Used in WW1 by German soldiers, primarily pioneer troops and NCOs. Often had their teeth removed due to negative conotations associated with allied propaganda. Many German soldiers were advised not to use the sawback bayonet as they believed that if caught with it they could be summarily executed Know as a saw back bayonet or a butchers knifeDark steel bayonet with substantial 37 cm (15 in) blade. Woodne grips are missing and steel on grop is significantly rusted. Saw back edge with 2 rows of 29 teeth, The quilion bends down toward the hanle Unlike many other bayontes this bayonet does not have a muzzel ring it instead has a long t shaped gove in the handle, Mauser avoided one since these altered the vibration harmonics of the barrel when fired, affecting accuracy. All the bayonets featured quillons that curved back towards the hilt. These were much less effective at catching the opposing blade than the forward-swept quillons used by some other nations. A small number of pioneers and certain non-commissioned officers of the German Army were issued a bayonet with a sawback edge, known as the S or m.S. ("mit Säge", with saw). Many such bayonets had their teeth ground down in response to negative Allied propaganda. There is a heavily rusted, all steel scabbardWAFFENFABRIK MAUSER A.G OBERNDORF a.N5/6 rvr, bayonet, ww1, german, western front

This and another photograph (Catalogue 2591) was taken at a gathering of Officers and NCOs of the 2nd Armoured Brigade (RAAC) to meet Prince Philip in Melbourne during the Royal Visit 1954. The two photographs were framed and hung on the wall of the Headquarter Building at Buna Barracks Albury till 1991 when they were relocated to the Regimental Collection.Rare record of an historic gathering during the Royal Visit to Victoria in1954.Framed black and white photograph of large gathering of soldiers in uniform standing on steps of a Government House Melbourne. Frame is narrow wood painted gloss black. The group is the Non-Commissioned Officers of the 2nd Armoured Brigade, Royal Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC). Standing at front centre dress in dark suit is HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh and to his right is Lieutenant Colonel Tom Fogarty, Commanding Officer of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles..Signed at lower centre "Philip 1954"philip, hrh, edinburgh, fogarty, royal

Photo, black / white, 6 soldiers in uniform without head gear. 3 standing at rear, 2 seated in centre, 1 lower in front. Photo is in brown wooden frame with glass front & fawn paper backing. Photo is mounted with brown / gold border & features NCO's who survived the Messines Armentiers Battle. D Coy 38th Battalion AIF.Information on cardboard marker at bottom of photo identifies 2 members: 1. Centre front: R H LUXON (Cpr) 2. Seated RHS: Harry W SHELTON (CQMS) In black texta & black ink on backing: Trust 31 On stickers front / back: No 56soldiers, framed photographs, group portraits

This and another photograph (Catalogue 3393) was taken at a gathering of Officers and NCOs of the 2nd Armoured Brigade (RAAC) to meet Prince Philip at Government House, Melbourne during the Royal Visit 1954. The two photographs were framed and hung on the wall of the Headquarter Building at Buna Barracks Albury till 1991 when they were relocated to the Regimental Collection.Rare record of an historic gathering during the Royal Visit to Victoria in1954.Framed black and white photograph of large gathering of soldiers in uniform standing on steps of Government House, Melbourne. The group is the officers of the 2nd Armoured Brigade, Royal Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC). Lieutenant Colonel Tom Fogarty, Commanding Officer 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles, is standing on HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh's right. Signed at lower centre of photograph "Philip 1954"2nd armoured brigade, prince philip duke of edinburgh, fogarty tom lieutenant colonel, martin arch warrent officer class 1, royal visit 1954

A 22 page document covering, in Part 1, Officer postings, rotation system, courses, seniority list for WO & NCO etc, Part 2 Equipment: Ferret, Saracen, Staghound & Grant CIM's, .22 rifle brackets, maintenance etc and Part 3 - Appendices, Comparison of shooting techniques, Trade Test Drivers of AFV's and photographs of some AFV's. 2 copies, 1 incomplete.raac bulletin, raac

This diary was written by Cpl William Donald McDonald 3403 who served from July 1915 to November 1918. The diary covers the period August 5th 1916 to December 31st 1917.William McDonald was stationed in England mostly at the Salisbury Plain for the entire period. This item was mistakenly identified as as the J A G Brass diary, with 11Lieut J A G Brass being written inside the front cover of the diary. However J A G Brass was a distant cousin of W McDonald who still lived in Scotland and along with other names inside the front cover were contacts for the writer. Among the names are A W Hardy, J W Jolly, I J Windsor, Pte H A Jessop. The book itself is a modified British Service notebook, having been cut down by the author to make it a more manageable size. William McDonald was 35 years of age when he enlisted and was a tailor before enlistingThis diary has historic significance as it records daily life during the first world war. It relates daily life in the army ranks. It also has strong links to local families.Modified Service notebook of the type issued for use in the British Army of World War 1. It would have originally measured 5” x 7”, but has been cut down by nearly removing the fly end of the pages to reduce them about 3.5”. The author, who was a painstakingly neat and fastidious man, has also re-rounded the corners, to prevent them ‘dog-earing’. The aim of the modifications is likely to have been to make the item easy to slip in or out of a tunic pocket. Heavy light grey green card with rounded corners bound with two staples. 96 pages, each with 8 faint, light blue, vertical lines. Handwriting in ink and indelible pencil is across the lines.The front cover of the Notebook (now the back cover of the diary) is annotated as ‘Army Book 136A’, effaced with an imperial crown of the ‘St James’? Pattern with a title inscribed in an ellipse, which would once have read - SUPPLIED FOR THE USE OF OFFICERS AND NCOS.warrnambool, ww1 diary, mcdonald 3403, william donald mcdonald, william mcdonald, j a g brass, world war one

