late 2nd Lieut. N. J. Greig, 7th Battn.” The report stated Norman was killed in action on Gallipoli on or around 12th July 1915 and it was confirmed by various military references. On the request form, David also put an alternate address of “Egremont” Tennyson Street Sandringham.
On 22nd October 1918, Base Records sent a reply back to the Secretary of Finance about “the late 2nd Lieut. N. J. Greig, 7th Battalion, (reported killed in action on or about 12/7/15, previously posted as missing). Appended is a copy of this office memorandum to you of 17th instant :- With reference to your telephone enquiry as to what evidence is held here in connection with the report of death of the abovenamed Officer, I have to state this was the finding of a Court of Inquiry, the proceedings of which are held here, and show that before arriving at its decision that Court had in view the following circumstances, which apply generally. 1. The number of men whose bodies were so mutilated by enemy shells as to be quite unrecognisable. 2. The number of bodies which were still lying in no man’s land as the time of the evacuation, still unidentified. 3. The fact that the latest information received of the different soldiers mentioned is dated just prior to the date of important engagements on Gallipoli. Evidence deduced by the Court shows that there is no report in any Hospital in Egypt, Mediterranean or England, and that his name did not appear on any Prisoner of War List received.”
Norman is remembered on Lone Pine Memorial on Panel 27 at Gallipoli, Canakkale, Turkey as his final resting place is unknown. CWGC has “Son of David and Jane Agnes Greig, of Penshurst, Victoria, Australia. Native of Daylesford.” They also add he was “Mentioned in Despatches”. His name is at the bottom right of the picture but has weathered a bit in the 2nd picture.
Probate on his will was granted on 6th March 1918, as was his brother’s. Norman was listed in the index as a Lieutenant AIF from East Melbourne, and Robert as a Soldier from Penshurst. In the will of Robert, it stated he was an assistant engineer, he had no real estate and his personal estate was valued at over £331. Norman was a Resident Master and died intestate with the estate being granted to his father. His estate was over £413 with no real estate. It was stated he had no debts. A notice had been placed in the newspaper by his father asking for any debtors to contact him on 13th February 1918.
On 19th November 1919, R Drinkley, Bank Manager at Penshurst, signed the receipt for the Commission Form of the late 2nd Lieutenant N J Greig 7th Battalion on behalf of his father. The form had been issued by the British War Office covering the appointment of Norman as a temporary 2nd Lieutenant in the regular forces of the British Army and passed on by Base Records on 7th October 1919. On 8th December 1919, a circular and book re graves was sent out.
Base Records wrote a reply back to Mr David Greig Esq. The Bank of Victoria, Penshurst on 16th May 1921, saying “With reference to your communication of the 9th May relative to the graves of your sons, the late 2nd Lieutenant N. J. Greig, 7th Battalion, and the late No. 1679 Lance-Corporal R.C.G. Greig, M.M., 6th Machine Gun Company, it is regretted no burial report has been received in connection with the former soldier. An intensive search is, however, now being made over all battlefields with a view to locating unregistered graves and should the grave of the late 2nd Lieut. N.J. Greig be discovered, you would be notified through this office. The grave would be photographed and three copies transmitted to you.”
On 9th May 1921, David wrote to Base Records thanking them for the photo of the grave of Robert and asking if he could have a photo and grave location of Norman as well. He discussed that Charles Bean had mentioned a Turkish Officer telling him about Norman’s death. Their reply on 17th May stated “With reference to your communication of the 9th May relative to the graves of your sons, the late 2nd Lieutenant N. J. Greig, 7th Battalion, and the late No. 1679 Lance-Corporal R.C.G. Greig, M.M., 6th Machine Gun Company, it is regretted no burial report has been received in connection with the former soldier. An intensive search is, however, now being made over all battlefields with a view to locating unregistered graves and should the grave of the late 2nd Lieut. N.J. Greig be discovered, you would be notified through this office. The grave would be photographed and three copies transmitted to you.” “Where The Australians Rest” was sent on 21st July 1921. His 1914-15 Star was issued, his British War Medal was issued on 15th July 1921and his Victory Medal was issued on 13th October 1922 to his Father. His Memorial Scroll was sent to David on 28th July 1921.
His father signed for his Memorial Plaque on 9th December 1922 (it was sent on the 6th) and on the return slip wrote: “The Memorial plaque is beautiful and much appreciated.” He had previously signed for Norman’s Victory medal on 18th October 1922 and Memorial Scroll on 3rd August 1921.
