Showing 301 items
matching imperial service
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Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Certificate
... Certificate "Statement of Service in Australian Imperial...Statement of Service/in/Australian Imperial/Force... Dick Nankervis for service during World War I and World War II ...Certificate presented to Lieut Dick Nankervis MM on Termination of his AppointmentThis framed certificate and memorabilia were donated/bequeath to the Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch by Captain Nankervis’ family. The inscription on the framed box containing the Medal Bar reads, “These medals were awarded to Captain Dick Nankervis for service during World War I and World War II.Certificate "Statement of Service in Australian Imperial Force in wooded picture frame with a glass front.Statement of Service/in/Australian Imperial/Force Lieutenant Dick Nankervis/MM/5th Aust M.G. Bn/ Date of Enlistment 2 August 1915/ Date of Embarkation 10th November 1915/Appointment and Promotions/ Appointed 2nd Lieutenant 20th June 1918/ Promoted Lieutenant 1st December 1918/Returned to Australia/Main 11 October 1919/Appointment Terminated as from 10th December 1919/Reason for Termination of Service/ signed ?? Lieut/a/ S.O. I & R. S. 3MDcerticiate, statement, nankervis -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Certificate, Certificate of Discharge (Certificate No: 11577)
... / and who served on Continous Full Time War Service... in 1944 This certificate recognizes Pte Kelly's Service in WWII ...Presented to Pte William Clyde Kelly on his discharge in 1944 This certificate recognizes Pte Kelly's Service in WWII and is related to his war time service in WWI Certificate of Discharge for Private William Clyde Kelly VX 11873Certifies "VX11873 Pte William Clyde Kelly / 2/7 Australian General Hospital / who enlisted for the A M F on the 23 April 1940 / and who served on Continous Full Time War Service / in the Australian Imperial Force / for a Total Effective Period of One Thousand Three Hundred and Fifty Days / Active Service in Australia 514 days Outside Australia 551 dayscertificate -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Certificate, Certificate of Discharge WWI War Service; 4521 Pte William Clyde Kelly
... service in the Australian Imperial Forces; there are crease marks.... Certificate Certificate of Service WWI Australian Imperial ...Private William Clyde Kelly served in World War One as this certificate states he also did war time service in World War two. Certificate of Discharge for William Clyde Kelly 4521 service in the Australian Imperial Forces; there are crease marks where the document has been folder, there is obvious in ground dirt from being carried in a pocket or walletAustralian Imperial Expeditionary Force Certificate of Discharge of 4521 Private William Clyde Kelly at the termination of his period of Enlistment. Service towards completion of engagement 1550 days / Service Abroad 1334 days. Medals & Decorations Distinguished Conduct Medal; Returned Soldier's Badge Issued No. 226186certificate, certificate of service wwi -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Badge - R.S.L. Circa 1919, Circa 1919
The badge design The League’s badge represents a readiness at all times to render service to Queen and country and to former comrades. It can’t be purchased and may only be worn by those who have served their country. The shield design is symbolic of the protection provided to those who wear it. Within the badge, red represents the blood ties of war that exist between comrades; white stands for the purity of the motives in joining the league – to render service without personal gain or ambition; and blue indicates a willingness to serve a comrade anywhere under the blue sky. The wattle represents Australia, with the leek, the rose, the thistle and the shamrock standing for Wales, England, Scotland and Ireland respectively.The collection of badges,medallion,issue diary and photograph shows what a soldier who served in WW1, received.It is good that this collection is still intact. Badge awarded to Driver of the 6th Field Ambulance, Malachy Sandy, no 3320,who enlisted March 6th 1915. RTA 14 Jan 1919.Metal badge with crown attached to top of badge.Two folded metal loop(for pin to attach to coat etc), soldered on back of badge. "1919" on crown."Australia" in red scroll along bottom of of badge.Engraved flowers top left and right below crown."Returned Sailors & Soldiers Imperial League" on blue circular background surrounding embossed soldier holding rifles. On the back of badge is : "Copyright / 83978 / Prouds Ltd"sandy, malachy, badge, rsl, imperial, league -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph - Portrait, Legatee Harold Cohen
