Animated Video

*Images courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

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The Battle of Beersheba was fought on the 31st of October 1917 between the British Empire forces of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force (EEF) and elements of the Ottoman Empire's Yildirim Army Group.

Following the EEF's advance out of the Sinai and failed attempts to seize Gaza, a plan is devised to capture the important town of Beersheba, thereby outflanking the Ottoman forces. At dawn on 31 October, EEF forces including the Australian Mounted Division and ANZAC Mounted Division, commenced the assault on Beersheba.

By the late afternoon, with initial objectives seized, the Australian and ANZAC Mounted Divisions were ordered to make a final assault and capture the town of Beersheba before night fell. Thus, the stage was set for the 4th Light Horse Brigade to make their daring cavalry charge, seizing victory for the EEF and ensuring their place in Australian military history forevermore.

This is the second video released in The Cove's Australian Army Battle Honours Series. See the first video on Australia's Gallipoli Campaign.

This video has been a collaboration between The Cove, the Australian Army History Unit, Ignition Immersive, Interserv, and Effective Animations.

Contemporary Tactical Companion

Watch this companion video to see what lessons we can still draw from the Battle of Beersheba. Despite taking place over 100 years ago, many of the tactical, strategic and leadership lessons are of enduring use in the contemporary profession of arms.

*Images courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

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