Showing 178 items matching "rats of tobruk"
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Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Poster - Framed Poster, Siege of Tobruk, 1980
... )was produced for the World Reunion of the Rats of Tobruk Association... )was produced for the World Reunion of the Rats of Tobruk Association ...Poster displays cartography and history of the Siege of Tobruk April to December 1941 Edition Poster ( No. 0768 )was produced for the World Reunion of the Rats of Tobruk Association held in Melbourne 1980Commemorates the Battle of TobrukBlack plastic frame containing poster of Map in centre with circles in each corner with images of soldiers and a symbol in lower right corner.Biographies of: Major General Leslie J Morshead - Tobruk Fortress Commander and Lieut General Erwin Rommel - Commander, German Afrika Korps. Map of Battle Zone. Lithographic of Corporal J.H.Edmonson VC - 2/17 Battalion.tobruk, 1941 -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Clothing - 2/23rd Infantry Battalion tie, Tee Dee Tie Specialists, Aft 1946
... member of the Rats of Tobruk Association and the 2/23rd Infantry... member of the Rats of Tobruk Association and the 2/23rd Infantry ...Arthur Lock was enlisted with the 2/23rd Battalion in World War 2. After the conclusion of the war, he was an active member of the Rats of Tobruk Association and the 2/23rd Infantry Battalion Association. This item is part of a collection of items owned by Arthur Lock, a member of the 2/23rd Battalion, an all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force which served as part of the garrison during the Siege of Tobruk, then at El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. It has particular local significance as the battalion was know as "Albury's Own" because a large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region. A blue tie featuring the Tobruk T colour patch adopted by the 2/23rd Battalion from 1942 until the unit was disbanded in 1946.world war 11, tobruk, 2/23rd battalion, arthur lock -
Bendigo Military Museum
Container - JARS OF SAND
... by the Rats of Tobruk Association. Items part of the collection... by the Rats of Tobruk Association. Items part of the collection ...Sand was used in funerals when it was sprinkled on the coffin during a funeral for veterans of the Battle of Tobruk by the Rats of Tobruk Association. Items part of the collection of "William Anthony Theodore DSM". Refer Cat No. 7926P for service details.Small jar bottles mostly containing white sand from Tobruk. Three bottles are brown glass and five bottles are clear glass. All jars have a silver tin lid. Two of the jars label but all are of the same size and shape.Some jars labelled "Bex" tablets Paracetamol.tobruk, funeral services, william anthony theodore dsm -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Medal - Replica Medals
... , Australian Service Medal 1939-45, Tobruk Siege 1941 and Rats..., Australian Service Medal 1939-45, Tobruk Siege 1941 and Rats ...Set of eight replica medals, seven swing mounted. 1939-45 Star, Africa Star, Pacific Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, Australian Service Medal 1939-45, Tobruk Siege 1941 and Rats of Tobruk 1941. Originals issued to CPL James Charles Wetherall VX8808. -
Orbost & District Historical Society
sprockets and ring gear, 1941
... Carriers which were sent to North Africa. The Rats of Tobruk... Carriers which were sent to North Africa. The Rats of Tobruk ...Ron Peck machined the driving sprockets for Bren Gun Carriers which were sent to North Africa. The Rats of Tobruk, the Egypt and Rommell campaign used these munitions. He boarded at Orbost House while doing 12 hour day shifts.During WW11 munitions and defence equipment were manufactured by state government and private engineering firms, co-ordinated by the Commonwealth government. They worked together to meet Australia’s defence needs and create ‘mass production, on a nation-wide scale, of materials and articles of a higher degree of complexity and accuracy than had before been attempted in Australia. These sprockets were manufactured locally.Two metal sprockets for a Bren Gun carrier. One metal ring gear.munitions sprockets bren-gun-carrier peck-james-ronald orbost-motor-works -
Whitehorse Historical Society Inc.
