Showing 874 items matching "british military"
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Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Montrose, 1892
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history Scotland - History The life and times ...The life and times of the marquis of Montrosep.229.non-fictionThe life and times of the marquis of Montrosegreat britain - military history, scotland - history -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Havelock, 1892
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history India - British occupation The life ...The life and times of Henry Havelockp.223.non-fictionThe life and times of Henry Havelockgreat britain - military history, india - british occupation -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Lord Lawrence, 1892
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history India - British occupation The life ...The life and times of Lord Lawrencep.203.non-fictionThe life and times of Lord Lawrencegreat britain - military history, india - british occupation -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Colin Campbell, 1892
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history India - British occupation The life ...The life and times of Colin Campbellp.222.non-fictionThe life and times of Colin Campbellgreat britain - military history, india - british occupation -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Lord Clive, 1892
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history India - British occupation The life ...The life and times of Lord Clivep.221.non-fictionThe life and times of Lord Clivegreat britain - military history, india - british occupation -
Kew RSL
Service medals
Awarded to Frank Sands for his WW1 service . Military Medal awarded for 'conspicuous gallantry' Mouquet Quarry France September 1916framed set of World War 1 medals comprising, Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Equipment - Cartridges 303 Inert, 1941
The .303 inch catridge was the standard British and Commonwealth cartridge from 1889 until the 1950s when it was replaced by the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. Cartridge .303, comprising brass casing and projectile .303 inch calibre.Manufacturer's markings. Year of manufacture 1941. Manufacturer MH -Military Small Arms Factory No. 3, Hendon, Australia; Lot no: 11Aammunition, cartridge, .303, bullet -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Photograph - Photograph - unveiling of Cenotaph circa 1964, 12 April 1964
Cenotaph was construct in 1964 and unveiled that year Major General Sir Kingsley Norris was a leader in Victoria's medical community and a distinguished military officer. While serving in the Middle East during the Second World War Norris received the Distinguished Service Order. In 1943 he was honoured as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for his distinguished service in the South-West Pacific. Photograph in a wooden frame painted black with glass front, hanging eyelet brass with hanging heavy gauged wire on the reverse side. Picture depict Sir Kingsley Norris standing in front of the cenotaph following the unveiling of the Australia Flag to reveal the plaque. In the background are RSL members and guests. The Union Jack is attached to the flag pole behind the cenotaph.UNVEILING OF CENOTAPH, SUNDAY 12. April, 1964 / By SIR KINGSLEY NORRIS KGE. CB. CBE. DSO / Donated by Verna. I. Mosscenotaph built to honour the anzacs -
Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society
Book, Bacchus Marsh and the Boer War: A Community's Response
An account of the impact of the Boer War upon the community of Bacchus Marsh. Like many communities across Australia Bacchus Marsh saw a number of men enlist in the military forces and participate in the conflict in South Africa between Great Britain and its allies such as Australia against the Boer forces in South Africa in the early 1900s. This work documents this history from the perspective of the individual soldiers involved and the way the community responded to this conflict. Citation: Bacchus Marsh and the Boer War: A Community's Response. By Gillian Davis, Geoff Hine, Barbara Manly and Chris Stancliffe. Published by Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society, Bacchus Marsh, Vic., 2001.A printed book published in paperback edition. 92 pages, with illustrations, portraits, and maps. BMDHS Location: AR/SU4non-fictionAn account of the impact of the Boer War upon the community of Bacchus Marsh. Like many communities across Australia Bacchus Marsh saw a number of men enlist in the military forces and participate in the conflict in South Africa between Great Britain and its allies such as Australia against the Boer forces in South Africa in the early 1900s. This work documents this history from the perspective of the individual soldiers involved and the way the community responded to this conflict. Citation: Bacchus Marsh and the Boer War: A Community's Response. By Gillian Davis, Geoff Hine, Barbara Manly and Chris Stancliffe. Published by Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society, Bacchus Marsh, Vic., 2001.bmdhs publication, south african war 1899-1902, boer war 1899-1902, soldiers bacchus marsh vic. -
