Historical information

Part of the Leo Reoch Cohn Collection.

Leo Reoch Cohn served in both World War 0ne and World War Two.
He enlisted in the 1st AIF on 6.5.1915, initially in the 22nd battalion (No. 1039), aged 18. Shortly after, on 11.9.1915, he transferred to the 8th LHR and embarked for Egypt on 23.9.1915, serving in both Egypt and Palestine. During that period of service, he transferred to the 1st Australian Light Car Patrol on 8.9.1917. This unit later became the 1st Australian Armoured Car Section.
Leo began his return journey to Australia on 16.5.1919. Shortly after his RTA, he was discharged. While on active service overseas, he was hospitalized on a number of occasions due to illness.
During World War Two, Leo enlisted in the 21st Battalion VDC (No. V360272) on 18.5.1942 at the age of 44. He was appointed Lieutenant on 25.6.1942. Leo's VDC service was terminated on 31.10. 1945 following the end of World War Two.

Physical description

.1) Tailored khaki woollen officer's dress jacket with silk like fabric lining. Two button-down breast pockets and two button down-side pockets. All buttons are military issue. Unit colour patch on each shoulder (8th ALH). Above the left breast pocket is a World War One trio of medal ribbons. An attached fabric belt has a metal buckle.
.2) Light brown cotton drill jodhpurs with button fly. Knee reinforcement pad sewn on the inside of each leg. Button down hip pocket and two side pockets. Belt loops and buttons for braces on the waist band.

Inscriptions & markings

.2) On manufacturer's label: 'Pytchley, MADE IN ENGLAND'.
Handwritten in black ink on waistband: 'COHN'.