The 17th Australian Infantry Brigade was an infantry brigade in the Australian Army. First formed in 1917 during World War I, it did not see any action. Reformed during World War II, before being disbanded in 1946. Today, its name is perpetuated by the 17th Combat Service Support Brigade, which was raised as a logistics formation in May 2006. The 17th Brigade was reformed on 13 October 1939, again as part of the 6th Division, recruited from Victoria. The 17th Brigade fought in the Western Desert Campaign in Libya, the Battle of Greece, the Battle of Wau, the Salamaua-Lae campaign in Papua, and in the Aitape-Wewak campaign in New Guinea. The photographs are of national significance as they may reflect the only known photographs of individuals from WW2.4 page newspaper pictures of 17th Brigade, Second AIFThe Argus 17th Australian Infantry Brigade, Second AIF, Souvenir Supplement, Thursday, February 22, 1940 Page 1 2/5th Battalion - Picture 1 Officers of the 2/5th Battalion; Picture 2 Senior NCO's of the 2/5th Battalion; Picture 3 A Company 2/5th Battalion Page 2 B Company 2/5th Battalion; C Company 2/5th Battalion; D Company 2/5th Battalion Page 3 Headquarters 2/2nd Field Regiment 6th Divisional Artillery; 3rd Battery 2/2nd Field Regiment 6th Divisional Artillery Page 4 Officers, NCO's and men of 2/2nd Field Company, 6th Divisional Engineers; Officers NCO's and men 2/2nd Field Ambulance and 2/2nd Australian General Hospital 6th Divisional Australian Army Medical Corpsaif, army, 17th brigade, second aif, 2/5th battalion, australian army, australian infantry brigade, 2/2nd field aumbulance, 2/2nd australian general hospital, 6th divisional australian army medical corps, 6th divisional engineers

The roll was in the collection relating to Leslie F Iser AIF who served in the 18th Battery. Refer 337 for his service details.Brown timber frame, glass front, cardboard backing. Honour Roll printed on white background. Print shows names re-inforcements, WIA, KIA, Battles, Unit colour patches, Gallantry awards. Top: "18th Battery - 6th Field Artillery Brigade Honour Roll of Officers, NCO's and Men" Below: "Names, Reinforcements, WIA, KIA, Battles, Unit Colour Patches & Gallantry Awards" Printed in texta on rear: "Tom Iser & Ian Sides"documents - lists, frame accessories, military history, artillery

"James Locke BLUNDEN" R/33905 A33905. Enlisted 6/2/45. Discharged 21/1/64. Rank Chief Airman AHI, HMAS SYDNEY. Korea = rank Leading Airman on HMAS SYDNEY 31/8/1951 - 22/02/1952.1. Jacket - black colour wool twill with cotton sateen lining, double breasted with gold painted metal buttons with shank. Service Ribbons for WW2, Korea, Long Service. On lapels embroidered crown, aeroplane and letter "H". On sleeves - 3 gold buttons - denotes senior sailor ranks NCO. Buttons with Crown, Anchor and Australia". 2. Trousers - black colour wool twill, five button fly. Handwritten name on back pocket calico lining. 2. Back pocket lining - handwritten, black ink "J. BLUNDEN"uniform, ran, ww2, korea

The photos relate to the service of Francis William (Dinky) Dean BEM VX93960 2nd AIF and 3742 ARA 1943-1975. Refer to Cat. No. 124.2 for his service history. All photos taken in Japan with BCOF..1) Black and white photo showing two soldiers standing outside a building with sign on left. .2) Black and white photo showing a group of 15 footballers and two men in uniform in three rows. .3) Black and white photo showing a group of 11 hockey players and one man in uniform in three rows. .4) Sepia tone photo showing a large group of NCO's in four rows outside a building. F.W. Dean is in the front row, 2nd from left. .1) On front sign: "BCOF RTO FUKUYAMA FREIGHT" .2) On rear in pencil: " Bn Rugby League Team Runners Up 1948 Bde Comp with CO Lt Col R.H. Marson DSO" Stamped in purple "Issued by Public Relations HQ BCOF for information" .3) On rear in pencil: "Bn Hockey team, Winner 1948 Bde Comp with Lt Col R.H. Marson DSO, CO 65th Aust INF BN" Stamped in purple: same as Item .2) .4) On rear in pencil " Members of 65th Aust INF BN Sgts Mess WO1 SCHOLE"military, photography, bcof, 65th bn

Photograph taken in the Sergeants Mess, Fortuna Villa circa 1972-1975 whilst LTCOL DR Ridge was the Commanding Officer of the Army Survey Regiment and SSGT G Haswell was a stores NCO. WO2 Szentirmay (in the background) was a Lithographic Technical Warrant Officer. 4233 LTCOL DR Ridge was commissioned from the ranks and served from 1946 - 1975, he was Commanding Officer of the Army Survey Regiment from 1972-1975. 310207 SSGT G Haswell served 1950- 1978 after a British Army career, 14613 WO2 T Szentirmay BEM served 1958-1980 after an Eastern European Army career.Black and White photograph of LTCOL DR Ridge and SSGT G Haswell Circa 1972-1975 taken at the Sergeants Mess at Fortuna Villa, Bendigoroyal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr

The photos are part of a large collection relating to Francis William (Dinky) DEAN BEM, VX93960 2nd AIF, 3742 1 RAR, 1943 - 1975. Refer Cat No 124.2 for his service history. (.1) Frank Dean first in front on the left. (.2) “”””””””” rear row 2nd from the right. (.3). “”””””””” first on the left. (.5) “””””””””” front row third from right. (.6 .7.9) Each of these group photos have either several Korean or Malayan soldiers in. The photos are possibly the Platoons of either A or D Coy’s 1 RAR. (.8) Frank Dean, front row 2nd from the left. This group is possibly the Officers and senior NCO’s of A or D Coy’s 1 RAR. All photos are B & W. (.1) Large group of soldiers on parade with .303 rifles on the march. (.2) group of 7 soldiers , 5 standing 2 sitting. (.3) Group of 5 soldiers standing with a sign “D Coy Sgt’s”. (.4) Group of soldiers at a dinner in a Nissan hut all standing. (.5) Group of 18 soldiers, 1 row standing, 1 sitting in front of a RAAF plane. (.6) Group photo of 24 in 3 rows. (.7) Group photo of 22 in 3 rows. (.8) group photo of 14 in 2 rows. (.9) group photo of 26 in 3 rows.photography, military

