Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/1645108/thomas-william-errington/

https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R1701133

https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1069266/large/5619061.JPG

https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/2211529/edward-james-richards/

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/DetailsReports/ItemDetail.aspx?Barcode=8073927&isAv=N

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1194846&c=WW2#R

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1210190&c=KOREA#R

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3901802

https://www.seawings.co.uk/images/walrusdigi/Supermarine%20Walrus%20PROFILE.pdf

'Lieutenant Colonel Salisbury has commanded the 50th Bn from 18 August 1916. As the direct result of his capabilities, energy and enthusiasm, the battalion has been raised to a high state of efficiency. While under his command the battalion has participated in active operations on the Somme, Ypres Salient, Flers and in the recent capture of Noreuil. The success of this latter operation was largely due to Liet-Col Salisbury's thorough preparation and his excellent handling of the battalion during the attack and subsequent consolidation. This officer's habitual cheeriness and devotion to duty has been most pronounced and a great inspiration to all with whom he has come in contact.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 189 Date: 8 November 1917

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3044009

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=8026242

https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R1687619

https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/16506880

https://aif.adfa.edu.au/showPerson?pid=202383

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4582331

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=892101&c=WW2#R

Bombala's Memorial TO THE BRAVE. UNVEILED BY THE HON. AUSTIN CHAPMAN, M.P. On Sunday last, in the presence of a large assemblage, the Hon. Austin Chapman, M.P., performed the official ceremony of unveiling the monument which the people of the Bombala district have erected to the memory of their soldiers who fell in the great war, and in honor of those who went forth to fight and returned to our shores. The monument is erected at the 'intersection*' of Maybe and Forbes streets. The base is of trachyte and on the top is the full sized figure of a soldier in full uniform. beautifully carved in Italian marble. On three sides are engraved the soldiers' names, and on the base is this inscription:- Erected by the Citizens of Bombala and District, in commemoration of the men who fell in the great war, 1914-18. — N. P. SMITH, Mayor, The Deputy-Mayor, Ald. N. F. Smith, presided, and he had with him on the -platform the Hon. Aus- tin Chapman, and the Revs. Mar shall (Presbyterian), Gibson (Meth odist) Sherris (Anglican), and Father Roche (R.C.) Ald. Smith apologised for the absence of the Mayor, who was away from the district. The Mayor had asked him to take his place, and he did so with pleasure, because it was always a pleasure for him to be with, and to do what he could for, the soldiers. They had met that day to unveil the memorial, a ceremony that should have taken place months ago, had it not been for the interference of Mr. Mutch, the Minister for Local Government, who refused them permission to erect it in a public place. They started to fight him, and after several months, with the assistance of Mr. Bailey, they got the necessary permission. This monument was not only, going to stand for a life time, it was going to stand for ever. When we were dead and gone this memorial would still stand as fresh and green as it was that day. It would remain ever green in the minds of the people of Bombala and district. When they read down the list of names and came to those (with a cross opposite to them, they could not but regret that those brave lads were not there with them, and they could only hope and pray that their souls were in that great kingdom where all was peace and happiness. And for those who are still with us never let us say or think that we are doing too much for them. They were the de- fenders of our country, and if we could ever do, anything for them it was our duty to do it. The Band then played the hymn, 'Nearer my God to Thee,' and the people joined in the singing. The Rev. W. H. Marshall offered a short prayer and delivered a short address. War, he said, had disturbed the world. and kept back its progress in literature, arts, in sciences, down through all the ages. Many wars were recorded in history, but the war they had to deal with was the great world war that commenced in 1914, when the German armies rose as one man, at the ap pointed hour, and invaded friendly and unprepared nations. The speak- er then briefly traced the course of events up to the time Australia came into the war, when hundreds of thousands of our men heard the call of the Motherland and respond- ed to it. These men came from all classes, and the rough bushmen and the cultured man of the town joined together. War had brought, them all to the one level. They trained for the conflict and embarked