The 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) was raised in 1920 as part of the 3rd Cavalry Brigade, 2nd Cavalry Division, Citizen Military Forces, with Headquarters at Seymour and depots along the Goulburn Valley from Mansfield to Tocumwal in southern NSW. In December 1941, 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 20th Motor Regiment. In 1943 redesignated 20th Pioneer Battalion and deployed to Merauke, Dutch New Guinea. The regiment was disbanded at the end of the war, 1945. 20th Light horse was the only light horse unit to serve overseas in WWII. Lieutenant Fyffe enlisted at the outbreak of war and served as VX 42774 with the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment in North Africa and was promoted to captain. During the attack on Trig 22 on 17 July 1942, Captain Fyffe, commanding a composite squadron, manoeuvred his tanks to knock out machine guns and anti-tank guns enabling 2/32 Battalion to capture the objective. Captain Fyffe was awarded the Military Cross for his leadership and courage in the action. This was 9th Division Cavalry's first tank action of the war. This is one of a collection of mugs presented by Officers of a Light Horse regiment drawn from rural and regional Victoria in the period between the World WarsSilver plated mug with handle and inscribed on side"20th Australian Light Horse Officer's Mess. Presented by Lieutenant H.G. Fyffe" and on base "Rigert EPNSAI 10 "officers' mess, 20th light horse, fyffe h g

9th Australian Division Cavalry Regiment Christmas Card from Middle East December 1942. 57/60 Battalion AIF Invitation to "Welcome Home Dance" St Kilda Town Hall. Tuesday 21st May 1946.

Major General Sir Alan Hollick Ramsay, Director of Education 1948-1960 when he retired. He was born 12 March, 1895 and began teaching in 1912. He enlisted in the AIF as a gunner - 21/07/1915. He resumed teaching on his return from the War in 1919. In 1939 he enlisted in the 2nd AIF as Commander Royal Artillery 9th Division. He was appointed GOC (Major General) of 5th Division. He returned to the Education Department, eventually becoming Director of Education and served under both a Labour and Liberal Premier.Certificate printed on beige paper. Name and signature added Certificate number - 23344 Signature of Director: Alan H Ramsay Certificate made out to Donald George Furlong

Major General Sir Alan Hollick Ramsay, Director of Education 1948-1960 when he retired. He was born 12 March, 1895 and began teaching in 1912. He enlisted in the AIF as a gunner - 21/07/1915. He resumed teaching on his return from the War in 1919. In 1939 he enlisted in the 2nd AIF as Commander Royal Artillery 9th Division. He was appointed GOC (Major General) of 5th Division. He returned to the Education Department, eventually becoming Director of Education and served under both a Labour and Liberal Premier.Certificate printed on beige paper. Signature of Director of Education: Alan H Ramsay Student's name: Jennifer Lorraine Sarah Certificate number: 65356

Major General Sir Alan Hollick Ramsay, Director of Education 1948-1960 when he retired. He was born 12 March, 1895 and began teaching in 1912. He enlisted in the AIF as a gunner - 21/07/1915. He resumed teaching on his return from the War in 1919. In 1939 he enlisted in the 2nd AIF as Commander Royal Artillery 9th Division. He was appointed GOC (Major General) of 5th Division. He returned to the Education Department, eventually becoming Director of Education and served under both a Labour and Liberal Premier.Beige coloured paper with ink printing. Name been removed and correct name written above area.Certificate presented to Thomas David Osborne Signed by Director of Education: Alan H Ramsay Dated: December 1948 Certificate number :47526

Major General Sir Alan Hollick Ramsay, Director of Education 1948-1960 when he retired. He was born 12 March, 1895 and began teaching in 1912. He enlisted in the AIF as a gunner - 21/07/1915. He resumed teaching on his return from the War in 1919. In 1939 he enlisted in the 2nd AIF as Commander Royal Artillery 9th Division. He was appointed GOC (Major General) of 5th Division. He returned to the Education Department, eventually becoming Director of Education and served under both a Labour and Liberal Premier.Beige coloured paper with ink printing. Certificate presented to John Patrick Lamb Signed by Director of Education: Alan H Ramsay Dated: December 1954 Certificate number :59672

