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1914–1918 Memorial Scroll and Plaque

In 1922 a Memorial Scroll was presented to the next of kin of those soldiers, sailors or nurses who died while serving in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) or Royal Australian Navy (RAN) during the First World War. Later they were presented with a Memorial Plaque.

The Memorial Scroll bears the Royal Coat of Arms and a message which includes a tribute to the soldiers who gave up their own lives that others might live in freedom. The large, round, bronze Memorial Plaque which was to accompany the Memorial Scroll shows Britannia and a lion on the front, surrounded by the inscription He died for freedom and honour. The full name of the dead soldier is engraved on the right hand side of the plaque. No rank, unit or decorations are shown, symbolising the equality of sacrifice of all casualties.

More About:

• 1914–1918 Memorial Plaque
• First World War letter which accompanied plaque Dead Man's Penny
  Also includes examples of commemorative scroll, King's letters, telegram with official notification of death and letter of condolence from Captain of the Battalion.
• Example of Memorial Plaque held by the Australian War Memorial
• Imperial War Museum exhibit