under sealed orders. Some went to German New Guinea, some to England, and others to Egypt. Those who went to Egypt had to land on a rough and rugged shore on the 25th April, 1915, expecting to drive the Turks back from Gallipoli and then march into Constantinople. They would have accomplished this but for the lack of reinforcements, and they had to retire after having fought some of the most glorious battles ever fought on a battlefield. From there they went to France. They received orders to break the Hindenberg line. This they did, driving the Germans back until they sued for peace. The armistice was granted, and afterwards peace was declared. These Australians were the sons of the pioneers who came to this almost unknown country, not in steamers, but in sailing boats, and faced terrible difficulties and dangers to establish their homes and rear their families. Sons born of such parents were the right men to effect the landing on Gallipoli. These were the men they were now doing honor to. This memorial was raised to their memory, and they were worthy of it and of their praise. The Rev. Father Roche said that this grand gathering of citizens, ir- respective of creed or nationality, was abundant testimony in itself of the patriotic spirit of Bombala, for all were anxious to associate them- selves with the solemn function of unveiling this splendid monument erected to perpetuate the memory of our fallen soldiers. The price of Nationhood must be paid in blood and tears, and there was no country ! that truly loved its flag which had not made the supreme sacrifice, and which had not freely offered up the lives of its best and bravest for a dream, for an ideal, for a solemn purpose. It was the good fortune of Australia to find her true soul in a great and glorious struggle to preserve the rights and liberties of smaller nations, and to crush a despotic militarism which would sub-' jugate, the rest of the world. The call came to Australia, and she, of her own free will, with a good heart, sent the cream of her Australian manhood into the battle fields of Europe. By their actions these brave Bombala lads, as well as men from all parts of the Commonwealth, proved themselves to be far-seeing men, because they realised that Australia's frontier was not washed by , the quiescent waters of the blue Pacific, but was situated somewhere in France. These brave Australian lads had won laurels for themselves, and had raised Australia to be among the nations of the earth; and to-day, while this grand memorial reminds us of the valor of our dead heroes, whose bodies lie in lonely graves on classic ground, it reminds us too, of the great part our Australian volunteers played in the world's gigantic struggle for liberty and justice, when Australians truly knew them- selves. Before our Australian heroes, astonished the watching nations our national sentiment in this young country was of a flabby and sprawling and flabby character. Thank God, the first memorable Anzac Day, with the heroic deeds accomplished by Australia's sons on the hills of Gallipoli, and the battle fields of France, had changed all that. The grand Australian flag had been brought from the garret and hoisted on a lofty tower in the full sight of its people. The war terminated— as was only to be expected — in a victory for the Allies, and Australia was at last a nation, with one heart, one soul, and one thrilling aspiration. 'l am a native-born priest," concluded Father Roche, and I am proud of it. My advice to all Australians is, to make this your motto, 'Australia and our grand Australian flag first,' and Australia will always be proud of you.” The public school children then sang the nationals song, "Anzac." The Rev. Gibson said they knew that war was abhorrent to the teaching of Jesus Christ. We could thank God that our nation had become so Christianised that war was abhorrent to us. Nearly eight years ago the Motherland was forced into the great war. Necessity knew no choice. It was ours to see that the necessity never again rose for, war in our land. They could thank God for the League of Nations, which, though crippled, in many ways, was the beginning of a universal peace. Thank God for the Washington Conference, and for the spirit that: prompted the holding of a Conference at Genoa. When the call came to our own land we found our man- hood ready to respond, and to-day we celebrated their baptism of blood. The 25th of April, 1915, was a glorious day; it was also a bloody day. For weary years this war continued, and then was manifested the truth of those words, "Never morning wears to evening but some heart does break." In those days never morning wore to evening but many hearts did break. The days brought nothing but watchfulness ; night brought no respite; the Sabbath brought no rest. Some spoke of the failure of Christianity in 1914. Did Christianity fail then? No! It had not been applied. When Christianity was truly ap- plied war could not exist. Suddenly the end came, but for many it came too late. Homes had been made desolate; hearts had been broken. And as we to-day honored those who had suffered in that great war, our sympathy must go out to those who suffered at home — whose hearts were broken. No honor could be too