This swagger stick belonged to Private Ernest LUCAS who served with the Royal Defence Corps between 17/6/1907 and 18/5/1919 including the 6th Battalion Middlesex Regiment In the British Army before World War I, swagger sticks were carried by all other ranks when off duty as part of their walking out uniform. The stick took the form of a short cane of polished wood, with an ornamented metal head of regimental pattern. The usual custom was for the private soldier or NCO to carry the stick tucked under his arm. Until 1939 swagger sticks were still carried by peacetime regular soldiers when "walking out" of barracks but the practice ceased with the outbreak of World War II. The 6th Battalion Middlesex Regiment can trace its history back to 7 August 1760 as part of the Middlesex Militia. In 1778 it was titled the 1st East Middlesex Militia. By royal order the regiment was later designated the Royal East Middlesex Militia on 24 April 1804. By 1855 it was using the formal title of "1st or Royal East Middlesex Regiment of Militia". In 1900 the number of regular Middlesex Regiment battalions was doubled with the formation of a new the 3rd and 4th battalions; and the two militia battalions were renumbered as 5th and 6th battalions of the regiment. The unit's standing orders of 1863 record the regimental insignia as being somewhat unusual, in that it did not include standard royal crown, but featured a five-pointed Saxon Crown atop a shield with the arms of the East Saxon Kingdom i.e. three stylised Seaxes hilted and pommeledpLong narrow round cane made from polished reddish/brown wood with brass metal tip and embossed silver topSilver metal top embossed with a crown above a shield inscribed 6th Battalion Middlesex Regtswagger stick, 6th battalion middlesex regiment, private ernest lucas

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

This six-postcard group is the seventh in a series of records of items in the collection of Edgar Dawson DCM. Dawson was the Regimental Sergeant Major of 57th Battalion, AIF. C Company of the 57th was composed of men drawn from Echuca, Eaglehawk and Bendigo. The postcards are from his personal album, and many are annotated in Dawson's hand with explanatory notes on the subject. Refer to Cat No 893 for his service details. Items originally in album cat. no. 207P These postcards illustrate the links between battalions, such as the 5th and 47th. 1. Group portrait of the Officers and NCOs of C Company, 47th Battalion. 47th Btn was drawn from Queensland and Tasmania, and C company was primarily Queenslanders. 2. Group photo of the signallers and stretcher bearers of 5th Battalion. Dawson note that Josiah and Norman Rolls, from Golden Square in Bendigo, are in photograph. 3. Group photograph of 57th Battalion medal recipients taken outside Exeter cathedral. 4. 57th Btn band 5 HQ Pioneers, 57th Btn, 8th of October 1917. Dawson notes that the man front row extreme right is 50 years old. 6. Group photo of some officers of the 57th Btn 1. On verso "A.R. Tweddell, 47th Battalion, C Company A.I.F" 2. On Verso "This is a group photograph signallers 5th Battalion Jo and Norm Rolls" 3. "Group taken in Exeter at a a presentation of medals" 4. "This is our band can you pick out Bob Scott" 5. "This is our HQ pioneers who do all our building. The chap on the front row right is fifty years of age and came away with the first contingent. Also the corporal, sergeant and two left had men rear rank" 6. "This is a photo of some of the officers of our battalion. Colonel J.C. Stewart centre, Major R.M. Cotheson on left, Captain Laing M.C. on right. Will tell you the rest when I get home"postcards, 57th battalion, edgar dawson dcm

Leslie Pryde enlisted in the AIF 2.8.15 in Divisional Ammunition Column 1 reinforcement 14 age 28 years. Embarked for Egypt 28.1.1916, transfers to 13th FAB 16.4.1916, embarks for France 16.6.1916, promoted to Cpl 7.6.1917, hospital with Trench Fever 12.12.1917, return to unit 30.12.1917, promoted to Sgt 26.1.1918, discharged from the AIF on 7.4.1919. Leslie Pryde was awarded the Military Medal on 15.10.1917 East of Westhoek serving in the 49th Battery. The citation is quite long but the main part is the following; During heavy shelling one of their ammunition dumps was hit and caught fire, Pryde and another NCO at great risk pulled rounds away from the fire area likely to explode and extinguished the fire saving 600 out of 1000 rounds, 400 had exploded.Medal set, court mounted, set of (3) re L Pryde. 1 Military medal, replica not engraved. 2 War medal 1914-1920, replica not engraved. 3 Victory Medal. 3. 11986 Sgt L.Pryde. 1 D.A.C A.I.F medals, military, bravery, history

The photos all relate to the collection of Francis William (Dinky) DEAN BEM, VX93960 2nd AIF, 3472 1 RAR, 1943 - 1975. Refer Cat No 124.2 for his service details. (.1) The sign “6/58 ARA RQMS Course June 1958” ARA (Australian Regular Army) RQMS (Regimental Quarter Master Sergeant) Frank Dean is in 2nd row 1st on the right. (.2) Possibly the Officers and Senior NCO’s of 1 RAR in the late 1950’s. (.3) Some time in the 1960’s as many are wearing Vietnam ribbons. Frank Dean is 1st on the right 2nd row. (.4 - .6) “D Coy 1st Battalian of the Royal Australian Regiment”. Possibly taken in the late 1950’s. Frank Dean is in the 2nd row from bottom, 12th from the right. All photos are B & W. (.1) Large group of 25 soldiers in 3 rows with sign in front. (.2) Large group of 41 soldiers in 3 rows with building behind. (.3) Large group of 46 soldiers in 3 rows, gardens and car in background. (.4 - .6) Large group of soldiers in 3 rows with sign and flag in front.photography, military