Melbourne Legacy
Leisure object - Toy Bear, Legacy Bear $20 - Female Land Army Bear, 2022
In the 2000s Legacy released a range of Legacy Bears to expand the merchandise available for sale during Legacy Week and at other fundraising opportunities during the year. This special edition WW2 land army bear was released in 2019. The Women's Land Army (WLA) was a British civilian group created during World War II to replace the men called up for the military. Over 80,000 women served working on farms, in sawmills, and in forestry. They became know as Land Girls and Lumber Jills. Please note the archive does not have a copy of this bear but is recorded here to complete the series.An example of the type of products sold along with Legacy Badges for fundraising in the 2010-2020s.Legacy bear dressed in a female WW2 Land Army uniform with a printed cardboard tag.Printed tag gives the price as $20.legacy appeal, fundraising, legacy bear -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Magazine - Framed Magazine Cover, Anzac Bulletin No. 64. London March 29, 1918, March 29 1918
Issued to members of the Australian Military and Naval Forces in Great Britain France and elsewhere. Published by the authority of the High Commissioner for Australian, Australia House, London, W.C.Framed copy of the front cover of the " Anzac Bulletin" issue No. 64. London March 29, 1918. On this cover is a sketch of an Australian soldier in a slouch hat with side up turned holding a SMLE with bayonet affixed leaning on a circular picture of two diggers " boiling a billy in the Trenches. At the base of the page is an ad for Kiwi shoe polish.ww1, wark vc club, print media, anzac bulletin -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Magazine - Framed Magazine Cover, Anzac Bulletin No.76 London June 21 1918, June 21 1918
Issued to the members of the Australian Military and Navel Forces in Great Britain, France and elsewhere, and to Australain Munition Workers in Great Britain: by the Authority of the High Commissioner of AustraliaFramed copy of the front cover of the " Anzac Bulletin" issue No. 76. London June 21, 1918. On this cover is a sketch of an Australian soldier in a slouch hat with side up turned holding a SMLE with bayonet affixed leaning on a circular picture of a " Youthful type of German reinforcement". At the base of the page is an ad for Kiwi shoe polish.ww1, wark vc club, anzac bulletin, print media -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Magazine - Framed Magazine Cover, Anzac Bulletin No. 68 (New Issue). London, April 26, 1918, April 26 1918
Issued to Members of the Australian Military and Naval Forces in Great Britain, France, and elsewhere; by the Authority of the High Commissioner for Australia.Framed copy of the April 26 1918 issue of the Anzac Bulletin. There is a large square picture of a machine gun post on the Western Front. Surrounding this picture is a thin black border with silhouetted kangaroos and emus and a banner with the stars from the Australian flag. A rising sun hat badge is located at the top centre of the light brown page.ww1, wark vc club, print media, anzac bulletin -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Magazine - Framed Magazine Cover, Anzac Bulletin No. 70( New Issue) London May 10, 1918, 10 May 1918
Issued to members of the Australian Military and Naval Forces in Great Britain, France and elsewhere; by the High Commissioner for AustraliaFramed copy of ANZAC BULLETIN Issue 70 from 10 May 1918. There is a large square photo of " the debris of the battlefield" Surrounding this photo is a thin black boarder with small silhouettes of Kangaroos and Emus and a banner across the top containing the stars from the Australian flag. Located at the top and centre of this brown paper magazine cover is the Rising Sun hat badge. -
Mont De Lancey
Container - Anzac Biscuit Tin, Modern Baking Pty Ltd, 2014
