Joseph Lievesley Beeston
Five Months at Anzac
A Narrative of Personal Experiences of the Officer Commanding the 4th Field Ambulance, Australian Imperial Force
"Five Months at Anzac" by Joseph Lievesley Beeston is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book narrates the personal experiences of the author, who served as the officer commanding the 4th Field Ambulance during the ANZAC campaign at Gallipoli in World War I. It is focused on the experiences and challenges faced by the Australian Imperial Force as they engaged in medical work amidst the brutal realities of war, providing insight into the valor and dedication of the soldiers. The beginning of "Five Months at Anzac" introduces the formation of the 4th Field Ambulance following the outbreak of World War I, detailing the recruitment process and organization of this medical unit. Beeston describes the journey from Australia to the war zone, including stops in Egypt and the harrowing arrival at Gallipoli. Alongside setting the stage for the imminent fights, he vividly captures the early environment of war—in the form of descriptions of the ship’s uncomfortable conditions and the growing tensions felt by all in anticipation of battle. The opening establishes both the logistical framework of the ambulance unit and the emotional landscape of the soldiers involved.