Taken on an unknown date, depicted is a portrait of a young, unidentified male soldier. He is dressed in an Australian military uniform. It is believed that this soldier was part of The Australian Imperial Force during World War I. This can be inferred by the chevron rank insignia visible on the uniform. The placement of this insignia on the sleeve of the right arm suggests that this soldier was either a Warrant Officer or a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO). Specifically, the number of chevron stripes - here, there are three - are believed to signify a Sergeant ranking. The man in this photograph is also wearing a 'Rising Sun' collar badge on his coat. Australia, unlike most other Commonwealth countries, did not adopt metal regimental badges during the First World War. All units were issued with the Australian Army General Service Badge, better known as the 'Rising Sun’ badge. This insignia is almost always identified with the Australian Imperial Force.The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. The first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s (ANMEF) landing on Rabaul on 11 September 1914. The ANMEF took possession of German New Guinea at Toma on 17 September 1914 and of the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago in October 1914. On 25 April 1915, members of the AIF landed on Gallipoli in Turkey with troops from New Zealand, Britain, and France. This specific event holds very strong significance within Australian history. The record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day.Sepia rectangular postcard printed on card.Reverse: CARD / JAS.C.CRADDEN, / 182 PITT ST, SYDNEY. / Cecil Johnson / BMM2640.1 /military album, wwi, world war i, postcard, australian army, australian imperial force, aif, sergeant, warrant officer, non-commissioned officer, portrait

Taken on an unknown date, depicted is a full-length portrait of a young, unidentified male soldier. He is dressed in an Australian military uniform. It is believed that this soldier was part of The Australian Imperial Force during World War I. This can be inferred by the chevron rank insignia visible on the uniform. The placement of this insignia on the sleeve of the right arm suggests that this soldier was either a Warrant Officer or a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO). Specifically, the number of chevron stripes - here, there are two - are believed to signify a Corporal rank. The man in this photograph is also wearing a 'Rising Sun' collar badge on his coat. Australia, unlike most other Commonwealth countries, did not adopt metal regimental badges during the First World War. All units were issued with the Australian Army General Service Badge, better known as the 'Rising Sun’ badge. This insignia is almost always identified with the Australian Imperial Force.The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. The first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s (ANMEF) landing on Rabaul on 11 September 1914. The ANMEF took possession of German New Guinea at Toma on 17 September 1914 and of the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago in October 1914. On 25 April 1915, members of the AIF landed on Gallipoli in Turkey with troops from New Zealand, Britain, and France. This specific event holds very strong significance within Australian history. The record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day.Black and white rectangular postcard printed on card.Reverse: Mendelssohn & Co., / Swanston St., Melbourne / POST CARD / KODAK / CORRESPONDENCE / ADDRESS ONLY / AUSTRAL / AUSTRAL / KODAK / BMM 2640.3 /military album, world war i, wwi, corporal, portrait, soldier, australian imperial force, aif, postcard, uniform

Taken on an unknown date, depicted is a portrait of a young, unidentified male soldier. He is dressed in an Australian military uniform. It is believed that this soldier was part of The Australian Imperial Force during World War I. This can be inferred by the chevron rank insignia visible on the uniform. The placement of this insignia on the sleeve of the right arm suggests that this soldier was either a Warrant Officer or a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO). Specifically, the number of chevron stripes - here, there are two - are believed to signify a Corporal rank. The man in this photograph is also wearing a 'Rising Sun' collar badge on his coat. Australia, unlike most other Commonwealth countries, did not adopt metal regimental badges during the First World War. All units were issued with the Australian Army General Service Badge, better known as the 'Rising Sun’ badge. This insignia is almost always identified with the Australian Imperial Force.The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. The first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s (ANMEF) landing on Rabaul on 11 September 1914. The ANMEF took possession of German New Guinea at Toma on 17 September 1914 and of the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago in October 1914. On 25 April 1915, members of the AIF landed on Gallipoli in Turkey with troops from New Zealand, Britain, and France. This specific event holds very strong significance within Australian history. The record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day.Sepia rectangular postcard printed on card.Reverse: BMM 2640.4 / P RD / Write here for Inland Postage on /military album, aif, australian imperial force, corporal, war, wwi, world war i, rising sun, badge, uniform, military