great for those who had gone never to return. Christ abhorred war but he left this message, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man laid down his life for his friend." This message came to-day to the mother, the father, the sister, the brother, the sweetheart, the friend, who had found the great spirit of love in Christ. It was ours to cherish their memory, and, as the Chairman said, this memorial would keep their memory ever green. We should cherish their memory in the spirit of Christ by cultivating that spirit of love which was theirs. The Hon. Austin Chapman was then called upon to perform the un-veiling ceremony, and he commenced by calling for three cheers for the King and for the returned soldiers, which were heartily given. "We have to remember," he said, "that there would be no monument to un- veil, no happy crowd here to-day. but for those boys." They were told the Germans had prepared for this war for forty years. Our boys showed that they didn't want forty weeks. They played their part so well that they had made the name of Australia ring throughout the world. He remembered once he was touring at Mount Vesuvius, and the Cook's guide asked him where he came from ''Australia," he re- plied. "Austria?" said the guide. "No, Australia," said Mr. Chap- man. "I never heard of it," said the guide. Sir John Forrest, who was with them, turned to him and said, 'That takes the starch out of you." It did. That was all altered now, and they could go into any country and not be asked, "Where is Australia?" They knew where it was; they knew it was where our soldiers came from; they knew them as the best paid and the best fed soldiers in the war ; and it was said by the enemy that they, were the best fighters. This monument would be an everlasting reminder to us that we should try and do our duty as they had done theirs "Unity," should be our motto. We were all striving for the one goal, and we should put aside all class differences and creeds, as our men did at the War, and strive for unity. Our men taught us the lesson, and they showed us the answer to the question, "Why did God send war?'' One gentleman, said wars would cease. The Americans said, 'Trust in God, but keep your pow- der dry." This monument would help us to do that. The children who would take our place would see that monument and read the names on it, and if i necessary would go forth to uphold the reputation those men had made. The Chairman had said we should do everything possible for the soldiers. The speaker said enough had not been done — we could not do enough. 'What had we to thank them for? For every thing. If we had a German war lord to-day, where would we be? The Germans would have been our masters, and this would have been anything but the freest country on God's earth. While we looked after the Australian flag we must never forget the grand old Union Jack, but for which, there would have been a different state of affairs in the world, to-day. He had been called, a "Jingo," add he was proud of it. He was talking to a Ger man after the war, and said to him, "You should have beaten us early in the fight." He said, "We did, but you Britishers don't know when you are beaten." That was the British spirit, and he was proud of the British nation and the Union Jack. Mr. Chapman touched briefly on his visits to Bombala during the war, when he came here to start the "Men from Snowy River" from Delegate, and when he came later on to raise money for the war loans. On each occasion, he said, this district had responded nobly in men and money, There were many who for various reasons could not go to the front, and they did what they could here at home. The women of this country did greater service than the soldiers. Don't forget the Com forts Fund, when the women worked their fingers nearly off so that the lot of the soldier might be made a little easier. God. bless the women! If we could get a race of men equal to our women there would be no more war. Turning to the monument, Mr. Chapman said that after doing so well while the war was on, this dis- trict had now erected a monument at a cost of £500, which would be a credit to any city. He could say with pride and pleasure that there was none better than it. He admired the dogged pluck and per- severance of the Committee, which had enabled them to break through the red tape, and accomplish their object. Other districts, bigger and more prosperous than this, could not point to anything better nor even as good as this monument. It was a great pleasure to know that there were so many as 125 names on it of men, who had gone from this district. One-fifth of them would never come back; but while wc mourned for them, with our sorrow was mixed a pride that we did our share. In this respect, the Bombala District would compare with any other district in Australia. "In declaring this monument unveiled," said Mr. Chapman, "I have very great satisfaction indeed, for it is one that does you credit, and does credit to us all. It may have some equals, but no superiors. I, therefore, now declare the monument unveiled." Mr. Chapman then pulled the cord, and the flag which enveloped the figure fell away. The Rev. Sherris said he was delighted to hear the eloquent