In the annals of military history, few stories are as remarkable and unexpected as that of Dr Charles Snodgrass Ryan, an Australian Anzac medical doctor whose life was a tapestry of bravery, loyalty, and extraordinary service that transcended national boundaries.
As we delve into the past, we uncover the astonishing tale of a man who not only served his own country but also fought for the Ottoman Empire, earning him a unique place in the hearts of both Australians and Turks.
Born in Longwood, Victoria, in 1853, Dr Ryan’s journey to becoming a war hero began with his medical studies at Melbourne University, followed by further training at the prestigious Edinburgh University medical school. His life took a dramatic turn when he responded to an advertisement in the London Times seeking a military surgeon for the Ottoman Army. This decision would lead him to Istanbul in 1876 and straight into the tumultuous Ottoman–Russian war by the following year.
During the fierce Battles of Plevna in 1877, Dr Ryan’s courage and medical expertise shone through as he treated countless Turkish soldiers under the direst of conditions. With limited supplies and minimal support, he operated in makeshift field hospitals, witnessing the grim realities of war firsthand. His dedication to his duty earned him the respect and admiration of the Ottoman soldiers and commanders, including the esteemed Gazi Osman Pasha.
Fast forward to 1915, and the world was engulfed in the throes of World War I. Dr Ryan, now 61, found himself at Gallipoli, a site of brutal conflict between the ANZAC forces and the Ottoman Empire. On 24 May, during a rare truce, he emerged from the trenches adorned with the very Ottoman medals he had been awarded decades earlier. This sight initially sparked outrage among the Turkish soldiers, who mistook him for a looter of their fallen brethren’s honours. However, upon learning of his past service and hearing his broken Turkish, they embraced him as a hero, marking a poignant moment of camaraderie amidst the horrors of war.
The night before the Gallipoli landing, Dr Ryan had already caused a stir among the ANZAC top brass by wearing his Ottoman medals to a dinner hosted by General William Bridges. His calm and resolute explanation for his attire highlighted his deep respect for the Turkish soldiers he once fought alongside and his commitment to his current duty as an Australian soldier.
Dr Ryan’s legacy continued to resonate long after his death. In 2015, Turkish government officials located his grave in a Melbourne cemetery and, with permission from his family, set out to restore it. His great-granddaughter, artist Siobhan Ryan, was tasked with designing the new headstone, ensuring that his memory would be honoured for generations to come.
The Turkish Ambassador to Australia, Korhan Karakoc, poignantly summed up Dr Ryan’s legacy: ‘He fought for us, he fought against us and he became a hero for all of us.’ This sentiment reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of Dr Ryan’s service, which saw him earn the nickname ‘Plevna Ryan’ upon his return to Australia.
Dr Ryan’s story has captured the imagination of historians, filmmakers, and the public alike. His adventures, which included treating the infamous Ned Kelly and witnessing the aftermath of the Kelly gang’s last stand, have been compared to the thrilling escapades of cinematic blockbusters.
As we commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who have served in conflicts past and present, the story of Anzac Ryan stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity that can bridge even the widest of divides. His life reminds us that heroism knows no borders and that sometimes, the most extraordinary tales of valour are those that defy the expectations of history.
What are your thoughts on individuals who serve on both sides of history? Have you encountered other stories that challenged your views on wartime allegiance or heroism? What lessons, if any, do you think we can draw from Dr Ryan’s legacy today? Feel free to share your perspective in the comments below.
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