Awarded to Alan Bowers (A236814) who was a R.A.A.F. dental mechanic who serverd during WWII including service in Darwin, and then continued in the R.A.A.F. for some years after the end of WWII The Royal Australian Air Force (and all Commonwealth Air Forces) Long Service and Good Conduct Medal: Awarded to NCOs and ORs of the RAAF (RAF, RCAF etc) for 15 years service. A cupro-nickel plated medal, the obverse features the sovereign's head, the reverse features the crown and eagle emblem of the RAAF (and RAF). Officers are eligible for the award provided they have served a minimum 12 years in the ranks. The riband is dark blue and maroon with white edges. This medal ceased to be awarded in Australia in 1975 when it was replaced by the National Medal (and sbsequently the DFSM and DLSM) in the Australian system of honours and awards. http://www.heritagemedals.com.au/medals-1/service-long-service/air-force-long-service-and-good-conduct-medal.html History of the RAAF Dental Branch It took six years following the formation of the RAAF in 1921 for the first Dental Clinic to be established at Point Cook, Victoria. On 10th June 1927 Flying Officer James Carl Rosenbrock commenced work as an RAAF Dental Officer for the FlyingTraining School at Point Cook. As personnel numbers were still relatively small, Rosenbrock was also responsible for the dental care of all Victorian RAAF units, which involved treating members at 1AD Laverton, as well as Air Force Headquarters at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne. As Army Dental Officers were currently caring for RAAF personnel at Richmond, NSW, the Senior Dental Officer of the 3rd Military District in Victoria (SDO 3MD) requested through the military board that a similar arrangement be established, where that the newly appointed RAAF Dentist provide part time dental services to the Army units stationed at Queenscliff. This was seen as an effective reciprocal arrangement, with both units having a Dental Officer in attendance for, in total, around 3-4 weeks a year. Rosenbrock continued to serve as the sole RAAF Dental Officer until the middle of 1933, when the Air Board asked for his service to be terminated following ‘behaviour unbecoming of a RAAF officer'. He had borrowed several sums of money, of around 40 Pounds or so, from junior ranks on base (as well as from the Regimental Sergeant Major) and had failed to pay the money back. He was replaced by a fellow Victorian, FLGOFF Norman Henry Andrews, on the 18th Sep 1933, who went on to become our first Director of Dental Services, and was instrumental in establishing the organisations and conditions of the Branch that are still present today. Through a fair amount of persistence and hard work on the part of Norman Andrews, the RAAF Dental Branch began to expand from 1937, with the introduction of 2 additional positions, at RAAF station Richmond, and at the FlyingTraining School at Point Cook. This gave the RAAF 3 uniformed Dental Officers, which was expanded to 5 in the months leading up to WW2. 4 of these Dental Officers were based in Victoria and 1 at Richmond, with the other two RAAF units being cared for by the Army (as in the case of Pearce in WA) or by civilians (as in Darwin). With the sudden increase in RAAF personnel required at the outbreak of WW2, the number of RAAF Dental Officers increased dramatically, from 5 in 1939, 28 in 1940, 64 in 1941, 147 in 1942, 193 in 1943, 219 in 1944, and peaking at 227 in 1945. RAAF Dental Officers were required to work in a variety of locations, both in and out of Australia. Between 1940 and 1942 a massive construction programme occurred, with new dental clinics being established around Australia. Priority was given to aircrew training units in order to get these personnel dentally fit for operational deployment, but Dental Officers could equally find themselves posted to recruit depots, fixed stations, medical clearance stations, mobile dental sections, and RAAF and civilian hospitals. RAAF Dental Officers were posted to the large dental centres at Ascot Vale (Vic) and Bradfield Park (NSW) when first appointed, where they received military and clinical training, before being deployed to their needed location. Mobile Dental Units When Japan entered the war in 1941, the rapid deployment of troops to northern operational areas with less than ideal dental fitness was extremely high. As a result, the RAAF deployed a range of mobile dental units, either alone or with medical sections, to support the increasing number of isolated deployed personnel within Australia and overseas. There were three types of mobile unit used: a. Mobile Dental Unit – relied on using either a semi-trailer to get around or by building a surgery directly on to the truck chassis, and installing hydraulic chairs, units, x-rays, and laboratory equipment. They were able to move around between small units, such as RAAF radar stations, where they could plug into the local power supply and work immediately. b. Transportable Dental Units – used for stops of longer duration, where field equipment was carried in panniers from one unit to another by road or rail and housed in whatever accommodation was available at the destination. They were often carried within Australia on Tiger Moths and Dakota aircraft. c. Itinerant Dental Units – in some areas, the dental equipment was installed at the RAAF unit and the Dental Officer and their staff would travel from unit to unit, using the equipment available at each location. RAAF Dental BadgeAs the war developed in Europe, it soon became obvious that the RAF Dental support was not capable of supporting the increasing numbers of RAAF aircrew that were being sent for service with the RAF, with only enough Dental Officers available to provide one to every 2000 men ( instead of the preferred 1 to 600). As a result, the RAAF provided a mobile dental unit, fitted out in a caravan and pulled by a Ford V8 Coupe, to travel around England in support of RAAF personnel at various squadrons. Some degree of tact was needed to ensure that the RAF did not take this as a comment on the treatment they were providing, but it proved successful in maintaining a satisfactory state of dental fitness in RAAF personnel, and a second mobile unit was soon dispatched. They were also set up with a laboratory on board as well as the surgery, which was a major difference between the RAF and RAAF, as the RAF did not provide dentures for their troops (the RAAF would, providing they had served for 6 years). In 1943 the RAF was no longer able to provide Dental support to Australian troops in the Middle East, which resulted in the need for a transportable dental unit to be deployed from Australia. It functioned in a similar manner to the RAF, by moving from one squadron to another. It served in the Middle East and Africa, from Cairo across North Africa, to Italy, and eventually back to England to treat returned prisoners of war. GPCAPT Norman Andrews The growth and development of the RAAF Dental Branch owes a debt to one man in particular, GPCAPT Norman Andrews. As the second RAAF Dental Officer to enlist on 18 Sep 1933, Andrews became the principal architect of the structure and organisation of the RAAF Dental Branch leading up to and during WW2. Until early 1940, the RAAF Dental Branch was administered by the Director of Medical Services (Air), which placed it under the control of the Army Medical staff. The Army would provide their Inspector of Dental Services for advice whenever needed. In April 1940, the RAAF Medical service separated from the Army, resulting in the control of the RAAF Dental Branch shifting back to the RAAF. Andrews became the first Director of Dental Services, when the position was created in 1943 as recognition of the higher profile the Dental Branch was now playing in the RAAF Medical service. Until this time, Andrews's title had been as the Dental Staff Officer to the RAAF Medical Service. Andrews was responsible for the establishment of the war-time structure of the Dental service, establishing new dental centres at all major bases, creating mobile and transportable dental units, ensuring the continual growth of the Branch, maintaining professional development of staff through the establishment of a professional journal, and by organising renowned lecturers to speak at RAAF bases. He also believed in visiting as many dental units as possible to see for himself what conditions were like and to talk first-hand to staff in remote units. His itinerary during the war years, both in and out of Australia, shows a large number of trips in a variety of modes of transport in order to reach remote areas where units were serving. He was promoted to GPCAPT in July 1944, as the numbers of Dental Officers soon peaked at 227 towards the end of the war (1 GPCAPT, 9 WGCDRs, 60 SQNLDRs, and 157 FLTLTs). After the war, with the reduction in RAAF personnel required in uniform, the Dental Branch also reduced its numbers significantly. By 1947 there were only 18 Dental Officers serving (many part-time), with 1 GPCAPT, 1 WGCDR, 10 SQNLDRs, and 6 FLTLTs, and only 13 by 1950. With the decrease in Branch personnel numbers, the ‘powers to be' saw fit to reduce the Director of Dental Service rank to WGCDR, and as a result Norman Andrews found that in order to continue serving in the RAAF he would have to wear a reduced rank. This appears to have been a contributing factor in his decision to discharge at the relatively early age of 43 and accept an administrative job as Director of the Victorian Government's School Dental Service. Norman Andrews holds the proud honour of being the founder of the RAAF Dental Branch, which during the war was instrumental in educating servicemen of the importance of dental health and maintaining the dental fitness of troops in a variety of areas. Dental Orderlies (Assistants) The dental orderly mustering was first introduced in 1937. Until that time, medical orderlies were assigned to assist the Dental officer with their duties. As early as 1931 it had been noted by both RAAF and Army Dental Officers working in Victoria and Richmond that a lot of the troubles they were having would be solved by appointing a permanent Dental Orderly. Often they would find that the medical orderly they were assigned was a different one each day, and as a result the administration and work in general was very inefficient. By 1937, with the increase in Dental Officers to 3, it was realised that a Dental Orderly mustering needed to be created. Dental Mechanics/Technicians Before WW2, dental laboratory work was provided by civilian laboratories, as most RAAF units were stationed around metropolitan areas. At this time, service personnel were still required to pay for their own dentures, unless they had served for six years or had their dentures damaged during performance of their duties. In July 1940, mainly in response to the development of more remote RAAF dental units and the increasing demand for dental prostheses, the Dental Mechanic mustering was established. Unfortunately there was a very limited pool of civilian dental mechanics to recruit from, and as a result the RAAF set up a training school at Laverton (which was later moved to Ascot Vale) in June 1941 which conducted an intensive 6 month course in Dental mechanics. Dental mechanics were quickly in demand. In all fixed and mobile dental units at least 1 Mechanic was supplied for each Dental Officer, and indeed the RAAF supplied Dental Mechanics throughout all its deployments, something the RAF were unwilling, or unable, to do. Two grades of dental mechanic existed: the Senior Mechanic (with the rank of NCO), who was competent in all phases of laboratory work; and the Junior Mechanic, who could only handle routine work and not more advanced denture work. The progression to Senior required a further trade test in techniques including setting up, clasp-forming, casting and backing teeth. During the course of the War, two special courses were held for Mechanics. The first, directed at senior mechanics so that they could instruct others, was in 1942 when Acrylic Resin was first introduced as a denture base material, as an alternative to the current option of vulcanite. Later, towards the end of the War, a ‘refresher' course was provided for those that had served for the greatest period of time in order to allow them retraining in techniques that they had not practised during their service and which were common in civilian life. This included cast base dentures, crowns and bridges, partial dentures, and retainers. Towards the end of the War, a course was held with WAAAF trainees to train them as Mechanics. However, as the War was soon to end they never had the opportunity to progress within the mustering to become Senior Mechanics. The RAAF Dental Branch has survived 75 years of turbulence, with reviews of its viability occurring regularly every few years from as early as 1937. The Branch continues to provide excellent service to the ADF community and, despite reduced manpower, will continue to play an important role in Air Force Health operations. http://www.defence.gov.au/health/about/docs/RAAFDental.pdf40cm cupro-nickel plated medal, the obverse features the sovereign's head, the reverse features the crown and eagle emblem of the RAAF (and RAF). A23814 BOWERS.A. A. F.r.a.a.f long service medal, r.a.a.f good conduct, r.a.a.f. dental service medal

