Showing 96 items
matching american forces
-
Australian Commando Association - Victoria
Book - Official History of Special Operations Australia- Volume 1 Organisation
Popularly known today as Z Special Unit, or by the wartime cover names of Inter-Allied Services Department (ISD) and Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD), Special Operations Australia (SOA) was the Special Operations component of the US-led Allied Intelligence Bureau in the Pacific Theatre during the Second World War. The first in a set of five, Volume 1 – Organization tells the story of the establishment, organisation and function of SOA from its earliest days as a direct offshoot of the British Special Operations Executive, until the organisation’s disbandment after a long, brutal and bloody conflict. Introduced by clandestine operations and espionage writer C.A. Brown, Volume 1 tells the story of the establishment of SOA and its fight for survival as a British-oriented Special Ops organisation under American command, while giving the Imperial Japanese invaders a bloody nose all the way from New Guinea to Indochina. Covering in detail the major personalities, departments, directorates, training and operational bases of SOA, Volume 1.Soft cover with 200 pagesaustralian commandos, special operations, special forces, world war ii -
Red Cliffs Military Museum
Framed Photograph, Surrender of Japanese at Balikpapan, 1945
Japanese Commanders crossing a pontoon bridge under guard by Australian soldier on the way to the official surrender of Japanese forces in Balikpapan in (Dutch East Indies) Indonesia 1945. This was a major event in the ending of World War 2. Following the japanese surrender the Local population began it push for independance. Framed photograph (copy) of Japanese Commanders surrendering at Balikpapan. Black frame and glass covered. The Japanese Command staff with a Japanese general and aid-d-camp (Captian)carring his breif case along with other staff members. In the background here are 2 American PT boats with American naval personal .Note American flag flying in the top left corner. There are several American landing craft next to a Japanese landing barge. The Japanese landing bardge has the required surrender markings which is a green square with a white cross on top right of photo. The Australian soldier following the Japanese soldiers is wearing slouch hat and gungle green uniform. Along the docks are native workers.Paper discription on lower photograph with details of item description, where photo obtained from and donated by.ww2, japanese, surrender, balikpapan, generals, americans, pt boats, japanese landing bardge, american landing craft, dutch east indies -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Minature Model Aircraft
Kittyhawk Fighter. One of a collection of 25 model aircraft made by Brian Anthony DOWD The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk is an American single-engined, single-seat, all-metal fighter and ground-attack aircraft that first flew in 1938. The British Commonwealth air forces used the name Kittyhawk for models equivalent to the P-40D and all later variants.The Kittyhawk was the main fighter used by the RAAF in World War II, in greater numbers than the Spitfire. Two RAAF squadrons serving with the Desert Air Force, No. 3 and No. 450 Squadrons, were the first Australian units to be assigned P-40s. Small khaki plane with blue & white spots on top and sides, red nose.model airplanes, kittyhawk fighter. -
Robin Boyd Foundation
Document - Manuscript, Robin Boyd, Conflicting Forces in World Architecture, 1971
Since 1954, Australian architecture has been reflecting American architecture, ignoring Japan, Sweden, Italy etc. Discusses second force architecture and Giancarlo De Carlo. Mention of J M Richards and Peter Blake, who give an account of modern architecture -- its trials in its youth and its traumas in middle age.Original manuscript of the 'A Second Force at Work’ published in The Sunday Australian, 12.9.1971.Typewritten (c copy), pencil edits, quarto, 13 pagesaustralian architecture, american architecture, second force architecture, j m richards, peter blake, giancarlo de carlo, robin boyd, manuscript -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Document, Instrument of Surrender of Japanese Forces
With the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki destroyed by atomic weapons, the will of the Japanese leadership was tested Emperor Showa of Japan announced his intention to surrender to the Allies unconditionally over public radio on 15 Aug 1945. The date of Japan's formal surrender was 2 Sep 1945, and it took place aboard American battleship Missouri in Tokyo Bay. There were other surrender ceremonies including that on Sept 6 1945. At 0900 hours, sloop HMS Hart picked up Hitoshi Imamura and Jinichi Kusaka at Kabanga Bay, who would sign the surrender documents aboard HMS Glory at 1127 hours which surrendered 139,000 remaining personnel at Rabaul plus all forces in Australian territory in the South Pacific. The surrender of Imperial Japan was announced on August 15 and formally signed on September 2, 1945, bringing the hostilities of World War II to a close. The surrender ceremony at Rabaul, New Britain took place on 6 Sep 1945 aboard the British carrier HMS Glory surrendering 139,000 remaining personnel at Rabaul plus all forces in Australian territory in the South Pacific. Light brown frame with glass, of a black and white photocopy. Script is very ornate and has Japanese lettering at the bottom. Instument of Surrender of Japanese Forces