Uniform - Army uniform, 1940
... . Royal Engineers Material badge at top of sleeves. Rats of Tobruk... Material badge at top of sleeves. Rats of Tobruk- Lance Corporal ...From Mitcham RSLShort khaki blouse style jacket. Tab belt and metal buckle . Royal Engineers Material badge at top of sleeves. Rats of Tobruk- Lance Corporal chevron on sleeves. Internal label. Battle dress blouse 1940 pattern. Size No 13. Cohen and Co. Stamp 28 Oct 194-.Beige coloured lanyard on right shoulder.uniforms, army -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Medal - Tobruk
... . The Tobruk Siege Medal is an unofficial award issued by the "Rats.... The Tobruk Siege Medal is an unofficial award issued by the "Rats ...The Tobruk Siege Medal known as the "T" medal was issued to Australian, British, Indian, New Zealand & Polish troops who were in action during the Siege of Tobruk between April & December 1941. The Tobruk Siege Medal is an unofficial award issued by the "Rats of Tobruk" Association in 1977.Heart shaped wooden plaque with Tobruk medal attached tobruk, seige, world war two, wwii -
Bendigo Military Museum
Accessory - TROPHY TRAY, C.1978
... 1955 - 60, Patron of the Rats of Tobruk Assoc, 16th and 28th... 1955 - 60, Patron of the Rats of Tobruk Assoc, 16th and 28th ...Cameron Highlanders was the 16th Infantry BN. John Lloyd, Brigadier John Lloyd 16th Bn 1939 - 1940, Honarary Colonel 16th Bn 1955 - 60, Patron of the Rats of Tobruk Assoc, 16th and 28th Bn’s, served WW1 & WW2. Peter Ball collection, refer Cat No 4704.Trophy tray rectangular shape, metal with handles each end, edge ink on other two sides, base is ornate with circles, centre has a small military badge, around that is inscribed into the metal, base under is wood, 4 small round legs screwed on each corner.Inscribed, “John Lloyd Trophy 1978 Pte P.C.Ball A Coy Geraldton 16 RWAR”. On small badge, “Cameron Highlanders Western Australia”.trays, trophy, accessory, 16th rwar -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - FRED CARLETON 2/23RD ALBUM, Egypt Cairo and Haifa
... , and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk..., and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk ...Photo, Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history.Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the image is clicked on2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - FRED CARLETON 2/23RD ALBUM, Egypt Cairo
... , and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk..., and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk ...Photo, Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history.Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the image is clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton -
Bendigo Military Museum
Postcard - POSTCARD PHOTOGRAPH, Whitney Bros Electric Studio, C.1940
... on 7.12.1945. He was a member of the Bendigo Rats of Tobruk Association... on 7.12.1945. He was a member of the Bendigo Rats of Tobruk Association ...The photo is Douglas Niven Dean VX32652 2nd AIF, enlisted 15/7/1940, age 23 years, posted 7th Div A.A.S.Corp, served in siege of Tobruk, Middle East, New Guinea and Borneo, discharged on 7.12.1945. He was a member of the Bendigo Rats of Tobruk Association, served as secretary 1978 - 87 incl, Jnr V Pres 1992 - 95 and was a life Member of the Association.Postcard photo, portrait, B & W, shows a soldier in uniform, slouch hat, Rising sun collar badges, diamond shape colour patch showing on left arm, rear re post card has space for stamp, address and correspondence, faint makers stamp.On rear in blue ink, “Doug Dean”tobruk, 7th div, aasc, -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Medal - Medal in white box, Corporal Percy Kiely, c1977
... by the "Rats of Tobruk" Association in 1977 to troops who were... by the "Rats of Tobruk" Association in 1977 to troops who were ...The Tobruk Siege Medal is an unofficial award issued by the "Rats of Tobruk" Association in 1977 to troops who were in action during the Siege of Tobruk between April and December 1941. Medal issued posthumously to Corporal Percy Angus KIELY VX48300 Born 30/1/1906 at Wangaratta who served with 2/23 Battalion in the MIddle East and New Guinea. Percy died on 25/4/44 from a fractured skull and brain haemorrhage when struck by a falling limb of a tree on 21/4/44 at Whitfield. The Tobruk Siege Medal is an unofficial award issued by the "Rats of Tobruk" Association in 1977. The Tobruk Siege medal known as the T medal was issued to Australian, British, Indian, New Zealand and Polish troops who were in action during the Siege of Tobruk between April and December 1941. T shape medal in silver metal with cream coloured ribbon with red and light blue strip Tobruk Seige 1941tobruk, t medal, ww2, percy kiely, 2/23rd battalion -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - BENDIGO RSL ANNUAL DINNER, Aug 1988
