Showing 166 items
matching new guinea in world war 2
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Montmorency/Eltham RSL Sub Branch
Functional object - Christmas Day Menu H.M.A.H.S. Wanganella
During World War II, Wanganella was converted to serve as an Australian Hospital Ship (AHS). Between 19 May 1941 and 1946, AHS Wanganella carried wounded and sick evacuees from the Middle East, New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Borneo and the South Pacific, travelling over 251,011 nautical miles (464,872 km) and transporting 13,385 wounded. A.H.S Wanganella 2/2nd Australian Hospital ship. Ref: "Hospital Ships" Rupert Goodman SLV LT 359.8364 0994 G62H Trip 8 Depart 12th Nov 1942 Melbourne Fremantle Aden 10th - 11th Dec 1942 Port Tewfik, Egypt 21st - 22nd Dec 1942 Colombo, Sri Lanka 01 Jan 1943 Fremantle Adelaide Melbourne Sydney Arrived 13th Jan 1943 Brisbane Wanganella left Colombo 22nd December 1942 for Fremantle, with patients who boarded at Port Tewfik in Egypt arriving on New Year's day 1943. The menu is printed on fawn cardboard. The menu has been torn along the spine and rearranged at some time to put on display. There is evidence of glue or tape damage at the back of each corner of the card. Some grease and finger marks are evident on the front and back of the card. The printing is very legible. The heading 'Christmas Greetings' is at the top of the front page and 'Christmas Day 1942' at the bottom of the page. Originally the menu was assembled as a leaflet with the menu on the inside of the second sheet. Since this time, the menu has been torn along the middle fold and the second page sheet taped to the first page. There is a red cross on the front page with a printed illustration of the Wanganella superimposed over the top. H.M.A.H.S. Wanganella and the dinner menu are printed in dark blue ink. The Christmas greetings and the names of the commander and officer in command of the troops are printed in light blue ink. h.m.a.h.s. wanganella, w.w.ii hospital ship -
Glenelg Shire Council Cultural Collection
Photograph - Photograph - Colonel (RTD) Sydney Patterson, M.C., M.I.D, c. 1950
On display in History House.Black and white photograph of man in military uniform, with peaked hat. Badges are pinned to hat and left lapel. ¾ turn to right. Below image is text stating man's identity and positions.Front: Colonel (RTD) Sydney Patterson M.C., M.I.D., War Service World War 1. Served from 1914-1919 New Guinea (Naval Force) 1914. Egypt, France, Belgium 1915-1919, 20th Batalion A.I.F.M.I.D. 1916, M.C. 1917. Commissioned on the Field. Twice wounded. World War 2. Served from 1939-1945 Australia (Darwin) New Guinea, New Britain, etc. Captain 1939, Adj. No. 7 Aust Int. Training Centre, 1941. G.S.O. 3 (O) G. Branch A.H.Q. 1942. Major R.A.E. (Docks) 1942. L.L. Colonel R.A.E. C.R.E 3rd Aust. Dock Group. CIVIC SERVICE Councillor, Portland 1931-1940 (Resigned for War Service) 1945-1957. Mayor of Portland 1935, 1938, 1939-40, 1949-50, 1953-54. Harbour Trust Commissioner, appointed March 1950 (1950-1957). Back: Mr. Stevenson (pencil, centre) -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Personal Effects. 'Philips" electric Shaver, c1977
Established in 1891 in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, Philips & Co. was founded to meet the growing demand for light bulbs following the commercialization of electricity. Science and technology underwent tremendous development in the 1940s and 1950s, with Philips Research inventing the rotary heads that led to the development of the Philishave electric shaver, and laying down the basis for later ground-breaking work in transistors and integrated circuits.Philishave was the brand name for the electric shavers manufactured by the Philips Domestic Appliances and Personal Care unit of Philips They used the Philishave brand name for their shavers from 1939 to 2006. The Philishave shaver was invented by Philips engineer Alexandre Horowitz, who used rotating cutters instead of the reciprocating cutters that had been used in previous electric shavers. The shaver was introduced in 1939, though initial production was limited due to the outbreak of World War II. A more ergonomic egg-shaped single-head model was introduced in 1948 and was designed by US industrial designer Raymond Loewy. Global sales increased markedly after a double-head model was introduced in 1951. As a spin off from the light bulb and research is the dynamo-powered bicycle lamp. Its rotating power system inspires the Philishave triple head electric razor. A triple-head model was test marketed in Australia and New Zealand in 1956, but would not be introduced globally until 1966. The brand name Philishave was phased out in 2006 so shavers now bear only the Philips name. Mr Alfred William ( Bill ) Roper, 1913 - 1996 grew up in Ripponlea, ( East St Kilda ) Victoria. As a child he went with his father Arthur Leopold Roper to purchase vegetables from the Moorabbin Chinese market gardeners at the Hotham St. / Nepean Highway corner. c1920 . Bill served in WW2 in New Guinea and post war was Army Auditor, Victoria Barracks, St Kilda Road Melbourne. His staff presented this 'Philishave upon his retirement and he used it until his death1996. He lived in Carlton, Belgrave, Ascot Vale, South Yarra, East St Kilda and moved to Bentleigh in 1987.A ‘Philishave’ triple head electric razor , with cord, head protector and cleaning brush in a hinged plastic case The case has compartments, for Razor and cord, that are lined with a mustard coloured, soft, synthetic material .Case top PHILIPS ; inside EXCLUSIVE PHILISHAVE Razor Handle front PHILIPS / PHILISHAVE; back Type HP 1121/ 110-130V/ 220-240 V / PHILIPS Shield / ? Shield / BS 3456 / V 75255 / MADE IN HOLLAND Nameplate Presented to / BILL ROPER / On the occasion of his retirement / BY THE STAFF OF / DEFENCE AUDIT BRANCH / May 1977 philishave, royal philips electric company, razors, electric razors, bentleigh, moorabbin, market gardeners, st kilda markets, world war 2 1939-1945, department of defence melbourne, melbourne, roper alfred william, roper arthur leopold, ripponlea, chinese market gardeners -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Presentation Binder & Case, Lt Col Frank Pearson OAM ED EM, 2010