in New Guinea, New Britain, New Ireland, Bougainville and adjacent Islands. I the Commander in Chief of the Japanese Imperial Southeastern Army, hereby surrender to the General Officer Commanding First Australian Army all Japanese Armed Forces under my command in accordance with the Instrument of Surrender issued by the Japanese Imperial General Headquarters and Government and General Order No.1 Military and Naval issued by the Japanese imperial General Headquarters. I will henceforth and until otherwise directed by you or your successor carry out the orders issued by you or your staff on your behalf to the best of my ability and I will take action to ensure that my subordinate commanders carry out the orders issued by your representatives. Commander in Chief Japanese Imperial Southeastern Army. Received on board H.M.S. Glory off Rabaul at 1130 hours sixth day of September 1945. Lieutenant General General Officer Commanding First Australian Army.wwii, world war 2, imperial japanese army, japanese army, surrender, rabaul -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed photograph, Cpl Sperry BODSWORTH
... the island in a few days, facing Dutch, American and Australian ...Photograph of Private later Corporal Sperry Bodsworth born 27/8/1909. In 1940 aged 30 years he enlisted in the Army and assigned to the 2/21 Battalion. On 13/12/1941 the Battalion was deployed from Darwin to Ambon in the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia, to form part of "Gull Force". The Battle of Ambon occurred between 30 January to 3 February, 1942. In April 1942 Bodsworth was listed as missing and on 1/6/1942 was reported as a Prisoner of War. Bodsworth was awarded a Mention in Despatches.The Battle of Ambon (30 January – 3 February 1942) occurred on the island of Ambon in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), during World War II. Japan invaded and conquered the island in a few days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic and sometimes bloody fighting was followed by a series of major Japanese war crimes. Allied casualties in the battle were relatively light. However, at intervals for a fortnight after the surrender, Japanese personnel chose more than 300 Australian and Dutch prisoners of war at random and summarily executed them, at or near Laha airfield. In part, this was revenge for the sinking of the Japanese minesweeper, as some surviving crew of the minesweeper took part.. Three-quarters of the Australians captured on Ambon died before the war's end. Of the 582 who remained on Ambon, 405 died. They died of overwork, malnutrition, disease and one of the most brutal regimes among camps in which bashings were routine. Blood Oath, a 1990 Australian feature film is based on the real-life trial of Japanese soldiers for war crimes committed against Allied prisoners of war on the island of Ambon, in the Netherlands East Indies (Indonesia), such as the Laha massacre of 1942.Brown timber frame containing black and white photograph of WW2 Soldier wearing slouch hatww2, gull force, ambon, sperry bodsworth, pow -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Tribute, Wangaratta Picture Framers, Gull Force
... days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic ...On the night of 30-31 January 1942 this small force of 1131 Australian soldiers were stationed at Ambon, an island which formed part of the Netherland East Indies (now Indonesia). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed Gull Force and the majority of the Australian soldiers were taken prisoner. The execution of 229 at Laha, starvation, over work, disease and the absence of medical supplies led to horrific loss. At the cessation of hostilities only 352 of the original 1131 had made it back to Australia. 779 members of Gull Force made the supreme sacrifice and now lie in foreign fields. The Battle of Ambon (30 January – 3 February 1942) occurred on the island of Ambon in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), during World War II. Japan invaded and conquered the island in a few days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic and sometimes bloody fighting was followed by a series of major Japanese war crimes. Allied casualties in the battle were relatively light. However, at intervals for a fortnight after the surrender, Japanese personnel chose more than 300 Australian and Dutch prisoners of war at random and summarily executed them, at or near Laha airfield. In part, this was revenge for the sinking of the Japanese minesweeper, as some surviving crew of the minesweeper took part.. Three-quarters of the Australians captured on Ambon died before the war's end. Of the 582 who remained on Ambon, 405 died. They died of overwork, malnutrition, disease and one of the most brutal regimes among camps in which bashings were routine. Blood Oath, a 1990 Australian feature film is based on the real-life trial of Japanese soldiers for war crimes committed against Allied prisoners of war on the island of Ambon, in the Netherlands East Indies (Indonesia), such as the Laha massacre of 1942.Brown timber frame with gold coloured inner edge containing badge and tribute on grey backgroundGull Force 2/21 Battalion Ambon Laha In memory of and tribute to the Officers and Men of "Gull Force" comprising of 2/21 Battalion and attached Units.gull force, 2/21 battalion, ambon, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Plaque, Gull Force
