Works commence on the Lemnos Remembrance Trail
Construction of the Lemnos Remembrance Trail is underway in Lemnos, Greece, to honour the service and sacrifices of Australian service personnel who served on the island during the First World War.
Situated less than 100 kilometres from the Gallipoli Peninsula, the Greek island was perfectly positioned for use as a staging, medical and logistical base before and during the Gallipoli campaign. The first Allied troops arrived on Lemnos in February 1915, beginning an occupation that lasted until the end of the war. Australians began arriving in early March, establishing camps and building critical infrastructure for the military base.
The island quickly became a vital support base for the Allied forces, with a large, deep bay on its southern side allowing supplies and troops to be transferred easily. Working in harsh conditions with only basic equipment, medical staff cared for tens of thousands of sick and wounded soldiers who were evacuated from Gallipoli.
The Lemnos Remembrance Trail will help share the role of Lemnos in the war and ensure the history and sacrifices of those who served are not forgotten. Once completed, the trail will feature 16 commemorative sites and areas of reflection across the island, supported by interpretive signage at key places of significance.
Those unable to make the pilgrimage to Lemnos can explore this chapter of Australia’s First World War history virtually through DVA’s Lemnos Remembrance Trail website. Here, users can uncover the history, experiences and stories of Lemnos from anywhere in the world.