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Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed Documents, Japanese Surrender - 9 September 1945
... -IN-CHIEF, JAPANESE SECOND ARMY, SURRENDERED TO GENERAL SIR THOMAS... THOMAS A. BLAMEY, COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCE, SOUTH ...LIEUTENANT GENERAL (LT GEN) FUSATARO TESHIMA, COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, JAPANESE SECOND ARMY, SURRENDERED TO GENERAL SIR THOMAS A. BLAMEY, COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCE, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA. A SURRENDER CEREMONY WAS HELD ON SEPTEMBER 9 1945 AT 1 CORPS SPORTS GROUND ON MOROTAI. LT GEN TESHIMA WAS ACCOMPANIED BY CAPTAIN TOYIMA, WHO SIGNED FOR THE JAPANESE NAVY. 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. There were a number of surrender ceremonies including Morotai on September 9 1945,Black plastic frame containing cream coloured paper documents x 3 on black background.Donated by Jean Hughes of Wangaratta on behalf of her husband ROWLAND J HUGHES VX 51510morotai, japanese surrender, ww2 -
Bayside Gallery - Bayside City Council Art & Heritage Collection
Work on paper - ink and watercolour, Annette Meikle, Beaumaris RSL, 1977
... Thomas Blamey, it was purchased by the RSL in 1955. The Beaumaris... Thomas Blamey, it was purchased by the RSL in 1955. The Beaumaris ...In 1977, artist Annette Meikle undertook a commission to illustrate a book recording stories of places and people in the Bayside area. It was published in 1978 as Sandringham Sketchbook, with text by Elizabeth Waters. The sketches were intended to record remaining examples of Bayside’s early architecture and environment, as well as reflect newer architectural changes. Meikle went on to donate 22 of these sketches to Bayside City Council in 2003. This gun stood in the grounds of the Beaumaris RSL, located on the highest hill in Beaumaris – more than 300 metres above sea level. The ‘25-pounder’ was one of the best field guns of its day and was used by British and Commonwealth armies during the Second World War. The original ten-acre property, which was the former holiday home of wealthy Toorak resident Langford-Jack, was sold to the Legacy Club in 1942 and operated as a holiday home for Legacy children. Renamed Blamey House in honour of Field-Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, it was purchased by the RSL in 1955. The Beaumaris RSL Club closed its doors on Balcombe Road in 2016 after the property was sold in 2013.Annette Meikle, Beaumaris RSL 1977, ink and watercolour, 33.8 x 23.5 cm. Bayside City Council Art and Heritage Collection. Donated by the artist, 2003annette meikle, sandringham sketchbook, elizabeth waters, beaumaris rsl, 25-pounder, field gun, military weapon, langford-jack, blamey house, balcombe road, beaumaris -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Photograph, c1944
... LAND FORCES, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA, VX1 GENERAL SIR THOMAS... THOMAS BLAMEY, GBE., KCB., CMG., DSO., ED., AND HIS STAFF ...RAVENSHOE, QLD. 1944-06-19. THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCES, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA, VX1 GENERAL SIR THOMAS BLAMEY, GBE., KCB., CMG., DSO., ED., AND HIS STAFF WATCHING PERSONNEL OF HEADQUARTERS COMPANY, 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION ENGAGED IN THEIR 3" MORTAR DRILL DURING HIS TOUR OF INSPECTION OF ARMY UNITS IN THE ATHERTON AREA. IDENTIFIED PERSONNEL ARE:- QX6408 LIEUTENANT COLONEL A.B. GILLESPIE, COMMANDING 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION (2) VX48762 CAPTAIN A.W. OAKLEY (3); PRIVATE C.C. DAWES (4); PRIVATE TUCKER (5); PRIVATE COONEY (6); NX376 BRIGADIER D.A. WHITEHEAD, DSO., MC., ED., COMMANDING, 26TH INFANTRY BRIGADE (7); VX20308 LIEUTENANT-GENERAL F.H. BERRYMAN, CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, 1ST AUSTRALIAN CORPS (8); NX35000 LIEUTENANT-GENERAL V.A.H. STURDEE, CB., CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, FIRST AUSTRALIAN ARMY (9); NX7 MAJOR-GENERAL G.F. WOOTTEN, CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, 9TH DIVISION (10); PRIVATE R.S. O'BRIEN (11); PRIVATE S. ROSMAN (12); NX12371 MAJOR N.B. TREBECK (13).The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of three soldiers in foreground demonstrate use of equipment whilst soldiers and Officers in the background watch on.2/24th battalion, ravenshoe, general blamey -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Photograph, c1945
... TARAKAN, BORNEO, 1945-05-08. GENERAL SIR THOMAS A. BLAMEY... high-country TARAKAN, BORNEO, 1945-05-08. GENERAL SIR THOMAS ...TARAKAN, BORNEO, 1945-05-08. GENERAL SIR THOMAS A. BLAMEY, COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCES, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA, (4), DRINKING COFFEE WITH SENIOR OFFICERS OUTSIDE THE SALVATION ARMY RED SHIELD HUT DURING HIS INSPECTION TOUR OF THE 2/23 INFANTRY BATTALION. IDENTIFIED PERSONNEL ARE:- BRIGADIER D.A. WHITEHEAD, COMMAND 26 INFANTRY BRIGADE, (1); LIEUTENANT COLONEL F.A.G. TUCKER, (2); LIEUTENANT COLONEL DWYER, (3); LIEUTENANT GENERAL F.H. BERRYMAN, GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING 1 CORPS (5). Brigadier David Adie Whitehead had a distinguished and decorated career in both First and Second World Wars. He joined the Citizen Military Forces when it was raised in 1947 and commanded the 2nd Armoured Brigade (4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse and 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regiments) till 1953 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 four Army Officers having a brew under roof of thatched hut and in front of banner of The Salvation Army/Australian Comfort Fund Handwritten on note attached to rear -Whitehead on L Blamey on R - Qld tablelands (?)general blamey, brigadier whitehead, 26th brigade -