... days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic ...Plaque present to Corporal Sperry BODSWORTH MID who served with the 2/21st Battalion and involved with the Battle of Ambon. On the night of 30-31 January 1942 this small force of 1131 Australian soldiers were stationed at Ambon, an island which formed part of the Netherland East Indies (now Indonesia). An invasion of approximately 20,000 Japanese overwhelmed Gull Force and the majority of the Australian soldiers were taken prisoner. The execution of 229 at Laha, starvation, over work, disease and the absence of medical supplies led to horrific loss. At the cessation of hostilities only 352 of the original 1131 had made it back to Australia. 779 members of Gull Force made the supreme sacrifice and now lie in foreign fields. The Battle of Ambon (30 January – 3 February 1942) occurred on the island of Ambon in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), during World War II. Japan invaded and conquered the island in a few days, facing Dutch, American and Australian forces. The chaotic and sometimes bloody fighting was followed by a series of major Japanese war crimes. Allied casualties in the battle were relatively light. However, at intervals for a fortnight after the surrender, Japanese personnel chose more than 300 Australian and Dutch prisoners of war at random and summarily executed them, at or near Laha airfield. In part, this was revenge for the sinking of the Japanese minesweeper, as some surviving crew of the minesweeper took part.. Three-quarters of the Australians captured on Ambon died before the war's end. Of the 582 who remained on Ambon, 405 died. They died of overwork, malnutrition, disease and one of the most brutal regimes among camps in which bashings were routine. Blood Oath, a 1990 Australian feature film is based on the real-life trial of Japanese soldiers for war crimes committed against Allied prisoners of war on the island of Ambon, in the Netherlands East Indies (Indonesia), such as the Laha massacre of 1942.Brown timber in the shape of a shield mounted with a metal a coat of arms depicting white seagull above black and orange diamond within pale blue oval shape.Gull Force 2/21 Battalion Ambon Laha Plaque - Cpl Sperry Bodsworth VX23435 MIDgull force, 2/21 battalion, ambon, ww2 -
Tramways/East Melbourne RSL Sub Branch - RSL Victoria Listing id: 27511
Memorabilia - Medal Board, Ceremonial Medal Board for JJ Davis, 2001
John James Davis (J.J. Davis) was Australia's most decorated NCO in the Vietnam conflict. This plaque commemorates the deeds he performed and medals received.Framed ceremonial medal board for JJ Davis. The piece includes a service photograph of JJ Davis in uniform, a fabric patch with the Australian Coat of Arms, five metal pins and 13 replica medals as listed below. The information plaque states '5411313 WO1 J.J. DAVIS, SB St J, MM, JP - RAAMC - 30 JAN 1963 - 30 JAN 1986. The five metal pins are: 1. Returned Services League Australia 2. Returned Active Service 3. RAAMC 4. Royal Australian Army Medical Corps 5. Knife surrounded by laurel leaves. Replica medals included are: 1. Military Medal 2. Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75, Vietnam 3. Vietnam Medal 4. Defence Force Medal with 1st Clasp 5. National Medal 6. Australian Defence Medal 7. St John 12 Year Long Service Medal with five year clasp 8. Silver Star (Unites States of America) 9. Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star (South Vietnam) 10. The Armed Forces Honour Medal (2nd Class) (South Vietnam) 11. Civil Action Medal (2nd Class) (South Vietnam) 12. Vietnamese Campaign Medal 13. ACT Emergency Service Medal (2003 Bushfires) john jams davis, john james davis, j j davis, vietnam, nco, photographs, portraits, badges, medals -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Manual
The American designed 'Jeep' was issued to Australian Army in WW11 and the Post-War CMF. Technical manuals and User Handbooks were essential equipment for Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) tradesmen permanently attached to Armoured Corps regiments as Light Aid Detachments (LAD) or AFV Workshops and were responsible for repairs and maintenance of a nature beyond the expertise of AFV crewmen and just short of major rebuilds undertaken by Base Workshop detachments.Part of a collection of workshop manuals and user handbooks relating to equipment on issue to 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles during the latter half of the twentieth century.Buff coloured covered booklet, saddle- stitched and stapled: 40 pages being Instruction Book Driving & Maintenance for trucks .25 Ton ( USA ). Published by Australian Military Forces 1944.Ink stamp on front cover " C Sqn 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Medal - Pritchard World War Two group
The Atlantic Star was instituted in May 1945 to honour those who took part in the Battle of the Atlantic and was intended primarily for award to those who served in shipping convoys and their escorts and anti-submarine forces, as well as to those who served on fast merchant ships which sailed alone. The Battle of the Atlantic took place between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945, as German U-boats attacked convoys transporting vital supplies from America and the Colonies to Britain. Warships of the Royal Navy and aircraft of the Royal Air Force escorted these convoys, hunted the U-boats and, despite some notable successes by the U-boats, eventually won a comprehensive victory in the Atlantic. Group of three World War Two medals awarded to J Pritchard Merchant Navy: Atlantic Star, Pacific Star and Australian Service Medal 39-45.atlantic, merchant navy, world war two, wwii -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Craft - Ship Model, Arethusa, 1894