A framed photo of the first president of Melbourne Legacy, Legatee Harold Cohen. Harold Edward Cohen (1881-1946), soldier, lawyer, politician and businessman, was born on 25 November 1881. In 1901 Cohen was commissioned in the Field Artillery Brigade, Australian Military Forces, and was promoted captain in 1905 and major in 1909. In 1915 he was appointed commanding officer of the 6th Army Brigade, Australian Field Artillery Regiment, Australian Imperial Force, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel, serving in the Middle East, England and France until June 1919. Twice wounded and twice mentioned in dispatches, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order in 1917 and created C.M.G. in 1918. He was awarded the Volunteer Decoration in 1921 and the CBE in 1934. In 1929 Brigadier Cohen entered Parliament as the member for Melbourne South in the Legislative Council, and in 1935 transferred to the Assembly as member for Caulfield, which seat he held until 1943. During the Second World War Brigadier Cohen served in the Middle East as honorary Red Cross Commissioner overseas. Returning to Australia in 1942 he was appointed director of amenities, and subsequently Deputy Adjutant-General to the AMF, which post he held until his retirement in 1944.A record of the past presidents being honoured in a prominent position at Legacy House.Black and white photograph in a wooden frame of Legatee Harold Cohen.Plaque on the frame is engraved 'Legatee Harold Cohen First President, Melbourne Legacy 1923-24'.past presidents, harold cohen -
Melbourne Legacy
Document, Honours and Awards - DSO for Captain Stanley Savige 1919, 1919
A photocopy of the Honours and Awards published in 1919 that included Legatee Stan Savige receiving his DSO from General Sir W R Birdwood. It refers to his work protecting the Assyrian refugees in Persia from the Turks. Text includes: "In pursuance of the authority delegated to me by His Imperial Majesty, the King Emperor, I make the following awards for gallantry and distinguished service in the field:- To be Companion of the Distinguished Service Order. Captain Stanley George SAVIGE, MC, Australian Imperial Force. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He was in command of a small party sent out to protect the rear of a column of refugees who were being hard pressed by the enemy. By his energy, resource and able dispositions the hostile troops, many of whom were mounted, were kept at a distance, although in greatly superior force. He hung on to position after position until nearly surrounded, but on each occasion extricated his command most skilfully. His cool determination and fine example under fire inspired his men and put heart into the almost panic-stricken refugees, thereby averting what might have been a very serious situation."A record of the war service of Legatee Stan Savige and the recognition he received.White foolscap photocopy of General Sir Birdwood awarding the DSO to Legatee Savigestan savige, service award -
Ringwood RSL Sub-Branch
Work on paper - Joseph Edward Bowe, Australian Imperial Forces
... melbourne Service history Australian Imperial Forces Work on paper ...Service history -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Certificate - Wodonga RSSILA Certificate of Appreciation
The Returned Sailors' and Soldiers' Imperial League of Australia was formed in 1916 to support servicemen returning from World War 1. In 1940 its name was changed to Returned Sailors', Soldiers' and Airmen's Imperial League of Australia and again in 1966 to Returned Services League of Australia. Arthur Ernest Beard enlisted in the 10th Battalion in 1914 and was discharged as medically unfit in 1918. His service included three years and 115 days of overseas service. He was gassed during his war service, resulting in ongoing health issues. Beard received an incapacity pension. Despite his ill health, Arthur dedicated many years of service to the committee of the Returned Sailors' and Soldiers' Imperial League of Australia Wodonga branch. At various times he served as President and secretary. He was on the committee when the branch was lobbying for the construction of a Soldiers' Memorial and also a Soldiers' Memorial Hall for Wodonga. Arthur also participated in groups and community activities, including the Wodonga Boys’ Club, Wodonga Public Library Committee and the Wodonga and District Progress Association. Arthur died on 29 Jun 1940 in Wodonga, Victoria, aged 46 years. This certificate is significant as it recognises service to the Wodonga Branch of the RSSILAA coloured certificate on heavy card presented by the Wodonga Branch of the Returned Sailor and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia. It features an archway imprinted with the name of the RSSIL with the League emblem surrounded by the flags of England, Australia and the Royal Australian Navy. It is adorned with an anchor and rifle and the words "Great War 1914 - 1919. An image of Anzac House, the headquarters of the R.S.S.I.L.A. in Melbourne is on the lower left hand side. The words of appreciation are printed in the centre of the archway. The insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces is in the centre at the bottom. WODONGA BRANCH / Presented to A. BEARD As a token of esteem and in grateful recognition of valuable services rendered as PRESIDENT Year 1922 - 23 A. A. Reid President R. S. Benson Secretaryreturned sailors & soldiers imperial league, wodonga rssila -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Imperial Postal Weights used in the Post Office in Wodonga
