11 Facts About Godfrey Irving

Major General Godfrey George Howy Irving was a senior Australian Army officer during the First World War.

Godfrey George Howy Irving was born on 25 August 1867 at the University of Melbourne, the son of Professor Martin Howy Irving.

Godfrey Irving was commissioned as a lieutenant in the 2nd Battalion in 1887 and in 1891 joined the Victorian Permanent Forces as a captain.

Godfrey Irving volunteered for service in South Africa and embarked in May 1902 as commander of the 6th Battalion, Australian Commonwealth Horse, with the temporary rank of lieutenant colonel.

Godfrey Irving returned to Australia and resumed duty on the Victorian staff.

Godfrey Irving was sent to England and India for training in 1905, returning in early January 1906.

Godfrey Irving was promoted to temporary colonel in January 1911 and substantive colonel on 1 May 1915.

On 24 May 1915, Godfrey Irving was appointed Chief of the General Staff, replacing James Legge who had been appointed General Officer Commanding the Australian Imperial Force.

The evacuation of Gallipoli lead to Godfrey Irving not taking command of the Australian Intermediate Base and the AIF training depot, he was instead given command of the 15th Brigade on 21 February 1916.

Godfrey Irving was placed on the unattached list in 1922 and made a major general on retirement in November 1925.

Godfrey Irving died in Melbourne on 11 December 1937 and was buried in Boroondara Cemetery.