Described as a 'lifelong larrikin', G. D. Mitchell has been recognised for his significant front-line contribution during WWI. Serving in Gallipoli, Belgium and France, Mitchell experienced 'bitter trench fighting' and was subsequently awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Military Cross.
After returning to Australia in 1919, Mitchell reportedly found it difficult to settle. By 1940 he had spent time living in South Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. During this period he undertook a wide variety of occupations including potato farming, estate agent, garage-owner, car salesman, journalist, author and politician. With the outbreak of WWII Mitchell rejoined the armed forces, a decision which eventually led to his active service in New Guinea. He resumed civilian life in February 1946.
Mitchell published several works that draw on the experience of his military service. In addition to a novel, The Awakening (1937), and the autobiographical Backs to the Wall (1937), Mitchell wrote a military handbook, Soldier in Battle (1940). He also assisted with the making of the 1939 film, We of the AIF, which was compiled from Australian War Memorial archived footage as a tribute to the diggers who participated in WWI. Touring with the film, Mitchell provided the 'vivid commentary' which accompanied each screening and contributed to the souvenir programme that was published in conjunction with the film's release.
(Source: Bill Gammage, 'Mitchell, George Deane (1894-1961)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 15, Melbourne University Press, (2000): 381-382.)