The Battle of Tarakan was the first stage in the Borneo campaign of 1945. It began with an amphibious landing by Australian forces on 1 May, code-named Operation Oboe One. While the battle ended with success for the Allied forces over the Japanese defenders, this victory is generally regarded as having not justified its costs. 225 Australian soldiers of the 26th Brigade, 9th Division, 2nd Australian Imperial Force were once buried here. They were killed in the Battle of Tarakan (1 May - 21 June 1945) or died due to their wounds until 15 August 1945.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of a monument/cenotaph and lawn grave sites with white crosses.Handwritten on rear - Tarakan Cemetery2/24th battalion, wangaratta, tarakan

VX 42774 Captain H G (Bob) Fyffe, a grazier from Tocumwal, NSW, served with the Tocumwal troop of the 20th Light Horse prior to WWII (1939-46). He enlisted at the outbreak of war and served with the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment in North Africa. During the attack on Trig 22 on 17 July 1942 Captain Fyffe commanding a composite squadron manoeuvred his tanks to knock out machine guns and anti-tank guns enabling 2/32 Battalion to capture the objective. Captain Fyffe was awarded the Military Cross for his leadership and courage in the action. This was 9th Division Cavalry's first tank action of the war. The 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) was raised in 1920 as part of the 3rd Cavalry Brigade, 2nd Cavalry Division, Citizen Military Forces, with Headquarters at Seymour and depots along the Goulburn Valley from Mansfield to Tocumwal in southern NSW. In December 1941, 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) converted from horse to mechanised, as 20th Motor Regiment. In 1943 the regiment was deployed to Merauke, Dutch New Guinea. Upon return to Australia in 1945 it was redesignated 20th Pioneer Battalion and disbanded at the end of the war. 20th Light Horse was the only light horse unit to serve overseas in WWII.Silver plated tankard with engraving on side.20th LH / Officers Mess / Presented by Lieutenant H G Fyffe fyffe, 20th, light horse

Photograph of Queen Elizabeth II on a state visit to Melbourne in February 1963 receiving flowers from Christine Kelson, a junior legatee. An article in the Legacy's Weekly Bulletin on 26 February mentions the details. Christine was 14 years old and daughter of the late Signaller Arthur Kelson who served with the 9th division in Middle East and who was taken prisoner in North Africa and made a POW in Italy and Germany. Her mother Mrs Dorothy Kelson, served with the AMWAS. Christine and her younger brother Robert, aged 9, both attended Legacy's Physical and Recreational Training classes.A record of a junior legatee being chosen to present flowers to the Queen.Black and white photo of the Queen receiving flowers.Stamped Copyright of The Age in blue ink.royal visit, junior legatee, queen elizabeth

Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .05P) Tom Francis. Believed to be Thomas Francis VX40096, enlisted 22.6.1940. Middle East service listed as 16.11.1940 - 31.1.1943, discharged Medically unfit with the Rank of WO 2 on 25.11.1943, awarded a Mention in Despatches. .10P) This could be Tom Francis .Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the image is clicked2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton

In July 1940 the 2/24th Battalion was formed. They set off from Caulfield for the still-being-built Bonegilla camp, stopping off at Wangaratta where they camped at the showgrounds. They were welcomed with open arms by the local community as they rapidly built up their numbers. The people of Wangaratta adopted the Battalion and they became known as ‘Wangaratta’s Own’. Presented with a 14 foot pennant the Battalion marched through the streets of Wangaratta on 27 September 1940 on the way to Bonegilla. Training continued in Bonegilla until the soldiers sailed on HMT Strathmore for the Middle East on 16 November. The Battalion was eventually attached to the 9th Australian Division, one of the most famous army fighting formations in World War 2. They served in Tobruk (1941) Tel el Eisa (1942), El Alemain (1942), New Guinea (1943) and Tarakan (1945).During the Tobruk siege the 9th Division was called the ‘The Rats of Tobruk’ by William Joyce, the German propagandist. The 2/24th Battalion suffered more casualties than any other 2nd AIF Battalion – 360 killed and 900 wounded. Brown lacquered wood shield with a silver metal 2/24 symbol on it.2/24 AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATALLION TOBRUK . THE SALIENT . TEL EL EISA . EL ALAMEIN . LAE . NADZAB . WAREO . TARAKAN I HOLD FAST