tribute Mr. Chapman had paid to the soldiers, and to the work of the women, which was done largely for the well-being of the soldiers? Every man in the A.I.F. would be gratified when he heard of the testimony to the work of those people who did their utmost at home to make his life smoother and more comfortable with the things they sent him. "We feel on Anzac Day," said Mr. Sherris, "that this day commemorates all the great things in the history of the war, from the landing at Gallipoli to the end." To his mind came things that could not come to the minds of those who had not witnessed the things take place, and he thought of the different types of men, and how each one did his utmost for the work he had in hand. With regard to, the statement that some of the returned men were not all that they should be, he could say that not many were bad returned men. Some were bad when they went away, and they were bad when they came back. Some of them never; were soldiers. They had no thought of fighting, and they didn't care for the .reputation of the other soldiers. The majority of the 400,000 were good men, and tried to do their best. It was up to the people to remember, the goodness of the majority, and not allow their goodness to be overshadowed by the faults of the few. He would, like to remind, them that what those men, had accomplished had meant a great deal to Australia, and it helped us to realise that Australia was a grown-up man— it was a nation now and no longer an infant. Australia had a place on the map. It got that as a result of the war. The Germans thought they would get a place in the sun, but they got a place in the shade. The men who went from here and fought in those glorious battles, helped to accomplish this. Among them were men who had by their deeds written their names at the very top, and had gained more distinctions for valor in this one war than members of the British forces who had fought in many wars. With regard to the honors distributed to soldiers, there was a distinction. The D.S.O. was awarded to officers, and the D.C.M. and M.M. to the men. The D.C.M. was as near to the V.C. as it was possible to get, and it was harder for the men to win a D.C.M. than for an officer to win a D.S.O. When a man won a D.C.M. or M.M. you could take it he had done some brave deed; and there were hundreds of them doing, likewise who re- received no medal. So when we thought of these things on Anzac Day it was up to us to remember oftener. It was not likely we would forget, but there was a difference between not forgetting and constantly remembering. The speaker also, referred to the destruction of social barriers that had taken place among the men at the war, and expressed the hope that many of them would be broken down in peace time, which would be better for the nation and for the Christian church, as they were no good, and when they were removed we would get on better in life. "I pay my tribute along with you;" said Mr. Sherris, to the returned men, and, thank God, there were men so noble that they gave their lives for their country." Mr. Arthur Beileiter sounded the "Last Post," . while all stood t to attention. Ald. Smith then thanked.' Mr. Chapman for his kindness in coming to unveil this memorial; the Rev- erend gentlemen who had assisted; the choir children; and the Band. Cheers were given for the King, the soldiers and the women, and a vote of thanks to the Chairman was carried by acclamation. The proceedings were brought to a close by the Band playing the National Anthem. The following is a list of the names which appear on the monu- ment :— Armstrong C. R. Badgery A. Bartley J. W. x Bedingfield S. Bedingfield Alf . Bedingfield A. Beileiter C. E. Beileiter A. E. Beileiter A. S. Beileiter C. L. Beileiter J. Bellchambers C. x Bellchambers. A. x Bellchambers H. Bonny S. Bonny F. P. Brassington M. Brassington P. x Brill J. x Brotherton H. Brotherton J. Brownlie W. Brownlie A. L. x Campbell D. Campbell A. H. Campbell J. C. Clark G. H. Collins M. x Conlon W. Cootes A. , Copeland N. Curtis W. x Davis A. G. Dawson M. Deeks F. J. Dent A. x Dent T. W. Douch R. Duncan A. Dunn C. Dunne J. Elliott R. Elliott H.J. Elliott A. Elton A. H. Elton J. R. Elton W.H. X Elton C. Forester G. Forsyth W. A. x Girvan R. R. C. Gleeson J. J. x Gleeson T. J. Greer A. J. x Haggar C. W. Hart H. E. Head E. J. Head G. W. Hedger F. x Helmers L. V. x Kellond J. H. Lancaster R. Langley D. B. Law Hawk C. x Lesleighter A. E. x Livingstone H. x Lyne V. H. May E. J. Marsh H. J. Margrie A. A. Miller J. x Morrison Jas. Morrison J. Morrison E. D. Morris R. x Murphy H. x Murphy R. Murphy W. x Maslin F. J. McLeod M. J. Mclntyre P. W. McAlister G. Nicholson W. Nicholson A, D. x Oliver R. V. Oliver J. I. Parkes J. Payne H. A. Perkins J. Phillips C. W. Pill S. J. Reed R. x Richter G. Robbie N. W. Robbie J. B. x Shields V. x Skipper- W. Skipper E. A. Skipper C. A. Sloan W. W. Sloan C. x Sloan R. A. x Smith C. Stewart R. E. Stutchbury G. Stutchbury C. W. Stutchbury R. Sullivan E. Toms E. Tracey C. Turner H. Trevanion C. Umback F. J. Walker J. G. Warburton W. A. Warburton J. x Watson P. x Way J. L. Whitehead G. Whitehead F. Whitehead A. Whiteley D. Whiteley J. Wiles R. J. Yelds S. D. Yeids W. x Denotes "Fallen."