Lt Col Pearson served in the Australian Army from 1930, then in World War 2. Postings included 1/54 AA Coy in Darwin and and 2/6 Aust Armoured Regt in New Guinea. After the war he was appointed Commanding Officer of 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Armoured Regiment (CMF). Frank was instrumental in establishing the unit museum.Loose leaf presentation binder presenting the service history and CV of Lt Col Frank Pearson.lt col frank pearson, biography -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Book, Colonel E G Keogh M.B.E., E.D, The South West Pacific 1941-45, 1965
A book on war in New Guinea and Islands providing a detailed overview of Australian forces participation in the Battle for Australia. Concise for Kokoda and Milne Bay including copy of battle maps, but also covers Singapore, Borneo, Philippines, Wewak and Bougainville, and more.Hard covered book, 479 pages, WW11 Australian soldier on front cover bearing sub-machine gun and pistolnon-fictionA book on war in New Guinea and Islands providing a detailed overview of Australian forces participation in the Battle for Australia. Concise for Kokoda and Milne Bay including copy of battle maps, but also covers Singapore, Borneo, Philippines, Wewak and Bougainville, and more.history, world war 2, south west pacific, keogh -
Australian Commando Association - Victoria
Book, Z Special- Desert-Jungle- Sabotage
When Lloyd Campbell joined the AIF, he was underage and went to the Middle East with 2/17 Battalion. Later in New Guinea he made a major career change and volunteered for an unknown unit and special operations. What he had joined was the SRD – known as Z-Special Unit. Z Special Unit—also known as Special Operations Executive (SOE), Special Operations Australia (SOA) or the Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD)—was a joint Allied special forces unit formed during the Second World War to operate behind Japanese lines in South East Asia. Predominantly Australian, Z Special Unit was a specialist reconnaissance and sabotage unit that included British, Dutch, New Zealand, Timorese and Indonesian members, predominantly operating on Borneo and the islands of the former Netherlands East Indies. The unit carried out a total of 81 covert operations in the South West Pacific theatre, with parties inserted by parachute or submarine to provide intelligence and conduct guerrilla warfare. The best known of these missions were Operation Jaywick and Operation Rimau, both of which involved raids on Japanese shipping in Singapore Harbour; the latter of which resulted in the deaths of 23 commandos either in action or by execution after capture. Although the unit was disbanded after the war, many of the training techniques and operational procedures employed were later used during the formation of other Australian Army special forces units and they remain a model for guerrilla operations to this day. pp. 274, illusts, maps ww2, the australian special operations, special forces, z special unit -
Australian Commando Association - Victoria
Work on paper - Sketch of John Veira Timor 1942, 1942-43
Corporal Francis John Papworth (VX66806) served in the 2/2 Australian Commando Squadron in Timor, New Guinea and Borneo, Tarakan during World War II. His pencil drawn images of the John Viera and his family during 1942. This work of soldiers is significant as a work produced by a serving soldier on location during WWII and is a unique example of an artistic work showing the men and their surroundings at the time. Strong provenance as part of the family collection.Multiple pencil drawings on white paper board showing three drawings images of John Viera and his family by Corporal F. J. Papworth during his Commando service on Timor in 1942 during World War II. One of the drawings is of John Viera, five rough drawings and a sketch of the Viera family group.john viera and his family during 1942 -
Federation University Historical Collection
Badge, Chatham-Holmes Collection: Black and Yellow Army Patch/Badge
Unlike most Australian armoured formations that served only in Australia, the 4th had been organised for “tropical” service and its regiments were equipped with Matilda tanks. Matilda tanks were ideal for supporting the infantry’s operations in the Pacific. In June the brigade moved to Southport, on the Gold Coast, but two months later was transferred to Madang, New Guinea, where it replaced the 1st Tank Battalion. (https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U54340, accessed 07 September 2018)Gold shaped badge with pin with the Colour Patch of the Second 4th Australian Armoured Regiment.armoured, tank, war, chatham-holmes collection, samuel spittle, world war two, sweetheart brooch, 2/4 armoured regiment, armoured regiment, jewellery -
Red Cliffs Military Museum
Carved Stick
