Portal:Military history of Australia/Units/August 15

The Australian Army Rising Sun hat badge used between 1904 and 1949

The First Australian Imperial Force (1st AIF) was the main expeditionary force of the Australian Army during World War I. It was formed from August 15, 1914, following Britain's declaration of war on Germany. The 1st AIF was a purely volunteer force for the duration of the war and was gradually expanded to a peak strength of five infantry divisions, most elements of two mounted divisions and various supporting units. The 1st AIF included the Australian Flying Corps, which was later separated to form the Royal Australian Air Force. Most units of the 1st AIF were disbanded after the war, though some were later reactivated.