... . This battle was the first between British and French naval forces.... This battle was the first between British and French naval forces ...Original Ships History: Aréthuse was a French frigate, launched in 1757 during the Seven Years War between England and France. She was captured by the Royal Navy in 1759 and became the fifth-rate HMS Arethusa. She remained in Royal Navy service for twenty years until she was wrecked after being badly damaged in battle. The ship was constructed at Le Havre for privateer warfare as ”Pélerine” and soon after her launch, she was purchased by King Louis XV (1710-1774) and commissioned as Aréthuse on 21 January 1758. In June, under captain Vauquelin, she sailed through the British blockade of Louisbourg helping to defend the site before departing, again forcing the blockade. On 18 May 1759, she was in transit from Rochefort to Brest, under the command of Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, Marquis of Vaudreuil, when she was intercepted near Audierne Bay (Baie d'Audierne) by three Royal Navy ships the Thames, Venus and Chatham. She attempted to escape but after two hours, lost her topmasts and was overtaken by her pursuers. Thames and Venus engaged her with heavy fire, causing 60 casualties before the vessel surrendered. She entered service with the Royal Navy for the rest of the war, and was in service in British home waters and became responsible for the capture of several French privateer cutters. In 1777, a Scotsman James Aitken, widely known as John the Painter, was hanged from her mizzenmast for burning the Rope House at Portsmouth Royal Dockyard on 7 December 1776, to aid the struggle of American independence. The mast was struck from the ship and re-erected at the dockyard entrance so as many people as possible could watch the execution. On 17 June 1778, she fought a famous duel against the French 36-gun frigate, Belle Poule. Belle Poule was on a reconnaissance mission, along with the 26-gun Licorne, the corvette Hirondelle and the smaller Coureur when she encountered a large British squadron that included Arethusa at a point 37 km south of The Lizard. Admiral Keppel, commanding the British fleet ordered that the French ships be pursued. The captain of Belle Poule refused the order to sail back to the British fleet. The British fired a warning shot across his ship's bow, to which he responded with a full broadside. This action began a furious, two-hour battle between the two ships that resulted in the deaths of the French second captain and 30 of the crew. However, Arethusa was crippled by the loss of a mast and withdrew, allowing Belle Poule to escape. This battle was the first between British and French naval forces during the American Revolutionary War and took place around three weeks before France had made a formal declaration of war. The battle was widely celebrated in France as a victory, even inspiring a hair-style in court circles that included a model of Belle Poule. It was also viewed as a victory in Britain and became the subject of a traditional Sea shanty, The Saucy Arethusa. On 18 March 1779, under captain Charles Holmes Everitt, Arethusa engaged the French Aigrette, under Lieutenant Mortemart, sustaining considerable damage in the fight. Arethusa was wrecked the next day off Ushant, It was the fame of this Arethusa which induced the Royal Navy, during the following two centuries, to bestow the name on a further seven consecutive individual ships and two consecutive classes of cruisers. (See Provenance Sec this document for information on the makers of this model). Model ship of the 3 masted frigate the “Arethusa”, model is painted black and white with varnished deck and masts. A British flag is flown at the stern. The ship is displayed in a glass case with timber frame and 4 legged stand.Label at bottom of glass case, printed in black script on a gold strip “Model of the “Arethusa" "A famous frigate, taken from the French by the British, on the 18th of May 1759 and lost on the French coast in 1779. – Made and presented by G. Lance & P. Diggins, October 1894” flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, arethusa ship model, george lance, peter diggins, len asling, warrnambool art gallery, warrnambool exhibition, message in a bottle -
Orbost & District Historical Society
newspapers, Guinea Gold, 1943-1944
... and American forces serving in the steaming jungle, topics of interest ...In WWII New Guinea, GUINEA GOLD presented news to all troops "in the field". It avoided editorial comment. It published for 1320 continuous days, without missing a single edition. The front and back pages concentrated on current world news, including major sporting events. Page 2 was generally devoted to extracts from Australian and US newspapers. Some news was obtained by taking shorthand notes of short-wave radio bulletins from Australia, the U.S. and the B.B.C. At its peak, distribution was 37,000 to US forces and 27,000 to Australian forces, daily. The daily version had four pages and the WEEK-END SUPPLEMENT edition contained 8 pages (with extra pictures & cartoons).Guinea Gold" daily brought to the news-hungry men of the Australian and American forces serving in the steaming jungle, topics of interest to allay their boredom and boost their morale. It was able to do so because US General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in the South-West Pacific, gave it permission to publish his communiqués 20 hours before the release time for the rest of the world's media. The newspaper contains Australian, American & world news (military, political, sports & tabloid).Seven editions of "Guinea Gold" from 1943 and 1944. 2103.1 is edition 7/6/1943. 2103.2 is edition 8/6/1943. 2103.3 is edition 12/6/1943. 2103.4 is edition 27/2/1944. 2103.5 is edition 26/3/1944 and is the Weekend Supplement. 2103.6 is edition 26/3/1944 and 2103.7 is dated 9/4/1944 and is the Weekend Supplement.guinea-gold newspaper ww11 pacific-campaign new-guinea -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque Royal Marine Commando Gibraltar, Royal Marine Commando Gibraltar