This Unibic Limited Edition ANZAC Biscuit tin is one of a series produced in 2014 to commemorate 100 years 1914 - 2014 of World War 1, focusing on the Victoria Cross, The Anzac Biscuit Story and The RSL Story. The included paper sheet explains the Victoria Cross in full detail. The RSL and Modern Baking Pty Ltd in Broadmeadows provided this product.A large rectangular commemorative Unibic Limited Edition red lidded Anzac Biscuit Tin with an embossed old brown toned photograph image of a soldier on parade receiving a Victoria Cross medal. The lettering for the tin is stamped in red and white at the top of the lid with Limited Edition in gold. There is a brief explanation about the Victoria Cross in a black rectangle shape at the bottom as well as a picture of the medal above it. The back of the tin has information about The Anzac Biscuit Story and details about the RSL (Returned Service League) formed in 1916. Inside the tin there is a white sheet of paper with full details about the Victoria Cross. As stated above there is the name of the tin 'Limited Edition ANZAC Biscuit'. "The Victoria Cross" - The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest military decoration awarded for valour "In the face of the enemy" to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries and previous British Empire territories. 500g Net'war, world war 1, world war 2, containers, tins, commemorative tins -
Royal Brighton Yacht Club
Life Ring, Vega Trophy (Mounted Wooden Life Ring)
Vega Trophy (Mounted Wooden Life Ring) Donor: Graham Noel During World War II when the Germans occupied the Channel Islands the local people went through very severe food rationing and were on the verge of starvation. Near the end of the war, the Swedish ship Vega was allowed by the Germans to deliver several shipments of food to the civilian population, easing the critical shortages of food on the islands. Further background detail can be found below. Graham Noel was born on the Islands and lived there during this harsh period. The trophy is awarded to the winner of the Combined Division AMS Aggregate Series. First Winner: Under Capricorn, P. Bedlington 2005/06 Vega – Further historical background Early in the Second World War Jersey was declared “unarmed” and the German military took over, taking quite a few lives in the process, through strafing the main harbour and a few other places which they needlessly considered threatening. A considerable number of locals evacuated to England before the Germans arrived, but more than 60% of the population remained and endured 5 years of very strict and difficult conditions. Not only was the population unable to contact relatives in the UK or elsewhere, but very quickly they found themselves subject to harsh curfews, strictly rationed foodstuffs, no fuel for vehicles, radios confiscated, and homes and hotels commandeered by the military. The military demanded first pick of all foodstuffs and kept meticulous records of all livestock forcing farmers even to show newborn calves and piglets to them, then claiming the new arrivals for their dinner tables. However there are many stories of farmers outwitting their masters when twin calves or suchlike arrived! Lawbreakers were quickly dealt with, mostly with lengthy prison terms in Jersey, but the more serious crimes were punished by being sent to some horrible French prisons, or even some of the notorious German concentration camps. All local Jews were dispatched to concentration camps, and even English born families were similarly shipped through France and on to Germany. Sadly, a considerable number of those deported did not make it back safely to Jersey. In June 1944 the locals were delighted to hear that the Allies had invaded Normandy and very soon they could hear the battles as the Allies worked their way along the French coast. Little did they know they would still have to wait another 11 months for freedom, having to put up with a very demanding German occupation force which was still determined to obey Hitler’s order to “Defend the Channel Islands to the death”. Now that France was in Allied Hands the local military commanders were unable to supplement their food supplies from France and even harsher demands were made on the local population to ensure that all branches of their still very substantial military force were reasonably well fed. As well as the military, Jersey farmers had to provide food for the Allied POWs and the many “forced labourers”, mainly of Russian, Polish and Italian backgrounds who had been directed to the island to build all the concrete bunkers. This included an underground hospital, all this complying with Hitler’s orders to ensure that the Channel Islands would never again be part of Britain. Many requests by the Jersey authorities for Red Cross assistance were rejected, but finally in December 1944 they agreed and on 30th December the Red Cross vessel “Vega” (Swedish Registry) arrived and delivered parcels to the civilian population. These parcels contained a variety of foodstuffs supplied mainly by Canadian authorities, desperately needed medical supplies, flour, oils and soaps, as well as tobacco from New Zealand. Vega made a further 3 or 4 trips and most certainly eased the desperate situation being faced by the locals. In fact, it resulted in the locals having slightly better food supplies than the military and many local farmers tell stories of having to protect their stock from marauding soldiers. Understandably Churchill was reluctant to send in an invading