Hawthorn Football Club Commemorates Forgotten Player Norman McLennan Forbes

1914 marked a significant historical year for the Hawthorn Football Club as they joined the Victorian Football Association for their debut in senior competition, coinciding with the onset of World War 1, a pivotal moment in global history. Many players from the club enlisted as part of the war effort, including those from their Metropolitan Junior Football Association days.

Norman McLennan Forbes, a player often forgotten, emerged as a significant figure. He played seven games in 1908 and was known for his athletic prowess, standing just over 5 feet, 5 inches tall. Forbes was not only a footballer but also made contributions to cricket and tennis for local Hawthorn clubs.

By 1914, Forbes had transitioned to playing for the Malvern Presbyterians in the South Suburban Churches league. He had previous stints with Parkville as well, showcasing his versatility in different sports.

Forbes took one of the earliest steps to enlist in August 1914, becoming a part of the 4th Battery of the 2nd Australian Field Artillery. He embarked on the journey with the first Australian troop convoy, landing at Gallipoli in April 1915. Forbes continued to serve his unit until a wound sidelined him in September 1915.

A glimpse into Forbes’ life at Anzac Cove was seen through a letter he wrote home in July 1915, published in the Colac Reformer. The letter narrated the experiences and challenges faced by the troops amidst the war conditions.

Forbes’ military journey saw his promotion to Bombardier in March 1916, as he prepared for the Western Front battles. Despite enduring harsh conditions and combat, Forbes persevered until November 1917. During that time, he spent weeks in the 9th Australian General Hospital, undergoing treatment for what was then termed as ‘shell shock.’

Tragically, Forbes met his end in the battlefield near Bapaume, France, on April 8, 1917, at the age of 26. A report in the newspaper Winner detailed his untimely demise during a German shell attack on his unit, marking his sacrifice for his country.

Norman Forbes’ story adds to the poignant narrative of Hawthorn players who made the ultimate sacrifice during times of conflict, a reminder of the club’s enduring connection to history and valor.