September 30,1945 - The official dedication service and unveiling of the Cenotaph at Tarakan War Cemetery The Battle of Tarakan was the first stage in the Borneo campaign of 1945. It began with an amphibious landing by Australian forces on 1 May, code-named Operation Oboe One. While the battle ended with success for the Allied forces over the Japanese defenders, this victory is generally regarded as having not justified its costs. 225 Australian soldiers of the 26th Brigade, 9th Division, 2nd Australian Imperial Force were once buried here. They were killed in the Battle of Tarakan (1 May - 21 June 1945) or died due to their wounds until 15 August 1945.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of monument/cenotaph and catafalque party2/24th battalion, tarakan, cenotaph

This cushion cover was owned by Arthur Lock, a soldier in the 2/23rd Battalion. After initial training in Albury, N.S.W. and Bonegilla, Victoria, they left for overseas service. Embarking in November 1940 on the transport Strathmore at Port Melbourne, the 2/23rd arrived in Egypt in mid-December. From Egypt they were deployed to Tobruk. The battalion helped defend Tobruk for eight months, manning a series of concrete pillboxes located in a semicircle around the town, called the Red Line. In October the majority of the 9th Division, except the 2/13th Infantry Battalion, was evacuated by sea. The 2/23rd left on 18 October and sailed to Alexandria. The division was transferred to Palestine and then Syria for rest and garrison duties.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region.A cushion cover embroidered with the insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces 1941. Top 'Souvenir of Palestine" Centre Insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces, Bottom "1941"world war 11, rats of tobruk, palestine

Photograph and medals belonging to Private John Leonard PARKER VX56265 2/23 Battalion AIF Killed in Action on 24/11/1943 during WW2. Buried at Lae cemetery in New Guinea. The 2/23rd Infantry Battalion was raised at the Albury Showgrounds in New South Wales in August 1940, as part of the 26th Brigade. Initially the brigade belonged to the 7th Division but in early 1941 moved to the 9th Division. The battalion did its initial training in Albury before moving to Bonegilla, Victoria, before sailing for the Middle East in November. The 2/23rd left Alamein on 2 December and headed back to Gaza in Palestine, where it participated in the 9th Division parade on 22 December. The battalion left Palestine in the third week of January 1943 and reached Sydney at the end of February. Reorganised for jungle operations, on 4 September the 2/23rd participated in the division's amphibious landing at Red Beach, north west of Lae. Shortly before the landing occurred, the invasion fleet was attacked by six Japanese fighters and three bombers. Most of the Japanese bombs missed the Allied ships but one bomb hit the landing craft carrying the 2/23rd headquarters - killing the battalion commander and the ship's captain. The landing craft, however, made it to shore and the 2/23rd participated in the subsequent fighting around Lae, Finschhafen, and Sattelberg. After Sattelberg, the 2/23rd continued to move inland, capturing Masangkoo, Kuanko, and finally on 9 December, Wareo. Brown timber frame with dark blue background containing photograph of soldier, three round and three star shaped medals and document with coloured crest."This scroll commemorates Private J. L Parker Australian Military Forces held in honour as one who served King and Country in the world war of 1939-1945 and gave his life to save mankind from tyranny. May his sacrifice help to bring the peace and freedom for which he died."private john leonoard parker, 2/23rd battalion, ww2, new guinea

This book is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Australia in the War of 1939-1945 Tobruk and El Alamein This volume's main theme is the 9th Australian Division's contribution in 1941-1942 to the defeat in North Africa of the German and Italian Army commanded by Field Marshal Rommel. Author: Barton Maughan Publisher: Australian War Memorial Date: 1966Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 994.04 AUS Front loose endpaper has a stamp from Corangamite Regional Library Servicewarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, australia in the war of 1939-1945 tobruk and el alamein, australia in the war of 1939-1945, australian war memorial, barton maughan