The word Gibraltar refers to the Great Siege of Gibraltar by French and Spanish forces, from 1779 to 1783, in support of the American Revolution. It was awarded in 1827 by George IV as a special distinction for the services of four of the old Army Marine regiments (Queen's Own Marines, 1st Marines, 2nd Marines, 3rd Marines) in holding that fortress against determined assaults, despite extreme privation. There are no other battle honours displayed on the colours of the four battalion-sized units of the current Corps. The Latin motto "Per Mare Per Terram" translates into English as "By Sea By Land" describing how the Royal Marines both attack and defend. The fouled anchor, incorporated into the emblem in 1747, is the badge of the Lord High Admiral and shows that the Corps is part of the Naval Service. Per Mare Per Terram ("By Sea By Land"), the motto of the Marines, is believed to have been used for the first time in 1775.Wooden Plaque Royal Marine Commando Gibraltar Royal Marine Commando Gibraltar -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Penguin, Green armour, 1992
... , despairing experiences of the Australian and American forces ...A story of the jungle and the sea, of man against nature and man against man... Green Armour is the courageous story of fighting men in the swamps and jungles of New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. From the earliest days of forlorn hopes to the large-scale, well-organised attacks by land, sea, and air this terrifying first-hand account is distilled from the bloody, despairing experiences of the Australian and American forces in the early days of the Second World War.p.287.non-fictionA story of the jungle and the sea, of man against nature and man against man... Green Armour is the courageous story of fighting men in the swamps and jungles of New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. From the earliest days of forlorn hopes to the large-scale, well-organised attacks by land, sea, and air this terrifying first-hand account is distilled from the bloody, despairing experiences of the Australian and American forces in the early days of the Second World War.world war 1939 – 1945 – campaigns – kokoda, world war 1939 – 1945 – campaigns – solomon islands -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Osprey, Tet offensive; 1968 : the turning point in Vietnam, 1990
This book describes the Tet offensive by Viet Cong forces. An event seen as a turning point ion American involvement in VietnamIll, maps, p.96.non-fictionThis book describes the Tet offensive by Viet Cong forces. An event seen as a turning point ion American involvement in Vietnamvietnam war 1961-1975 – history, vietnam war 1961-1975 – tet offensive -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, David Chandler, The Oxford illustrated history of the British Army, 1994
From longbow, pike, and musket to Challenger tanks, from the Napoleonic Wars to the Gulf campaign, the Duke of Marlborough to Field Marshal Montgomery, The Oxford Illustrated History of the British Army recounts the history of the British army from its medieval antecedents to the present day. Drawing on the latest scholarship, this survey shows how British fighting forces have evolved over the last five centuries. The continuities revealed are sometimes surprising: narrow recruitment patterns, friction between soldiers and civilians, financial constraints and recurrent political pressure for economies are constant themes. Commanders, campaigns, battles, organization, and weaponry are covered in detail within the wider context of the social, economic, and political environment in which armies exist and fight. The British army has been remarkably successful in fighting terms, losing only one major war (of American Independence 1775-83). As one of the engines of empire it has been active all over the world, as well as shaping the internal destiny of the nation in civil war and revolution. Its history is charted in a sequence of chronological chapters, each containing special feature articles, beginning with the medieval, Elizabethan, and Restoration army and moving on through the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries to the two world wars of the twentieth. The book concludes with accounts of the army of British India, the amateur military tradition, the British way in warfare, and an assessment of what the future may hold in the light of the Options for Change review. Extensively illustrated in black and white and colour, and with a detailed chronology and further reading lists, this is the definitive one-volume history of the British army for specialists and non-specialists alike.Bibliography, Index, Chronology, ill (plates, col, b/w) maps. p.452.non-fictionFrom longbow, pike, and musket to Challenger tanks, from the Napoleonic Wars to the Gulf campaign, the Duke of Marlborough to Field Marshal Montgomery, The Oxford Illustrated History of the British Army recounts