Postage Stamp Chat Board & Stamp Bulletin Board Forum
 

The Nazi Germa­n armies that moved ­relentlessly toward Stalingrad in summer 1942 dur­ing World War II were confronted with a bleak terrain. "A barren, naked, lifeless steppe," wrote Johann Wieder, who survived the conflict to write his memoirs, "without a bush, without a tree, for miles without a village."
For a time, the advance appeared to be a repeat of the summer of 1941. The Sixth Army of General Friedrich Paulus pushed the Soviet forces in front of it. By August 19, they had reached the outskirts of Stalingrad. On August 23, the first formations reached the banks of the Volga River. Paulus promised Hitler that the city would fall within a few days.
In reality the attempt to seize Stalingrad turned into one of the epic battles of World War II. During the five months in which the battle for the city raged, the advance of the Axis powers was halted and crushed. By the time Friedrich Paulus surrendered in early February 1943, the tide had begun to turn not just on the Eastern Front but also in the Middle East and the Pacific.
Quoted from"
http://history.howstuffworks.com/world-war-ii/russian-army-repels-hitlers-forces.htm

The Russians called for the German surrender on 10th January 1943. Meanwhile in New Guinea Buna had fallen and on the 6th a four day aerial assault on Japanese shipping took place.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Sorry there has been no episode for a couple of days. The storms brought more than 6"" (150mm) rain over two days and we are flooded again. The cellar was a swimming pool and all I've been doing is mopping, mopping and more mopping. We are pretty much under control again now so hopefully tomorrow...

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Sorry to hear you have been flooded, but on a positive note, you now have a very clean cellar floor. I look forward to the next installment.

I would happily mop while you typed, but it's a bit of a trek to get there! Good luck with your clean up and I, too, look forward to the next installment.

Kristine

_________________
-------kriszick
"Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana."

Thanks Kristine. Maybe I could come there. I have happy memories of San Diego from when I visited way back in 1979. We played at a music festival called the "Great American Showdown" in Pio Pico Park. Great times, only marred slightly by the earthquake that shook things up later that night. That's enough reminiscing. Not much happening with Brian but here he is anyway.

Letter Numbered 42
Dated 8.1.43

Dear Em
Letter no 39 arrived this morning together with one from John Brown. John is still at the school and has about 3 weeks to go.
Glad you had an enjoyable time at Killara the other day. I expected Mabel would feel better after a break from Peter, it must be a very worrying time for them.
It is amusing to read about Joan but what she says about Bill might be true for both of us.
Thanks for seeing Roy about the dividend but I will leave it until I ccan fix it up myself.
You seem to be having some mixed weather down there both very hot and wet. It is a beautiful morning here but I am afraid we will be complaining of the heat before long. Things are much the same except I am back on the switchboard.
The news has been very good the last few days and I hope it continues to be so, there is no doubt about the U.S.S.R.
Managed to purchase some canned fruit salad and some chocolate yesterday. Now that the canteen stocks are better I think you can suspend the parcels for a while. The meals have improved a little over the last few days so life is not so bad.
Have you heard of Phil lately? He has not written to me.
I have some washing to do before I go on shift so must say aesta livista.
Best of wishes
Brian



Letter Numbered 43
Dated 9.1.43

Dear Gordon
Thank you very much for your letter No 40 which arrived here yesterday afternoon. It was posted at 11.30 AM on the 6th so it only took two days.
You seem to strike Joan on the phone a lot lately from your letters, I gather that Bill won't be a free man for long after he gets back. I have not heard from him yet by the way.
Most of our shifts are 5 hours except the night shift which is 10PM to 8.15 AM.
I wrote to Ted for his 21st and he should have my letter by now. I think he has another two months training to do at Mt Brecken before he goes to a flying school.
Apparently the weather is making the grass grow and keeping you busy in the garden. I would like to be there to give you a hand.
Thankyou for phoning O'Brien as you say he is going to write. I shall wait until it arrives before I drop him a line.
The South Australians don't appear to pass on much news, Roy will have to write Harold again with questions A to K. Any news from that branch of the family is always welcome to me.
I suppose you will have resumed toil again by the time this arrives but I hope the change has done you good. By the way, do you see much of Frank A. these days or is the other person back at Old South Head Rd.
Things are exactly the same here so there is nothing more to comment on.
Best wishes
Brian
P.S. I went to the pictures last night and saw Harold Floyd so you can guess how old it was, still it was a good programme and I enjoyed it. I am looking forward to the next show in 10 days time now.