Note with Stick. Kairivu New Guinea This carved stick is Kunja cane of New Guinea. When the war ended my company was in Kairivu, the last outpost in the world to get official notification of the Peace. During the time of waiting for the word from Wewak, for something to do, Dagwood Williamson with the aid of a pen-knife and a nail file carved the names of the places we had been and the name of our Stretcher Bearer Unit - 2/7 Battalion. Next to the Doctor at Regimental Aide Post [R.A. P.]. I was Sgt. in Charge of Stretcher Bearers and when Dagwood Williamson asked me to accept the cane for safe keeping I was pleased to do so. Now most of the boys have gone, so now over to you to look after it, it is the only one in the -----WORLD. Stan Hair Red Cliffs. March 1999The carved stick is made from Kunja Cane of New Guinea. It was hand carved with the names and places the 2/7th Battalion Stretcher bearer unit. Carved by Dagwood Williamson, with the aid of a Penknife and a nail file.Highly decorated and has the names Aitape, Balif, Banyak, Maprik, Yamil, Kiarivu, Wewak, New Guinea, 1944-1945, 2/7th Btn, 6 Div, As a list. Stretcher bearers, Lofty, Stan, Norm, Bob, Jacko, Dagwood, Aussie, Mick, Lyle, Sam, Reg, Ocker, Hulla, Luppy, Stewy, Smithy, Harvey, Graham, Don, Dave, Mac x, Farmer, Vince, Farnell, Lightning. -
Australian Commando Association - Victoria
Booklet - Sketch Book, Corporal Francis John Papworth, 5:MMMM, 1945 (exact)
Corporal Francis John Papworth (VX66806) served in the 2/4 Australian Commando Squadron in Timor, New Guinea and Borneo, Tarakan during World War II. His pencil drawn images of the Tarakan camp during May 1945 give an insight into the conditions at that time.Brown cardboard, spiral bound 'The Empire Sketch Book' with five pencil drawings on art paper by Corporal F. J. Papworth during his Commando service at Tarakan Hill, Borneo during World War II. Three of the drawings depict the army camp at Tarakan Hill during May 1945; the fourth drawing shows a young boy from Tarakan sitting on an army jeep and the last is a rough sketch of a baby drawn in 1947. Sketch Book of Corporal Francis John Papworth during World War IIOn front cover in handwritten in ink "PIC of Geo-Wallace/INSIDE". On first drawing handwritten in pencil on top righthand corner "TARAKAN HILL/looking NNE from machine shop section of Tarakan Oilfield/May 15 1945". On second drawing handwritten in pencil at bottom righthand corner "TARAKAN HILL looking from BANK pill box right centre -/15 May 45". On third drawing handwritten in pencil at top righthand corner "TARAKAN HILL and DUTCH/MACHINE SHOPS-Looking from KINGS CROSS/The morning of the 4th May 1945-/0745 hrs-/The Quiet before the storm". On fourth drawing handwritten in top in pencil "Salamit - Peace or Peaceful[l] Used as a Greeting/Salamit-/ORONG LAKI LAKI/TARAKAN. BORNEO/19 MAY 45." All four sketches are signed "John Papworth/Tarakan 1945".On fifth sketch handwritten in pencil "Michael/Signed by/2 Feb 1947".book, world war ii, military, sketch, tarakan, borneo, commando, papworth, may 1945, pencil drawings, wwii, world war 2 -
Australian Commando Association - Victoria
Book, Commando White Diamond: Unt History of the 2/8th Australian Commando Squadron, 1996
The detailed history of the No.8 Independent Commando Company during World War II. Plastic protective cover over the book. The 2/8th Independent Company was formed at Wilson’s Promontory, Victoria, in July 1942 and travelled to Yandina, in Queensland, in September. While the other seven independent companies saw action in the islands off Australian and in New Guinea, the 2/8th spent most of the next two years based at Adelaide River, in the Northern Territory. While it was in the Territory, the independent companies underwent a series of reorganisations and the name of the 2/8th was changed from the 2/8th Independent Company to the 2/8th Cavalry (Commando) Squadron. This name was later simplified to just commando squadron. In July 1944, after years of waiting, the squadron left the Territory and sailed from Townsville to Lae, via Milne Bay. While at Lae, the squadron received an intake of 70 men from the 2/8th from the 2/3rd, 2/5th and 2/6th Cavalry (Commando) Squadrons, many of whom were veterans of the earlier New Guinea campaigns. Their experience was no doubt a useful reserve that would have been called upon during the 2/8th’s subsequent campaign in Bougainville. Others though, were able to implement some of their commando training when a small group from the 2/8th they made a secret landing on New Britain. Towards the end of the 1944 the 5th Division was preparing to make a landing at Jacquinot Bay in New Britain. Part of these preparations included landing a small group of officers from the division at Jacquinot Bay to make a secret reconnaissance of the potential landing site. As Jacquinot Bay was still in Japanese controlled territory, ‘C’ Troop from the 2/8th provided the protection for the reconnaissance party by establishing a position on the beach and by patrolling the surrounding country. Everything went well and the 5th Division later landed at Jacquinot Bay in November. The squadron too was on the move, and in October it sailed to Torokina, the main Australian base on Bougainville, where it joined the II Australian Corps. The campaign on Bougainville was dived into three areas, the Central, Northern and Southern Sectors. The 2/8th served in the latter two areas. The 2/8th made the first move of the Australian campaign in the Northern Sector, by patrolling from Torokina to Kuraio Mission and Amun once a week. The squadron did this from the second week of November unit the second week of December. The 2/8th was then transferred to the Southern Sector. The main battle for Bougainville was fought in the Southern Sector, as the 3rd Division advanced towards Buin – the main Japanese base on the island. As the division’s infantry brigades advanced along the coast, the 2/8th’s task was to protect their flank by conducting forward reconnaissance patrols, harassing the Japanese with raids and ambushes and conducting a form of guerrilla warfare. The squadron had a long campaign. For nine months, from the end of December until August 1945, the troopers were in action the whole time. After securing the Jaba River, they