Melbourne Legacy
Badge - Legacy badge wallet, Legacy badges
... by the family of Field Marshall Sir Thomas A Blamey (who was once... by the family of Field Marshall Sir Thomas A Blamey (who was once ...A small wallet of badges donated back to Melbourne Legacy by the family of Field Marshall Sir Thomas A Blamey (who was once a Patron of Legacy) and his son Lt. Col. Thomas R Blamey who was an active supporter of Legacy throughout his life, especially on the Mornington Peninsula. The folder contains 21 badges of various colours and donation values. One green enamel on metal badge marked 10 pounds or 20 dollars - oldest one as pre-decimal. With a clip on back. One green enamel on metal badge marked $20. With a clip on back Four orange enamel elongated shape stick pin marked $25 Four blue enamel shield shape stick pin marked $10 Two yellow enamel pentagon stick pin marked $5 One yellow plastic pentagon badge on short pin $5 Three blue plastic torch badges on short pin $1 Three red plastic torch badges on short pin $2 One pink plastic torch badge marked $2 One pink plastic rectangle badge marked $2 One gold with red enamel Widows broch missing its pin. Various manufacturing dates but all produced by AJ Parkes.Shows that the Blamey family supported Legacy with badge day.Dark brown thick cardboard folder with sponge inside to hold badges. 21 Legacy badges and one Legacy Widows broch.badges, blamey -
Melbourne Legacy
Document, History of Blamey House (Beaumaris) property, 1949
... with Sir Thomas Blamey in attendance. It shows the property... Thomas Blamey in attendance. It shows the property was described ...Black and white photocopies of articles and information about the first Blamey House owned by Legacy between 1947 and 1956. It includes articles about the opening in November 1949 with Sir Thomas Blamey in attendance. It shows the property was described as "a home, a huge rambling weatherboard house with a swimming pool, flood-lit tennis court, and four acres of beautifully kept lawns and gardens." The title deed was handed over to Legacy by Sir Robert Knox, the chairman of trustees of Blamey House, Melbourne (the servicemen hostel that had been operating during the war). Other pages show the property had been built in 1930 as a holiday home for Toorak business man Mr Arthur Jack and his wife Ms Langlands-Jack. It was sold to James Picken by 1941 and it was known as 'Mossgiel'. The Pickens remained owners until 1947 when it was purchased on behalf of Legacy with money donated by the Blamey House Trustees (the servicemen hostel that operated during the war) to be used as a toddlers and childrens' home. When Legacy no longer required the property it was sold to the Beaumaris RSL (or it's precursor RSSALIA) as its clubrooms. There was controversy in 2015 when it was sold to developers for housing. The pages were copied from items held by Sandringham and District Historical Society in February 2022.Records different facts about the property that was Blamey House Beaumaris that could be useful even though there are discrepancies with other known facts about Blamey House (the Hostel) trustees donation to Legacy.Black and white A4 photocopy x 20 pages of collected information about the property in Beaumaris before and after it was held by Legacy.blamey house, beaumaris, properties -
Melbourne Legacy
Journal - Document, set of newsletters, Legacy Newsletter, August 1942 to September 1959
... but different edition). Sir Thomas Blamey on cover. 8 pages. 00019.23... but different edition). Sir Thomas Blamey on cover. 8 pages. 00019.23 ...A newsletter published by Legacy in this format for many years from 1942. They mentioned "Issued from time to time for Private Circulation among the Sons and Daughters of Deceased Service men and Merchant Seamen who served their Country during the War of 1914-18, or the present War" Many articles on the work of Legacy, including features on boys classes, girls classes, camps, the residences and where their past residents ended up. There are some suggestion for careers and some general interest articles. Some very interesting photos. Issues: Vol. 1 No. 1 (August, 1942) Vol. No 2 (October 1942) Vol. 1 No 3 (December 1942) Vol. 1 No 4 (July 1943) Vol 1. No 6 (December 1944) Vol. 1 No 7 (March, 1945) Vol. 1 No 8 (June, 1945) Vol. 1 No 9 (November 1945) Vol. 1 No 12 (August 1946) Vol. 2 No 1 (October, 1946) Vol. 2 No 2 (December, 1946) Vol. 2 No 4 (May 1947) Vol. 2 No 5 (September, 1947) Vol. 2 No 6 (December, 1947) - 2 copies Vol. 2 No 7 (May 1948) Vol. 2 No 8 (August, 1948) Vol. 2 No 9 (November 1948) Vol. 3 No 10 (June 1949) - 2 copies Vol. 3 No 11 (September 1949) Vol. 4 No 1 (March 1950) Vol. 4 No 2 (October 1950) Vol. 4 No 1 (July 1951) - seems 'Vol 4' was used twice. Vol. 4 No 3 (December 1951) Vol. 5 No 2 (July 1952) Vol. 5 No 3 (December 1952) Vol. 6 No 1 (April 1953) Vol. 6 No 2 (September 1953) Vol. 7 No 1 (July 1954) Vol. 8 No 1 (June, 1955) - 2 copies Vol. 8 No 2 (October 1955) Vol. 9 No 1 (February 1956) Vol. 9 No 2 (August 1956) Vol. 9 No 3 (December, 1956) - 2 copies Vol. 10 No 1 (June, 1957) - 2 copies Vol. 10 No 2 (December, 1957) Vol. 11 No 1 (August, 1958) Vol. 11 No 2 (December, 1958) - 2 copies Vol. 12 No 1 (May 1959) - 2 copies Vol. 12 No 2 (August, 1959) Vol. 12 No 3 (September, 1959) Vol. 12 No 4 (December 1959)A record of newsletter published that reported on news of Junior Legatee activities.Newspaper style newsletter for Junior Legacy Club, Melbourne. 00019.1) Vol 1 No 1 August 1942 00019.2) Vol 1 No 2. October 1942 00019.3) Vol 1 No 3. December 1942 00019.4) Vol 1 No 4. July 1943 00019.5) Vol 1 No 6. December 1944 00019.6) Vol 1 No 7. March 1945 00019.7) Vol 1 No 8. June 1945 00019.8) Vol 1 No 9. November 1945 00019.9) Vol 1 No 12. August 1946 00019.10) Vol 2 No 1 October 1946 00019.11) Vol 2 No 2 December 1946 00019.12) Vol 2 No 4 May 1947 00019.13) Vol 2 No 5 September 1947 00019.14) Vol 2 No 6 December, 1947 00019.15) Vol 2 No 7 May, 1948 00019.16) Vol 2 No 8 August 1948 00019.17) Vol 2 No 9 November 1948 00019.18) Vol 3 No 10 June, 1949 00019.19) Vol 3 No 11 September, 1949 00019.20) Vol 4 No 1 March, 1950. Playing children on the cover. 12 pages 00019.21) Vol 4 No 2 October 1950. Girl and boy on cover. 12 pages 00019.22) Vol 4 No 1 July 1951 (note Vol and Number is same as 00019.20 but different edition). Sir Thomas Blamey on cover. 8 pages. 00019.23) Vol 4 No 3 Dec 1951. 00019.24) Vol 5 No 2 July 1952. 00019.25) Vol 5 No 3 December 1952. Sir Dallas Brooks on cover. 8 pages 00019.26) Vol 6 No 1 April 1953 00019.27) Vol 6 No 2 September 1953. Mother and son on cover. 16 pages 00019.28) Vol 7 No 1 July 1954 00019.29) Vol 8 No 1 June 1955. Portrait of Queen Elizabeth on the cover. 16 pages 00019.30) Vol 8 No 2 October 1955. Serviceman and toddler on the cover. 16 pages 00019.39) Vol 9 No 1 February 1956. Earl Mountbatten on the cover. 12 pages 00019.31) Vol 9 No 2 August 1956. Mayor Sir Frank Selleck on the cover. 16 pages 00019.40) Vol 9 No 3 December 1956 00019.32) Vol 10 No 1 June 1957 00019.32) Vol 10 No 2 December 1957 00019.33) Vol 11 No 1 August 1958 00019.34) Vol 11 No 2 December 1958 00019.35) Vol 12 No 1 May 1959 00019.36) Vol 12 No 2 August 1959 00019.37) Vol 12 No 3 September 1959 00019.38) Vol 12 No 4 December 1959newsletter, activities -
Federation University Historical Collection
Newspaper - Twenty page issue December 1941 No. 93, Societe Orientale de Publicite, The A.I.F. News Special Christmas Issue 1941, December 1941
... . Page 3 includes a message from General Sir Thomas Blamey... a message from General Sir Thomas Blamey, an article on the part ...The A.I.F.= The Australian Imperial Force and this newspaper was supplied free to the troops of the Australian Army Canteens Service. This issue is dated Saturday 22nd December 1941. It includes advertisments for businesses in Cairo and Alexandria; Egypt, Palestine and Syria. Page 2 includes a poem titled "This Holy Night" by Pte C.M. Walker; two sonnets by Rupert Brooke; a poem, "Waiting Dreams" by Pilot Officer J.A. Henderson RAAF and a poem by Lieut. David McNicoll AIF Abroad Air Mail - Palestine. Page 3 includes a message from General Sir Thomas Blamey, an article on the part women would increasingly play as a consequence of the emergency war policy; an advertisment for tobacco specially packed for overseas forces. Page 4 includes an article on Australian coastal cities being ready for raids. Page 5 includes an article about the Commonwealth of the Philippines and their defense which until 1946 lay with America. General D Macarthur was the Commander In Chief in the Philippines. Germany's "secret Weapon" legend. Page 6 includes "Dancing Dan's Christmas"; "Bluey and Curley" comic strip. Page 7 includes article "Rommel's Armoured Might Lies Strewn Over Libyan Sands" Page 8 includes an article: "All In Fun" - a revue - has begun a tour of Australian camps in Palestine and Syria. Page 9 includes articles "War Will Revolutionise Air Services In Australia"; a list - Greek Awards To AIF Officers and a cartoon by George Aria titled 'Jonah '. Pages 10&11 "Christmas 1941" - messages from prominent people: Mr Winston Churchill; The Govenor General (Lord Gorrie); The Prime Minister (Mr Curtin); Mininster for the Army (Mr Forde). Also photos of army operations and traditional family Christmas time. Page 12 &13 Articles regarding sport under the heading 'Australian Sporting Digest'. Page 14 A story - "The Gift of the Magi" - an O Henry Christmas Story. Also a greeting from Myer's of Melbourne and Adelaide to all Myer Men in the AIF Page 15 An article where General Blamey reassures Australia about its capability of defence. Page 16 A description of a battle by Australian sloop "Parramatta" with HMAS "Auckland" against enemy planes whilst they were escorting a merchant ship with a cargo of petrol during the Battle of