Bullecourt
The 4th Division of the AIF played a major part in the first battle of Bullecourt on the 11th of April, 1917. Tanks had not been used before in battle and as a result of poor planning and the failure of these new tanks to arrive to support the 4th Division soldiers, the attack was a failure. Due to the failure of the arrival of the new tanks, men had no support so the Germans counter attacked. As at Fromelles the stray and wounded soldiers had to fight and work their own way back to their lines. This action cost the Australians 3,400 men.
From the 3rd to the 17th of May, 1917, the Second Battle of Bullecourt took place. The 1st, 2nd and 5th Divisions were heavily engaged in the attack. Due to better planning, this attack was a major success. The 2nd Division’s initial attack was very thoroughly planned and therefore was a success. On the 4th of May the 1st Division took over and managed to hold positions through fierce fighting. Finally on the 17th of May, the Germans withdrew their positions and all territory taken by the Australians was held. The total casualty list was 2250.