This is a collection of short articles by South Australian AANS describing their experiences. Locations covered include England, the Middle East, the South West Pacific and Australia.

https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/world-war-ii-1939-1945/events/air-war-europe-1939-1945

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=6376443

No 11 sortie 4hrs 20mins 15 10 44 WILHELMSHAVEN Duty Visual Centrers Aircraft “B for Beer” Bomb load 6 x TI green 1 x 4000lbs 6 x 1000lbs This place was one of the biggest naval bases in Germany and is now a key supply centre for the German armies fighting along the Belgium and Holland fronts. To deny the defences the advantage of early warning by radar, our outward trip over the North Sea had to be made at 1000ft and we struck severe electric storms. The port was well defended by heavy flak and jet propelled night fighters followed the bomber stream a long way out to sea. The attack was highly successful and dock facilities were badly damaged. 9 heavy bombers failed to return, but our aircraft was not damaged. Reason for attack: An important naval base and key supply port for German army fighting in Holland and Belgium. Personal diary entry 15 October 1944: “Bombed Wilhelmshaven at 1/4 to 8. Flew very low over North Sea and had a bumpy trip, but found target easily. Saw Lanc. go down in flames just below us.” No 12 sortie 6hrs 15mins 19/10/44 STUTTGART Duty- Visual Centrers Aircraft - "K for King" Bomb-load - x T.I. Green 1 x 4000lbs 6 x 1000lbs Our aiming point was the main built up area in centre of town. It was defended by heavy flak and search-lights were numerous. Many fighters were sent up to intercept us. Our aircraft was not damaged although the H2s caught fire after leaving the target area. Five heavy bombers are missing. This was a very eventful trip as all radar aids were unserviceable and when we eventually found the target we were late and practically the only aircraft there that was on our side. We were so late arriving back at base that we had been presumed missing. Reason for attack: Large numbers of troops were held in reserve for the defence of the Belfort Gap on the Western front. Personal diary entry 22 October 1944:- "Sat for my P.F.F. board and passed it ok. Will now be able to wear the official badge and promotion should follow soon." Personal diary entry 24 October 1944: “Put in application for my 2nd class nav certificate and also enrolled for classes to qualify for Civil Aviation licence. S/L Dean spoke to me about my commission and has put in the necessary applications so it should come through within a few weeks.” No 13 sortie 3hrs 45mins 23/10/44 ESSEN Duty - Visual Centrers Aircraft - "B for Beer" Bomb_load - x T.I. green 1 x 4000lbs 6 x 1000lbs Our target was the Krupps ball_bearing factory, which has been unsuccessfully attacked by the RAF several times previously. The defences were very active and a heavy flak barrage was put up. There was a huge area of search_lights and much predicted flak when aircraft were coned, but as we bombed from 22,000ft we were above most of the danger. The raid was a good success and the plant is claimed to be so badly damaged that it will take months to be repaired. Our Kite received several flak holes in the tail-plane and bomb-doors. Out of the total of over 1000 bombers which dropped 4500 tons of bombs, 24 are missing. We had a very rough trip and we flew through a snowstorm over France on the outward journey and electric storms when returning. Reason for attack:- heavy industry situated here including the famous Krupps ball_bearing factory. No 14 sortie 4hrs 20mins 25/10/44 ESSEN Duty - Primary Visual Markers Aircraft - "B for Beer" Bomb-load - x T.I. yellow 1 x 4000lbs Our aiming point was the centre of Essen, which is the most industrialised centre in the Ruhr. Fires were still burning from our previous attack, but the flak defences were well up to standard. There was much cloud over the target, which prevented results from being observed, but later intelligence reports claim very scattered. Bombing: We suffered no damage but 8 of our heavy Bombers failed to return. A 'scarecrow', which exploded just underneath us enveloped the rear turret and tail in fierce flames. Reason for attack: The RAF were swiftly following up their recent night raid on Krupps City, Essen. Personal diary entry 25 October 1944: “Went to Essen again and had to batter our way through the first snow storm of the season. Was a daylight raid and we were the primary visual markers, so had to fly straight and level at 18000ft. A near miss by a 'scarecrow' which exploded just under our bomb-bays covered the tail and rear-turret in a sheet of flame… P/0 Dyeson went with us as box-basher and it was his 52nd and last op.” No 15 sortie 2hrs 25mins 28/10/44 WALCHERAN ISL Duty- Deputy Master Bomber Aircraft - "B for Beer" Bomb-load - x T.I. green 2 x 1000lbs Several simultaneous attacks were made on heavy gun-emplacements along the coast line and our site was slightly north of Weskapelle Light. The target was very small but both marking and