Historical information

In 1914, approximately 6,000 Imperial Reservists—men who had previously served in British regiments, emigrated and were living in Australia. Upon the outbreak of war in August 1914, these men were recalled to serve with their old British units. Many of these reservists sailed in the first troop convoy to leave Australia in November 1914. These men were distinct from the newly formed Australian Imperial Force (AIF), which was raised in August 1914 for service under the Australian government, although many Australian citizens volunteered for service.

Significance

British Imperial Reservists (IRs) who were living in Australia were recalled to the British Expeditionary Forces in World War One (WWI). Reservists sailed from Melbourne, Victoria on the HMAT Miltiades as part of the first convoy (Convoy 1) of troops leaving Australia in October 1914.

Physical description

Gold badge with crown on top, blue around outside, with Union Jack and Red Ensign in the middle. Has a horse shoe hook on back with a number.

Inscriptions & markings

On front: 1914 Imperial reservists Assn, Australia.
On back: One has 96, the other 69.