The letter is mostly about the training for and the raid which was carried out by a large group made up from the 37th and 38th Battalions AIF on the 27th February 1917. The raid which only lasted some 35 minutes was very successful and was known as the “Armentieres Raid”. Suggett was part of the raid. Robert John Suggett No 378 enlisted in A Coy 38th Batt on 24.2.1916 age 35 years 4 months. Embarked for England 20.6.1916, embarked for France 22.11.1916, hospital with Mumps 25.11.1916, return to unit 3.12.1916, promoted to Sgt 26.1.1917, Transfer to 3rd Div HQ 13.4.1917 to become part of Gas instruction and later Gas NCO, reverts to rank of Cpl 6.5.1917, WIA accidentally 24.9.1917 bombs wounds to right hand and knee, promoted Sgt 4.11.1917, hospital 9.2.1919 with Arthritis and then Tuberculosis, returns to Australia 6.5.1919 on Hospital ship classed incapacitated, discharged from the AIF 21.6.1920.Four page letter from Robert Suggett to his wife. Cream coloured paper with faint lines. Left edge of pages decorated with eight coloured flags on a flagpole. Letter is written in pencil and dated 1/3/17.documents-letters, military history, 38th

In 1909 the Australian Army Headquarters realized that mapping in Australia was either non existent or inadequate for Military use. It was requested that Australia borrow Survey personnel from the UK Royal Engineers (RE) for a two-year detachment. On 11 April 1910 four RE NCOs arrived in Melbourne comprising CPL J Lynch, and LCPLs AH Barrett, EF Davies and R Wilcox. LCPL Barrett had 12yrs experience with RE. They were aiming at producing eight map sheets per year covering about 7,000 square miles (18,000 square Km) This map sheet of the Newcastle area was produced using plane table methods and was surveyed and hand drawn by LCPL A Barrett Oct - Nov 2010. It was unique because it was now produced on an accurate gridded base and included contouring. Lynch and Davies transferred to the Royal Australian Engineers (RAE) whilst Barrett and Wilcox returned to the UK in June 1913. Barrett returned to Australia in 1915 and also enlisted in the RAE and served until 1919.A gridded Map of Newcastle NSW area scale four inches to one mile with 25 feet interval contouring. Coloured hand drawn map produced in 1910. Signed by " A Barrett LCPL Royal Engineers"royal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army svy regt, army survey regiment