moved inland, first to Sovele Mission, then the villages of Opai, Nihero and Morokaimoro. They had reached Kilipaijino by the end of the war. Each village taken became a patrol base. Patrols were usually limited to two sections, although up to six sections could be operating at a time. Patrols generally lasted four to six days, but nine-day patrols were not unknown. The squadron collected and collated track information, terrain reports and located the enemy. Once patrols had gathered information, they were free to make a ‘strike’ against the Japanese by setting an ambush or taking a prisoner. These raids were very effective, as they forced the Japanese to deploy troops to their rear areas, removing men from the front created by the infantry. Following Japan’s surrender and the end of the war, the ranks of the squadron thinned quickly as men were discharged or were transferred to other units. For those who were left, the squadron returned to Australia at the end of December. In mid January 1946, at Liverpool, the 2/8th Commando Squadron was disbanded.non-fictionThe detailed history of the No.8 Independent Commando Company during World War II. Plastic protective cover over the book. The 2/8th Independent Company was formed at Wilson’s Promontory, Victoria, in July 1942 and travelled to Yandina, in Queensland, in September. While the other seven independent companies saw action in the islands off Australian and in New Guinea, the 2/8th spent most of the next two years based at Adelaide River, in the Northern Territory. While it was in the Territory, the independent companies underwent a series of reorganisations and the name of the 2/8th was changed from the 2/8th Independent Company to the 2/8th Cavalry (Commando) Squadron. This name was later simplified to just commando squadron. In July 1944, after years of waiting, the squadron left the Territory and sailed from Townsville to Lae, via Milne Bay. While at Lae, the squadron received an intake of 70 men from the 2/8th from the 2/3rd, 2/5th and 2/6th Cavalry (Commando) Squadrons, many of whom were veterans of the earlier New Guinea campaigns. Their experience was no doubt a useful reserve that would have been called upon during the 2/8th’s subsequent campaign in Bougainville. Others though, were able to implement some of their commando training when a small group from the 2/8th they made a secret landing on New Britain. Towards the end of the 1944 the 5th Division was preparing to make a landing at Jacquinot Bay in New Britain. Part of these preparations included landing a small group of officers from the division at Jacquinot Bay to make a secret reconnaissance of the potential landing site. As Jacquinot Bay was still in Japanese controlled territory, ‘C’ Troop from the 2/8th provided the protection for the reconnaissance party by establishing a position on the beach and by patrolling the surrounding country. Everything went well and the 5th Division later landed at Jacquinot Bay in November. The squadron too was on the move, and in October it sailed to Torokina, the main Australian base on Bougainville, where it joined the II Australian Corps. The campaign on Bougainville was dived into three areas, the Central, Northern and Southern Sectors. The 2/8th served in the latter two areas. The 2/8th made the first move of the Australian campaign in the Northern Sector, by patrolling from Torokina to Kuraio Mission and Amun once a week. The squadron did this from the second week of November unit the second week of December. The 2/8th was then transferred to the Southern Sector. The main battle for Bougainville was fought in the Southern Sector, as the 3rd Division advanced towards Buin – the main Japanese base on the island. As the division’s infantry brigades advanced along the coast, the 2/8th’s task was to protect their flank by conducting forward reconnaissance patrols, harassing the Japanese with raids and ambushes and conducting a form of guerrilla warfare. The squadron had a long campaign. For nine months, from the end of December until August 1945, the troopers were in action the whole time. After securing the Jaba River, they moved inland, first to Sovele Mission, then the villages of Opai, Nihero and Morokaimoro. They had reached Kilipaijino by the end of the war. Each village taken became a patrol base. Patrols were usually limited to two sections, although up to six sections could be operating at a time. Patrols generally lasted four to six days, but nine-day patrols were not unknown. The squadron collected and collated track information, terrain reports and located the enemy. Once patrols had gathered information, they were free to make a ‘strike’ against the Japanese by setting an ambush or taking a prisoner. These raids were very effective, as they forced the Japanese to deploy troops to their rear areas, removing men from the front created by the infantry. Following Japan’s surrender and the end of the war, the ranks of the squadron thinned quickly as men were discharged or were transferred to other units. For those who were left, the squadron returned to Australia at the end of December. In mid January 1946, at Liverpool, the 2/8th Commando Squadron was disbanded. -
Australian Commando Association - Victoria
Book - 6th Div, Shawn OLeary, To The Green Fields Beyond:The story of the 6th Division Cavalry Commandos