bombing were extremely accurate. We made 3 orbits of the target and had a grand view of the whole attack. There was no opposition and all aircraft returned safely. There was rather severe icing conditions enroute. Reason for attack: These guns are firing on our troops who are endeavouring to clear the Scheldt Estuary and thus gain the use of Antwerp as a supply port for our advancing armies. Personal diary entry 28 October 1944: “Called at 4.30 to go on ops. We were surprised to find we were deputy master bombers. Bombed a large gun emplacement near Weskapelle on Walcheren Is. Orbitted the target 4 times and witnessed very accurate marking and bombing.” No 16 sortie 2hrs 25mins 29/10/44 WALCHERAN ISL Duty - Deputy Master Bomber Aircraft – “B for Beer” Bomb-load - x T.I. green 2 x 1000lbs Following yesterday's attack we attacked the gun_positions which are still firing on our troops. Our site was at Zoutel and again there was no enemy opposition. The bombing was done from 10,000ft and was extremely accurate. We circled 3 times and narrowly avoided being hit by a stick of bombs dropped from an aircraft flying much higher than we were. Two aircraft were lost in a collision on their bombing run. Reason for attack: Walcheren Isl guards the entrance to the Scheldt estuary and Antwerp and must be captured before the allied armies can successfully press on through Holland. Personal diary entry 2 November 1944:- “Bob returned from hospital today but his injury is still open so he won't be able to fly until after he comes back from leave. We did a short training flight in 'B' beer and just before commencing to drop some practice bombs at Whittlesey our port outer motor caught fire. Feathered prop. immediately and used gravener to extinguish flames and landed safely on 3 motors.” No 17 sortie 4hrs 4/11/44 BOCHUM Duty Backers Up Aircraft “B for Beer” Bomb load 6 x T.I. green 1 x 4000lbs 6 x 1000lbs Bochum is situated in centre of the Ruhr Valley and is an important centre of steel industries. Our track into the target took us over Duisburg and Essen and the defences were extremely heavy. The search lights covered a huge area and were so concentrated that they looked like a huge plantation of tall trees. Jet propelled fighters and magnetic rockets caused heavy casualties among the 1000 bombers taking part and 34 failed to return. The elevators of our aircraft were damaged by flak and there were a number of holes in the fuselage. Later intelligence reports confirm all crew's claims that the whole town was utterly devastated. Reason for attack. This place specialises in steel industries and supplies much war material, in form of tanks and guns, to the German army. NO 18 Sortie 3 hrs 45 mins 6/11/44 GELSENKIRCHEN Duty - Backers Up Aircraft – “B for Beer” Bomb-load - 4 x T.I. green 1 x 4000lbs 6 x 1000lbs 2 x 500lbs Our object was to obliterate the residential and business portion of this place, which is responsible for maintaining the oil refineries in the near vicinity. Heavy flak made the target area rather sticky and a few pieces holed our tail-plane. 7 Lancasters were shot down. Reason for attack: In support of the armies’ advance the Ruhr is being systematically battered to prevent supplies from being kept up. Personal diary extract: - “I was on leave from 9 November until 16 November and spent one day in London, before travelling down to Portsmouth to stay at Billson's, being well looked after by Bob's mother - even getting breakfast in bed. Our first few days back in camp were wet and cold.” No 19 sortie 4hrs 35mins 21/11/44 STERKRADE Duty - Backers Up Aircraft – “B for Beer” Bomb-load - 6 x T.I. green 8 x 1000lbs Our target was a synthetic oil refinery. It was strongly defended by heavy flak, but about 5/10ths cloud cover prevented successful use of search-lights and it was rather inaccurate. Our aircraft was not damaged, although 15 Lancasters are missing from the night's operations. The marking and bombing was extremely well concentrated and heavy damage was inflicted on the plant. Reason for attack:- Although this plant has been badly mauled in previous R.A.F. raids, it had been sufficiently to recommence output, of synthetic oil, manufactured from coal. No 20 sortie 5hrs 35mins 27/11/44 FRIEBURG Duty - Visual Centrers Aircraft – “B for Beer” Bomb-load - 6 x T.I. green 1 x 4000lbs 5 x 1000lbs Frieburg is situated at the foot of the Swiss Alps and has a peace-time population of 110,000 people. At present it is approx 60 miles from our advancing front line and is the only important communication centre in the vicinity. It was very slightly defended and we attacked from 14,000ft in bright moonlight. The marking was accurate and the raid was highly successful. All of our bombers returned safely. The snow on the Alps was a lovely sight in the brilliant moonlight. Reason for attack:- Large numbers of troops were held in reserve here to stem the French advance on Southern Germany. We learned later that approx 35,000 people were killed in this highly successful raid. Data extracted from http://www.rafupwood.co.uk/156squadron.htm#156losses