Tobruk Page 17 & 18 Pages under the title 'ACK-I-FOOFS' (Articles submitted by soldiers: The real Rat of Tobruk - a rat trained by L/Cpl Jack Kneeshaw which he named "Goebbels"; poems and cartoons. Page 19 "Women of War" - photos of women at work filling in for men who have gone to war. Page 20 Xmas Greetings 1942-1942 - a 1942 Calendar signed by 14 members of the AIF, some with messages and including their Army Number. Twenty pages of news supplied free to the troops by the Australian Army Canteens Service.The last page is a calendar for 1942 with personal inscriptions and greetings of servicemen. Some inscriptions have I.D. Numbers ( VX35435 W. Johnston; QX20753 of Carmody ; VX40449 ; VX39637 N. Powell; VX32054 Blue Ernistson?; N?X23234 W.Cummins; VXthe a.i.f. news christmas edition 1941, australian imperial force, world war 2, australian army canteens service, general blamey, world war 2 - pacific war, world war 2 - phillipine islands, general d macarthur, emergency plans ww2 australia, secret weapons ww2, western desert ww2, australian imperial force - western desert ww2, civil aviation post ww2, air services australia, lord gowrie, governor general lord gowrie, prime minister john curtain, minister for the army - mr forde, cartoons 1941, women-in ww2, xmas greetings calendar 1941-1942, cairo 1941, palestine 1941, western desert 1941, advertisements 1941, middle east 1941 -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Speech, Commemorative Address - Sir Stanley Savige K.B.E. Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra, 10/1954
... of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley... of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley ...After the death of Stan Savige this address was given at the Canberra Conference in October 1954. It is tribute to his life. Sir Stanley Savige KBE : Commemorative Address Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra : October 1954. On the 15th of May this year Legacy learned to its enduring sorrow of the death of its Founder, Lieut. General Stanley George Savige KBE, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, ED, for more than 30 years affectionately known to us all as Legatee Stan Savige. He was the embodiment of all those things for which Legacy stands, and each one of us who knew him and worked with him feels a great and abiding sense of personal loss. It is proper, therefore, that those of us at this Conference, the first after his passing, representative of Legacy throughout the Commonwealth, and comprising so many who were his friends, so many who knew the depth of his love for Legacy, should acknowledge our debt to our Founder and ensure, so far as we may, that the inspiration of his life and work in this Cause shall not be lost to those who follow after. It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige - should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service. Born at Morwell in Victoria some 63 years ago, he received with his brothers and sisters such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district. He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge. Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot, he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys. Even in those early days he attracted youth and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous. Opportunity came with the first World War, and he took his place as a private soldier in the original 24th Battalion AIF. Followed Gallipoli and Anzac where his marksmanship and bush craft stood him in good stead. Conscious that his early training was not sufficient to secure the promotion he desired, he set himself to enlarge it. Only a man of fine fibre and rare determination could apply himself to study on that war torn Peninsula, where our men, hitherto untested, suffered every known hardship and no man knew, from hour to hour, whether he would survive. But Savige achieved it. Himself then a Corporal he found another Corporal who was a former Schoolmaster and learned from him all that he had to teach. Savige was on his way. He was commissioned on the Field and allotted the heroic task of leading the last party off that desperate coast during the famous evacuation. In France he became the Adjutant of his Battalion and one of the best known officers in the 6th Brigade. He won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches. Early in 1918 he received a signal distinction, He was included in a small but distinguished band of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers from the British and Dominion Forces most carefully selected for individual courage and proved qualities of leadership, and was sent to Persia, under the command of Major-General Dunsterville, Kipling’s famous Stalky, to assist and mobilise the friendly tribes with a view to protecting the road to India, left wide open by the withdrawal of Russia. The story of the Dunsterforce, its suffering and achievements in the face of incredible hardships and difficulties, was later to be told by Savige in his book “Stalky’s Forlorn Hope”. He emerged, finally, unscathed, despite his active participation in several of the bloodiest battles of all time, with the rank of Captain and a DSO and MC to his credit, to