Letter numbered 44
Dated 11.1.43

Dear Em,
Your letter of the 7th arrived yesterday afternoon and no 42 of the 8th came this morning.
I am not sure what I said in the letter which was censored, it may have been several things however it can't be helped.
So Nancy is coming back to Sydney, I don't suppose she will be over for a month or two. Pleased to hear that Peter is showing signs of recovery, your last two letters have been more cheerful regarding him.
I had intended to write more this morning but I had to go out and get a load of gravel so I have only a few minutes before I go on shift.
The envelopes arrived in good order and I put them into a cake tin. They should keep dry there.
I spoke to Bill last night. He said he was off colour for a few days after Xmas but is OK again now and is very busy. From our conversation I think that Joan is adopting a very opportunistic attitude. Still I will know more when I see him.
Five bundles of papers arrived today but I have not had time to look at them.
Well I must stop now and go to lunch, more news tomorrow.
Best wishes
Brian

Note: From the family web site:
" Roy married Mabel MacArthur at the Parish Church, Kennington, London, on 19th December 1918. They had a daughter, Joan Maud, (born 1920), and two sons, Alan Cleveland (20th February 1922) and Peter MacArthur (1934). Joan married William Miles Donnelly (born on 10th September 1921, died of emphysema on 23rd November 2000) on 30th June 1943, and lived at 190 Warrimoo Avenue, St Ives. They had two daughters, Anne Barbara, and Paula Margaret."


Letter numbered 45
Dated 12.1.43

Dear Em,
Sorry for such a short note yesterday but it was just one of those things. I have now received all your letters up to No 42. They have been arriving in consecutive order lately. The papers which arrived yesterday vary in regards dates, some are Nov 7&8 and others are Dec 16-17. I have only glanced at a few of them and the Bulletin so far.
No, I have not been to the new canteen yet but hope to get there sometime in the near future.
I note that you are sending the Readers Digest on and shall be glad to receive same.
Had a shower of rain this morning and now that the sun has come out it is very himid. We usually get a shower of rain every day.
Roy seems to be busy going from one Department to another, I suppose he is making use of his position with the party. Glad to hear that Peter is looking better, Bill mentioned the other night that Joan said he was improving.
The routine here is still the same, mainly shift work on the switchboard.
None of the outstanding parcels have come to hand but no doubt they will arrive in due course. I suppose Gordon resumed work again yesterday and will have settled down to toil again before this arrives. Have you heard of Phil recently? I suppose he is still in the west.
Well, I have exhausted my supply of news so will close.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Here is a little about Mount Brecken the airforce training centre

http://www.southaustralianhistory.com.au/mountbreckan.htm

I wonder who John Brown is?

Pio Pico, as in a camping area in the Cuyamaca mountains? That's less than 30 miles from where I grew up. I have camped there many, many times. Sadly, the entire area burned to the ground in 2003, but it is amazing that today you can barely tell!

You are welcome to visit any time. We don't do a whole lot of mopping here, so you should get a break!

Thanks for the Brian Watt installments, they are still fascinating. The first word that comes to mind when I read them is unflappable. He seems so calm, and so . . . ordinary, which oddly makes him more interesting!

_________________
-------kriszick
"Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana."

His reference to the USSR in letter 42 must be a reference to the Battle of Stalingrad. By January it was all but over (final surrender was 2 February). A pivotal battle in Europe, cost the Germans the entire 6th army, and was a totally unnecessary battle. The more I read the history of WWII, the more convinced I am that the Allies were lucky it was Hitler in charge of German military strategy!

_________________
Peter
Hawthorn - AFL Premiers 1961, 1971, 1976, 1978, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991, 2008.

The Russians dictated the terms under which they would accept a German surrender the day before that letter so he was probably referring to that. The Italians also were fighting there in support of the Germans and their losses were horrific. If I remember rightly (I will check later) they lost 190,000 men during the retreat from Stalingrad.

For those who may be struggling with all the characters, here are the main ones.


Now you can see why Mabel is so worried about Peter, she is his mother, and where Bill fits in. There are two Alans. I read that the younger Alan and Brian did their Intermediate certificates the same year so they were the same age (Alan passed and Brian failed).
The older Alan (later Sir Alan) is the diplomat who doesn't seem to like Washington.
I still haven't worked out John Brown.
Peter M Williamson became a neurologist and only retired in 2001. He was 13 years younger than Brian. His name comes up in Google as co-author of several papers and he may be contactable. He may also be offended that we are researching his family but I would hope not.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Dear Gordon,
Letter no 43 arrived this morning together with one from Mabel dated the 7th. I don't know why you only received two letters last week because I have been writing nearly every day however no doubt the missing letters will arrive in due course.
Mabel's letter was full of Peter and she seems to think that he is definitely recovering.
Hope you had an enjoyable time with Les on Sunday. I have no doubt that Violet kept you amused.
The mosquitoes were very bad again last night and no doubt the recent rains were responsible. By the way, have you posted a nib for my fountain pen, if not please enclose one in your next letter. (Note: the last few letters were written in pencil)
I shall be glad to hear some of the side lights on Phil. His turn may come before long.
Mabel also mentioned that Alan had applied for a transfer but had been knocked back. She did not say where the transfer was to.
I wrote to John Brown today. He should be returning from that school in about a week or two.
Well that's all for today, another instalment tomorrow.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Violet could be Violet Parkinson the Accompanist from Elder Conservatorium but I don't know who Les could be.