The comprehensive history of the 6th Australian Division Cavalry Commandos – a (now out of print) reprint of one of the rarer Armoured unit history books. This is the story of one of Australia’s most famous fighting regiments during World War II. As an armoured cavalry unit it fought the Italians and Germans in the sands of the African desert and the Vichy French in the mountains of Syria. Later as a dismounted commando unit it fought the Japanese in the terrifying jungles of New Guinea. The heroism of the men in its ranks and the actions in which they engaged are portrayed in a way which makes battle deeds leap realistically from the pages. “To The Green Fields Beyond” is a documented and detailed book which is of value to everyone who is interested in Australia’s story. Seldom before has such a contribution been made to record of our national history. The book has been approved and sponsored by the Australian War Memorial. The 6th Division Cavalry Regiment was formed in November 1939 and, just two months later, was sent overseas to the Middle East in January 1940. Arriving in Egypt, the regiment immediately went to Palestine, where it joined the rest of the 6th Division and trained using machine-gun carriers and, from October, six old Vickers light tanks. At the end of the year the regiment moved into the Western Desert, where it joined British forces ready for the major offensive to commence on 9 December. Two days later the regiment became the first unit of the 2nd Australian Imperial Force (AIF) to go into action when one of its squadron fought a sharp action against the Italians holding Garn el Grein and Fort Maddalina on 11 and 12 December. By 21 December British forces had captured Sidi Barrrani and the desert was now open for the 6th Division’s advance along the Libyan coast. On 3 January 1941 the division attacked and captured the Italian fort of Bardia. The regiment’s A Squadron, under the command of Major Denzil Macarthur-Onslow, who went on to command the 4th Armoured Brigade, supported the attack. Tobruk was the next Italian fort to be captured, with the regiment again in support and covering the 19th Brigade’s advance. The regiment, though, was under-equipped and without its full compliment of vehicles, using only machine gun carriers. To compensate for this, A Squadron was parity re-equipped with captured Italian light tanks, which had large kangaroos painted on the hulls and turrets to distinguish them from enemy vehicles. After Tobruk, the regiment was used as part of the advance guard in the capture of Derna and then Benghazi. In April the unit moved to Helwan, where it was equipped with Vickers light tanks and machine-gun carriers, and operated with British troops in capturing Sollum. Towards the end of May the regiment moved to Palestine, where it came under the command of the 7th Division for the imminent invasion of Syria. The regiment experienced its heaviest fighting during the Syrian campaign, which began on 7 June. A Squadron was attached to the 21st Brigade and advanced along the coast, where the rugged hills made it difficult to manoeuvre the tanks and carriers. The squadron was relieved by one of the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment’s squadrons on 13 and 14 June. C Squadron, meanwhile, was with the 25th Brigade, and advanced along the Rosh Pinna road, engaging strong enemy defences at Fort Khirbe. C Squadron was relieved by B Squadron, which was later attacked by Vichy French tanks that were supported by heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, which forced the Australians to withdrawal. Always willing or needing to improvise during the campaign, A and B Squadrons both operated three captured French R35 Renault light tanks, while C Squadron provided personnel for a horse troop, quickly nicknamed the “Kelly Gang”, to patrol the high, rugged hills near the Mardjayoun–Banis Road. The regiment remained in Syria as part of the occupation force and returned to Australia in March 1942. It was sent to the Adelaide River, in the Northern Territory, and then later to Murgon, in Queensland. In 1943 and 1944 divisional cavalry regiments were reorganised into cavalry (commando) regiments. In January 1944 the 6th Division Cavalry Regiment became the 2/6th Cavalry (Commando) Regiment. The regiment lost its vehicles and became the administrative headquarters for the 2/7th, 2/9th, and 2/10th Commando Squadrons. The regiment remained with the 6th Division and participated in the Aitpae–Wewak campaign, in New Guinea, during 1945. Includes Nominal Rollnon-fictionThe comprehensive history of the 6th Australian Division Cavalry Commandos – a (now out of print) reprint of one of the rarer Armoured unit history books. This is the story of one of Australia’s most famous fighting regiments during World War II. As an armoured cavalry unit it fought the Italians and Germans in the sands of the African desert and the Vichy French in the mountains of Syria. Later as a dismounted commando unit it fought the Japanese in the terrifying jungles of New Guinea. The heroism of the men in its ranks and the actions in which they engaged are portrayed in a way which makes battle deeds leap realistically from the pages. “To The Green Fields Beyond” is a documented and detailed book which is of value to everyone who is interested in Australia’s story. Seldom before has such a contribution been made to record of our national history. The book has been approved and sponsored by the Australian War Memorial. The 6th Division Cavalry Regiment was formed in November 1939 and, just two months later, was sent overseas to the Middle East in January 1940. Arriving in Egypt, the regiment immediately went to Palestine, where it joined the rest of the 6th Division and trained using machine-gun carriers and, from October, six old Vickers light tanks. At the end of the year the regiment moved into the Western Desert, where it joined British forces ready for the major offensive to commence on 9 December. Two days later the regiment became the first unit of the 2nd Australian Imperial Force (AIF) to go into action when one of its squadron fought a sharp action against the Italians holding Garn el Grein and Fort Maddalina on 11 and 12 December. By 