force to retake the Channel Islands, but by May 1945 it was clear that the Third Reich was finished and on May 9th the German Military surrendered, without a fight, to a large British landing force. On a slightly lighter note … in January 1945 Jersey stonemasons were seen in the main town square repairing flagstones … the Germans had never noticed that the name “Vega” had been formed in those flagstones! As a side note Vega is the name of the brightest star in the universe. Furthermore, throughout the occupation, despite German law that demanded confiscation of all radio sets, punishable by long prison terms or deportation to Germany, there were still many sets being listened to. The locals had a well refined news system for the dissemination of news of what was happening in the outside world. vega, graham noel, ams, combined division, aggregate -
Melbourne Legacy
Article, Bulletin article: Unveiling Stan Savige Memorial, 2006
A bronze bust was erected in Morwell to honour Legacy Founder Sir Stanley Savige. It was unveiled on 31 August 2006 and Legatee Bill Rogers was invited to perform the unveiling. Legatee Rogers says: Savige "was a great humanitarian; he dedicated his life to those who were less fortunate than himself and from a military point of view, was an officer and leader who always cared for the men he commanded". He went on to say that at the event he heard more about Stan Savige and his bravery in saving about 50,000 Assyrian refugees in the first world war. In the event where he protected refugees with only 12 men for six weeks and he was awarded the DSO for delivering these refugees to British lines just north of Baghdad. Document was from a folder of documents donated to the archive by Legatee Bill Rogers that related to his time as President (March 2006 - March 2008).A record of an memorial to Legacy founder Stanley Savige in Morwell.Print out of an article by Legatee Bill Rogers about the unveiling of the Stan Savige memorial in Morwell in 2006.stan savige, statue, memorial, assyrians, dunsterforce -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Uniform - Uniform of Bombardier Charles Frederick Clark
Charles Frederick Clark was 1 of 3 sons of Thomas and Elizabeth Clark of Bonegilla who served in WW1. Charles, Ernest and Thomas were the eldest children of a family of 12 children. At the age of 25, Charles enlisted in 13th Light Horse Brigade 1st Reinforcement on 25 January 1915. He was later transferred to the 2nd Division Artillery Column and the 4th Australian Medium Trench Mortar Battery. Charles served in Egypt, Gallipoli and France. As a result of his actions at the Third Battle of Morlancourt on the Western Front, Charles was awarded the Military Medal. The citation for the medal read:- Awarded: Military Medal 24th June 1918 Recommended by: Brigadier-General O. F. Phillips Commanding 2nd Division Artillery Column Action for which commended: 637 Bombardier Charles Frederick Clark 868 Bombardier (T/Corporal) George Traill McLennan "On the night 10/11th June 1918 during the attack South of MORLANCOURT near ALBERT, these NCOs showed great courage and determination under most trying conditions. They were each in charge of 6” Newton Mortars which had very important tasks. Just prior to the attack their gun positions were very heavily shelled and this continued throughout the barrage fire covering the advance. The work of these NCOs, who could not remain under cover all the time, was extremely dangerous, the enemy batteries having the range exactly. Their great gallantry set a splendid example of coolness to their men." (Signed) C. Rosenthal, Major General Commanding 2nd Australian Division He also received the 1914-15 Star, the British War medal and the Victory Medal.This uniform is significant as it was worn by a Wodonga District resident who received the Military Medal which was awarded for acts of gallantry and devotion to duty under fire during World War 1.Khaki Australia WW1 uniform for AIF. This uniform has 2 external patch chest pockets and 2 internal pockets with opening flap. It has 5 central buttons and 4 pocket buttons. There is a buttoned down epaulet on each shoulder and unit badges sewn onto each arm. An AIF Rising collar badge is on each peak of the collar. A strip of service ribbons is attached at the top of one chest pocket.australian military uniforms, ww1 bonella, military medal, 13th light horse, 4th australian medium trench mortar battery -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Book - Tobruk to Turkey : with the Army of the Nile, Frank Clune, 1949
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 -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Book - "Next to Impossible" The Remarkable LIfe of Albert Chalmers Borella VC, Bradley A. Chalmers, 2015
