WATCH OVER ME
Jack Doherty - 29th Battalion

Born in Richmond Victoria in 1896, Jack Doherty enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in July 1915, having already served 15 months in the cadet forces. Upon enlistment (for which he needed his father's permission) he was assigned to D company of the 29th battalion and sent to camp at Broadmeadows.

A builder's labourer by trade, Jack embarked for the Middle East on November 10, 1915 , arriving in December before proceeding to canal defence duties. He had an uneventful time in the desert, leaving in June for France with the rest of his battalion.

Jack Doherty got his first taste of action during the battle of Fromelles on July 19, 1916 , luckily making it through unharmed. Jack then stayed with his battalion until the start of 1917 when he was detached to the transport school for a period of time before rejoining his battalion.

1917 was relatively quiet for the 29 th battalion, with the battalion taking part in actions at Beaumetz and Polygon Wood. During this time Jack spent large periods in hospital suffering from VD, including several months at the end of the year.

In June 1918 Jack was found to be absent without leave and without a pass and was punished with 14 days field punishment No. 2. Following this Jack was wounded in action, being gassed, an injury which saw him again spend time in hospital. While off sick he was again in trouble, this time for failing to return a leave pass.

Upon his return to the front he was transferred to the 32nd battalion where he again went absent without leave, this time for more than ten days. He was court martialled upon his return and sentenced to 30 days field punishment No. 2, following which he was sent back to Australia .

Photos:

1) The front of Jack Doherty's bible

2) Inside cover of Jack Doherty's bible, with Lord Robert's Message.