the history of the British army from its medieval antecedents to the present day. Drawing on the latest scholarship, this survey shows how British fighting forces have evolved over the last five centuries. The continuities revealed are sometimes surprising: narrow recruitment patterns, friction between soldiers and civilians, financial constraints and recurrent political pressure for economies are constant themes. Commanders, campaigns, battles, organization, and weaponry are covered in detail within the wider context of the social, economic, and political environment in which armies exist and fight. The British army has been remarkably successful in fighting terms, losing only one major war (of American Independence 1775-83). As one of the engines of empire it has been active all over the world, as well as shaping the internal destiny of the nation in civil war and revolution. Its history is charted in a sequence of chronological chapters, each containing special feature articles, beginning with the medieval, Elizabethan, and Restoration army and moving on through the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries to the two world wars of the twentieth. The book concludes with accounts of the army of British India, the amateur military tradition, the British way in warfare, and an assessment of what the future may hold in the light of the Options for Change review. Extensively illustrated in black and white and colour, and with a detailed chronology and further reading lists, this is the definitive one-volume history of the British army for specialists and non-specialists alike.great britain - military history, great britain - military tradition -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Robert Kershaw, Sky men: The real story of the paras, 2010
From the 1930s through WWII to Afghanistan today, from total war to counterinsurgency, this history unravels and defines the intangible qualities that differentiate the "Sky Men" from other soldiers Seventy years ago the Parachute Regiment was formed - the army's elite air assault force was tough, well-trained, and designed to fight hazardous operations behind enemy lines with little or no backup. Dropping into the middle of enemy territory, these "Sky Men"- British, American, German, and Russian soldiers - engage in gruelling combat in the most dangerous conflict zones around the world. Ex-Parachute Regiment officer Robert Kershaw reveals the history of these airborne forces and their role during the most dramatic battles of the 20th century. He finds out what drives a "Sky Man" to take these extraordinary risks, and what marks these sky warriors out from ordinary soldiers. How do military paratroopers conquer the fear of jumping from aircraft at low level, by night, and frequently under fire? Has the helicopter replaced the need for parachutists in the 21st Century? Has the increasing lethality of anti-aircraft weapons made the airborne option redundant? These issues are examined alongside the personal experiences of the Soviet "Locust Warriors," German Fallschirmjäger, British Red Devils, American "devils in baggy-pants," and Les Paras. Based on letters, diaries, and exclusive interviews with soldiers from around the world, this book is full of vivid personalities and nail-biting action.Index, bibliography, notes, ill (b/w), p.348.From the 1930s through WWII to Afghanistan today, from total war to counterinsurgency, this history unravels and defines the intangible qualities that differentiate the "Sky Men" from other soldiers Seventy years ago the Parachute Regiment was formed - the army's elite air assault force was tough, well-trained, and designed to fight hazardous operations behind enemy lines with little or no backup. Dropping into the middle of enemy territory, these "Sky Men"- British, American, German, and Russian soldiers - engage in gruelling combat in the most dangerous conflict zones around the world. Ex-Parachute Regiment officer Robert Kershaw reveals the history of these airborne forces and their role during the most dramatic battles of the 20th century. He finds out what drives a "Sky Man" to take these extraordinary risks, and what marks these sky warriors out from ordinary soldiers. How do military paratroopers conquer the fear of jumping from aircraft at low level, by night, and frequently under fire? Has the helicopter replaced the need for parachutists in the 21st Century? Has the increasing lethality of anti-aircraft weapons made the airborne option redundant? These issues are examined alongside the personal experiences of the Soviet "Locust Warriors," German Fallschirmjäger, British Red Devils, American "devils in baggy-pants," and Les Paras. Based on letters, diaries, and exclusive interviews with soldiers from around the world, this book is full of vivid personalities and nail-biting action.great britain - history - military, great britain - parachute regiment -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, NAL Caliber, Final patrol : true stories of World War II submarines, 2006
... percentage of casualties of any branch of the American armed forces ...During World War II, the U.S. Navy's submarine service suffered the highest percentage of casualties of any branch of the American armed forces. One in five submariners was lost. But despite the odds, these underwater warriors accounted for almost sixty percent of Japanese shipping losses and were a major factor in winning the war.Index, ill, p.331.During World War II, the U.S. Navy's submarine service suffered the highest percentage of casualties of any branch of the American armed forces. One in five submariners was lost. But despite the odds, these underwater warriors accounted for almost sixty percent of Japanese shipping losses and were a major factor in winning the war.submarine warfare - world war ii, world war 1939-1945 - naval operations - united states -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Doubleday, Arms and equipment of the Civil War, 1962
