Rosenthal the man

Story

Portrait of Major General Sir Charles Rosenthal KCB CMG DSO VD who saw action at Gallipoli and subsequently commanded the 2nd Australian Division during 1918/19.

Australian War Memorial

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Known affectionately by the men he led as ‘Rosie’, Rosenthal was much admired for his front-line style of leadership. But many, including Australia’s First World War official historian Charles Bean and even King George V thought him to be reckless.

From the Gallipoli landing to the end of the war, Rosenthal was wounded five times and was highly decorated for his courage and leadership. Tim Kemm delivers a sensitive and thought-provoking article that traces the career of Charles Rosenthal – from his early life, including an epic bike ride from Coolgardie to Melbourne in 1898, his service in the AIF, and his life after service.

As an architect, musician, soldier and family man, Rosenthal stood tall among his contemporaries, and Tim has covered these aspects of Rosenthal’s life well. He has also not shied away from Rosenthal’s recklessness that could (and at times did) put those around him in mortal danger.

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