say nothing of three mentions in despatches. In later years, further decorations were to be conferred upon him, but I believe he valued none of these so highly as his awards for outstanding personal bravery won in the Field when he was an Officer of comparatively junior rank. Such was the man who in August 1923, at the instance of his former Commander, Major-General Sir John Gellibrand, gathered around him a handful of men who had fought and laughed with him over four well remembered years. This small band adopted the name of “Legacy”, but its purpose then was, in the main, to assist in safeguarding the interests of ex-servicemen in this country. Worthy although the case undoubtedly was, the conception and ideal which was to distinguish Legacy from all kindred post-war movements did not emerge until two years later. The torch had not been lit. Legacy had not yet found its soul. What has been achieved since then is known to you all. The Legacy ideal, unique in its conception, with no known counterpart elsewhere, is now accepted, welcomed and honoured throughout the Commonwealth and abroad. But in those early days the achievements of our Founder in the face of all manner of difficulties and frustrations are worthy of our lasting memory and thankfulness. As the source of every river lies in the hills, so must the inspiration from which stems a great conceptions of service to one’s fellow men be lofty and above reproach. Savige was the embodiment of this new expression of comradeship, as he was the central figure and driving force of the little group that sponsored it. But for his zeal, his faith and determination, it is likely that the flame, newly kindled, might have flickered and died. The idea of men returned from active service pledging for the sake of their former comradeship, their personal assistance to the widows, and above all, to the children of those who had fought beside them and paid the full price of War, was so completely new and unexpected that it was by no means readily accepted. There were no funds, no precedents to guide the new adventurers, only the clear bright flame of an ideal just envisaged, and the conviction that the Cause was unassailable. Nor were there lacking many who said that the community held no place for Legacy, that it was born of sentiment only, and would quickly pass. The scoffers are gone and one since forgotten, but the torch remains and burns brighter than ever. Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of our Founder. By his works you shall know him. He was, in truth, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team. Six years went by before he accepted the Presidency of Melbourne Club, and then only because his fellows would book no further delay. “The Spirit of Legacy is Service” - so runs the Charter, and that was Savige’s Creed. By virtue of his attainments he was called upon to take a leading part in the administration of Legacy, first within his own club and later, as Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council of Legacy in Australia. But always it was the essentially human character of the work which enthralled and upheld him, and the tasks which gave him most joy were those which brought him into close personal contact with the youngsters and their home life. Like their elders they recognised his goodwill and his leadership and responded to it. It was Savige who made possible the first camps held for the boys and girls by Melbourne Club. These were erected on his own seaside property, and were originally conducted under his personal direction and largely with the aid of funds he had collected. There was hardly an important post in his own Club that Savige did not at some time occupy and adorn. He was happiest in the company of those men with whom he had served in the field, and cherished always the comradeship born of active service which is of the essence of Legacy. He was a man of strong convictions but attentive always to another’s point of view. As a Legatee he played a leading part in bringing hope and encouragement to many a mother on whom the whole responsibility of a young family had been suddenly and tragically laid; in the attainment of the ambitions of many an orphan child, which not so long since had seemed to him or her to be mere dreams, impossible of realisation. Comfort for the bereaved, new hope for the children’s physical and educational welfare, assistance with the home, aid for the sick, money for the needy and a new courage to face a future that hitherto had held no promise, all these facets of Legacy endeavour combine to present a living and enduring memorial to the man we honour as our Founder today. Between the two World Wars in addition to establishing himself successfully in civilian life and answering the constant calls of Legacy on his energy and time, Savige maintained an active association with the Army. He was convinced that a Second AIF would one day be urgently called upon, and as a Battalion Commander he spared no effort to train the Officers under his charge during the uneasy years of peace for the trial that he felt must come. These men have all subsequently had distinguished military careers, their names are well known and many of the serve in Legacy today. When the