The set of seven imperial weights were used in the Post Office in Wodonga. The first Post Office in Wodonga opened on the 6th June 1856, and a second Post Office was built in 1874 on the corner of Sydney Road which became High St. and South St. In 1878 there were three staff at the Wodonga Post Office, including the Postmaster/Telegraph Manager and two Office-Keepers/Messengers. The mail service in 1878 included delivery four times a day from the Railway Station to the Post Office in Wodonga, and to and from the Wodonga Post Office to Albury twice a day.The set of seven imperial weights has local and state significance as it was used in the Wodonga Post Office in North East Victoria before decimal currency was introduced in Australia in 1966. The weights also have national significance as examples of the equipment used in post offices in Australia pre 1966.Set of seven cast iron and lead weights with imperial measurements '4 oz, 8oz, 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, 4 lb, and 7 lb' The exterior circular black painted cast iron encases the heavy inner grey lead component, which is visible from the underside. "4 oz.", "8 / oz.", 1 lb.", "1 lb.", "2 lb.", "3 lb.", 4 lb.", MERCURY / 7 LB." on the top of the weights in raised numbers and letters.wodonga post office, post office, victoria post offices, wodonga, north eastern victoria post offices, victorian mail service -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Memorabilia - Souvenir Cushion Cover Egypt 1941
This cushion cover was owned by Arthur Lock, a soldier in the 2/23rd Battalion. After initial training in Albury, N.S.W. and Bonegilla, Victoria, they left for overseas service. Embarking in November 1940 on the transport Strathmore at Port Melbourne, the 2/23rd arrived in Egypt in mid-December. From Egypt they were deployed to Tobruk.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur 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 cushion cover embroidered with the insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces 1941world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, egypt -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Document - Australian Imperial Force - Army Driving Licence, 1943
This is one fo 2 Australian Army Driver Licences issuued to Private Arthur Lock (VX31240} during his service on the 2/23rd Batalion from 17 Jun 1940 until 26 Sep 1945. Arthur's service in Tobruk, El Alamein, New Guinea and Tarakan.Significance This item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur 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. An Australian Imperial Force - Army Driving Licence No. 27741 issued to Arthur Lock on 4 January 1943.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Document - Australian Imperial Force - Army Driving Licence Issued 1944
This is one fo 2 Australian Army Driver Licences issuued to Private Arthur Lock (VX31240} during his service on the 2/23rd Batalion from 17 Jun 1940 until 26 Sep 1945. Arthur's service in Tobruk, El Alamein, New Guinea and Tarakan.An Australian Imperial Force - Army Driving Licence No. 155492 issued to Arthur Lock on 19 October 1944non-fictionThis is one fo 2 Australian Army Driver Licences issuued to Private Arthur Lock (VX31240} during his service on the 2/23rd Batalion from 17 Jun 1940 until 26 Sep 1945. Arthur's service in Tobruk, El Alamein, New Guinea and Tarakan.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, tarakan -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Rats of Tobruk - Private Arthur Lock in Middle East, c1941
Arthur Lock was born in Newport, England and migrated to Australia with his widowed mother in 1924. After spending time in Queensland, he moved to Victoria where he enlisted in the Australian Army at Royal Park, Melbourne on 17 Jun 1940. His service number was VX31240. After basic training, Arthur was enlisted into the 2/23rd Battalion which was raised as part of the all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force and assigned to the 26th Brigade. The battalion was moved to Bonegilla, Victoria, and 2/23rd Battalion became known as "Albury's Own". Arthur saw service in the Middle East and Africa where he was involved in the siege at Tobruk, becoming one of the Rats of Tobruk. He also served in El Alamein, New Guinea, Borneo and Tarakan. In his post war life, Arthur dedicated much time and energy to the Scouting movement and in 1972 was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to young people and the community in Wodonga, Victoria.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 black and white photo of Private Arthur Lock taken whilst on service in the Middle East.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Memorabilia - 2/23rd Battalion logo transfer on card