A guide to the weapons and equipment used during the Civil War when the metallic cartridge and repeating rifles were first introduced. A description of the implements employed by the forces of both sides.Index, ill, p.160.non-fictionA guide to the weapons and equipment used during the Civil War when the metallic cartridge and repeating rifles were first introduced. A description of the implements employed by the forces of both sides.american civil war 1861-1865, american civil war - armaments -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Edward Jablonski, America in the air war, 1982
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the Army Air Forces had only 1,100 combat-ready planes. No one could have imagined then that within the next four years the AAF would become the mighty weapon commemorated in the paintings reproduced on the following pages, or that it would have to scope to engage in what its commander, General Henry H. "Hap" Arnold, described as a "global mission." Nevertheless, by 1944 the AAF had grown into 16 separate air forces stationed around the world, and its 1,100 planes had grown to nearly 80,000.Index, bib, ill, p.171.non-fictionWhen the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the Army Air Forces had only 1,100 combat-ready planes. No one could have imagined then that within the next four years the AAF would become the mighty weapon commemorated in the paintings reproduced on the following pages, or that it would have to scope to engage in what its commander, General Henry H. "Hap" Arnold, described as a "global mission." Nevertheless, by 1944 the AAF had grown into 16 separate air forces stationed around the world, and its 1,100 planes had grown to nearly 80,000. world war 1939-1945 - aerial operations - united states, united states air force - history - 1939-1945 -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Aviation Historical Society of the Northern Territory, Darwin's air war : 1942-1945, an illustrated history, 1991
Contents : Introduction. The defence build up, Darwin 1920's to 1942. 19 February 1942, the first raids. Initial defence, American and Australian Kittyhawks. Striking back with Hudsons & Beaufighters. Colour plates the 49 FighterGroup USAAD. The Spitfires arrive No 1 fighter wing RAAF. The heavy bombers USAAF and RAAF strikes. Staging the offensive, the war moves North. Pilot profiles. Conclusion, Darwin's present defences. Air forces. World War 2. Warfare.Bib, ill, maps, p.80.non-fictionContents : Introduction. The defence build up, Darwin 1920's to 1942. 19 February 1942, the first raids. Initial defence, American and Australian Kittyhawks. Striking back with Hudsons & Beaufighters. Colour plates the 49 FighterGroup USAAD. The Spitfires arrive No 1 fighter wing RAAF. The heavy bombers USAAF and RAAF strikes. Staging the offensive, the war moves North. Pilot profiles. Conclusion, Darwin's present defences. Air forces. World War 2. Warfare. world war 1939-1945 - aerial operations - northern territory, darwin - bombardment - 1942-1945 -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Pan Books, Operation Torch: Anglo American invasion of North Africa, 1972
The invasion by allied forces in North Africa in 1942Ill, maps, p.159.non-fictionThe invasion by allied forces in North Africa in 1942world war 1939-1945 - campaigns - north africa, operation torch -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Print Kapyong, Kapyong
On 23 April, the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR), under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Bruce Ferguson, and the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, occupied prominent hills on either side of the seven-kilometre-wide valley, where a small tributary joined the Kapyong River. Also forward were headquarters units, tanks and artillery. The 1st Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, were to the rear. Early in the evening, retreating South Koreans streamed past the Commonwealth position, with Chinese forces closely intermingled. Soon afterwards a platoon of American tanks supporting 3 RAR was overrun. The Kapyong valley was too large an area to defend with the forces available, and the brigade was spread very thinly. Throughout the night the Chinese repeatedly pressed the Australian positions, attacking in waves over their own dead and wounded. At dawn, A Company, under the command of Major Bernard "Ben" O'Dowd, found that the Chinese had infiltrated its position, but a counter-attack was able to eject them. Meanwhile B Company, which had spent the night on a hill near the riiver, discovered Chinese occupying some old bunkers on a small knoll. Hand-to-hand fighting ensued with grenades and bayonets. C Company, under the command of Captain Reg Saunders, was in position to reinforce both A and B Companies. "Major O'Dowd then directed the radio operator to contact anyone. The American 1st Marine Division answered but their operator refused to believe who our operator was speaking for. Major O'Dowd took the phone and demanded to speak to the commanding officer. The general in charge of the [Marine] division came on the