https://seapower.navy.gov.au/hmas-stuart-ii

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montevideo_Maru

Cornish_Augustus_19010621_Transcript.pdf

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5529957

https://aif.adfa.edu.au/showPerson?pid=113033

Birth_Certificate_Robbie.pdf

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=4419507

'During the operations at Villers-Bretonneux on the night of 24/25th April, 1918, this N.C.O. was conspicuous for his courage, coolness and devotion to duty. When all his officers had become casualties he at once took command of the company and showed great judgement in the selection of position, etc. He kept his company well in hand and in touch with the adjoining companies, and saw that the position selected was strongly consolidated. By his timely assumption of command, and the excellent spirit he displayed throughout, the morale of his men was maintained and his coolness, cheerfulness and energy set a spelndid example to all ranks.'

https://www.centennialpark.org/memorial-search/?surname=Brakenridge&firstname=Hamilton

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1212148&c=KOREA#R

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1204835&c=WW2

J_A_Critchley_timeline.pdf

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=6450623

Sydney Morning Herald Army News Monday 19 July 1943 Wednesday 21 July 1943 Pilot Officer Francis Edwin Mathers Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany CONSPICUOUS GALLANTRY MEDAL (FLYING) Francis Edwin Mathers (413221) Royal Australian Air Force 77 Squadron One night in June, 1943, Sergeants French and Spedie were the wireless operator/air gunner and rear gunner respectively of an aircraft piloted by Flight Sergeant Mathers, which attacked Mulheim. Whilst over the target area, the bomber 50 was subjected to heavy fire from the ground defences and was repeatedly hit. Two engines were rendered unserviceable in quick succession. While the starboard aileron control was shot away and 3 petrol tanks were pierced, all of which leaked rapidly. In spite of this, Flight Sergeant Mathers flew clear of the defences and set course for this country. On the return flight, the bomber gradually lost height and all movable equipment, including the guns of the mid-upper turret and some ammunition, were jettisoned. Shortly after crossing the enemy coast, the disabled aircraft was intercepted by an enemy fighter. In the ensuing engagement, Sergeant Spedie skilfully used his guns and, eventually with a devastating burst from close range, he shot the attacker down into the sea. The bomber was down to 500 feet but, displaying superb airmanship, Flight Sergeant Mathers, receiving much assistance from Sergeant French who diligently worked his wireless apparatus to obtain direction fixes, struggled on to reach an airfield near the coast. Although the undercarriage could not be lowered, this pilot successfully effected a crash-landing. In most harassing circumstances, Flight Sergeant Mathers displayed exceptional skill, courage and fortitude, while Sergeants French and Spedie displayed conduct worthy of the highest praise. Sergeants Edward George Owen French and William Spedie were both awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal Francis Mathers father was presented with his CGM at Government House, Sydney on 13 April 1946 by the Governor General of Australia, Lord Gowrie.