21 December British forces had captured Sidi Barrrani and the desert was now open for the 6th Division’s advance along the Libyan coast. On 3 January 1941 the division attacked and captured the Italian fort of Bardia. The regiment’s A Squadron, under the command of Major Denzil Macarthur-Onslow, who went on to command the 4th Armoured Brigade, supported the attack. Tobruk was the next Italian fort to be captured, with the regiment again in support and covering the 19th Brigade’s advance. The regiment, though, was under-equipped and without its full compliment of vehicles, using only machine gun carriers. To compensate for this, A Squadron was parity re-equipped with captured Italian light tanks, which had large kangaroos painted on the hulls and turrets to distinguish them from enemy vehicles. After Tobruk, the regiment was used as part of the advance guard in the capture of Derna and then Benghazi. In April the unit moved to Helwan, where it was equipped with Vickers light tanks and machine-gun carriers, and operated with British troops in capturing Sollum. Towards the end of May the regiment moved to Palestine, where it came under the command of the 7th Division for the imminent invasion of Syria. The regiment experienced its heaviest fighting during the Syrian campaign, which began on 7 June. A Squadron was attached to the 21st Brigade and advanced along the coast, where the rugged hills made it difficult to manoeuvre the tanks and carriers. The squadron was relieved by one of the 9th Division Cavalry Regiment’s squadrons on 13 and 14 June. C Squadron, meanwhile, was with the 25th Brigade, and advanced along the Rosh Pinna road, engaging strong enemy defences at Fort Khirbe. C Squadron was relieved by B Squadron, which was later attacked by Vichy French tanks that were supported by heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, which forced the Australians to withdrawal. Always willing or needing to improvise during the campaign, A and B Squadrons both operated three captured French R35 Renault light tanks, while C Squadron provided personnel for a horse troop, quickly nicknamed the “Kelly Gang”, to patrol the high, rugged hills near the Mardjayoun–Banis Road. The regiment remained in Syria as part of the occupation force and returned to Australia in March 1942. It was sent to the Adelaide River, in the Northern Territory, and then later to Murgon, in Queensland. In 1943 and 1944 divisional cavalry regiments were reorganised into cavalry (commando) regiments. In January 1944 the 6th Division Cavalry Regiment became the 2/6th Cavalry (Commando) Regiment. The regiment lost its vehicles and became the administrative headquarters for the 2/7th, 2/9th, and 2/10th Commando Squadrons. The regiment remained with the 6th Division and participated in the Aitpae–Wewak campaign, in New Guinea, during 1945. Includes Nominal Rollww2, australian commandos, australian special forces, world war 2 -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
WW2 Medal for Women relatives of serving soldiers, 1942
Female Relative Badges were issued to the nearest female relative (usually wives or mothers) of those who engaged in active service overseas during the First and Second World Wars. For active service abroad during the Second World War, a single badge was issued to the nearest female relative of members of the RAN, the Australian Imperial Force (including members of the Australian Army Nursing Service), and the Royal Australian Air Force. Stars displayed on a bar suspended below the badge represented the number of relatives involved in the war effort. Authority for the issue of the badge was given under AIF Order 200,14 February 1941. This medal was given to Veronica ( White ) Roper in 1942 because her husband Alfred William Roper was a member of the Australian Army Signals Corp serving in New Guinea. Emma Olymphia Roper of Balaclava/ Ripponlea would also have received a medal like this with 4 four stars because her 4 sons were serving in the Australian Army 1939-45 This Military Medal was given to the wives and mothers of Australian Soldiers serving during World War 2 1939-1945Silver medal, engraved wreath of leaves, crown and map of Australia and pin clasp on back . A bar with one star is suspendedAround medal : For the Women of Australia Back : Issued by the / C'wealth Govt. / A 135699 / Angus & Coote / 1942 Bar : star/ asteriskworld war 1939-1945, military medals, roper alfred william , roper veronica, moore joan catherine, roper arthur leopold, roper emma olymphia, war memorials, bentleigh, city of moorabbin, totally and permanently invalid, returned service league, victoria barracks, department of defence australia, -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Pacific press, Rabaul 1942, 1994
The story of 'Lark Force', the 2/22nd Australian Infantry Battalion and support units, which defended Rabaul in 1942, with most of the Force becoming prisoners of the Japanese.Ill, maps, p.295.The story of 'Lark Force', the 2/22nd Australian Infantry Battalion and support units, which defended Rabaul in 1942, with most of the Force becoming prisoners of the Japanese. world war 1939 – 1945 – campaigns – new guinea, world war 1939 – 1945 – personal narratives – australia -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Essex-Clark, John, Hassett: Australian leader: a biography of General Sir Francis Hassett
This is the story of a great Australian who joined the Army as a boy, trained at Duntroon, and started his fighting with an infantry battalion in the Libyan desert in World War 2. He served in Palestine, Syria, New Guinea and Bougainville.This is the story of a great Australian who joined the Army as a boy, trained at Duntroon, and started his fighting with an infantry battalion in the Libyan desert in World War 2. He served in Palestine, Syria, New Guinea and Bougainville.hassett, francis george sir 1918 -, soldiers - australia - biography -