phone and told O'Dowd we didn't exist as we had been wiped out the night before. Major O'Dowd said, 'I've got news for you, we are still here and we are staying here.'" Private Patrick Knowles, 3 RAR, on the morning of 24 April 1951 Fighting continued throughout the day with the Australians holding their positions, and the Chinese also engaging D Company. But late on 24 April, with their position now untenable, the Australians were forced into a fighting withdrawal down a ridge to the valley, where they rejoined the brigade. Their withdrawal was supported by New Zealand artillery from the 16th Field Regiment. Having found the Canadian position unassailable, the Chinese made no further attacks. By the afternoon of 25 April the road through to the Canadians had been cleared of Chinese and 2 PPCLI was relieved by US Army units. On Anzac Day 1951, the Australians rested after a long fight. Thirty-two Australians were killed and 53 were wounded for their part in stalling the Chinese advance and preventing Seoul from falling into enemy hands. Lieutenant Colonel Bruce Ferguson was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his skilful leadership, and the Australian and Canadian battalions both received United States Presidential Distinguished Unit Citations for their part in the battle. http://www.awm.gov.au/exhibitions/korea/operations/kapyong/Print of painting of action in Kapyong Korea in wooden frame under glassDonated by Frank Arnold on behalf of Korean Veterans Association of Australia inc.korea, kapyong, 3rar -
The Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Reginald Thompson, Cry Korea, 1952
From September 1950 Reginald Thompson reported from the frontline during the four months in which the Korean War was 'won' and 'lost'. After the Inchon landings, he followed UN forces up to the Chinese border and back, witnessing scenes of appalling brutality. No newcomer to war, Thompson was sickened by the carnage left in the wake of America s military machine, and horrified by the implications of this new form of warfare. Cry Korea is not only a powerful piece of reportage, but a cry for us all to examine the all too resonant issues of modern conflict and intervention.Index, ill, p.303.non-fictionFrom September 1950 Reginald Thompson reported from the frontline during the four months in which the Korean War was 'won' and 'lost'. After the Inchon landings, he followed UN forces up to the Chinese border and back, witnessing scenes of appalling brutality. No newcomer to war, Thompson was sickened by the carnage left in the wake of America s military machine, and horrified by the implications of this new form of warfare. Cry Korea is not only a powerful piece of reportage, but a cry for us all to examine the all too resonant issues of modern conflict and intervention.korean war 1950-1953 - history, korean war - american participation -
The Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Angus and Robertson, On target: with the American and Australian Anti- aircraft Brigade in New Guinea, 1943
The American and Australian ack ack brigade in New GuinesIll, p.172.non-fictionThe American and Australian ack ack brigade in New Guinesworld war 1939-1945 - anti-aircraft artillery, world war 1939-1945 - campaigns - new guinea -
Wangaratta High School
British Commonwealth Army Helmet, 1916-1961
... British Empire/Commonwealth Forces. Even the American... and saw service with all British Empire/Commonwealth Forces. Even ...Colloquially called the 'Tin Hat' this helmet was designed by John L Brodie in response to the French helmets. It was easilly pressed from a single sheet of steel and saw service with all British Empire/Commonwealth Forces. Even the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) of World War I succumbed to its charms, and it also featured in early United States battles with Japan in the Pacific during World War II.Khaki steel helmet with brown leather straps -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
HMAS Bataan Plaque, Circa 1950s
The Battle of Bataan is famous in history as one of the last stands of American and Filipino soldiers before they were overwhelmed by the Japanese Forces in WW11. The Bataan Death March was named after the province where the infamous March started. Approximately 75,000 Filipino and American troops on Bataan were forced to make an arduous 65 mile march to the prison camps.Wooden plaque with metal shield attached. Shield shows eagle with out spread wings standing on dark blue wreath with gold castle inside on light blue background.Shield is inscribed with BATAAN at top and the motto UNQUIBUS ET ROSTRO below. -
Bendigo Military Museum
Souvenir - SOUVENIR WW1, FRAMED
Made for Mr & Mrs William Moore, 7 Pitt Street, Bendigo by the mother of Charlie, one of 3 American Soldiers billeted during WWII.Dark brown wooden frame with glass front & white cardboard backing. Red top & gold bottom silk background with white woven lace border. Embroidery consists of Union Jack & Australian flags with souvenir of Egypt at top, Commonwealth Forces badge in centre & a floral arrangement under the badge.Embroidered at bottom: "To Lou & Will with love from Charlie"passchendaele barracks trust, embroidery, silk, eygpt, souvenir -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, People of USA Tribute to Armed Forces
Framed colour Photograph of a Plaque and Display Case " THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA PAY TRIBUTE TO THOSE MEMBERS OF ITS ARMED FORCES WHO SERVED HONORABLY IN SOUTHEAST ASIA DURING THE VIETNAM CONFLICT"photograph, us military