The Battle of the Shaggy Ridge was part of the Markham and Ramu Valley – Finisterre Range campaign, consisting of a number of actions fought by Australian and Japanese troops in Papua New Guinea in World War II. Following the Allied capture of Lae and Nadzab, the Australian 9th Division had been committed to a quick follow up action on the Huon Peninsula in an effort to cut off the withdrawing Japanese. Once the situation on the Huon Peninsula stabilised in late 1943, the 7th Division had pushed into the Markham and Ramu Valleys towards the Finisterre Range with a view to pushing north towards the coast around Bogadjim, where they would meet up with Allied forces advancing around the coast from the Huon Peninsula, before advancing towards Madang.In late December 1943, the Australian offensive to take Shaggy Ridge began, focused on an attack on The Pimple.[13] The Pimple was one of three rocky outcrops, held by the Japanese on the ridge line.Framed Photograph of Australian infantry waiting while our planes" bombard the Pimple,"Shaggy Ridge before moving in. Australian infantry waiting while our planes" bombard the Pimple,"Shaggy Ridge before moving in. THE LARA BRANCH R.S.S.I.L.A. FROM MRS HAMILTON CALVERT =MEMORIES=ww2, papua new guinea, world war 2, lara r.s.l., photographs, australian infantry, shaggy ridge

The Hutton Trophy or Shield was awarded annually to the best Light Horse Troop in Australia. The trophy is now held at the Armoured Centre Puckapunyal. Inter-regimental competition was strong in the years between WWI and WWII. Annually, the best troop in the regiments of the 3rd (Vic), 4th (SA), 5th (WA) and 6th (Tas) Military Districts competed for the Hutton Trophy and the Lord Forster Cup. The Tocumwal Troop 20th LH commanded by Sgt HG (Bob) Fyffe were the winners in 1937/38 and the Tallangatta Troop 8th LH led by Lt L Wildsmith, in 1938/39. Other competitors in 1938/39 were the York Troop, 10th Light Horse (WA), Burnie Troop 22nd LH (Tas) and Orroroo Troop 9th/23rd LH (SA). Troops were marked on Personnel, Horses (type & turnout), Saddlery, Hotchkiss Gun (turnout), Horsemanship, Fire control, Shooting (rifle & H gun), Sword action and Time. VX 42774 Captain Robert (Bob) Fyffe, a grazier from Tocumwal, NSW, served with the Tocumwal troop of the 20th Light Horse prior to WWII (1939-46). He enlisted at the outbreak of war and served with the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment in North Africa. During the attack on Trig 22 on 17 July 1942 Captain Fyffe commanding a composite squadron manoeuvred his tanks to knock out machine guns and anti-tank guns enabling 2/32 Battalion to capture the objective. Captain Fyffe was awarded the Military Cross for his leadership and courage in the action. This was 9th Division Cavalry's first tank action of the war. Complement other images in collectionBlack and white photograph glued to corrugated plastic backing card showing two officers with large silver shield. Occasion is the presentation of the Hutton Trophy to the troop leader of the Tocumwal Troop 20th Light Horse Regiment, Lieutenant H G (Bob) Fyffe, 1938.hutton trophy, tocumwal, fyffe, light horse, competition, victoria

Part of the Bennetts Collection. See Catalogue No. 9726P for details of service for "Alva Marie Bennetts".1. Black and white photograph of four men in partial uniform holding a snake. Photo has a white border. 2. Black and white photograph of a group of soldiers in uniform. Soldier at back is playing an accordion. Photograph has a white border.1. Handwritten in blue ink along bottom border" "ALEX, JACK, MAURIE, ARTHUR CONWAY". handwritten in blue and black ink on back: 'Python caught behind our tent. received 27/9/43." 2. Handwritten in blue ink on back: 'This one was spoilt. Taken on the trip from Palestine to Egypt, prior to embarking for home. handwritten in blue ink as an address: 'For VX40693 L/Cpl Len Payne, Hdqrs Company, 24th Batt, 9th Division A.I.F.bennetts collection, alva bennetts, ww2, palestine, army, photograph

Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .O1P) Captain Morrell is believed to be Francis Gordon Morrell VX48502. Enlisted in the AIF 16.8.1916 age 27 with the rank of WO 2 No 4976 (had 9 years pre service) in14th Reinforcements 32 Bn AIF. Embarked for England 22.12.1917, embark for France 7.4.1918, WIA Shell Wound Buttock 15.5.1918, rejoin unit 18.8.1918, embark for Aust 22.1.1920, discharged 8.4.1920. Stayed in the Permanent Army. Enlisted in the 2nd AIF 1.7.1940 No VX48504. Overseas service listed as Middle East 16.11.1940 - 23.5.1942, New Guinea 8.9.1943 - 9.6.1944, Netherlands East Indies 16.5.1945 - 23.4.1946. He enlists then in the Interim Army No 3/133 on 1.7.1947 until 1.4.1950,, serves in Japan listed as 30.1.1948 - 6.5.1948. Discharged 1.4.1950 with the rank of Major. “Roms Reynard” is not yet identified.Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the images are clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton

RAVENSHOE, QLD. 1944-06-19. THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCES, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA, VX1 GENERAL SIR THOMAS BLAMEY, GBE., KCB., CMG., DSO., ED., AND HIS STAFF WATCHING PERSONNEL OF HEADQUARTERS COMPANY, 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION ENGAGED IN THEIR 3" MORTAR DRILL DURING HIS TOUR OF INSPECTION OF ARMY UNITS IN THE ATHERTON AREA. IDENTIFIED PERSONNEL ARE:- QX6408 LIEUTENANT COLONEL A.B. GILLESPIE, COMMANDING 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION (2) VX48762 CAPTAIN A.W. OAKLEY (3); PRIVATE C.C. DAWES (4); PRIVATE TUCKER (5); PRIVATE COONEY (6); NX376 BRIGADIER D.A. WHITEHEAD, DSO., MC., ED., COMMANDING, 26TH INFANTRY BRIGADE (7); VX20308 LIEUTENANT-GENERAL F.H. BERRYMAN, CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, 1ST AUSTRALIAN CORPS (8); NX35000 LIEUTENANT-GENERAL V.A.H. STURDEE, CB., CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, FIRST AUSTRALIAN ARMY (9); NX7 MAJOR-GENERAL G.F. WOOTTEN, CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, 9TH DIVISION (10); PRIVATE R.S. O'BRIEN (11); PRIVATE S. ROSMAN (12); NX12371 MAJOR N.B. TREBECK (13).The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of three soldiers in foreground demonstrate use of equipment whilst soldiers and Officers in the background watch on.2/24th battalion, ravenshoe, general blamey

Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .07P) CSM Lee. Believed to be Leslie Douglas Lee VX69519, enlisted 23.12.1941, Middle East service listed as 28.2.1942 - 25.2.1943, discharged 27.11.1945. Lt Fallon. Believed to be John Francis Fallon VX48644. Enlisted 31.7.1940, embarked for the Middle East 16.11.1940, WIA Blast perforation injury 30.10.1942, RTA 9.1.1943 Discharged 20.5.1943 with the rank of Capt. Rupert Rattray VX38937, enlisted 21.10.1940, Middle East service listed as 6.11.1940? - 8.8.1942, New Guinea service 21.2.1943 - 14.9.1943, discharged on 4.4.1946 with the rank of Major. Awarded the MC on April 22 when leading a raiding Party in Tobruk 1941, also awarded C In C’s card in 1941. Graham Grantham Anderson VX48780, enlisted 5.8.1940 age 21, DOW’s on 13.7.1942, he held the rank of Captain. Gilbert Ferguson Urquhart VX48258 enlisted 25.7.1940 age 29, KIA 22.7.1942, hel held the rank of Major. He had pre War service in the CMF from 9.1.1939 - 24.7.1940.Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle East.Some photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the images are clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton, cpt ferguson urquhart vx42858

Brian Walpole, the author, was a Australian Commando and special operations operative behind enemy lines in New Guinea and Borneo during WW2. Brian was a commando with the Australian 2/3 Independent Company. He went to New Guinea in January 1943 and remained until the fall of the Japanese base at Salamaua in September. He fought on the Bobdubi Ridge. His commanding officer was the well-regarded George Warfe, whose portrait was sketched by war artist Ivor Hele. Brian blazed a trail through the New Guinea jungle which appears on some maps as Walpole’s Track, discovering and naming the ambush site Goodview Junction. Soon afterwards (July 1943) Goodview Junction was the scene of a key campaign victory which contributed to George Warfe being awarded the Military Cross.Brian’s Special Operations training mostly took place at Careening Bay (Western Australia) and Fraser Island (Queensland). He arrived in Borneo at the time of the 9th Division’s landing at Labuan Island, and took part in two SRD operations – Colt and Semut 3. After the surrender, Walpole's work continued as many of the Japanese did not recognise the surrender and continued to fight on. Brian relates how on the 14th of September 1945 while still an operative in SRD he was able to save POWs from certain death and after a firefight arrested 10 Japanese soldiers at Simanggang Borneo. He was alone and had been assisted in the battle by 20 headhunters from the jungles along the Rejang River. One of the people saved was a young nurse in her 20s, Lena Ricketts. ww2, australian special operations, australian commando, new guinea, borneo, world war ii