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 Cloth, Wangaratta Picture Framers, C1940
Hand draw sketch on cloth handkerchief by Private Edward CURRAN VX143967 - Born Wangaratta 6/6/1923 Service - CMF 23/1/1942-11/7/1943 AIF 12/7/1943-15/10/1945 24th Battalion Embarked 29/3/1943 for New Guinea. Cotton handkerchief depicting hand drawn sketch by soldier whilst on active service in New Guinea during second world war.Brown timber frame and beige mount containing sketch of a koala in a blue diamond above a boomerang on cloth Bouganville New Guinea 24th Battalion AIF "I Hold Fast" Plaque with inscription "Private Edward Joseph Curran 24th Infantry Battalion Australian Imperial Force - New Guinea and Bougainville"new guinea, ww2, 24 battalion, edward curran -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed photograph, N.E. Framing Studio, Aircrew Training
DH Tiger Moth Aircraft were used by the RAAF as elementary trainers in the empire air training scheme of 1940-44 during which time Australia trained 27,387 aircrew members. Although primarily employed as trainers, a few Tiger Moths were camouflaged and used operationally with army co-operation units in New Guinea. The Tiger Moth remained in RAAF service for almost 17 years, and several Tiger Moths were also transferred to the RAN after World War II. Eventually, on 9 January 1957, the last 10 RAAF Tiger Moths were flown from Point Cook to Tocumwal for disposal.The de Havilland Tiger Moth aircraft is a 1930's biplane which was a primary trainer aircraft used to train over 27,000 aircrew in Australia during the Second World War.Black frame with gold insert and cream mounting containing black and white photo of several planes in the background and numerous aircrew members in the foreground. Front: Aircrew Training. DH Tiger Moth Aircraft were used by the RAAF as elementary trainers in the empire air training scheme of 1940-44 during which time Australia trained 27,387 aircrew members. Royal Australian Air Force No.11 in a series of 25. raaf, aircrew, training, world war 2, tiger moth -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Print - Framed Print, Premer Framing Services
Roy Tobias MM Born 2/1/1924 at Wangaratta . He enlisted on 9/4/1942 and served with 57/60 Battalion in New Guinea during the Second World War. He was wounded by a gunshot wound to the left thigh. He died in 2001 at the age of 77 years.Timber frame surrounding green and brown print of four soldiers in a village.57/60 BTN in Action at Bougainville Loaned by 57/60 Btn Assoc. Donated by Roy Tobias M.M. 199957/60 battalion, bouganville, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Photo and Medals, Private J L Parker
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 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Medal, M Carey
... the second world war. m v carey new guinea vx82161 2/12 infantry bn ...The Pacific Star medal awarded to VX82161 Private Michael Vincent CAREY - Born 20/4/1914 at Beechworth where he enlisted in the Army on 15/12/1941 and served with the 2/12 Australian Infantry Battalion during the second world war. He was discharged on 11/12/1945.Pacific Star medal awarded to Private Michael Vincent CAREY VX82161 in recognition of his service during the second world war. Brass coloured star shaped medal with red blue green and black ribbonThe Pacific Star Rear - VX82161 M Careym v carey, new guinea, vx82161, 2/12 infantry bn -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Drawing
... for New Guinea during World War Two. Victoria's 2/24th Infantry ...Drawing by Sgt Stewart Allan Chambers VX77754 Born 23/7/1902 at Toongabbie Enlisted 11/3/1942 at Caulfield at the age of 39 years 7 months He served in the AIF from 11/3/1942 to when he was discharged on 14/2/1946 He was attached to the 2nd Ambulance Car Coy and 3rd Australian Air Maintenance Coy. Sgt Chambers was posted to Wangaratta prior to embarking on 14/8/1942 for New Guinea during World War Two.Victoria's 2/24th Infantry Battalion was raised in Wangaratta in July 1940. 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" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. Many of the soldiers maintained life long friendships with the people of Wangaratta. Even though the Battation was disbanded in 1946 members and their families return each year, in November, for a commemorative service at the 2/24th Battalion Memorial Wall at the Wangaratta Cemetery.Cream paper with drawing by hand in pencil of soldier looking up at plane and parachutes attached to boxes falling to ground with palm trees and hills in backgroundChristmas Greetings and Best Wishes for the New Year To Mrs McDonald From Stewart Drawing - verse on box Rear - VX77754 S A Chambers 3rd Aust Air Maint Coy Australia stewart a chambers, vx 77754, ww2 -
Tatura Irrigation & Wartime Camps Museum
Internment Camp Christmas Program, Phillharmonisches Orchester Internierungs-Lager Tatura, 1941
The orchestra consisted of German male civilians interned as "Enemy Aliens" during World War 2. Those interned in 1941 were former Australian residents and New Guinea missionaries.The program indicates the caring attitude of the Australian authorities in permitting the acquisition of musical instruments, and the encouragement offered to the internees in order to produce the concert. Original single page paper program with printed list of orchestral items to be performed by the camp orchestra,19th.and 20th. July 1941, in Internment Camp 1, Tatura. Also lists the names of the members of the orchestra and their instruments.Nil. -
Tatura Irrigation & Wartime Camps Museum
Document - Memoir, Hermine Wedel, Memories of Tatura, July 2014