Established at Victoria Barracks, in Melbourne, in June 1940, the 2/23rd Battalion was raised as part of the all-volunteer Second Australian Imperial Force and assigned to the 26th Brigade. Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Bernard Evans, a small cadre of experienced personnel drawn from Victorian Militia units were concentrated at Victoria Barracks prior to the battalion headquarters being relocated to Albury, New South Wales, where a large number of volunteers were completing their recruit training at the 4th Recruit Training Battalion. Upon the conclusion of this course, the recruits were posted to the 2/23rd and the battalion – over 900 strong– moved to Bonegilla, Victoria, just across the border, where more complex collective training was completed prior to departure overseas. A large majority of the battalion's initial intake of volunteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region and as a result, the 2/23rd became known as "Albury's Own"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. This 2/23rd Battalion Association transfer has been laminated and attached to a card. This logo became the colour patch for the unit after their service in Tobruk. Below colour patch "2/23rd BATTALION ASSOCIATION/ BOX 551D, G.P.O. MELBOURNE"world war 11, rats of tobruk, 2/23rd battalion -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Programme - Dedication Service Children's Memorial Ward Albury Base Hospital, 2/23rd Australian Infantry Battalion Association, 1976
The majority of the 2/23rd Battalion's initial intake of volu nteers came from the Albury–Wodonga region and as a result, the 2/23rd became known as "Albury's Own" and were adopted by the city of Albury. In 1946 the2/23 Australian Infantry Battalion Association adopted the children`s ward of the Albury Base Hospital as a memorial ward to honour those who made the supreme sacrifice. Members of the Association continued to raise funds for the hospital, On Anzac Day, 1976 a service was held to dedicate a plaque marking the Children's Ward as a memorial of the 2/23rd Battalion. This is the program from that dedication service. An addition plaque commemorating the efforts of the 2nd / 23rd Australian Infantry Battalion Association in raising funds for the Albury Base Hospital was added on Tuesday 30th November, 1999.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 program marking the Dedication of the Children's Ward of the Albury Base hospital in honour of the men of the 2/23rd Battalion known as "Albury's Own".world war 11, 2/23rd battalion -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Book - I carried my sketchbook, Ken Lovell, 1984
This book represents the wartime service of the author through a series of caricatures and humorous anecdotes. Ken Lovell saw action in Greece and Syria before being transferred to the 2/23rd Battalion, Ninth Division as a Signals operator. Although reflecting the Aussie dry humour, on many pages of the book containing sketches of a mate there appears a small cross with the letters K.I.A. and a date.non-fictionThis book represents the wartime service of the author through a series of caricatures and humorous anecdotes. Ken Lovell saw action in Greece and Syria before being transferred to the 2/23rd Battalion, Ninth Division as a Signals operator. Although reflecting the Aussie dry humour, on many pages of the book containing sketches of a mate there appears a small cross with the letters K.I.A. and a date. world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Certificate - Recognition of Service to RSSAILA Wodonga - Ian D. Watson
Ian Darnton Watson was a member of a prominent family of civic leaders in Wodonga. He was born on 6th July 1925 in Albury, the first son of Kenneth Darnton Watson and Phyllis Lenore Emily Austin. He completed his primary education at Albury Grammar School, and later became a boarder at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School. He enlisted for military service at Albury on 25th January 1944 and commenced full time service on 8th February 1944 at Royal Park in Melbourne, Victoria and was allocated to the 2nd Medium Artillery Regiment. He embarked on overseas service in Borneo on 30th July 1945 and disembarked in Australia on 15th April 1947 after serving with the Australian occupation forces in Japan. Mr Watson was discharged on 22nd April 1947 at which time he was a member of the Australian 2nd Medical Regiment. On discharge he returned home to help his father farm his property, de Kerilleau in Wodonga which was classified by the National Trust in 1974. Ian described his father, Kenneth as a hardworking, practical man, who