Quotation from back cover- "Bushman, farmhand, artist, metropolitan fireman, decorated soldier, soldier settler, POW commandant. At ease in the company of the King or the common man, Albert Chalmers Borella VC did it all. This is his remarkable life story. " In 1918 Albert Borella (1881-1968) led a platoon in an attack to straighten the front line beyond Villers-Bretonneux, from which a major British offensive was to be launched a few weeks later. While ahead of his troops, he single-handedly captured a machine-gun. Then, after clearing a trench and dug-outs, he inspired his men to hold out during heavy enemy counter-attacks. Borella had earlier received the Military Medal and been Mentioned in Despatches. Although he had enlisted in Townsville (from Darwin), after the war he lived in Victoria as a farmer. Borella also served in the Second World War, and afterwards settled in Albury, New South Wales where he passed away on 07 February 1968. This extensive biography documents his background and life achievements.non-fictionQuotation from back cover- "Bushman, farmhand, artist, metropolitan fireman, decorated soldier, soldier settler, POW commandant. At ease in the company of the King or the common man, Albert Chalmers Borella VC did it all. This is his remarkable life story. " In 1918 Albert Borella (1881-1968) led a platoon in an attack to straighten the front line beyond Villers-Bretonneux, from which a major British offensive was to be launched a few weeks later. While ahead of his troops, he single-handedly captured a machine-gun. Then, after clearing a trench and dug-outs, he inspired his men to hold out during heavy enemy counter-attacks. Borella had earlier received the Military Medal and been Mentioned in Despatches. Although he had enlisted in Townsville (from Darwin), after the war he lived in Victoria as a farmer. Borella also served in the Second World War, and afterwards settled in Albury, New South Wales where he passed away on 07 February 1968. This extensive biography documents his background and life achievements.victoria cross, military history, biography albert borella, borella albert chalmers v.c> -
Woodend RSL
Headwear - Australian Light Anti-Gas (ALAG) respirator Haversack, MH & Co
The haversack is the brown version (as opposed to the tropical version) issued by the Australian army. Designed inspired from the British haversack with the Australian using a Lift The Dot system instead of a pull tab. This model uses the same ring strap connector as the British haversack.The object is representative of military light gas mask pouch circa mid 20th century.Of rectangular parallelepipped shape made of thick and sturdy fabric (canvas). The colour is faded to a very pale shade of green. Some patches of original colour remain under the pocket flaps showing a darker shade of green. Front view - Rectangular shape with overlapping closing flap with a fastener to maintain closed Left and right views - Both sides have a small pocket attached. Pockets are maintained closed with a press-stud There is a metal buckle on top of the small pockets to attach a lanyard (using items 2020.000018-2 & 2020.000018-3). Back view - Rectangular with metal hooks on top and bottom to enable attachment to a strap/webbing. Bottom view - ‘U’ shaped stitching apparent (for internal pocket) with a metal stud slightly off center of the base (enabling closing of the internal pocket). Top view - closing flap overlapping on 3 sides and attached to the fabric forming the back part of the pouch. Inside view - On the inside, there is a small pocket at the bottom closed with a press-stud. There is also a loop of fabric fastened with another metallic press-stud. There is also an insert against the back pannel (full heighth of the pannel).The fastener of the main cover flap has "LIFT THE DOT" inscribed on the outside. Contains the Department of Defense symbol on the inside of the cover flap. -
Melbourne Legacy
Book, From the Australian Front. Xmas 1917, 1917
A book of drawings and photos published about the trenches in Europe in 1917. Put together by the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces and published by a British publisher. Reproductions of official photographs and cartoons and sketches by members of the A.I.F. Photos show life in the trenches and the war zones, including Ypres, Hill 60, Hindenburg line, Bapaume, Menin Road, Zonnebeke and more. Plus conducting battle operations, Boche prisoners, ruined towns and churches, and the wounded awaiting transport. Most of the drawings are humorous. It is incomplete, the back cover is missing and the pages are only from Page 1 to 24 and 57 to 127. Information from the Australian War Memorial archives says it should have been 157 pages long. Was with other World War 1 memorabilia that has come from Private John Basil McLean, 2nd Reinforcements, 37th Battalion, A.I.F. J.B. McLean (Service No. 13824) was from near Maffra, Victoria and enlisted on 22 January 1916. He embarked on 16 December 1916 for Europe. His full war record is available from AWM. He spent time with the Australian Field Artillery (Pack Section). At the end of the war he worked for a year at the A.I.F. Headquarters in London before returning to Australia on the 'Ceramic', arriving Portsea in 1920.A record that photos from the trenches were published as a memento of Christmas in 1917, presumably for the troops.A book of black and white photos and drawings published for the troops in World War 1.Title page has 'JB McLean / Maffra' handwritten in blue ink.world war one, souvenir -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Speech, Commemorative Address - Sir Stanley Savige K.B.E. Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra, 10/1954