... of the photo at end of the table is possibly Col Mc Murray Rats... of the photo at end of the table is possibly Col Mc Murray Rats ...Bendigo RSL Annual Dinner held in the Soldiers Memorial Institute Main Hall in 1988. The white Cross was placed on the stage for such each Dinner. .1) Standing is Bruce Ruxton Guest speaker, State President of the Victorian RSL, seated to his left is Max O'Haloran Bendigo RSL President, others are unknown. .2) On the right of the photo at end of the table is possibly Col Mc Murray Rats of Tobruk Association, 2nd from right is Harold Trahair Eaglehawk RSL.. .3) Standing from the left is Max O'Haloran, refer Cat No 8129P, Bruce Ruxton, Frank ................, seated is Jack Plant, refer Cat No 8129PThree photographs, colour re an Annual Dinner Bendigo RSL Sub Branch. .1) Shows the head table at the stage end of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Main Hall, Standing is the guest speaker Bruce Ruxton, seated are 6 others. .2) Further out view of .1) showing one standing and 8 seated. .3) Shows 3 standing and 1 sitting.brsl, smirsl, annual, dinner -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - FRED CARLETON 2/23RD ALBUM, Syria and the Western Desert
... , and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk..., and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk ...Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .05P) Tom Francis. Believed to be Thomas Francis VX40096, enlisted 22.6.1940. Middle East service listed as 16.11.1940 - 31.1.1943, discharged Medically unfit with the Rank of WO 2 on 25.11.1943, awarded a Mention in Despatches. .10P) This could be Tom Francis .Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the image is clicked2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - PHOTGRAPH, FRAMED WW2, C. 1940 possibly
... serves in the Seige of Tobruk, hospital 16.10.1941 with Malaria... serves in the Seige of Tobruk, hospital 16.10.1941 with Malaria ...Ronald Frank Bollard. Enlisted 23.5.1940 age 20 years 4 months as VX14150 and posted to 7th Div AASC and then attached to 2/5th Field Ambulance, embark for Eygpt 20.10.1940, he serves in the Seige of Tobruk, hospital 16.10.1941 with Malaria, rejoin unit 26.10.1941, embark for Australia 10.2.1942 and disembark 28.3.1942, embark Brisbane 28.8.1942 for New Guinea. embark from Milne Bay 9.3.1943 for Townsville, graded A/Group 1 Fitter, embark 17.8.1943 for Port Morseby, hospital 20.3.1944 with Malaria, rejoin unit 5.4.1944, embark Lae for Australia 20.5.1944, embark Cairns 22.5.1945 for Morotai, embark 20.6.1945 for Balikpapan, embark for Australia and disembark 22.11.1945, discharged from the 2nd AIF 30.11.1945 with the rank of Craftsman in 2/5th Field Ambulance. After the War and the formation of the Rats of Tobruk Association he was President of the Victorian Branch at one point.Photograph in Sepia tone being a portrait of an Australian Soldier in slouch hat.On rear hand written, "Ronald Frank Bollard".photographs, portraits, tobruk -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPH, RAN WW1, C. WW2
... , Treasurer & Welfare Officer of the "Bendigo Rats of Tobruk..., Treasurer & Welfare Officer of the "Bendigo Rats of Tobruk ...Item in the collection re William Anthony (Bill) Theodore DSM. The Sailor is Willam Anthony Theodore DSM, enlisted on 2.9.1940 in the RAN No PM2981. He served in the Seige of Tobruk, Greece, Crete, Matapan, Singapore, Pacific Islands, New Guinea to the Phillipine's. The HMAS Vendetta he was sailing on made 39 trips into Tobruk Harbour during the siege. In October 1941 so many bombs were dropped around the Vendetta that her Boilers and Engines shifted on their mountings and was ordered to Singapore for repairs. After Bill served on HMAS Arunta and was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for "Gallantry, Skill and Devotion to Duty" during the Assault Operations at Lingayen Gulf. Bill was discharged from the RAN on 21.11.1945. From 1956 - 1995 over specific years Bill held the positions of President, Vice President, Treasurer & Welfare Officer of the "Bendigo Rats of Tobruk Association". He was awarded a Life Membership & a Certificate of Appreciation for his services.Photograph, B&W portrait of an RAN Sailor on photographic paper, noted on Sailors Cap "HMAS Cerberus". Frame , metal backing with stand, front shallow convex shape with light brown colour paper mount, heavy plastic cover moulded to shape over photo and mount, owners white adhesive label on the back.Information on label, "THEODORE William Anthony", in black ink print, "Preferred name: Bill/19.03.1917"framed accessories, ran, theodore dsm, photograph, portrait -