for two years from 1929 - 1931, had been the Wodonga Shire President. Cr K. D. Watson was again elected to the Council in 1943 and served until he died in October 1951. In March 1957, he married Miss Lesley Buttfield, of Sydney, NSW. They had three children, Fiona, John and Rowena. John was later to become a member of Wodonga Council and served as Mayor. Ian was President of the RSSAILA (Returned Sailor's, Soldier's and Airmen's Imperial League of Australia) branch at Wodonga from 1953 to 1955 and remained as a member after that time. The League was renamed to the Returned Services League in 1965. Mr Ian Watson died on 14 December 1981, aged 56.This certificate is significant because it recognises the service of Ian Darnton Watson in support of Returned Servicemen in Wodonga.A framed certificate mounted on card. The frame is plastic with a wood grain finish.On Certificate:- R.S.S.A.I.L.A. VICTORIAN BRANCH Presented to Ian D. Watson, As a token of esteem and in grateful recognition of valuable services rendered as President of the Wodonga Sub Branch Years 1953 to 1955.wodonga rssaila, ian darnton watson, watson family wodonga, rsl wodonga -
Woodend RSL
Service Dress Jacket
Associated with the service of Lieutenant H. Dixon, circa 1943. Worn by people who served on the Home Front in this Corps during the Second World War.This item is significant because Australian Army khaki woollen service dress jacket with red embroidered circular Unit Colour Patch on the top of each sleeves consistent with markings of Australia's home guard – the Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC). Four button down closure. The jacket is fully lined with a lightweight fabric, either natural or synthetic. A self fabric belt passes around the waist and fastens with a buckle at the front. Button down epaulettes with two pips denoting lieutenant ranking. 'Rising Sun' collar badges on each lapel. Pleated breast pockets with triple pointed flaps with exposed buttons. A pair of pockets over each hip with straight flaps each fastened with one visiable button. Pockets over hips have one Four front pockets are fastened with one visible buttton. These 8 buttons are domed metal showing a raised emblem of Australia surmounted by the King's Crown: also see Tudor Crown or Imperial Crown. The back of these buttons have a loop shank, secured with cotton. Surrounding is a stamp K. C. LUKE PTY LTD. MELB. There is a small pocket on the inside of the jacket corresponding to the right breast pocket.Small, white, rectangular manufactures tag stiched with khaki coloured cotton within the small pocket on the inside of the jacket corresponding to the right breast pocket. Approximately H 24mm x W 44m The MYER STORE for MEN MELBOURNE & ADELAIDE Typed in red ink on the bottom section of the manufacturers tag. Lt. H. Dixon W. 7290. 10/12/43.heraldry, uniform, volunteer defence corps -
City of Kingston
Photograph - Black and white, c.1945
This photograph shows the Protestant Hall on Nepean Highway Cheltenham, which at the time of the photograph was used by the Returned Sailors' Soldiers' and Aimen's Imperial Leage of Australia (RSSAILA). The building facade, World War I memorials, fire station building and road plantation are also in view. The Protestants Hall was built by the Cheltenham Protestant Hall Company Limited in 1886. The hall has been used for a wide variety of purposes; in earlier times it served as the Sunday School for the Methodist Home for Children, and later as a schoolhouse when the Beaumaris School (now Cheltenham State School) No 84 met with overcrowding problems. It was also a popular venue for annual balls and regular dances held by church groups and sporting organisations. The City of Moorabbin purchased the building in the 1920's for use by the Returned Soldiers and Sailors League, in whose hands it remained until the late 1970s when it was taken over by a catering firm. During the 1920s, and right up to the late 1950s, it also served as Cheltenham's picture theatre. The three memorial columns, one from the South African War, one from World War I and one from World War II previously located in front of the hall were relocated when Nepean Highway was widened. The Protestant Hall still stands at 1261 Nepean Highway CheltenhamBlack and white digital image depicting three buildings. The right hand building bears a sign that reads RSSAILA. There are trees and a bench seat in the foreground. There is a World War I memorial pictured. world war i, world war ii, protestant hall, cheltenham, returned sailors' soldiers' and aimen's imperial leage of australia (rssaila), returned and service's league (rsl) -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph - Photo, Anzac Day London 1974, 1974