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 -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Document, article, Legatee Don Simonson, President 1970
A cutting from from a Melbourne Legacy President's report showing a photo of Legatee Don Simonson (President of Melbourne Legacy in 1970). It was collected to be a record of a photo of past presidents. Legatee Simonson saw active service as a commissioned officer in the South-West Pacific area and was awarded the Military Cross. He was part of the Owen Stanley Campaign and also served in Bougainville and New Britain. He was inducted into Legacy in 1953. His father was also a Legatee, Paul W Simonson was inducted into Legacy in 1925. The article was part of an album of past presidents from 1965 to 1989. The folder included biographical details and obituaries, eulogies and death notices of prominent Legatees. The items have been catalogued separately.A record of Legatee Don Simonson a past president of Legacy. The information was collected to record the lives of prominent legatees in a folder.Article with a black and white photo of Legatee Don Simonson - President 1970past presidents, don simonson -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph, Annual Demonstration, 195
Black and white photo of a finale of an Annual Demonstration at the Melbourne Town Hall. The entire cast of junior legatees are taking part. There seems to be figures representing Great Britain, the USA and Australia standing on a globe under a large Legacy symbol. There are some of the children in military style uniforms. The year is not known but it is in the 1940s or 1950s as the album was a collection of press photos taken during dress rehearsals from that time. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and Eurythmics. The Demonstration was an annual event to showcase their skills. Melbourne Legacy conducted Annual Demonstrations / Parades from 1928 through to the 1980's, usually held at Melbourne Town Hall. The beautiful costumes were made by members of the Junior Legacy Mothers' Club and the Melbourne Legacy Wives' Association.A record of the displays at the Annual Demonstrations. Also that Legacy provided classes for junior legatees and the skills learned were displayed in the Annual Demonstration.Black and white photo in an album of a final routine on stage during a Demonstration.junior legatees, demonstration, annual demonstration, girls classes, boys classes -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, George G Harrap and Co, The story of Lord Kitchener, 1916
... Great Britain - History - Military... - Great Britain - Biography Great Britain - History - Military ...The life and times of Lord KitchenerIll, p.288.non-fictionThe life and times of Lord Kitchenergenerals - great britain - biography, great britain - history - military -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Hodder and Stoughton, Lord Wavell (1883-1941) : a military biography, 1948
A biography of Lord WavellIndex, ill, maps, p.488.non-fictionA biography of Lord Wavellgenerals - great britain - biography, world war 1939-1945 - campaigns - north africa -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Sir Francis Drake, 1890
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history Great Britain - Admirals - Biography ...The life and times of Sir Francis Drakep.209.non-fictionThe life and times of Sir Francis Drakegreat britain - military history, great britain - admirals - biography -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Macmillan and Co, Nelson, 1890
... Great Britain - Military history... Britain - Military history Great Britain - Admirals - Biography ...The life and times of Nelsonp.240.non-fictionThe life and times of Nelsongreat britain - military history, great britain - admirals - biography -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Hodder & Stoughton, A song of the English, 1912
... Military music - Great Britain... Main Rd Monbulk yarra-valley-and-the-dandenong-ranges Military ...A book of songs and poems by Rudyard KiplingIll, p.123.non-fictionA book of songs and poems by Rudyard Kiplingmilitary music - great britain, poems - great britain