second crisis came, Savige himself was one of the first to offer, and although his youth was spent, he proudly carried the number VX13 throughout the terrible years that followed. This time he was to command, first the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade in the first action of the Second AIF against the enemy at Barida, and subsequently at Tobruk and Derna - all famous names now. It was his patrols which gave the warning - unheeded at the time - that Rommel’s reinforcements were reaching North Africa far earlier than was expected. Then followed the grim days of Greece and Crete when the fine qualities of his leadership were put to the utmost test. I have been told by those who were closest to him it was typical of Savige that when his convoys were on the move back and were being blasted from the air by the unopposed Luftwaffe, he should sit by the side of the open road, wearing his red banded cap, to steady the morale of men who had then no chance of hitting back at the enemy. Unorthodox no doubt, but here was a man indeed. Throughout the whole campaign and later when he commended the 3rd division in New Guinea and later still when with the rank of Lieutenant-General he became a Corps Commander in New Guinea and Bouganville, it was at all times characteristic of him that he should see for himself the situation in the forward areas. He dealt personally with his subordinate commanders whenever it was possible to do so. No one says his G.S.O. 1. understood better than he did the importance of front line troops seeing their G.O.C. frequently, and knowing that he was aware of and prepared to share their hardships and dangers. He took many risks that he should not have taken, exhausted himself physically and mentally times without number, and considered himself not at all in order to secure the success of his operations. Finally, in Bouganville, he brought his campaign to a victorious conclusion and accepted the personal surrender of the Japanese Commander. Savige is known as one of Australia’s most human military leaders, but let no one believe that he did not ask and receive the utmost of his men. He trained them in a hard school but he was ever conscious of their needs and observant and thoughtful of their welfare. Fearless and untiring under conditions which brought younger men down, he asked nothing that he was not himself prepared to give and do. The close of the Second World War left him with the same brave heart; but a vitality greatly impaired. He was called up again and again to perform important national tasks, notably that of Co-ordinator of Demobilisation and Dispersal. But his interest in Legacy never flagged it was in fact more personal than ever, for under his command many junior legatees, sons of former comrades had proved themselves worthy of their Fathers in war and in peace. In the bearing and achievements of the young men of the Second A.I.F. he took a particular and justifiable pride. He applied himself to the Extension of Legacy to areas where it had not previously been practicable to operate. His record of service and close personal contact with the men of both wars made him a most welcome pioneer and many new Clubs and Groups resulted from his efforts. He founded, and I doubt whether any one else could have done so, the Club in the great Capital of our Empire. His reputation and obvious sincerity surmounted obstacles that might well have daunted lesser man. Legacy’s debt to him visibly increased. But he was ever a simple man, with a great love and understanding of his fellow men and a true Legatee at heart. Much that he did will never be known or recognised, save by those who benefitted. His service in Legacy ranged from the humble kitchen of cottage and farm to our representation in Westminster Abbey itself. A knighthood set the seal upon an outstanding career. None the less when upon the death of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley Savige became the Patron of the Melbourne Club, he retained at his own express desire, the title of Legatee Savige, and when on that final day we bade him farewell, when the Flags he had served so well were lowered and the guns which had formed a grim final salute, it was apparent to all who had eyes to see that this great and simple man had won such a place in the hearts and affection of his fellow country men as is given to few men indeed. From the packed Cathedral, escorted by his fellow Generals, followed by men of his own Units, by Legatees and a great company of others who had cause to honour and esteem him, he made his last journey. But that is not the end. His voice and presence are lost to us but his memory and inspiration must ever remain. As he has bequeathed to the National War Memorial yonder his diaries, records and battle plans, so he has bequeathed to us his fellow Legatees his greatest achievement and his trust, Legacy itself. Never was the Torch passed by worthier hands. Now it is ours to hold it high. Whatever material memorial the future many hold for him, Legacy owes its Founder a livelier recompense. It is within our power to implement what I believe to be his greatest wish, that Legacy and its ideal of comradeship and service shall flourish and endure. Let each one of us then resolve that we shall, within our Clubs, in all tasks to which we are assigned, both great and small, keep in our minds the life and spirit of Stanley George Savige, so that we may be proud at all times to say of Legacy to those who follow after - “If you would see his memorial - Look around you”.The tribute to Stanley Savige shows how greatly he was regarded by the Legatees.Off white quarto paper with black type, address given about Stan Savige to the Canberra Conference, x 12 pages.savige, speech, obituary -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Oxford University Press, The Oxford companion to Australian military history, 1995