Bendigo Military Museum
Book - BOOK, PICTORIAL WW2, J.S. CUMPSTON, "THE RATS REMAIN", 1966
... "THE RATS REMAIN" The Siege of Tobruk, 1941. Item... goldfields "THE RATS REMAIN" The Siege of Tobruk, 1941. Item ..."THE RATS REMAIN" The Siege of Tobruk, 1941. Item in the collection re Ron Bollard VX14150, refer Cat No 5919P for his service details.Hard cover book. Cover - cardboard with adhered paper cover. red print on front and spine on yellow colour background. Illustrated - sepia toned photographs from back through to front cover - armoury in battle scene. 256 pages - cut, plain, glossy white. Illustrated black and white photographs. End papers - front and back illustrated in colour - map of "Tobruk Defences (12 Jan 1941). This is a pictorial book.books, military history, ww2, tobruk -
Wangaratta High School
2nd/24th Batallion Shield, 1945
... ).During the Tobruk siege the 9th Division was called the ‘The Rats...).During the Tobruk siege the 9th Division was called the ‘The Rats ...In July 1940 the 2/24th Battalion was formed. They set off from Caulfield for the still-being-built Bonegilla camp, stopping off at Wangaratta where they camped at the showgrounds. They were welcomed with open arms by the local community as they rapidly built up their numbers. The people of Wangaratta adopted the Battalion and they became known as ‘Wangaratta’s Own’. Presented with a 14 foot pennant the Battalion marched through the streets of Wangaratta on 27 September 1940 on the way to Bonegilla. Training continued in Bonegilla until the soldiers sailed on HMT Strathmore for the Middle East on 16 November. The Battalion was eventually attached to the 9th Australian Division, one of the most famous army fighting formations in World War 2. They served in Tobruk (1941) Tel el Eisa (1942), El Alemain (1942), New Guinea (1943) and Tarakan (1945).During the Tobruk siege the 9th Division was called the ‘The Rats of Tobruk’ by William Joyce, the German propagandist. The 2/24th Battalion suffered more casualties than any other 2nd AIF Battalion – 360 killed and 900 wounded. Brown lacquered wood shield with a silver metal 2/24 symbol on it.2/24 AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATALLION TOBRUK . THE SALIENT . TEL EL EISA . EL ALAMEIN . LAE . NADZAB . WAREO . TARAKAN I HOLD FAST -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - FRED CARLETON 2/23RD ALBUM, Tobruk and the Western Desert
... , and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk..., and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk ...Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .O1P) Captain Morrell is believed to be Francis Gordon Morrell VX48502. Enlisted in the AIF 16.8.1916 age 27 with the rank of WO 2 No 4976 (had 9 years pre service) in14th Reinforcements 32 Bn AIF. Embarked for England 22.12.1917, embark for France 7.4.1918, WIA Shell Wound Buttock 15.5.1918, rejoin unit 18.8.1918, embark for Aust 22.1.1920, discharged 8.4.1920. Stayed in the Permanent Army. Enlisted in the 2nd AIF 1.7.1940 No VX48504. Overseas service listed as Middle East 16.11.1940 - 23.5.1942, New Guinea 8.9.1943 - 9.6.1944, Netherlands East Indies 16.5.1945 - 23.4.1946. He enlists then in the Interim Army No 3/133 on 1.7.1947 until 1.4.1950,, serves in Japan listed as 30.1.1948 - 6.5.1948. Discharged 1.4.1950 with the rank of Major. “Roms Reynard” is not yet identified.Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the images are clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - FRED CARLETON 2/23RD ALBUM, Alamein and the Western Desert