We will have to work out who John Brown and Phil too

Les was tentatively identified back on page two as Em's cousin in Melbourne. John Brown is a mystery and just to add to the confusion there are a few newbies in this letter

Letter numbered 47
Dated 14.1.43

Dear Em,
You can see that the nib has arrived. It came in letter no 44 of 11th which I received this morning. We received another comforts fund issue yesterday, a bar of soap, tin of sweets, packet of biscuits and 2oz of tobacco.
I do not require any socks at present, I have enough to last me for a while but I shall let you know when I am short.
It seems that my letters are being delayed while yours only take about three days.
Glad you had such a good time on Sunday. I did not think Les would come at a family reunion. Do Heather and Randolph intend to live at Nowra after they are married?
Surprised to see that Dahlia's husband was killed, wonder if Alan Furze? Knows about it.

Thanks for fixing up the insurance and the stock receipt. I will write to Mabel in a few days, have no time to write today as I go on shift at 1p.m.
The mosquitos are getting worse but there is not much we can do about it. There is no more news I can pass on at present so cheerio and
All the best
Brian.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Looks like it could be 'Alan George' to me.

_________________
-------kriszick
"Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana."

Thanks jjarmstrong47, I didn't see that about Les.

I've searched for the other names but have found nothing yet. I think the surname is Furze until we can find an alternative???

Letter Numbered 48
Dated 15.1.43

Dear Em
I received a letter from O'Brien this morning dated the 7th. It came by ordinary mail and had been around. He does not say much more than was in the circulars and I shall reply in a few days.
Your no. 45 of the11th also came today so I had my fair share of mail.
No we don't have rest days here though we can generally get leave when not on duty. I have not been to the new canteen yet as I have heard that you have to wait about 3 hours in a queue.
Wrote to Mabel today so she should receive it the same day as this arrives. I suppose Roy is back from Melbourne now.
I am sorry I was not there last Sunday to meet Randolph, he seems to be a very interesting fellow. No doubt he is fed up with our red tape.
Have had no rain yesterday or today but the mossies are still very bad.
Don't worry about that book, English Justice, if you can't get it in the usual shops. By the way, could you send up that book, Teach yourself bookkeeping. It is in my room on top of the book case. Send it by ordinary mail, I want to do some revision.
I shall write again tomorrow so until then,
All the best
Brian


Letter numbered 49
Dated 17.1.43

Dear Em,
The mossies are so bad today that I am writing this letter under my net. I was very glad to get your letters 45 and 46 of the 12th and 14th inst this morning. Also glad that my letters are arriving once again.
There is no need to send any more parcels unless ask for them. The canteen has a good stock now so it is not worth wasting the postage, however the cakes are always welcome.
In my last letter I asked you to send up that book, "Teach yourself book-keeping", it is not a bad book to revise from. Send it the cheapest way.
Have you made much ice cream this summer? I hope the refrigerator is OK once more, you mentioned tha it has been giving some trouble.
The news of Peter is very encouraging and I hope it continues to be so. I had intended to try and see Bill yesterday but was so tired after night shift that I spent the day in bed.
Interested to hear Mr W's opinion of P.H.C. I suppose a lot of people think the same way.
They have taken us off the quinine now and put us on to Antebrine (sic) Which is much better to take.
I have not seen a paper for several days so can't comment on the news. Well I am on shift at 1pm today so have to go and have a shower before lunch.
Best wishes
Brian

Note: Brian may not have liked Atabrine for long as according to this article there were some pretty bad side effects.

http://www.ww2stories.org/sidebars/treatment-of-malaria-during-world-war-ii

Treatment of Malaria during World War II
by Ian Ure

In the years leading up to the war and for much of the duration, quinine was the only source for treating and preventing malaria. Quinine was found in the bark roots and branches of the cinchona tree and other native trees that grew in the Andes Mountains in South America.

In the 1930s, the first synthetic version of quinine was developed but was still not as commonly used in the naturally produced form. During World War II the Japanese cut off the supply of quinine to the rest of the world and instead used the supply on their soldiers.

As soon as the quinine supply was cut off, the American soldiers fighting the Japanese in the South Pacific islands had no defenses against the disease and hundreds of soldiers had to be pulled off the front lines. The U.S. military quickly started supplying the soldiers with a synthetic form of quinine.

Ironically this synthetic drug, Atabrine, was developed by a German researcher when Germany could not procure enough quinine for its soldiers.

Atabrine was given to the soldiers in the form of yellow tablets. Complaints against the drug were becoming more and more common. The Atabrine given to soldiers was bitter and appeared to give the taker its sickly yellow colour. Soldiers experienced side effects such as: headaches, nausea, vomiting and, in few cases, temporary psychosis was reported.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I was intrigued as to how the Japanese could have cut off the world's supply of Quinine, if it was "found in the bark roots and branches of the cinchona tree and other native trees that grew in the Andes Mountains in South America."

It turns out that 97% of Quinine production by the early 1940s was in Java, so that explains it.

_________________
Peter
Hawthorn - AFL Premiers 1961, 1971, 1976, 1978, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991, 2008.