... , such as Thomas Blamey, John Monash, John Curtin, Albert Jacka and Charles ...This landmark book explores the richness and diversity of Australian military history, which has had a profound impact on the development of Australia. The two world wars - destructive yet often ennobling commitments for the young nation - have been the most important experiences for several generations of Australians, but military considerations and obligations have had a pervasive influence throughout Australian history. Just as it would be impossible to form a proper understanding of that history without due consideration of Gallipoli, the Kokoda Track, and conscription, it would be difficult to exaggerate the abiding influence of the 'digger' and the Anzac legend. From the beginnings of European settlement and the violence that accompanied it, to the more recent engagement of Australian forces in the Gulf War and peace-keeping operations in Africa, military questions have been a constant theme in the story of Australia. Anzac and Gallipoli are well-known names in the consciousness, but they can only be fully appreciated if examined in a wider context. This book does just that, providing a detailed analysis of Australian military achievements and an assessment of the importance of war in Australian history. The Oxford Companion to Australian Military History covers all aspects of this complex and fascinating subject. It contains more than 800 individual entries, written by leading military historians. All the major campaigns and battles are examined, along with significant military and civilian figures, such as Thomas Blamey, John Monash, John Curtin, Albert Jacka and Charles Bean. There are articles on weapons and weapons systems and on the development of the individual services and their component parts. The roles of industry, science and technology are analysed, and a series of essay-length articles discusses key aspects of our military legacy, including military humour and the impact of war on Australian film, television and literature. Here, then, is the most comprehensive guide to Australian military history, ranging from the colonial period to the 1990s. The Companion is supplemented by 100 photographs and by more than 30 maps. It is an indispensable source for students, specialists and general readers alike. Collapse summaryBibliography, ill, maps, p.692.non-fictionThis landmark book explores the richness and diversity of Australian military history, which has had a profound impact on the development of Australia. The two world wars - destructive yet often ennobling commitments for the young nation - have been the most important experiences for several generations of Australians, but military considerations and obligations have had a pervasive influence throughout Australian history. Just as it would be impossible to form a proper understanding of that history without due consideration of Gallipoli, the Kokoda Track, and conscription, it would be difficult to exaggerate the abiding influence of the 'digger' and the Anzac legend. From the beginnings of European settlement and the violence that accompanied it, to the more recent engagement of Australian forces in the Gulf War and peace-keeping operations in Africa, military questions have been a constant theme in the story of Australia. Anzac and Gallipoli are well-known names in the consciousness, but they can only be fully appreciated if examined in a wider context. This book does just that, providing a detailed analysis of Australian military achievements and an assessment of the importance of war in Australian history. The Oxford Companion to Australian Military History covers all aspects of this complex and fascinating subject. It contains more than 800 individual entries, written by leading military historians. All the major campaigns and battles are examined, along with significant military and civilian figures, such as Thomas Blamey, John Monash, John Curtin, Albert Jacka and Charles Bean. There are articles on weapons and weapons systems and on the development of the individual services and their component parts. The roles of industry, science and technology are analysed, and a series of essay-length articles discusses key aspects of our military legacy, including military humour and the impact of war on Australian film, television and literature. Here, then, is the most comprehensive guide to Australian military history, ranging from the colonial period to the 1990s. The Companion is supplemented by 100 photographs and by more than 30 maps. It is an indispensable source for students, specialists and general readers alike. Collapse summary australia - armed forces - history, australia - armed forces - encyclopaedias -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Framed photographs, Japanese Surrender - Morotai 9 September 1945