HERBERT TRANGMAR ALLAN OBE, MC, ED. Herbert Allan served pre WW1 with Sydney University Scouts with the rank of 2nd Lieut. Joined the AIF 6.9.1915 in the 14th Reinforcements 17th Batt aged 21 years 6 months, embarked for England 22.8.1916, promoted to Lieut, embarked for France 22.1.1917, awarded the Military Cross 9.10.1917 at Passchendaele Ridge, WIA slight 3.11.1917. Awarded a Mention in Despatches, promoted to Captain 24.11.1917, WIA 3.10.1918, Gassed, appointment terminated in the AIF 26.5.1919. He remains active in several postings in the CMF as a Captain. He goes on full time duty 9.10.1939 with 2nd Garrison Batt No N60005, transfers to the 2nd AIF No NX12229 1.5.1940, posted Captain in 2nd 17th Batt. Embarks for the Middle East 10.10.1940, serves in Tobruk, promoted to Major 7.1.1941, promoted to Brigade Major 20th Inf Brigade 12.6.1941, appointed Claims Officer 9th Division 13.2 1942, awarded the “OBE” 14.4.1942, embark for Australia 27.1.1943, promoted Lt Col 8.6.1943, emplaned for New Guinea 16.6.1943, one of 5 to New Guinea and New Britain, promoted T/Colonel 1.4.1945, final disembark in Australia 28.8.1945, appointed to Command the Pacific Islands Regt 10.10.1945, appointed Hon Colonel in the Reserve of Officers 1.5.1946. During WW11 he was awarded a Mention in Despatches 4 times, once in the Middle East and 3 in the Pacific. He spent 1773 days outside Australia and 253 in Australia during WW11. Awarded Efficiency Decoration (ED) in 1946. Refer 2756.The group of medals were awarded to Herbert Trangmar Allan OBE, MC, ED plus mentioned in Dispatches 5 times. With the medals to add to their significance is a large collection of documentation covering his career with some 136 items plus photographs. As Commander of the Pacific Islands Regiment after WW2 he was presented with a pair of Japanese Artillery Binoculars to bring home as a War Trophy. This is in the collection also. This group of eleven (11) Decoration, Campaign and Service Medals has a very high significance as they relate to both World Wars and service recognition from 1915 through to 1946, 31 years. There is also a full set of miniatures to compliment the main medal set. The “Order of the British Empire”, “Military Cross”, Efficiency Decoration” gained over both Wars and Service are among the highest in the British Empire Awards system and therefore quite rare. The addition of 5 Mention in Dispatches adds to that rarity. The medals are in very good condition with only a small amount of tarnishing. The ribbons are new and Court mounting for display purposes, the originals have been kept for historical purposes.WWI & WWII Medals: .1) Medal set, brass plate mounted, set of 11 re H T ALLAN OBE, MC, ED. 1. Order of the British Empire - OBE. 2. Military Cross - MC. 3. War Medal 1914 - 1919. 4. Victory Medal with clasp - Mention in Despatches. 5. 1939 - 45 Star. 6. African Star with clasp - 8th Army. 7. Pacific Star. 8. Defence Medal. 9. War Medal with clasp - Mention in Despatches. 10. Australian Service Medal. 11. Efficiency Decoration - ED. WWI & WWII Medals: .2) Medal set, minatures, brass plate mounted, set of 11 re H T ALLAN OBE, MC, ED. Same as in .1) .3) Original ribbons as per .1). .4) Original ribbons as per .2)..1) CAPTAIN H T ALLAN AIF NX12229 H J ALLEN NX12229 COL ALLEN H T Note: Correct spelling is H T ALLANmedals, military, bravery