Taken on an unknown date, depicted is a portrait of a young, unidentified male soldier kneeling beside a grave in a cemetery. He is dressed in an Australian military uniform. The cemetery pictured is the Arnos Vale Cemetery in Bristol, United Kingdom. There are multiple crosses marking graves in this photograph, all marked in memory of different soldiers who fought with the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during World War I. It is believed that the soldier who is kneeling was also part of the Australian Imperial Force. This can be inferred by the chevron rank insignia visible on the uniform. The placement of this insignia on the sleeve of the right arm suggests that this soldier was either a Warrant Officer or a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO). Another signifier of the Australian Imperial Force uniform are the three inverted chevron stripes positioned on the lower part of the left sleeve, near the wrist. These are called Good Conduct Stripes and were worn by Warrant Officers and NCOs. This patch consisted of a single chevron stripe for each year of military service meeting certain requirements of good conduct. Additionally, the man in this photograph is also wearing a 'Rising Sun' collar badge on his coat. Australia, unlike most other Commonwealth countries, did not adopt metal regimental badges during the First World War. All units were issued with the Australian Army General Service Badge, better known as the 'Rising Sun’ badge. This insignia is almost always identified with the Australian Imperial Force. Furthermore, the grave that this unidentified soldier is kneeling next to is the resting place of Private John James (J. J.) Simpson. He was born in Stanley, Victoria in 1883. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in Melbourne, Victoria on 12 July, 1915, with the service number 4909. John James Simpson was then posted to the 60th Company Depot at Seymour for military recruit training. John James Simpson was reported wounded in action in France on 19 July, 1916. He was admitted to 13th General Hospital, France with gunshot wounds to his legs. From Boulogne, France, he traveled to the United Kingdom aboard the Hospital Ship 'St. Denis' for medical care. Upon arrival, he was admitted to 2nd Southern General Hospital, Bristol, England on 27 July, 1916. John James Simpson passed away from his wounds on 1 August, 1916. He was 33 years old.The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. The first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s (ANMEF) landing on Rabaul on 11 September 1914. The ANMEF took possession of German New Guinea at Toma on 17 September 1914 and of the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago in October 1914. On 25 April 1915, members of the AIF landed on Gallipoli in Turkey with troops from New Zealand, Britain, and France. This specific event holds very strong significance within Australian history. The record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day.Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on card.Obverse: A.I.F. / AUSTRALIA / 441, PTE.T. / T (?) / 26B (?) / 6.1.17 / (?) / LANGTON RD. / ST. ANNES PK. / BRISTOL / A.I.F. / AUSTRALIA. / 708, GNR B.L.CRAWFORD. / FR / 5 D.A.C. / 13.2.17 / A.I.F. / AUSTRALIA. / 4481, P (?) D.MORRIS. / (?) / 31.12.(?) / A.I.F. / AUSTRALIA. / 4909, PTE J.J.SIMPSON. / 608(?) / 1.8.16 / Winchester / LANGTON RD. / ST. ANNES PK / BRISTOL / Reverse: 2641 /military album, military, war, world war i, wwi, australian imperial force, aif, j. j. simpson, uniform, cemetery

Taken some time between 1914-18, depicted is a large group of unidentified males. Four of them are dressed in Australian military uniforms. The remaining 19 men are dressed in striped uniforms. The male in the centre of the front row is cradling a football, suggesting that the group was part of a football or rugby league team. It is believed that the soldiers in this photograph were part of the Australian Imperial Force. This can be inferred by the chevron rank insignia visible on their uniforms. The placement of this insignia on the sleeve of the right arm suggests that this soldier was either a Warrant Officer or a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO). Additionally, they are also wearing 'Rising Sun' collar badges on their coats. Australia, unlike most other Commonwealth countries, did not adopt metal regimental badges during the First World War. All units were issued with the Australian Army General Service Badge, better known as the 'Rising Sun’ badge. This insignia is almost always identified with the Australian Imperial Force. Sport has always been entwined with war. Both sport and war demand peak physical fitness, camaraderie, strategy, and allegiance to a team collaboratively working towards a common goal: to win. The connection between sport and war is especially strong in Australia since these two concepts form the basis of our national identity. The Australian War Memorial has a number of World War I recruitment posters linking war and sport in its collection. One of the posters produced in 1915 by the State Parliamentary Recruiting Committee in Victoria attempted to shame young men into enlisting by juxtaposing the image of an Australian soldier standing guard over his deceased mate with a photograph of a Victorian Football League match. Another poster, produced in 1917, features vignettes of different sports including cricket, bowling, boxing, kayaking and golf. Its slogan reads, "Join Together - Train Together - Embark Together - Fight Together: Enlist in the Sportman's 1000".The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. The record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day. Additionally, the record presents a unique opportunity to further explore the relationship between the arts, sport and war. This statement of significance has already established that war is integral to Australia's national identity - and sport is of equal importance. Specifically, the record begs to question how the peak physical fitness and camaraderie valued in team sports were creatively translated into military recruitment campaigns during World War I. Evidently, this record and its historic context demonstrates that there is potential here, and if further research is completed on this topic, it may provide insight into Australian military recruitment tactics used in the past and present, and into the future.Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on card.Reverse: 6529 / hyossest (?) / (?)1/11/1 /military album, army, military, war, wwi, world war i, sport, football, rugby, aif, australian imperial force