When I read that Violet kept them amused I thought he meant there was a child present. I guess a good session around the piano would have been an amusing and popular activity in those days.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Sounds plausible as she is mentioned on the family website. I wish all the names in your letters were on the website

The last person I researched was John Boyle O'Reilly, a Fenian convict who escaped from Western Australia to the US in 1876. It took me twelve years to sort out who did what. We did a radio play on the story which was a problem to limit the characters to 56. We only had seven actors (good old ABC) so they all had to be good at voices.
Why I'm telling you this is that I found that after a while leads to one thing link to another and we will probably eventually find most of them. Enough lecturing. On with the show!


Letter numbered 50
Dated 18.1.43 11pm

Dear Em,
You can see from the above time that this is being written on night shift. A few of us went to the new canteen today and we had afternoon tea and tea down there. Waited in a queue for nearly an hour for afternoon tea and when we had finished, lined up for tea again. What a life!
The meal consisted of canned sheep's tongue and some carrots and cabbage (also canned) and for sweets we had peaches and cream. Very nice for 1/6.
Received your 47 of the 16th today. Gordon's has not arrived yet. Thanks so much for sending another cake, I am expecting the last one to arrive any day now.
Glad to hear that Peter is making such good progress. It must be a load off Roy's mind.
Had a heavy shower of rain while out this afternoon and we were all soaking wet long before arriving back at camp. Incidentally, we came home in a Yank truck driven by a big negro.
You certainly had a good mail bag last week reaching 7 letters from me. I am glad they are coming regularly again.
19.1.43
It is very humid today after yesterday's rain and I have been unable to get any sleep.
I don't know many of the chaps who passed the Leaving from Grammar but they appeared to be very good results. I see where there has been another disturbance in Sydney in connection with an allied soldier.
Well I have exhausted my supply of news for today so will stop.
Best of wishes
Brian
Note: Schools in Australia had three certificate levels that corresponded with successful completion of the tenth, eleventh and twelfth years of schooling, not counting Kindergarten or Prep years that we have now. Years one to six were done in the Primary school and seven to twelve (usually renumbered from one to six again) were done in a High School or Grammar School). The certificates were Y10 Intermediate Y11 Leaving Y12 Matriculation. You needed to matriculate to gain entry into university.

More tonight.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Had a pleasent Surprise this afternoon,whilst on duty at the shop..
We had a visit from Jonh Armstrong the above poster, he had ventured down to the Big City, to visit his Son,,but on arrival discovered said son to be nursing a BAD attack of the FLU.
So as we were just up the line from his sons place he popped up to say hello.
Unfortunatly so much time was spent talking, that I never got a chance to stitch, I mean SELL him any of our Valuable Rarities, and also as I did not know he was coming I had left at home the Large Italian Collection, I am in the middle of breaking up.
Ah well win some loose some,
also John suddenly realised he had already missed one train,and it looked like he may be late getting home tonight.

As luck had it, Philly also wandered in.so he too met up with John.. its nice to put faces to names,

_________________
Nunawading Stamp Fair
Last Sunday of Every Month - Jaycees Hall Silver Grove - Nunawading.

Thanks for the hospitality Ron. We talked so much i only got to spend two dollars. Hang onto that Italian stuff. I will return ( as McArthur said)

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Not home yet by the way. Im writing this on my phone at the station.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Home at last. These were typed up on the train.

Letter numbered 51
Dated 21.1.43
Dear Em
I have not received any mail for a couple of days now but guess it will all turn up at the same time.
Went to the Yank pictures last night and saw "The Great Man's Lady" and enjoyed it very much. The Americans only have small screens and you have to wait while they change the reel.
Sorry I did not write yesterday but my letters will probably be less frequent in future. Have had no chance to see Bill yet but will do my best.
Please let me know whether my bank statement has arrived and if so, the balance.
I have not written to Peter or O'Brien yet, the main trouble is there is so little to write about however I suppose I will get some inspiration during the next few days.
Don't worry about sending that book-keeping book up if you have not yet done so. The routine is still the same here and I am still on the switchboard.
Well there is nothing else to tell you at present tell Gordon that I shall write in a few days.
Best wishes
Brian.


Letter numbered 52
Dated 22/1/43

Dear Em,
Your letters No 48 and 49 arrived this morning together with six pages of dope from Joan. (How words change!)
I have not seen Bill yet and as we are very busy here now, I doubt if I will get the chance.
Very glad to hear that they hope to take Peter home on Saturday, it must be nearly three months since he went to hospital.
Thanks for getting the January issue of Ridges, don't send the Wild Cat on. You can also stop sending any more cakes or parcels.
I wrote to O'Brien today, there was not much news I could give him but I managed two and a half pages. Did you see the Killara crowd on Thursday night as arranged? I suppose Roy is very hostile towards his silent brother.
Have not seen a paper now for several days so I hope the news continues to be encouraging.
The last Bulletin you sent me had a very good write up about 'Soldiering on" and I am looking forward to seeing it. Please excuse the pencil but this paper is not much good with ink.
I am glad to say I am still keeping well and have had no more headaches. For a few days, at one time, I thought I might be getting malaria but I was lucky.
Well there is no more news to pass on so cheerio and
All the best
Brian.

