Document 1 - “I Charles Linklater...”

Attestation paper of Charles Linklater

Every Australian man who enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force filled out an attestation paper. At the time, it served two purposes. Firstly, it provided the military with important information about the soldier's identity and family. Secondly, it was a contract. By signing it, the volunteer was agreeing to serve in the AIF until the war was finished, plus an additional four months.

Today it is an important source of evidence for historians wanting to learn about individual Australian soldiers.

Preview of Attestation Paper

Source: National Archives of Australia, LINKLATER B2455.

Ask Yourself

  1. What can you learn about Linklater from this source?
  2. Is there any evidence this source was altered after Linklater filled it out?
  3. Did Linklater possess any skills that might make him a good officer?
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