An account of the author's family background & early life, more particularly those events leading to their internment in Tatura, Victoria, Australia during World War 2. The author's parents (author Hermine Wedel, nee Strauss) were of German nationality & practicing as missionaries in New Guinea. Upon the outbreak of WW2, those German nationals were ordered to the coast by the Australian authorities and the men were transported to internment camps in Australia. The women remained behind, reporting regularly to the authorities, until they too were brought to camps in Australia at the end of 1941. They were eventually reunited in a family camp for internees, Camp 3 at Tatura, in 1943. They were released from the camp to work in Australia in 1947 and the family returned to New Guinea in 1949, and eventually went back to Germany. The author also briefly recounts her marriage & married life in Brazil & Germany. 13 page document, A4 paper. 7 pages of English translation, 6 pages German original. world war ii, internee camps, civilian internees, german internees, camp 3, tatura, new guinea, strauss, stuerzenhofecker -
Tatura Irrigation & Wartime Camps Museum
Folio - Wartime Camps, Camp 3, c.998
Letters, photos and recollections from former internees held in Camp 3, Tatura during World War 2.Many original documents, letters and photos relating to the internees held in Camp 3, Tatura during World War 2. Much of this material relevant to German Missionary families arrested in New Guinea.Black two ring folder.Camp 3.new guinea missionaries, camp 3 tatura, hertle, beinssen, fugmann,griffin, loveday camp, list. -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Photograph
SATTELBERG AREA, NEW GUINEA. 1943-11-15. A PATROL OF THE 2/24TH. AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION LEAVING THE BATTALION LINES. SHOWN ARE: VX14320. PRIVATE A. W. M. CORCORAN. (1) VX75910 PRIVATE N. W. JONES. (2) VX33860 LIEUTENANT J. H. CAPLE. (3) VX75647 PRIVATE P. L. MATHIESON. (4) VX31579 CORPORAL R. W. WEBB. (5) VX75207 PRIVATE D. N. MUIR. (6) NX73554 PRIVATE H. T. ROCHE. (7) VX76785 PRIVATE R. W. RICE. (8)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 armed soldier on patrol in jungle terrain2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Photograph, c1945
LANGEMAK BAY, NEW GUINEA, 1943-10-28. MEMBERS OF THE 2/24TH AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION BOARDING BARGES AT THE BEACHHEAD.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 soldiers on shoreline boarding barge2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Photograph, c1945
TROOPS OF THE 2/24TH. AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION ON PATROL IN THE SATTELBERG AREA, NEW GUINEA IN 1943 DURING WW2The 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 five soldiers patrolling in dense jungle terraiin2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2 -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Photograph, c1942
A group of Australian soldiers photographed outside "The Dome of the Rock" shrine in Jerusalem. During the Second World War, Palestine was under a British mandate and Australian and New Zealand soldiers were back helping the British army to stop the Germans from capturing Egypt and the Suez Canal. They fought alongside several Palestinian brigades enlisted into the British Army under The Palestine Regiment. The soldier sitting second from right is Sergeant Stanley Swainson BEDFORD VX79894 2/24 Battalion. Bedford was born 30/12/1907 and enlisted at Caulfield on 18/5/1942 aged 34 years. He served in the Middle East between August 1942 and February 1942 and Milne Bay New Guinea between August 1943 and March 1944 prior to his discharge on 9/6/1945. He was the Battalion Tailor and is mentioned on page 251 of the book 2/24 - A history of the 2/24 Australian Infantry Battalion edited by R.P. Serle. World famous "Dome of the Rock", site of the ancient temple of Solomon and now a Muslim shrine. During the 7th century it served as a testament to the power of the new faith of Islam. The Dome of the Rock is one of the earliest surviving buildings from the Islamic world. This remarkable building is not a mosque, as is commonly assumed and scholars still debate its original function and meaning. With the exception of the two uniformed females, presumably nurses, one soldier if not all identified as serving with the 2/24th Battalion known as Wangaratta's Own.Original black and white photograph of soldiers standing in two rows and a row of soldiers and two females in uniform seated on step with ancient building in background.dome of rock, jerusalem, stanley swainson bedford -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed print
Colonel Sir Ernest Edward "Weary" Dunlop, AC, CMG, OBE (12 July 1907 – 2 July 1993) was an Australian surgeon who was renowned for his leadership while being held prisoner by the Japanese during World War II. Born 12 July 1907 Major Plains, Victoria Died 2 July 1993 (aged 85) Service/branch Australian Army Years of service 1935–1946 Rank Colonel Unit Royal Australian Army Medical Corps 2/2nd Casualty Clearing Station Commands held No.1 Allied General Hospital Battles/wars World War II Battle of Greece North African Campaign Syria-Lebanon campaign South West Pacific New Guinea Campaign South East Asia Campaign Awards Companion of the Order of Australia Knight Bachelor Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George Officer of the Order of the British Empire Knight of the Venerable Order of Saint John Mentioned in Despatches Black timber frame containing coloured caricature of saluting Army Officer with flag in background.Sir Edward "Weary" Dunlop - Anzac Day 1993 Print No 455 of 500colonel sir ernest edward dunlop, "weary" dunlop, surgeon