I had a look at a copy of Soldiering on in a second hand book shop. It was a book of stories, poems, experiences written and illustrated by ordinary soldiers which is probably why Brian thought it was a suitable Christmas present for his mother. I'm pretty sure there were many editions. When I was younger they were in all the op shops but you rarely see them now.


Letter numbered 53
Dated 23.1.43

Dear Gordon
It is some time since I had a letter from you but I guess you are kept very busy. Em's letter of the 19th unnumbered arrived this morning so you see that I am getting letters regularly.
It is very warm again today but I think we shall get some rain later on. The grass around here is about 3ft hih where there were only a few blades when we arrived.
I have not been out much lately as we have been fairly busy and I don't think there is much chance of seeing Bill. Joan wrote six pages about him yesterday and she seems to think they will get married when he goes home. From the conversations I had with Bill however, I don't think he is so keen. I think they would be foolish to get married while the war is on.
Went to some Yank pictures several nights ago and saw Bette Davis in "I live my life", which was quite good. The American shows are not as good as the Australian shows. The screens are smaller and the sound is not as good.
I don't think it is necessary to renew the Lloyds policy which falls due in March and suggest you let it lapse.
This letter is being written in a hurry so please forgive the writing. I answered O'Brien's letter yesterday and will reply to Joan in a few days. Well I must stop now and post the letter, shall write to Em in a few days.
All the best
Brian

That's it for tonight folks!

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Joan married William Miles Donnelly on 30th June 1943, and lived at 190 Warrimoo Avenue, St Ives. So much for not being so keen

Yeah, but what would a bloke know?

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

While Brian was writing these letters the war in Papua was coming to an end. Read what was happening on the north of the island. I would think Brian would have been very aware of much of what was going on as he was manning the switchboard at a main base. His ability to keep cheery letters going to his mother was quite remarkable under the cicumstances. These are the first two pages from Peter Brune's book, "A Bastard of a Place - The Australians in Papua". It's a superb book and well worth reading.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 54
Dated 24.1.43

Dear Em
On night shift again so another letter to you while I have the chance. I had arreanged to see Bill this afternoon and even had a leave pass but I was detailed for a working party before I could get away so I was unable to see him. The trouble is, I don't expect to get another chance to see him for a while.
Gordon's letter no 51 of the 20th arrived this morning, I wrote to him yesterday and expect you have received it by now.
What do you think? Bill just rang me, he said he is too busy to get over to see me but we had a good yarn. He sounds very cheerful and seems as happy as could be expected. He also mentioned several things which will have to wait but I don't think he will waste much time before he gets married when he returns.
I shall write to Joan in a day or two telling her the news so you can tell her to expect a note from me.
Today has been very hot and after finishing our work this afternoon we were lucky enough to go for a swim which was very enjoyable despite the fact that the water was warm.
I ran into the old adjutant from 1 Div today and had a yarn with him. He is the chap who gave us the 4 hrs final leave and I was surprised to see him here.
No more parcels or papers have arrived so I can't pass any remarks as to their contents. I will have a lot of reading to do when they turn up.
The new nib is OK but I think you are wise to obtain a few more while they are available.
I hope Peter was able to return home on Friday as anticipated. They won't know themselves to have him home again.
Well it is getting late so I must close and try to snatch an hour's sleep. I may not get the chance to write for a few days as we are very busy so don't worry.
Best wishes
Brian

P.S. Monday morning
No further letters from you this morning. The youth band across the road is swinging Waltzing Matilda and they don't make a bad job of it.


Letter numbered 55
Dated 27.1.43

Dear Gordon
Night shift once again, hence this letter. Since I last wrote I have received letters51,52 & 53 of the 20th, 21st and 23rd. I have also received one from Ted.
Went to the canteen for lunch today and had some very nice fish and peaches and cream which was a change after camp diet.
I hope Roy is correct in saying that J.S.H. will go to £1. Not a bad way to make a cool £50.
I wrote to Joan several days ago and she should have received it by now.
Ted seems to like his new work though he does not know what he is going to be yet.
Well there is not much to write about so I will say cheerio and
All the best
Brian


Letter numbered 56
Dated 30.1.43

Dear Em,
I suppose you are wondering why I have not written for several days but I have been rather busy and had no time.
The last letter I had from you was 54 of the 24th and all letters up to that number have been received. Five bundles of newspapers arrived within the last two days dated between Dec 1 and 28 so they are still about one month behind.
Yesterday and today have been quite cool and although it is raining at the moment it is quite pleasant.
Mabel wrote on the 22nd telling all about Peter's return home. It looks as though I am popular at Killara. Ted also wrote from Victor Harbour and said they are working him very hard.
"Guinea Gold" has been very scarce the last few days and I am out of touch with the international situation. Still I am lucky to have month old Heralds to fall back on.