DCM Courage and good judgement as Lewis Machine Gun Sergeant. (Ligny 27 February 1917). 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He displayed great courage and determination in maintaining his position against very superior numbers of the enemy. He was wounde.' Source: 'Commonwealth Gazette' No. 169 Date: 4 October 1917

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1045671&c=WW2

In 1965 Smith, then a major, was serving with 6RAR which had been raised for service in South Vietnam. The following year, he assumed command of Delta Company. The Company was warned to be ready for Vietnam by May 1966. Smith, whose experience of jungle warfare in Malaya was to prove of great value, put his men through the most rigorous training involving weapon handling, patrolling, tracking, navigation, map reading, bayonet fighting and mine drills. By the end of the course, they were jogging five miles a day over rough ground in boots and carrying heavy packs. In early June, they boarded a Boeing 707 at Brisbane and headed for Vung Tau, South Vietnam, via Manila and Saigon. 6RAR, an infantry battalion, commanded by Lt Col Colin Townsend, was part of 1st Australian Task Force (1ATF). A week later, they were called forward to the ATF base at Nui Dat, Phuoc Tuy Province. In the early hours of August 17, the base came under heavy shelling and mortaring. The artillery responded with a counter bombardment on suspected Viet Cong (VC) positions. Bravo Company 6RAR was deployed at first light. They located the enemy’s firing points but, finding no evidence of preparations for a major attack, most of the company returned to base, leaving only one platoon near the Long Tan rubber plantation. During the previous days, higher command had received several indications that the VC might be preparing for a big attack on the base at Nui Dat but these were not passed on to 6RAR’s company commanders. Delta Company moved out on August 18. Their orders were simply to relieve B Company’s platoon and take over the search for the enemy units responsible for the shelling. Moving through low scrub, swamps and paddy fields, at about 1300 hours they arrived in the area with a force of 105 men and a small party of New Zealand Artillery Forward Observers. Smith’s men found mortar pits, stained clothing and abandoned equipment, evidence that the counter-battery fire had caused casualties and a rapid withdrawal. Then, 11 Platoon ran into the forward troops of a large force, later estimated at 2,500 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army troops. The platoon was pinned down by intense machine gun fire, their platoon commander, 2nd Lieutenant Gordon Sharp, was killed, and they were soon taking heavy losses. At 1600, the rain fell in torrents, turning the ground to red mud. It was impossible to dig in, trenches filled with water and an electrical storm added to the bedlam of noise, causing problems with communications. Smith formed a defensive perimeter on a reverse slope and made repeated attempts to relieve 11 Platoon while driving off numerous attacks from both flanks on his own position. The sheer weight of assaults from VC 275th Regiment supported by the local D445 Battalion meant Delta Company was in danger of being encircled and overrun. The weakened 11 Platoon, now under the command of Sergeant Buick and supported by the Direct Support Battery of the Royal New Zealand Artillery, had a desperate struggle to beat off one attack after another. Smith called down a regimental fire mission of all 24 guns. The combined fire from Delta Company and the supporting batteries were devastating. He said afterwards that the VC advanced into withering fire in wave after wave like zombies, urged on by the sinister blaring of bugles signalling orders to assemble and then attack. “Tracer filled the gathering darkness,” he said later. “It was like a million fireflies coming at us. We took cover behind the rubber trees while bullets ripped through the branches and white latex ran down the bark.” He called for an airstrike with rockets, bombs and napalm across the front of 11 Platoon but US Air Force Phantom fighter jets could not identify Delta Company because of heavy rain, cloud and smoke from gunfire. Sergeant Buick directed close artillery fire to give 11 Platoon’s survivors, many of whom were wounded, a chance to break out. Company Sergeant Major Jack Kirby, a big man, moved about in the open handing out ammunition and friendly advice, “If you don’t know him, son,” he would say, “shoot him.” He carried two wounded men to an aid post under fire and then went forward and killed the crew of a heavy enemy machine gun that was being set up on the edge of the perimeter. At 1800, two RAAF Iroquois helicopters arrived in atrocious weather and, with the help of coloured smoke grenades, “dropped ammunition,” Smith said, “right into our lap.” The arrival of Armoured Personnel Carriers equipped with machine guns turned the tide of the battle. Their additional mobility and firepower broke the Viet Cong’s will to fight. By 1915 hours it was dark and the enemy finally disengaged and withdrew, leaving behind more than 200 dead. Seventeen Australian soldiers were killed and 23 wounded; later one more died of his wounds. Delta Company returned to Nui Dat late on August 21.

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1068540&c=WW2

https://aif.adfa.edu.au/showPerson?pid=37585

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=3454573

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5228892

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=1943276

https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1065767&c=WW2#R

https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5262985

Bill_s_Movements_Gallipoli_Aug-Oct_1915.pdf

https://aif.adfa.edu.au/showPerson?pid=40473

https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1035269/document/5535338.PDF

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