It is believed that the photograph on the obverse side of the postcard was taken in 1918. Depicted are ten Australian male soldiers. Their names are transcribed in pencil on the reverse side of the postcard. Each soldier is dressed in a formal military uniform. It is believed that these soldiers were part of The Australian Imperial Force during World War I. This can be inferred by the chevron rank insignia visible on the uniforms of nine of ten men. The placement of this insignia on the sleeves of their right arms suggests that they were either Warrant Officers or Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO). Specifically, the number of chevron stripes - here, nine men have three - are believed to signify a Corporal rank. The men pictured on this postcard are also wearing 'Rising Sun' collar badges on their coats. Australia, unlike most other Commonwealth countries, did not adopt metal regimental badges during the First World War. All units were issued with the Australian Army General Service Badge, better known as the 'Rising Sun’ badge. This insignia is almost always identified with the Australian Imperial Force. Another characteristic of the Australian Imperial Force uniform are the rectangular colour patches worn by all men on this postcard. In March 1915, a new scheme of unit identification was devised to replace the wearing of unit titles. This consisted of cloth colour patches on the upper arms of a soldier’s tunic. The black and white nature of the record means that we cannot establish which battalion these soldiers were part of. However, one of the handwritten signatures on the reverse side of the postcard reads "W.A. Griggs". This was the signature of Sergeant William Archibald Griggs. Further research shows that Griggs was part of the 5th Australian Division Signals Company. Therefore, it is believed these soldiers were part of the ANZAC Signal Companies. The main role of the Signal Companies during World War I was the laying and maintenance of telephone cables and switchboards, used to connect various units in their area. Furthermore, the man standing in the back row, third from the left side, has an Overseas Service chevron patch on his coat. In January 1918, the Australian Imperial Force approved the wearing of the overseas service chevrons which had been adopted by the British Army. These were embroidered or woven inverted chevrons worn above the cuff on the right arm. Due to a shortage of supply, some men had chevrons privately made. For each year of war service, a blue chevron was awarded, and those men who had embarked in 1914 received a red chevron to indicate that year’s service; however, the black and white nature of the postcard makes it difficult to determine what colours are on this man's patch.The record is historically significant due to its connection to World War I. This conflict is integral to Australian culture as it was the single greatest loss of life and the greatest repatriation of casualties in the country's history. Australia’s involvement in the First World War began when the Australian government established the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in August 1914. Immediately, men were recruited to serve the British Empire in the Middle East and on the Western Front. The first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force’s (ANMEF) landing on Rabaul on 11 September 1914. The ANMEF took possession of German New Guinea at Toma on 17 September 1914 and of the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago in October 1914. On 25 April 1915, members of the AIF landed on Gallipoli in Turkey with troops from New Zealand, Britain, and France. This specific event holds very strong significance within Australian history. The record has strong research potential. This is due to the ongoing public and scholarly interest in war, history, and especially the ANZAC legend, which is commemorated annually on 25 April, known as ANZAC Day.Black and white rectangular postcard printed on paper.Obverse: Oh 'Serg!' / Reverse: CARTE POSTALE / 6537 / Correspondance / Adresse / w.a. Grigg / J. Fain / Ruckling / R.J Farrar / (?) / Clarke / L (?) / GFFisher / R. M. Forrest / With Compliments / Sgt's Mess / November 1918 /military album, army, aif, uniform, military, wwi, world war i, rising sun badge, william archibald griggs, anzac, signal companies, postcard, patches, chevron

Lester Neil Ingram was born at Kew, 8 November 1911, the son of John and Ada (Key) Ingram of Research. According to Electoral Roll records, in 1903, John Ingram was a farmer at Lancefield, his wife Ada, a milliner. By 1906, John Ingram was a baker at Research and from about 1912, an orchardist. The family moved to Anglesea River sometime between 1943 and 1949. A sheet metal worker by trade, Lester had run the bakery business for 14 years, his father retired, and was working as a baker at Anglesea when he enlisted in the R.A.A.F. on 5 December 1941 at Melbourne. Previously he had worked as a baker at Research (1937). He undertook training as Aircrew at No. 4 Initial Training School at Victor Harbour, South Australia, followed by No. 1 Wireless Air Gunners School at Ballarat, Victoria, and No. 3 Bombing and Gunnery School, West Sale, Victoria. On October 15, 1942 Lester qualified as an Air Gunner, promoted to Sergeant, and was posted to 1 Embarkation Depot at Ascot Vale, Victoria, and attached to R.A.F. UK. Lester embarked from Australia December 2, 1942 and arrived at 11 Personnel Despatch and Reception Depot on January 13, 1943. On March 9 he was transferred to 10 Operational Training Unit, Group No. 91, Bomber Command, R.A.F. Lester’s service file reveals that on the evening of 22 April 1943, Lester was a member of the aircrew of Whitley V bomber, N.1374. The airframe had run 1,127 hours. A full moon was just rising. The flight was non-operational, its purpose a dual conversion on type mission flown by a student pilot with almost two hours completed at night on similar flights. They had just changed aircraft as their previous aircraft had become unserviceable. The pilot had accepted the aircraft, which was technically unserviceable as the NCO in charge of flight had not completed the inspection paperwork correctly. The aircraft had undergone a major engine repair the day before. The aircraft took off at 2348 hours from R.A.F. Abington. It was reported that the aircraft take-off was quite normal and after climbing to 800 feet it passed out of view of the ground observers. A few seconds later the aircraft crashed, and it was reported that the sound of the engines seemed to become desynchronised. The crash occurred one and a half miles northwest of Longworth, Berkshire and the aircraft destroyed by fire. It carried a crew of five. Lester is commemorated on the Eltham Roll of Honour Board, which was commissioned by the Eltham War Memorial Trust to be hung in the Eltham Infant Welfare Centre, part of complex of buildings that form the Eltham War Memorial. The Honour Roll is presently (2023) hanging in the Eltham Library Community Gallery space. Lester was remembered with the following notices published in The Argus newspaper, Saturday 22 April 1944, p2: INGRAM. —In treasured memories you are with me still. Sgt. Lester Neil Ingram, killed, aircraft accident, England, April 22, 1943. (Mother and father.) INGRAM. —In proud and ever loving memory of Lester, 410236, Sgt. L. N. Ingram, R.A.A.F., air crash England, April 22, 1943. —Per ardua ad astra. (Ellen Peake and family.) [“Per ardua ad astra” is a Latin phrase meaning “through adversity to the stars” or “through struggle to the stars” which was the motto of the Royal Air Force and other Commonwealth air forces such as the Royal Australian Air Force.] And from his fiancé Ellen, in The Argus, Wednesday, 5 May 1943, p2: INGRAM. —On April 22 (result of aircraft accident near Lodgeworth Village, Berks, England), Sgt. Lester Neil Ingram, R.A.A.F., fiance of Ellen. -Treasured memories till we meet again. Lester is buried at Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surrey, United Kingdom, Grave 4. 1. 11. INGRAM, Flt. Sgt. LESTER NEIL, 410236. R.A.A.F. 22nd April 1943. Age 31. Son of John and Ada Ingram, of Anglesea, Victoria, Australia. He gave his life For freedom’s cause ◊ ◊ ◊ LEST WE FORGET “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.”On reverse "Lester Ingram"lester neil ingram, baker, eltham, honour board, raaf, research (vic.), roll of honour, pam thoonen (nee ingram) collection