Historical information

A first hand account written by Legatee Ashley Dore (VX 42841, 1918-1986) of the efforts of the Australian soldiers who elected not to surrender and who hid in the jungle intending to make their way to the coast and find a boat to New Guinea. Dore has written an engrossing account of the difficulties and privations they face, ultimately arriving in Pondo where they rejoined other troops under the command of Captain Appel who was able to get them to Rein Bay and finally Cairns.
Dore had a civilian career with AMP in positions of increasing responsibility and became a Legatee on 9th September 1958. He was also Assistant District Commissioner in the Boy Scout Association. His financial acumen led to him becoming Honorary Treasurer of Melbourne Legacy after only three years of membership, and he was appointed President in 1965. Ill health curtailed his activities in 1970 and he died at the relatively early age of 67.

Significance

A vivid account of the wartime experiences of a Melbourne Legacy President which exemplifies the type of person who was invited to become a Legatee. Its value is illustrated by the fact that a copy was sent to the Australian War Memorial.

Physical description

White A4 paper with black type x 8 pages.

Inscriptions & markings

Handwritten in blue biro: 'L 18'
Handwritten in black biro: '1/7/01 Copy sent to Aust War Memorial' (signature illegible)