... , and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk..., and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk ...Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .07P) CSM Lee. Believed to be Leslie Douglas Lee VX69519, enlisted 23.12.1941, Middle East service listed as 28.2.1942 - 25.2.1943, discharged 27.11.1945. Lt Fallon. Believed to be John Francis Fallon VX48644. Enlisted 31.7.1940, embarked for the Middle East 16.11.1940, WIA Blast perforation injury 30.10.1942, RTA 9.1.1943 Discharged 20.5.1943 with the rank of Capt. Rupert Rattray VX38937, enlisted 21.10.1940, Middle East service listed as 6.11.1940? - 8.8.1942, New Guinea service 21.2.1943 - 14.9.1943, discharged on 4.4.1946 with the rank of Major. Awarded the MC on April 22 when leading a raiding Party in Tobruk 1941, also awarded C In C’s card in 1941. Graham Grantham Anderson VX48780, enlisted 5.8.1940 age 21, DOW’s on 13.7.1942, he held the rank of Captain. Gilbert Ferguson Urquhart VX48258 enlisted 25.7.1940 age 29, KIA 22.7.1942, hel held the rank of Major. He had pre War service in the CMF from 9.1.1939 - 24.7.1940.Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle East.Some photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the images are clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton, cpt ferguson urquhart vx42858 -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - FRED CARLETON 2/23RD ALBUM, Lebanon
... , and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk..., and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk ...Frederick Lloyd Carleton VX1555 served in the 2/23rd Battalion, 9th Division in the Middle East and in the Pacific. The images detail his day to day life at the front and on leave. He served during the siege of Tobruk and at El Alamein, and was a lifelong member of the Bendigo sub-branch of the Rats of Tobruk Association. Refer Cat No 142.7 for his full service history. .01P) Brigadier R.W. Tovell, CBE, DSO & Bar, ED - MID 5 times. He had 5.5 years pre WW1 service in the Cadets, on discharge he held the rank of Lieutenant. Enlisted in the AIF 28.4.1915 age 29 years, appointed Lt 6.7.1915 in 2nd Reinforcements 29th BN. Embark for Eygpt 29.12.1915, embark for France 4.6.1916. He rose through the Ranks in various Commands to Brigade Major by 19.2.1918. Awarded MID24.10.1918, DSO & MID on 23.5.1919, MID on 30.10.1919. Appointment terminated in the AIF on 12.12.1920. Stayed on in the full time Army to be T/Brigader on 14.10.1939 to Command the 10th INF Brigade. Transfers to the 2nd AIF 1.7.1940 No VX46983and appointed to Command the 26th Brigade. Overseas service listed as Middle East 16.11.1940 - 10.11.1942. New Guinea 17.2.19144 - 21.3.1944 & 10.3.1945 - 23.3.1945, Darwin area 8.9.1944 - 19.9.1944. Awarded Bar to the DSO 30.12.1941, MID 26.6.1942 & 15.12.1942, CBE 15.4.1943. Appointed Deputy Adjutant General 3.5.1944, appointment terminated in the 2nd AIF on 20.12.1945, placed on the Reserve list of Officers with the rank of Colonel & Honorary Brigadier. Lt Col Evans VX478119. Bernard Evans had service going back to 1924. Enlisted in the 2nd AIF on 22.7.1940. His overseas service is listed as Middle East 16.11.1940 - 30.3.1943 - New Guinea 20.7.1943 - 10.11.1943, discharged fro m the AIF on 22.10.1945 with the rank of Colonel, awarded the DSO. .02P) Believed to be Benjamin Thomas Shiels VX58180, enlisted 24.6.1941, embarked for the Middle East 3.9.1941, KIA 29.10.1942. Joe Harrison is not yet identified. Collection of 76 photographs taken during service in 2/23rd in Middle EastSome photographs have inscriptions on the verso, and this information is included in the title information displayed when the image is clicked on.2/23rd battalion, tobruk, el alamein, western desert campain, fred carleton -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter, Intermediate Legacy Club, 1975
... and served in the Middle East, and was one of the Rats of Tobruk... and served in the Middle East, and was one of the Rats of Tobruk ...A letter written by Norm Smith and addressed to Kem Kemsley on 21 July 1975. It outlines recollections compiled by Norm Smith about the Intermediate Legacy Club (ILC) and individual members. His letter mentions 'Looking back over those years, recalling old time, old faces and places, we as Junior Legatees have a lot to be thankful for and I, for one, have always been exceedingly grateful to you, and those like you in legacy, who helped us so much.' Graham Billiet's letter dated 23 Mar 1974, mentions taking Frank Doolan to the reunion in 1974. Graham felt the ILC was winding down and was only running on half steam. He gives ILC members' addresses. Norm Smith's letter includes: Ted Kennedy, was the first president of the ILC, he was 'tall rangy lad with fiery red hair' who worked for United Distillers Ltd for 40 years (mostly in Brisbane where he joined Brisbane Legacy). Had been a keen junior legatee and taken part in Literary and Debating group and the Dramatic group where he met his future wife, Florence Pittard - which was the first marriage between junior legatees. He had been a naval cadet in the 1928 compulsory training and later joined the CMF where he was closely associated with L/ Stan Savige. He rose to rank of Major in AIF. Jack and Tom Kennedy, his brothers were in the Lacrosse team and his sister Molly in the JLC for years. G Billiet, a first nighter, very well known to legatees of the time. Bill Johnston, a studious type, went to MHS and university, became a Solicitor. Served in the RAAF as a Flight Lieut. Frank Corrie, prominent Junior Legatee in the Literary and Debating group, a fitter and turner by trade, was on JLC cricket and lacrosse teams, joined the AIF. Fred Hollingsworth, a motor mechanic, he joined CIG. He joined the AIF and served in the Middle East, and was one of the Rats of Tobruk as a sergeant. Bert Hollingsworth (brother of Fred) also in AIF and rank of Lieut. Is a past president of ILC. Bert Wood, a past president, worked for Victorian Railways, moved to Coolangatta. Dan Fitzgerald, active in the Drama group of JLC, worked as an announcer at the ABC. Alan Davidson, keen gymnast - particularly wrestling, helped with Alan Beattie (instructor of boys classes). Roy Davidson (brother of Alan) joined the AIF, afterwards joined M&MTB as a driver, married a Junior Legacy girl. Their younger brother Arthur was also in the lacrosse team. Roy Gilbert, keen junior legatee took part in Literary and Debating group and the Dramatic group and lacrosse team. Worked for Vacuum Oil Co., a past president of ILC and also married a Junior Legatee, Miss Lil Edmunds. Served in the AIF and was a Lieutenant in the Middle East. 'Jimmy' MacGregor, a colourful and handsome Junior Legatee, born in Collingwood, was one of L/ Stan Savige original contacts. Keen JLC gymnast and member of the football team. Worked at the Ret. Soldiers Woollen Mills in Geelong and was in the Geelong ILC. Frank 'Happy' Holliday, was in the lacrosse team, foundation member of ILC and past president. Served with the RAAF as an air frame fitter. Worked for L/ Con Fahle in the printing workshop for 40 years. Howard Auterey, joined the RAAF during the war and returned work for the State Saving bank before retiring in Warrnambool. Norman Smith, was working as an apprentice with M&MTB, took interest in Literary and Debating group and was in the lacrosse team. Was ILC president in 1946. Enliseted in the RAAF as airframe fitter. Retired from M&MTB after serving 50 years, married for 40 years to a daughter of an original Anzac who has also been an active member of the Ladies ILC for many years. Background: The ILC was formed in 1929. The idea of the club sprang from those boys who had outgrown the Junior Legacy Club. In the early days it fielded a lacrosse team and it was this that mainly held the members together (formed under guidance of L/ Jimmy Downing). Enthusiasm wained after a few years as it lacked a solid objective. The answer came from one of its members and in 1938 they founded the Don Esses Club. This was a club for the children of incapacitated ex-servicemen which met every Thursday night at 7.30 run by the ILC members. The name came from the signallers' code Disabled Servicemen's Sons. During the second world war 80% of the members of the ILC enlisted in the services. Leaving only 8 members that could not join due to ill health or reserved occupations. They continued the Don Esses and whatever aid they could to Legacy. ILC members had always helped Legacy where possible including being camp leaders or camp staff, with the annual demonstrations, and coffee stalls at the ANZAC dawn service. Post second world war some ILC members were nominated into Legacy, others drifted away in civil occupations. It was found difficult to recruit new blood into the ILC and eventually membership waned when the boys from the Don Esses clubs found other youth activities to join. The ILC ceased to meet regularly in the mid fifties. However a strong comradeship still existed between members and they would meet in one anothers homes. Members were always ready to help the senior Legacy Club in any way in their power and still helped at Christmas parties and summer camps. ILC was a service rendering organisation and was self governing. Non-sectarian and non-political, the members were ex-junior legatees over 18 years of age. After serving in World War 2 members were eligible to become members of Legacy. Was in a folder of material collated about the ILC by an early archive committee. A record of a Junior Legatee recording what he knew about ILC members and their life outside of Legacy in response to a request from L/ Kem Kemsley. It could have been part of the early archive committee working to capture Legacy history.White note paper x 18 pages handwritten by Norm Smith about the ILC members and a handwritten letter x 3 pages from Graham Billiet about ILC members with addresses.ilc, membership, junior legatee -
