Historical information

Suitcase issued to aircraft captains or crew by RAAF during World War II. The contents of M D Frecker's suitcase include World War II medals awarded to the owner, photographs, maps, pilots' handbooks, language dictionaries (Malay, Pidgin, Japanese), propaganda leaflets dropped by Japanese.

Significance

Has historical and social significance, also research significance. Provenance known, owner piloted B-24 Liberator bombers and General Blamey's personal aircraft; item was donated by son. Great interpretive potential.

Physical description

Worn dark suitcase belonging to Mason Day Frekker, strong cardboard covered with 'leatherette', metal fasteners on front, with carry handle. Suitcase contains Flying Log Book RAAF, Wedding Photo, National Archives Record Search Mason Day Frecker, Distinguished Flying Medal Register WW2 x 3, Papers on Medals and Victorian Ground Crew Numbers, Files 1 - 2 - 3 - Photographs, Leaflets, Pilots' Notes, Maps - Germany (28 maps), Buttons and badges and other medals.

Inscriptions & markings

"RAAF/402653/Frecker/M.D." on top surface, "M.D.F." on front surface under handle.