A photo of a wreath laying ceremony on Anzac day in Thames Embankment Gardens, Charing Cross, London in 1974 from a Comradeship album. The label identifies Legatee Rex Hall. The handwritten inscription on the back says: "In Thames Embankment Gardens, out___ by members of the Corps 1920. Placing the wreath on Anzac Day 1974. From Left - Tyrone, grandson of Pat Hanna, Mrs Dorothy Roberts, Jessie Pat's widow, Friedl, Pat's granddaughter, ___ ___ Pattie, Pat's daughter. The Imperial Camel Corps fought in every battle in Sinai and Palestine and had 1600 battle casualties of which about 300 names are engraved here. The Corps was composed of 50% Australian, New Zealand troops and 50% British-English, Scottish, Welsh and Indians." The Comradeship committee gathered photos of events and compiled them in a Comradeship photo album for Legatees to look through. This photo and several others (see 01029 - 01032) of Anzac services in London are part of a photo album of Comradeship activities (from 1930 to 1977) see items 01027 to 01036. The Comradeship photo album was put together by the Comradeship committee and records events that Legatees did and places they lived or visited. Some appear to be trips to visit other Legatees living overseas and social occasions held in different places. It shows the bond that Legatees have with each other.Black and white photo of Anzac Day in London in 1974.Label pasted on the front: Anzac Day London 1974. L/Rex Hall and Camel Corps memorial / Third from left - Jessie Hand and Tyrone and Friedl. On the back handwritten description and stamped in grey ink 'J.A.Ballard photography / London'anzac day, comradeship -
Melbourne Legacy
Badge, R.S.S.I.L.A. Member Badges
Two member badges from the The Returned Sailors, Soldiers Imperial League of Australia (RSSILA). The number 68 on the front could be 1968 as it is detachable and could be updated each year. The badge with 1921 could be the year of membership. The member number is engraved on the rear. The shield design is symbolic of the protection provided to those who wear it. Within the badge, red represents the blood ties of war that exist between comrades; white stands for the purity of the motives in joining the league – to render service without personal gain or ambition; and blue indicates a willingness to serve a comrade anywhere under the blue sky. The wattle represents Australia, with the leek, the rose, the thistle and the shamrock standing for Wales, England, Scotland and Ireland respectively. The RSSILA was the precursor to the Returned Services League (RSL) and provided support for returned servicemen after World War One. Worn by members of the Returned Sailors, Soldiers Imperial League of Australia, those eligible being members of all services, both wars, including nurses, who have returned from active service outside Australia. These were with other World War 1 memorabilia that has come from Private John Basil McLean, 2nd Reinforcements, 37th Battalion, A.I.F. J.B. McLean (Service No. 13824) was from near Maffra, Victoria and enlisted on 22 January 1916. He embarked on 16 December 1916 for Europe. He spent time with the Australian Field Artillery (Pack Section). At the end of the war he worked for a year at the A.I.F. Headquarters in London before returning to Australia on the 'Ceramic', arriving in Portsea in 1920. His full war record is available from the National Archives of Australia (B2455, MCLEAN JBM).The RSSILA was an important organisation for ex-servicemen and many Legatees would have been members.Enamel badges from the R.S.S.I.L.A. The centre of the badge shows a sailor and a soldier in raised detail. A blue enamel circle surrounds the central detail and has 'RETURNED SAILORS & SOLDIERS / IMPERIAL LEAGUE' in gilt lettering. The outer edges of the badge are white enamel with a floral spray to the top left and right of the blue circle. At the bottom of the badge is a red enamelled scroll with 'AUSTRALIA' written in gilt lettering. On the reverse of the badge are soldered two brass lugs with a split pin attached for securing the badge to clothing. 01124.1 Front has '68' and 'Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia'. On the reverse 'V92210 Badge remains the property of League'. 01124.2 Front has '1921' and 'Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia'. On the reverse 'R 3871' and 'C.C Roeszler and Son Pty Ltd Melb.'world war one, rssila -
Melbourne Legacy
Document, Constitution
A summary of important decisions made at Annual Conferences from 1926. The document appears incomplete as it starts at section ii). ii) Constitution (pages 1, 1a, 1b, 2, 3, 3a, 3b) iii) Junior Legacy Club - Employment (page 4) iv) Intermediate Legacy Club (page 4) v) General. Frequency of Conferences (page 5) / Burial service (page 6) / Interclub transfer (page 7) / Imperial extension of Legacy (page 7, 8) / War history in schools (page 8 9) / Womens' Clubs (pages 10, 11) / Policy of Legacy Clubs (pages 11, 12) / 20th Anniversary of Anzac (page 12) / Defence / 'Carry On' Clubs (page 13) / Proceedure (page 14) It was stored with other historical documents that had been marked with 'H' and a number, they were all part of the archive project that was trying to capture the history of Legacy. A record of successful motions made at annual conference on a variety of topics.White foolscap file copy paper with black type x 19 pages of a summary of past conferences and the resolutions passed at each.Handwritten 'L/ Gillespie' in pencil on top right corner of first page.history, conference -
