Albert Chalmers Borella

One soldier. Two wars. A lifetime of courage. Albert Chalmers Borella repeatedly placed himself in the face of overwhelming danger, earning the Victoria Cross for extraordinary gallantry and becoming one of Australia's most distinguished soldiers. From the trenches of the First World War to continued service during the Second World War, his unwavering devotion to duty defined a remarkable military career that spanned more than three decades.

Albert Chalmers Borella was born on 7 August 1881 in Borung, Victoria, Australia. Raised in rural Victoria, he worked as a farmer, prospector, and schoolteacher before volunteering for military service. In 1915, he enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force and was posted to the 26th Battalion. His courage quickly became evident during the Gallipoli Campaign, where he was awarded the Military Medal (MM) for bravery under fire. Later commissioned as an officer, he transferred to the 51st Battalion and continued to distinguish himself on the Western Front.

His greatest act of heroism came on 17 July 1918 near Villers-Bretonneux, France. During a determined attack against well-defended German positions, Lieutenant Borella repeatedly led his men through intense machine gun and rifle fire. Despite being wounded, he continued advancing, personally assaulting enemy strongpoints and inspiring his men to press forward. Refusing to leave the battlefield, he reorganized his company under heavy fire and continued the attack until the objective had been secured. His exceptional leadership, courage, and disregard for personal safety played a decisive role in the success of the operation.

For his conspicuous bravery and inspiring leadership, Albert Chalmers Borella was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest decoration for gallantry in the British Empire. Earlier in the war, he had received the Military Medal (MM) for bravery during the Gallipoli Campaign and was Mentioned in Despatches (MiD) twice for distinguished service. His First World War service was recognized with the 1914–15 Star, the British War Medal 1914–1920, and the Victory Medal 1914–19 bearing the bronze oak leaf emblems representing his two Mentions in Despatches. Returning to military service during the Second World War, he also qualified for the War Medal 1939–45 and the Australia Service Medal 1939–1945. In recognition of his distinguished public and military service, he was later awarded the King George VI Coronation Medal (1937) and the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal (1953).

Following the First World War, Borella remained closely associated with the Australian Army and the veteran community. During the Second World War, despite being well beyond the age of frontline service, he once again answered his country's call, serving in administrative and training appointments. His lifelong commitment to Australia and to those who served reflected the same sense of duty that had earned him the Empire's highest award for valour decades earlier.

Albert Chalmers Borella died on 31 January 1968 at the age of 86. Remembered as one of Australia's finest soldier-leaders, his legacy extends far beyond the Victoria Cross. From Gallipoli to the Western Front and later service during the Second World War, his courage, resilience, and leadership inspired all who served beside him. His life remains a lasting testament to selfless service, steadfast determination, and the enduring spirit of the Australian soldier.