From “The official history of Australia in the War of 1914-1918 Volume II The Story of ANZAC” by C E W Bean.
In the book “History of Scotch College 1851-1925” in the section on War Services on pages 285-6 is an entry on Norman: – “On July 12, an ex-master, Lieut. N. J. Greig volunteered to lead a raid on a crater near the famous German Officers’ Trench. The party reached its objective and killed the Turks holding it, but found to their surprise that the crater gave no cover on the Turkish side, opening directly into the Turkish front trench. They were promptly bombed by the Turks, and reinforcements coming over were subjected to heavy fire. Lieut. Greig ordered his party to withdraw through a tunnel opening in the crater, and, although wounded, stood covering their retreat with his revolver. The Turkish commander, who admired Greig’s gallantry and fine appearance, desired to take him prisoner, but on Greig’s persistently refusing to surrender, he was killed by a bomb. It is reported that the Turks buried him with far more reverence than was usually shown to their dead enemies.” He is also mentioned in the list of servicemen on page cxxxi as: – “GREIG, NORMAN JAMES – Enl 16-1-15; Age 24; Emb 19-2-15’ 2nd Lieut 2nd Bn Rfts’ 7th Bn, Gallipoli, 8-5-15; K 12-7-15.” His picture is also included in the book.
Norman is also mentioned in the University of Melbourne Record of Active Service, with is picture and description: – “GREIG, NORMAN JAMES. 1912. W.C. and S.C.; 1st year Education; Lieut. Senior Cadets; Re Master at Wangaratta G.S. and S.C.; interstate hockey team. 16.1.15 2 Lt. 7th Btn.; sailed 19.2.156; trained troops in Egypt Gallipoli with first rfts. Despatches. (an error) Killed in action in German Officer’s trench, Gallipoli, on 12th July 1915. He led a body of men into a crater, and died, revolver in hand, covering the retreat of his men, who he had ordered to retire. (See Aust. War History, Vol. II., C. Xi. P. 340.”
The AWM has a record of Norman which is described as “Collection relating to service of 2nd Lieutenant Norman James Greig, 7 Battalion AIF, Gallipoli. Collection consists of a copy of a letter written by C E W Bean to the father of 2nd Lieutenant Norman James Greig describing the details of Greig’s death on Gallipoli.” It is under Accession Number DRL/0321. They also did a Last Post Ceremony commemorating his service at – https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2278631 . His brother was also remembered – https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2278632 .
The 1st May 1932 edition of ‘Reveille’ under the heading No Surrender: Brave Officer was this story about “Lieut. Norman James Greig, of the 7th Bn., A.I.F., was killed in the attack on German Officers’ Trench, Gallipoli, on July 12, 1915. Born at Daylesford, Victoria, he was at the time of enlistment a resident teacher at Scotch College, Melbourne. In this article, the main features of which had been previously published under his name in the Melbourne “Age,” Mr. Chas. Smith, of the 14th Bn, A.I.F., in taking the death of Lieut. Greig as his theme, says: “as the years roll on and the ranks of the Anzacs thin, time will never dim the memories of heroic deeds and spirit of self sacrifice which characterised the operations at Gallipoli.” In July, 1915, the 7th Bn. Were holding Steele’s Post, and less than a hundred yards in front was a post known as German Officers’ Trench. During the attack on German Officers’ Trench, Lt.-Col. H. E. Elliott (lately deceased) called for volunteers, and Lieut. Greig, a new arrival at Anzac, offered to lead the party, which consisted of eleven other volunteers. Their way lead through a tunnel and crater, and, although the attack took place in broad daylight, a certain amount of confusion was inevitable. Two of the party were killed and all the rest wounded- some, it is thought, by our own men from distant positions, who were unaware of the nature of the attack. “Greig therefore sent his men back along the broken-down tunnel,” wrote Dr. Bean. “The rearmost of them, on reaching safety, reported that he had last seen his officer standing at the tunnel mouth, revolver in hand, his head bleeding, holding back the Turks while his men retired. Among the enemy who faced this gallant youngster, though he could not have known it, was the commander of German Officers’ (Zeki Bey). It was Zeki Bey who made the following statement to Dr. Bean while they were inspecting the site of the attack together in 1919: – “I wonder whether you would know anything about a young officer who was killed in my trenches during the early part of the campaign? He was a handsome, fair-haired, square-shouldered boy and a very gallant officer. It was during a raid that was made upon out trenches that I happened to come across him. “The circumstances were that during the morning and afternoon your howitzers had been bombarding our trenches, and our observers reported that they had seen men with fixed bayonets walking through the Australian lines. Several indications made us expect an attack. Matters were quiet, however, and was sitting in my headquarters close to the back of the trenches when I received a ring on the telephone from the commander of the army corps, or rather, his A.D.C., saying: – ‘The English are getting into your trenches, major. What are you going to do about it?’ “I told him that it was impossible that his could be the case, as I had received only a few moments before repots from the front line that everything was quiet. However, he repeated the message, so I decided to go and see for myself, and, running into the fire trench, found that there was a scuffle going on with bombs and rifle shots on the spot. “Some weeks before this, the Australians had blown a mine underneath our front trench, breaking down the whole forward side of it. We had been unable to build the trench up, but had filled in the edge of the crater with barbed wire. I came straight to this point, and a young officer of my own who was there grabbed me aside and said: ‘This is no place for you,’ but it was necessary for me to see for myself what was happening. “Some of your men seemed to have got into our trench, or into the crater, and they would have got further if it had not been for the coolness of this young Turkish officer, who collected the men behind the traverse and kept up a bomb fight and rifle fire from there. The senior officer in command of the front line had failed to rise to the occasion altogether. “As I came opposite the crater I saw there was activity there, and rushing up, I found facing me, at the far side of the crater, a young Anglo-Saxon officer. He was a splendid-looking boy, and was leaning with his back to the crater and his revolver in his hand facing some of our men. “I shouted at once: ‘Don’t kill that officer – take him prisoner.’ Our men turned to me and said: ‘He refuses to surrender, major. We have tried to catch him.’ At that moment the boy sank back and fell at the bottom of the crater. We went out and picked him up, and I found that his leg had been broken by a bomb. “He was dying at the time I first saw him, and he could have lived only a few minutes after. He was carried away to the rear of our trenches, and I wish that I could tell you where his grave was, for he was certainly buried by my people, but at the time things were so critical in the front line that I had no time to ascertain his grave myself, and I fear that it cannot now be identified, but I have always wanted to ask somebody on your side as soon as I met them who that officer was, because his gallantry and appearance made such a great impression on me.” And for such the name of Anzac is sacred.”
The Australian War Memorial has a file “David Greig, Penshurst, Victoria, Photos offered by Mr Bean concerning Lieutenant Norman Greig” which is also listed at NAA.
His medals are 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals.
The book: First Hundred Years: Scotch College, Melbourne, 1851-1951 – mentions the stained-glass windows and record of those who died in WW1 in the Memorial Hall. The hall contains a series of stained-glass windows which were commissioned as a tribute to those who died in the war. The Foundation Stone of the Memorial Hall development was laid on 5th March 1920 by Lieutenant-General Sir John Monash, GCMG, KCB, VD, MCE, using a very special commemorative trowel.
From AWM: “This work was commissioned from the artist for 250 pounds. The subject is the death of Lieutenant N J Greig of the 7th Battalion who was killed on 12 July 1915 at Gallipoli. CEW Bean suggested the story of Greig’s death as a possible subject for Crozier to paint. Summary of the event: “Lieutenant Greig and a small party of volunteers were to seize an old mine crater close to a major Turkish position on Gallipoli, known as German Officers Trench, and to demolish any Turkish defences between there and the crater of a recently exploded mine. It was known, however, that the new explosion had blown away the front wall of the trench, which now opened into the crater, except for a hastily erected barbed-wire grille. The small enterprise therefore constituted an attack on the German Officers trench. With every man, including himself, wounded, Greig sent the survivors to the rear, covering them with his revolver. His action was seen by the Turkish commandant, who ordered: Don’t kill that man; we want to capture him!’ His troops replied: ‘He will not allow himself to be taken!’ The next instant Greig was killed by a bomb.””
Some of his records and stories of him as recorded above (including picture above) have his rank as Lieutenant, which is incorrect, he never attained that rank and was a 2nd Lieutenant.
From the book “In Memory and Mourning Menin Gate North by Paul Chapman” are the following pages on the brothers.
The museum just has his Memorial Plaque.
ANZAC Biographies
On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women
whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the
Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,
Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.