The rest of this page has been removed by the censor

Alan seems to get plenty of leave, fancy seven days at home. It must have been like old times the other night when they were all down.
I have several letters to answer but I am afraid they will have to wait. Well my supply of news is about exhausted so I shall stop.
Best wishes
Brian




Letter Number 57
Dated 1.2.43

Dear Em,
Since writing last I have received letters nos 55, 56 and 57 also no 12 parcel and July Readers Digest.
Went for a swim the other afternoon and had afternoon tea at the canteen. The crowd waiting for Mrs Miniver has nothing on the mob they get down there.
One of the concert parties put on a show near our camp the same night and it was quite as good as the Tiv only not so risqué, still it was all the better for that.
I am sorry that Ian did not pass his exams, it looks like the army for him. Please let me know whether Joan received my letter. I have not seen Bill yet but you never know.
It has been very hot the last two mornings and I have felt it now that we have started parades again. Still I can't complain as we have nothing to do once the parade is over.
The parcel arrived at the right time as our rations are not the best at the moment. Asparagus is a change for breakfast, believe me.
Thanks for sending "English Justice" on, I suppose it will arrive in due course.
Did you see Les over the weekend? The staff shortage is probably keeping him busy.
You were certainly lucky to get your bank book back, the family luck must be changing.
The Turf cigarettes are a change after blue Capstans but don't send any more as all our tobacco here is free from excise duty. It is like sending coals to Newcastle.
Well there is not much more to say at present so I will stop.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Well I've been reading about the Williamsons (looking to see why Ted is in Victor Harbour) and I got so carried away. I didn't know it had photos too....took me off to a time gone by

Your excerpt from "A Bastard of a Place - The Australians in Papua" is how I imagine war to be. Whenever I think of war, I think of the hardships encountered, the example, just going to the toilet and keeping your feet dry, not to mention the bodies. Very sad times and I hope one I will never see.

I'm sure he is playing it down for his parents but I don't think he is in the thick of it either, especially as a switchboard operator and not in the field.

I wonder where Bill is?

Letter numbered 58
Dated 3.2.43

Dear Em,
Nothing much has happened since I last wrote, two parcels of papers arrived this morning but no letters. I have just realised that it is four months today since I left.
Things are a little uncomfortable at the moment as we are sleeping 8 to a tent 12' x 4' however I don't think it will be for long.
There was a water shortage here for a couple of days but the position is OK again now and I was able to have a shower before breakfast this morning. The weather is still much the same hot every day and very humid.
I have not written to Mabel yet, no doubt she still has to give quite a lot of time to Peter and has little chance of going around. Have you heard from your youngest brother (Harold?) recently? It's about time someone went over to see how things are going.
The canteen has quite a respectable stock at present including a good supply of canned fruit and cigarettes.
I am enclosing a cartoon from the Melbourne Argus of Dec 19, let me know what Roy thinks of it.
He papers that came today are dated Jan 8 to 12 and there is nothing startling in them, still, I enjoy reading the local news.
Thanks for enclosing the stamps in your last letter, although they are usually obtainable here it saves me a bit of trouble. Quite often they have no change and I don't like buying 10/- worth. There was a writing pad in the last parcel so don't send any more as they are now obtainable at the canteen.
4.2.43
It is very hot again today and as we went for a route march this morning I have felt it more than usual. Parcel No 11 has arrived but several other chaps have also received cakes during the last few days so mine has yet to be opened.
We are living very well at present, the canteen has plenty of coffee and milk so we have morning and afternoon tea in addition to supper.
A few letters came in this morning but there were none from you so I cannot remark on your activities. This must be the longest letter I have written for some time but I must stop now as news is running out.
Best of wishes
Brian


Letter numbered 59
Dated 5.3.43

Dear Em,
Quite a good mail this morning, two letters from you dated 29th and 1st also one from O'Brien.
I suppose you are glad of some warm weather at last, no doubt the papers are full of the "heat wave".
Glad to hear that Peter is improving, I guess they are glad to have him home again for several reasons.
I don't follow what you say about F.B.Jnr., Gordon did not mention him in his last letter but perhaps the less written the better.
Went for another route march this morning otherwise there has been no change in routine. Spend about an hour each day keeping my washing up to date.
Have not written to Mabel or Ted yet but will do so shortly. Please keep the enclosed cutting for me, the estate agents don't seem to be pleased with last year's sales.
O'Brien mentioned that he is now a Flight Lieut and spent a week or so at Bradfield. It is really a continuation of the other work.
The call-up for girls 18-35 will be funny if it comes off. I would like to see Lillian's face when she received some real work to do.
I believe I am gaining weight even though I have been here 3 months. It seems that even New Guinea can't make me thin.
I note what you say about the latest Digest and will be on the look out for it. By the way, please don't send any more parcels.
Has Joan heard from Bill lately? I have not seen or spoken to him since I last wrote. Well, I must close now and post this.
All the best,
Brian


Letter Numbered 60
Dated 6.2.43

Dear Gordon,
I received your letter no 58 of 31st this morning. No 59 arrived yesterday so yours was a day behind schedule, still I was glad to get it just the same.
Yes, Adelaide has been having a warm time, how would you like to be in the ice cream trade over there?
So you had a game of tennis after 12 months. The heat can't worry you too much.
It is hot here again today and I am going down for a swim in a few minutes. After the swim I shall queue up for tea at the canteen.
There is not much news to pass on at present so I shall stop. Hope my letters are arriving regularly ere you receive this.
Best wishes
Brian