Bendigo Military Museum
Book, Lawson Glassop, We Were the Rats, 1991
... a painting of AIF Soldiers in Tobruk. We Were the Rats Book BOOK ...Book is part of the Australian War Classics series presented by E E (Weary) Dunlop.Book, soft cover, no illustrations, 275 pages. Top half of front cover is a black square, in it are a red & green band with a copper Rising Sun, print is white. Bottom half of cover is from a painting of AIF Soldiers in Tobruk. F Fullabooks, military history, army -
Frankston RSL Sub Branch
Felt Toy Rat, 1942 (estimated)
... at Tobruk. The soldiers were called 'the rats of Tobruk'. He gave ...This felt rat is significant because it is a unique, handmade mascot carried by an Australian soldier at Tobruk. The soldiers were called 'the rats of Tobruk'. He gave it to an ambulance driver, a local Frankston woman, who treasured it.This is a handstitched felt toy rat. It is made from light brown and pale green felt with pink embroidery thread blanket stitching. The facial features are made from felt. It has a pale green grograine ribbon neck tie. The stuffing is very firm.This item is handmade with no inscription or markings.1942, england, trench art, australian soldier, rat of tobruck, felt toy, handstitched, blanket stitch, ambulance driver, j pickles, f a n y -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Angus and Robertson, We were the rats, 1945
Lawson Glassop a survivor of Tobruk, reveals the personal anguish, the fear and bravery - the humaneness - of the Australian soldiers who took part in the siege, as they strove to maintain dignity amid chaos. Above all, he captures their spirit of grim determination as they fought against great odds and in bloody battles.p.275.non-fictionLawson Glassop a survivor of Tobruk, reveals the personal anguish, the fear and bravery - the humaneness - of the Australian soldiers who took part in the siege, as they strove to maintain dignity amid chaos. Above all, he captures their spirit of grim determination as they fought against great odds and in bloody battles.world war 1939 – 1945 – campaigns – north africa, siege of tobruk -
Bendigo Military Museum
Book - TOBRUK WW2, J.S. CUMPSTON, "THE RATS REMAIN: TOBRUK SIEGE 1941", 1966
... "THE RATS REMAIN: TOBRUK SIEGE 1941"... (12 Jan 1941)". "THE RATS REMAIN: TOBRUK SIEGE 1941" Book ...Item in the collection re: "William Anthony (Bill) THEODORE DSM". Refer Cat. No. 7926P for his service record.HARD COVER BOOK WITH DUST COVER. Hard cover - cardboard with adhered yellow colour buckram over. Red colour print on front and spine with black and white photograph illustration from front to back of a battle scene. Dust cover - Paper, off white with print and illustration same as above. 256 pages - cut plain, white glossy paper. This is a pictorial book. Illustrated black and white photographs and maps. End papers - front and back - colour wrap of "TOBRUK DEFENCE (12 Jan 1941)". books, tobruk, ww2, william anthony theodore -
Bendigo Military Museum
Memorabilia - KEY RING, Douglas Badges
... of Tobruk. Rats of Tobryuk Key Ring Douglas Niven Dean Inscribed ...Part of the collection of "Douglas Niven Dean" a former Rat of Tobruk.Gold metal badge of Bendigo RSL Club, Pokies with black surface on front and gold writing. Silver clip attached to top.Inscribed on back "If these keys found please return to Bendigo Servicemen's Club 73-75 Havilah Road, Bendigo 03 4422 950"rats of tobryuk, key ring, douglas niven dean -
Bendigo Military Museum
Book - BIOGRAPHY, TOBRUK, Lawson Glassop, "WE WERE THE RATS", 1945
... - handwritten information. "WE WERE THE RATS". Book BIOGRAPHY, TOBRUK ..."WE WERE THE RATS" - Biography under the headings "Nervidale" on route to Tobruk "Tobruk", After Tobruk. Part of the "William (Bill) THOMASON Collection. Refer Cat No. 4136P for more items.Hard cover book. Cover - cardboard, light khaki colour buckram, red colour print on spine. 275 pages - cut, plain, off white colour paper. No Illustrations Front end paper - handwritten information. Handwritten information - blue ink pen. "Elsie Broadstock" - grey lead pencil. "A/ R/U/ ??"publications, books, ww2, tobruk, biography