Historical information

Shirt worn by Leading Air Mechanic Airframes Engines, Errol Desmond Shelley No:R59338 when he was hit by shrapnel. He was driving a motor pool truck back to US Bearcat Base near Bien Hoa on 22 December 1969, after a trip to Vung Tau to send flowers to the wife of a fellow serviceman to celebrate the birth of a child. An enemy rocket propelled grenade (RPG) landed 20 metres to the right of the vehicle Errol was driving, and while the passengers were able to duck for cover, as driver, Errol could not. So, when a second RPG landed behind them, Errol was hit by two pieces of shrapnel. Errol served on the HMAS Melbourne from May - Jun 1965, and then with RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam from Sept 1969 - Oct 1970.
SEE PHOTOS FOR THE STORY IN ERROL'S WORDS

Physical description

Khaki long-sleeved shirt with button-down front, two pockets with embroidered name on right side and service name on other. Handwritten names and signatures on the back. Holes near collar at back and blood stains.

Inscriptions & markings

E D Shelley in black thread on RHS
RAN in black thread on LHS
Signatures on back in ink