Letter numbered 61
Dated 8.2.43

Dear Em,
The nib of my pen has broken so my letters will be in pencil until I can get another one. Received your letter of the 3rd today and I am glad that Peter is making such good progress. As you had not seen him for some time you must have noticed a big change in him.
Opened your cake the other evening for supper and believe me it did not last long. It was in good condition and not a bit dry despite the badly dented tin.
Have been to the pictures the last two nights, at a Yank show on Saturday I saw "You're right, It's wrong", and last evening I went to "Second Fiddle" at our own show. Included in the program were some good newsreels of the desert campaign, also an American aircraft carrier in action.
Thanks for enclosing the article by Frank G. He may have something but there is little chance of his idea being adopted by this government.
Interested in your remarks re the D family, as you say it is not wise to say too much in one letter. I have my doubts about the whole affair. (Bill's family maybe?)
Surprised that Kath is going to let the house though it should be worth it at the present time. Do you know what she and Lal intend doing?
We have had no rain for some days now and the mosquitoes have almost disappeared. I only hope they continue to stay away. Have no further news for you so until next time.
Best wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter card not numbered
Dated: Cairns 11.2 43

Dear Em,
I arrived here this morning after a 31/2 hour trip by air from Moresby. Expected to go yesterday but weather was too bad. Most of the unit returned by sea last week and I was lucky to get the plane trip. Only 14 from our unit came. There were 31 on board with all our gear but it was much better than the boat.
We leave for Atherton at 7.35 tonight. It is about 100 miles north. Hope to get leave shortly but don't know how long or when. Probably not for a month at least. I have sent a telegram today but you may not get it. Please let me know if you get this. My address is still the same. There are plenty of Yanks here and food is very dear, apples 3d each. Did not see Bill before I left as we were on 6 hours notice for last fortnight.
Much love
Brian



Letter Not numbered
Dated Cairns 11.2.43

Dear Em,
I have sent one telegram and one letter air mail telling you that I flew here this morning from Moresby. We did the trip in 31/2 hours in a Yank Douglas with 31 on board including crew and all our gear. The windows have holes cut in them for our rifles and that is the only defence we had. Glad we did not meet a Zero.
We should have left yesterday but the weather was too bad and even today she was rather bumpy. It was funny how I came to get the plane but that story must wait until I get leave.
I am writing this in the post office and it is hard to realise that I am back in Australia. Tonight I leave for somewhere near Atherton, about 100 miles trip. Most of the unit returned by sea last week. We hope to get leave shortly but know of nothing official yet. Please continue your letters by air mail.
All the best
Brian


Notes about this letter
This is dated 11.2.42 but the envelope it was in was posted from Innisfail on 13.2.43. As he was near Innisfail at the time and gave the letter to someone to post it appears he made a mistake and this letter flows on from the two letter-cards.

Cairns
11.2.42

Dear Em
Another line to give you a few details of the trip.
We were scheduled to leave yesterday and arrived at the drome at 5.30 AM only weather was bad and we hung around until 3.30 PM when the flight was abandoned. After that we returned to camp and got up this morning at 3.30, arriving at the drome at 6 AM. Left Wards Drome at 7.40 and arrived here, 335 miles away at 11.15. The plane was a Douglas DC3 of the U.S. Air Corps and the crew were yanks.
The trip was bumpy in parts but we saw a lot of the barrier reef and the cloud formations were interesting.
There were 14 from my unit among the passengers and the rest were mainly officers. Some of our chaps have been over the top and have had malaria badly.
About half of our section went up to Buna and they were there about 6 weeks. They had a rotten time and all have malaria.
(Note: Wards Aerodrome was 6 miles from Port Moresby in New Guinea. At this time it was one of the busiest aerodromes in the world. It linked to Jackson Field which was 7 miles from Moresby. Buna is on the north side of the island up from Moresby and at the end of the Kokoda trail)

12.2.42
Entrained last night at Cairns and have been packed here and there all night.
We are at Heberton at the moment, about twenty miles from Cairns. (Note: Probably Herberton near Atherton and about 60k SW of Cairns)

No one seems to know where our unit is however they are sending us to Ravenshoe. (Note: Inland from Innisfail)
No meals have been provided for us and I just had some sandwiches and milk up in the town. The tram does not mind waiting for us and we expect to take 2 hours to do the remaining 3 miles.
Cairns is a rotten hole, the yanks have the town tied up and what little there is for sale is very expensive.
Spent a very cold night, we are nearly 3000ft high now and only have our slacks and shirts.
Our kit bags are still at Singleton.