Melbourne Legacy
Medal, Australian Service Medal and Pacific Star Medal, 1949
The Australian Service Medal and Pacific Star Medal that were awarded to Private Arthur Norman Comben VX26251 for his war service in World War Two. From the AWM website Private Arthur N Comden of the 2/21st Australian Infantry Battalion, who died on Hainan Island, China, on 27 June 1945. The DVA records show he was born 6 April 1907 in Yarraville and enlisted on 17 June 1940 whilst residing in Coopers Creek Victoria. His next of kin was shown as H Dilks. Also that he had been a prisoner of war. His connection with Legacy is not known, he may have been a junior legatee though there's no record of his father Arthur John Louis Comben serving for Australia in WW1. More research is needed to check, it is possible the medals were donated to Legacy as no family members wanted them. Additional information provided by a distant relative - Arthur's mother (Mary Eleanor Norman) remarried twice after his fathers death in 1911. His stepfather Horace Dilks served in World War 1 with the 2nd Pioneer Battalion.These are examples of World War 2 medals awarded to a serviceman who participated in the conflict in the Pacific region. Many returned servicemen joined Legacy after World War 2 and would have had similar medals.Silver circular medal and bronze star shaped medal from World War 2 mounted on ribbons initially together by a safety pin. 01700.1 The medal is nickel silver with the crowned effigy of King George VI on the obverse. The reverse has the Australian coat of arms, placed centrally, surrounded by the words ‘THE AUSTRALIA SERVICE MEDAL 1939-1945’. The normal ribbon is missing and it is on the ribbon meant for the UK War Medal which is of red, white and blue to represent the colours of the Union Flag. 01700.2 The six–pointed star is yellow copper zinc alloy. The obverse has a central design of the Royal and Imperial cypher, surmounted by a crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Pacific Star’. The ribbon has central yellow and green stripes that represent the forests and the beaches of the Pacific, flanked dark blue, light blue and red stripes that represent the service of the Naval Forces and Merchant Navy, the Air Forces and the Armies.Both engraved with 'VX26251 A. N. Comben'.medals, world war two, arthur comden -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Press Release 1975, Melbourne Legacy, A high flier, 1975
A press release from Melbourne Legacy in 1975 which relates a story of how Legacy works. The information was intended to be used by press and magazines etc. The title 'A high flier' is about 'Bill' a young 13 year old boy who lived with his mother, a widow, and 10 other children in poor surroundings. Legacy was able to organise assistance from War Service Homes to give them a chance of a home of their own. Legacy helped in the usual way, with educational expenses, school uniforms, and other school expenses. Bill achieved his leaving certificate, then matriculated and gained a Commonwealth scholarship. He chose to do Aeronautical Engineering at Melbourne University and Legacy provided a spot for him at Blamey House where he could live close to his studies. He went on to complete his studies at University of Sydney and helped by a research scholarship also the Imperial College of Science and Technology in London, then commenced a post-graduate PhD studies in Aerodynamics. He became a Research Lecturer at the Imperial College. The final paragraph mentions 'Bill is now nearly 30 and is on the threshold of a rewarding life, contributing to man's knowledge of aerodynamics and Legatees have repaid a debt to his father, one of their comrades.'A record of how Legacy promoted their work in the 1970s.Blue foolscap page x 2 with black type of a press release in 1975.Title 'A high flier'press release, case studies -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Medal - 1939 - 1945 Star
The Return From Active Service Badge (RASB) was issued to Australian Defence Personnel who have rendered warlike service.Six pointed Medal. The cotton ribbon has 3 vertical stripes Dark Blue, Red and Light blue. Obverse has a central design of the Royal and Imperial cypher surmounted by a Crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words The 1939 - 1945 Star. -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Brushes in a leather case
