11th Field Ambulance (Australia)

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Active	1916–1919
Disbanded
Country	Australia
Allegiance
Branch	Australian Army
Type	Medical unit
Role	Field Ambulance
Size
Part of	Australian Imperial Force
Garrison/HQ

Military unit

The 11th Field Ambulance was a medical unit of the Australian Army that served during World War I. It was part of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and played a crucial role in providing medical support to Australian troops on the Western Front.

Formation and Structure

The 11th Field Ambulance was formed in 1916 as part of the expansion of the Australian Imperial Force. Field ambulances were essential components of the military medical services, responsible for the evacuation and treatment of wounded soldiers from the front lines to more permanent medical facilities.

A field ambulance unit typically consisted of several sections, including:

• Bearer Division: Responsible for retrieving the wounded from the battlefield.
• Tent Division: Provided initial treatment and stabilization of casualties.
• Transport Division: Managed the movement of patients to advanced medical facilities.

Role and Responsibilities

The primary role of the 11th Field Ambulance was to ensure the rapid and efficient evacuation of casualties from the front lines. This involved setting up dressing stations close to the battlefield, where initial medical care could be administered. The unit worked closely with stretcher bearers and regimental aid posts to coordinate the movement of the wounded.

Field ambulances were equipped with horse-drawn and motorized ambulances, as well as stretchers and other medical supplies. The personnel included doctors, orderlies, stretcher bearers, and drivers, all trained to operate under the challenging conditions of war.

Service in World War I

The 11th Field Ambulance served on the Western Front, participating in major battles such as the Battle of the Somme, Battle of Passchendaele, and the Battle of Amiens. The unit was instrumental in managing the high number of casualties during these offensives, often working under fire and in difficult terrain.

The conditions on the Western Front were harsh, with mud, shellfire, and gas attacks posing constant threats. Despite these challenges, the 11th Field Ambulance maintained a high standard of care, contributing significantly to the survival and recovery of many soldiers.

Demobilization and Legacy

After the end of World War I, the 11th Field Ambulance was demobilized in 1919. The experiences and lessons learned by its members contributed to the development of military medical practices in subsequent conflicts.

The legacy of the 11th Field Ambulance is remembered as part of Australia's military history, highlighting the importance of medical services in warfare and the dedication of those who served in these critical roles.

Also see

• Australian Army Medical Corps
• Australian Imperial Force
• Field Ambulance
• World War I