A cutting from from a Melbourne Legacy President's report showing a photo of Legatee George Blackwood (President of Melbourne Legacy in 1975). It was collected to be a record of a photo of past presidents. In World War 2 Legatee Blackwood served in the AIF in the Middle East, New Guinea and Borneo in the Corps of the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and was awarded an OBE for services whilst commanding the 2/1 Army Field Workshop with the 9th Australian Division in the Alamein Campaign. He achieved the rank of Colonel. He joined Legacy in 1964 on the nomination of Legatees John Summerton and AN Fraser. The article was part of an album of past presidents from 1965 to 1989. The folder included biographical details and obituaries, eulogies and death notices of prominent Legatees. The items have been catalogued separately.A record of Legatee George Blackwood a past president of Legacy. The information was collected to record the lives of prominent legatees in a folder.Article with a black and white photo of Legatee George W Blackwood - President 1975past presidents, george blackwood

An article from the Melbourne Legacy Bulletin on the death of Legatee George Blackwood (President of Melbourne Legacy in 1975). The Bulletin published articles on Legatees when they passed away. Legatee Blackwood, born in 1907 and died in 1982. In World War 2 Legatee Blackwood served in the AIF in the Middle East, New Guinea and Borneo in the Corps of the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and was awarded an OBE for services whilst commanding the 2/1 Army Field Workshop with the 9th Australian Division in the Alamein Campaign. He achieved the rank of Colonel. He joined Legacy in 1964 on the nomination of Legatees John Summerton and AN Fraser. The article was part of an album of past presidents from 1965 to 1989. The folder included biographical details and obituaries, eulogies and death notices of prominent Legatees. The items have been catalogued separately.A record of Legatee George Blackwood a past president of Legacy. The information was collected to record the lives of prominent legatees in a folder.Typed copy of a page from the Legacy Bulletin on the death of Legatee George Blackwood - President 1975Bulletin No 1209. 17.6.1982. Page No 3 and 4past presidents, vale, george blackwood

A copy of an address given to a Legacy luncheon by Legatee Frank Doolan. He speaks of the 24th Battalion and their role at Gallipoli and in France. The story of the withdrawal from Gallipoli is interesting. Legatees Savige and HC Brinsmead were two of the three last lieutenants on the peninsula. Both were foundation members as was John Anderson who was also mentioned. He digresses to relate a story of an evening when he was with a 'VC mate' (assumed to be L/ Donovan Joynt) and they decided to speak to the editor of the Argus, Allan Spowers, about the newspaper's stance against the building of the Shrine of Remembrance. He related the paper published an article two days later in favour of the Shrine project and shortly after so did 'The Age'. The address also relates the return to war in 1939 and the formation of the 2/24th and it fighting in Tobruk. It was absorbed into the 9th division and later a new 2/24th was formed to wear the 'Red and White Diamond'. 'This unit consisted of younger men who had served with the CNF between the wars and included several sons of Legatees and several Junior Legatees. Our President Don, was attached for a short time.' (referring to L/ Don Simonson who was president in 1970). It went on to fight in New Guinea. Legatee Doolan's aim had been to link the 24th battalion with Legacy and suggests the book about the history of the 24th Battalion by Bob Serle was worth reading. He then introduced two other speakers, Squadron Leader Hicks, Conductor of the Royal Australian Air Force Band and Mr John Anderson of AWA. From the speakers record this event was in June 1970. The notation H27 in red pen shows that it was part of the archive project that was trying to capture the history of Legacy. Legatee Frank Doolan was part of the archive project around the 1970s.A significant account of the withdrawal from Gallipoli and other experiences of the 24th Battalion retold at a Legacy luncheon. Speakers at Legacy luncheons were from very different walks of life and the subjects spoken on were many and varied. White foolscap paper with black type x 5 pages of a speech by Legatee Frank Doolan.Handwritten H27 in red pen.history, battalion, speakers, speech, gallipoli, frank doolan, 24th battalion

Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .01P) Brigadier R.W. Tovell, CBE, DSO & Bar, ED - MID 5 times. He had 5.5 years pre WW1 service in the Cadets, on discharge he held the rank of Lieutenant. Enlisted in the AIF 28.4.1915 age 29 years, appointed Lt 6.7.1915 in 2nd Reinforcements 29th BN. Embark for Eygpt 29.12.1915, embark for France 4.6.1916. He rose through the Ranks in various Commands to Brigade Major by 19.2.1918. Awarded MID24.10.1918, DSO & MID on 23.5.1919, MID on 30.10.1919. Appointment terminated in the AIF on 12.12.1920. Stayed on in the full time Army to be T/Brigader on 14.10.1939 to Command the 10th INF Brigade. Transfers to the 2nd AIF 1.7.1940 No VX46983and appointed to Command the 26th Brigade. Overseas service listed as Middle East 16.11.1940 - 10.11.1942. New Guinea 17.2.19144 - 21.3.1944 & 10.3.1945 - 23.3.1945, Darwin area 8.9.1944 - 19.9.1944. Awarded Bar to the DSO 30.12.1941, MID 26.6.1942 & 15.12.1942, CBE 15.4.1943. Appointed Deputy Adjutant General 3.5.1944, appointment terminated in the 2nd AIF on 20.12.1945, placed on the Reserve list of Officers with the rank of Colonel & Honorary Brigadier. Lt Col Evans VX478119. Bernard Evans had service going back to 1924. Enlisted in the 2nd AIF on 22.7.1940. His overseas service is listed as Middle East 16.11.1940 - 30.3.1943 - New Guinea 20.7.1943 - 10.11.1943, discharged fro m the AIF on 22.10.1945 with the rank of Colonel, awarded the DSO. .02P) Believed to be Benjamin Thomas Shiels VX58180, enlisted 24.6.1941, embarked for the Middle East 3.9.1941, KIA 29.10.1942. Joe Harrison is not yet identified. Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the image is clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton

Taken some time between 1914-18, the photograph depicts an aerial view of Villers-Bretonneux in France, a region which was part of the Western Front during World War I. The image mostly shows rural landscape. The Western Front was the main theatre of war during World War I. Following the outbreak of war in August 1914, the German Army opened the Western Front by invading Luxembourg and Belgium, then gaining military control of important industrial regions in France. The German advance was halted with the Battle of the Marne. Following the Race to the Sea, both the French-British and German armies dug in along a meandering line of fortified trenches, stretching from the North Sea to the Swiss frontier with France. The First Battle of Villers-Bretonneux occurred between 30 March - 5 April 1918. It took place during Operation Michael, part of the German Spring Offensive on the Western Front. The offensive began against the British Fifth Army and the Third Army on the Somme, and pushed back the British and French reinforcements on the north side of the Somme. The capture of Villers-Bretonneux, close to Amiens, a strategically important road and rail-junction, would have brought the Germans within artillery-range. In late March, troops from the Australian Imperial Force were brought south from Belgium as reinforcements to help shore up the line. In early April, the Germans launched an attack to capture Villers-Bretonneux. After a determined defence by British and Australian troops, the attackers were close to success until a counter-attack by the 9th Australian Infantry Brigade and British troops late in the afternoon of 4 April restored the situation and halted the German advance on Amiens. The Second Battle of Villers-Bretonneux occurred between 24 - 27 April 1918, during the German Spring Offensive to the east of Amiens. It is notable for being the first occasion on which tanks fought against each other. A counter-attack by two Australian brigades and a British brigade during the night of 24 April partly surrounded Villers-Bretonneux, and on 25 April, the town was recaptured. On 26 April, the role of the Moroccan division of the French army was crucial in pushing back German units. Australian, British and French troops nearly restored the original front line by 27 April.The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. Additionally, the record's significance is enhanced by its depiction of Villers-Bretonneux. The battles that occurred in this town during World War I are especially historically significant to Australia as this is where the Australian Imperial Force had one their greatest World War I victories. An Australian flag still flies over Villers-Bretonneux in the present. Furthermore, a plaque outside the Villers-Bretonneux Town Hall recounts the battles fought to save the town in 1918. Kangaroos feature over the entrance to the Town Hall, and the main street is named Rue de Melbourne. More officially, recognition of the significance of the battle in Villers-Bretonneux is found at the Australian National Memorial, which was built just outside the town. It commemorates all Australians who fought in France and Belgium and includes the names of 10,772 who died in France and have no known grave. Each year, a small ceremony is held at the memorial to mark the sacrifice made by the soldiers. Lastly, the record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day.Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Obverse: yAE.2.35. / 125 / 62d.2834.35.36.VA.5. / 12.G.18-11 / F.-(?)" /military album, wwi, world war i, villers-bretonneux, australian imperial force, aif, france, war, army, conflict, germany, 1918, battle