This item was owned by Athur Lock who lived in the Wodonga district after World War 11. As well as being a Rat of Tobruk, Arthur made a significant contribution to the community and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1972 for services to young people and the Wodonga community. He was involved in the scouting movement for over 50 years. Arthur was also an amateur radio operator with call number VK3AULThis item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur 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 leather case with surrounding strap and metal buckle. The case contains 2 brushes.world war 11, rats of tobruk, tobruk, arthur lock -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Plaque - Australian Commonwealth Military Forces Plaque
The Australian Commonwealth Military Forces (AMF) was the official name of the Australian Army from 1916 to 1980. The AMF included the full-time regular army and the part-time forces, which were also known as the Militia, the Citizen Military Forces (CMF), and the Australian Citizen Military Force (ACMF). The AMF was made up of conscripted and volunteer militiamen, as well as specialist permanent soldiers.This item is part of a collection of items owned by Athur 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 wooden plaque in the shape of a shield bearing insignia of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces and the Tobuk colour patch. 3 Australian Commonwealth Military Forces badges and metal badge engraved "AUSTRALIA"world war 11, tobruk, rats of tobruk, australian commonwealth military services, arthur lock -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Document - Charles Geary Collection, 1915-1922
This collection of six documents (1915-1922) belonged to Charles Geary who was born in Warrnambool, the son of Thomas and Martha Ellen Geary in 1893. The collection documents his joining the Australian Imperial Expeditionary Force A.A.M.C. Dental Reserve, his subsequent discharge and post military employment in the Town of Warrnambool as a Hackney Carriage Driver and later as a second class engine driver.. This collection gives examples of references and certificates of leave required to join the A.I.F. in 1916. The discharge certificate is a good example of what was given to military personnel after their services were no longer required. The llicense and certificate of competency show some of Charles' post war endeavours. Charles is listed on the Warrnambool Fire Brigade World War 1 Honour Roll as an active member. (.1) Typewritten refence on Robinson's Motor Pty. Ltd. green and navy printed letterhead with a purple ink stamp and black written signature and embossed company seal. (.2) Reference, handwritten in black ink on blue 8mm lined white paper with a 38mm printed margin. (.3) Black print on a cream certificate completed in black ink. (.4) Cotton woven paper certificate completed in blue, black and red ink with black ink thumb prints. (.5) Black printed Certificate number 1069 on cream paper completed in black ink. (.6) Peach coloured certificate with red printing on heavy weight paper completed in black ink and numbered 8313charles geary, australian army medical corps dental reserve, a.a.m.c., robinson's motor proprietary limited, geo powell, country fire brigades board of victoria, hackney carriage driver's license, second class engine driver, dental mechanic -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Document - Certificate, Certificate of Discharge. 2 x Soldiers Pay Books
Certificate on paper. Pay Books card covered paper. -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Instrument - Decimal Currency Converter, Ultra Publicity Pty Ltd, C 1966
This decimal currency converter was produced about 1966 when the Australian currency was changed from the imperial system to the decimal system. It has been used by a Warrnambool businessman, Alan Lane to promote one of his businesses, Lane’s Motors and would have been given to business clients. Alan Lane (d.1995) was prominent in Warrnambool as a businessman man, community leader and philanthropist. His businesses included a bus company, a taxi company and a travel agency. His community services included involvement in the St. John Ambulance Brigade, the Rotary Club, the local Football League, the Warrnambool Art Gallery, the Performing Arts Centre, the Warrnambool Chamber of Commerce and the Warrnambool Council. The A.L. Lane Foundation was established with funds from his estate and continues to assist local projects and charitable causes. This item is of interest as a memento of the time when the Australian currency was converted to the decimal system and as a memento of the prominent Warrnambool community worker, Alan Lane. This is a card consisting of four circles of paper of different sizes joined in the centre with a metal clip. The smallest central piece of paper has advertising material and the other three pieces have red and black numbers, some of decimal currency notations and some of imperial currency notationsDecimal Currency Computer Instructions for Use See Back Lane’s Motors alan l. lane, warrnambool, a.l. lane foundation