... (General Sir Thomas Blamey) accepted on the 9 September the formal ...The images depict the formal signing of the surrender of the Japanese Forces at Morotai on September 9 1945.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. There were a number of surrender ceremonies including Morotai on September 9 1945. Morotai Island, was headquarters of the Australian forces in the Netherlands East Indies and before an assembly of more than l0,000 Australian and allied troops the Commander-in-Chief of the Australian Military Forces (General Sir Thomas Blamey) accepted on the 9 September the formal surrender of all Japanese in the eastern half of the Netherlands East Indies. The instrument of surrender was Japanese signed by Lt-General Teshima, commander of the Japanese Second Army, comprising about 126,000 Japanese.Brown timber frame containing 7 photographs copied on papermorotai, ww2, japanese surrender -
National Wool Museum
Label, Blanket
... - Exhibition (29/07/2000 - 04/02/2001) Blamey Lt Gen. Sir Thomas Albert ...Rug label produced by the RSS Mill in Geelong for the Blamey rug.Rug label from the RSS Mill's Blamey rug.THE GEELONG R.S.&S. WOOLLEN MILLS / PURE / WOOL / THE / T.A. Blamey / RUGworld war i textile mills, returned soldiers and sailors mill, 1918: australians in france - exhibition (19/02/2000 - 30/04/2000) logo merino: sheep in australian art and design - exhibition (29/07/2000 - 04/02/2001), blamey, lt gen. sir thomas albert gbe, kcb, cmg, dso, world war i, textile mills -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter - Document, letter, re. Appointment of Manager - Boy's Hostel
A 4 page job application from Thomas Mullins for the position of Hostel Manager. Lists his war service and loss of his left arm in France 1916. Also the family casualties suffered; mother in an air raid, father and brother through war service, brother living with the after effects of gas, plus his wife's father was a Kandahar veteran. It continues with his civilian experience and how his attributes would suit the position, then provides references. Holmbush was the first children's home established by Melbourne Legacy. It was later renamed Blamey House when the first Blamey House was sold. Melbourne Legacy ran three residences: Blamey House (purchased 1947) , Stanhope (purchased 1945) and Harelands (purchased 1950), to take care of children whose fathers were servicemen, and who may have been left orphans, or whose mother may have been unable to care for them herself. Harelands accommodated boys and girls under the age of 14, Blamey House looked after boys over 14, and Stanhope looked after girls over 14. The children were cared for until they were old enough to become independent.A record of written correspondence regarding job applications in 1943.Letter from Mr Mullins applying for a position at Holmbush handwritten on white foolscap paper and two hole punched.Handwritten "Withdrawn" in pencil at the top.residences, holmbush, holmbush administration -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Certificate - Framed Certificate, Warrant, 31/01/ 1936
General Blamey went on to be the head of Australian forces in WW2Framed certificate - Australian Military Forces Warrant. Certificate is printed in cursive script and has the recipients details typed in. This award was presented to 183765 Sgt. Thomas Roy HOGG of the 58th Bn on 31 Jan 1936 and is Signed by Gen Blamey. The certificate is in a white wooden frame. Signed by Blameyblamey, 58th battalion, wark vc club, warrent -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Book - Tobruk to Turkey : with the Army of the Nile, Frank Clune, 1949
... allegedly “left a very bad impression” on General Sir Thomas Blamey ...One of a series of travel books produced by Frank Clune. This volume details his travels and observances in the Middle East during 1942. Clune was an honorary commissioner of the Australian Comforts Fund. Clune allegedly “left a very bad impression” on General Sir Thomas Blamey for his ‘irregular methods and indiscreet utterances’ about the British ‘only playing at war’. Blamey therefore ensured that Clune was subject to military censorship. Royalties from this book and funds raised during a lecture tour promoting it in 1943 were donated to the Australia Comforts Fund to whose voluntary workers it is dedicated.non-fictionOne of a series of travel books produced by Frank Clune. This volume details his travels and observances in the Middle East during 1942. Clune was an honorary commissioner of the Australian Comforts Fund. Clune allegedly “left a very bad impression” on General Sir Thomas Blamey for his ‘irregular methods and indiscreet utterances’ about the British ‘only playing at war’. Blamey therefore ensured that Clune was subject to military censorship. Royalties from this book and funds raised during a lecture tour promoting it in 1943 were donated to the Australia Comforts Fund to whose voluntary workers it is dedicated. world war 11, world war 1939 - 1945, middle east