Later
Arrived at Ravenshoe in time for lunch, the camp is not so hot but better than NG. It rains nearly all day and is very cold at night. We are about 3200 ft.
I am giving this letter to one of the chaps who is going on leave by boat to Sydney tomorrow.
We have been given new uniforms and expect to go on leave any day now. May have to go by sea or rail and will have to go to the showground first.
I understand that transport is very slow. It took us 16 hours to do 90 miles last night.
Expect it may be a fortnight before I get down and I will telegraph and phone when I get the chance.
The leave is 14 day excluding the travelling time.
The letter will probably be posted in Sydney. (It was posted in Innisfail) Well I must stop now, hope to see you soon.
All the best
Brian


Notes: All the mothers reading this will have noticed that for the first time in four months writing to his mother he has signed it with love. You can sense that being back in Australia was a very emotional experience for him.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I missed these last ones, I was just going to post that I was getting withdrawals when I found them.



There is a part on the Williamsons Family site where they let the house but it seems to be in 1939? Maybe he is getting really old news?

Love these last letters as he can say a lot more in them.

Keep them coming, we need our fix

For the next few weeks there seem to be gaps in the letters. Brian has dropped the numbering system here in Australia but he seems to pick it up again later. I'll post in date order and we'll have to guess what was in the gaps.





Letter not numbered
Yeerongpilly
13.3.43

Dear Em,
We left the showground last Wednesday shortly after I phoned you and the train left Central at 1.30pm.

The trip was fair and we arrived at Brisbane at 1pm on Thursday which means a fast trip for a troop train. They took us to the Brisbane showground after we arrived and we stayed there until yesterday when they moved us out here, about six miles south of the town.

Went to the Cremorne theatre the first night here and saw George Wallace, some of the acts were pretty crude. Last night I went to "Gone With The Wind" and liked it very much, the only trouble was it is too long and I did not get back to camp until 12.15 this morning.

I have sent two telegrams, in the last I mentioned that I may be here a week. Since then we have been told that we will be leaving tomorrow and I think it will be somewhere on the Tableland.

Ran into a lot of our chaps yesterday who are going down on leave, some are travelling to the west so it will be 2 months before we are all together again.

There are several rumours about us moving south at an early date, some say to Casino and others Newcastle area however I suppose we shall know when the time comes.

The leave is from 9AM until midnight at this camp but I am not going out before 12 this morning as I had some washing to do and I have had two late nights. Will take it easy in town today as I am going out alone. Most of them get on the beer and it does not take much to make them merry so from now on I am going out solo.

There is a good canteen here but there are no monopoles, I don't think they are making them now. The Yanks are the only ones with cigars here.

The town is full in more ways than one and it is a pity they don't close the pubs to troops. Now that rationing is on they are racing from one hotel o another looking for it and usually get more than they can take.

The days are very hot and the nights very cold so I am not looking forward to the trip up, I don't know whether it will be train or boat but I hope it is the latter.

Races are on today and some of the boys have gone out, most of them are broke after leave so I don't know what they will use for money. Do you think the bookmakers will give credit?

It will be some time before we catch up with our mail so I don't know what has arrived in my absence.

When Burgess' account arrives let me know the amount and I shall send you a cheque in his name which you can forward on. Don't send the account up.

There is one unit here going over to New Guinea ad they have dyed their socks and towels green. We think it a great joke.

If we move tomorrow this is the last uncensored letter you will receive still I may get people coming down on leave to post one occasionally.

Well there is no more news so I will say
Cheerio and all the best

Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 1
Dated 18.3.43

Dear Em,
Arrived back at camp yesterday morning after 3 days in the train and was glad when the trip was over. We started work 10 minutes after arrival erecting tents and as it rained most of the day I was glad to get into bed last night.

There were half a dozen letters waiting for me from you but they were all written before I went on leave so there was not much news in them. The parcels and papers have not been sorted yet so I don't know whether any of the missing ones have turned up.

This camp is better than I expected but it gets very cold at night, a change after New Guinea.

I am sorry I was unable to see you before I left on the 10th but they were in a hurry to get us away. The first part of the trip was quite enjoyable and we had three days break before starting on the last part.

I expect your letters will begin to arrive in a few days, please continue to write by air mail.

Well there is no more news at present so I shall close, will write again in a day or so.

All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 2
Dated 19.3.43

Dear Em,
Well I have been back at camp three days now and have settled down again. WE have started shift work and I am on every third night however we are not very busy so it is not too bad.

The nearest town is about 8 miles away and we can get night leave but I have not been in yet. Both the days and the nights are cold and the greatcoat I managed to get the other day is very handy.

I have received about 8 letters from you, all written before I went on leave, also one from Len and Margaret. My glasses have also arrived.

Yesterday we received a parcel from the comforts fund similar to the one we got at Christmas, and they were very much appreciated especially as our rations were not the best for the first few days.

I shall be glad if you will obtain a copy of the March "Wild Cat" and keep it for me.

There are no papers obtainable here and I have heard no news for several days so I shall be glad if you will start sending the Heralds again.

I believe Alan will be moving shortly and don't expect he will like it if he has to go further from home. Have you seen him since I left?

There is not much news that I can pass on at present so I shall close.
Best wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

John,
I just want to say thank you for posting these transcriptions. I find this glimse into yesteryear interesting (it even inspired me to write a few actual letters).

I also like the idea of "finding" the thread updated - I'm sure the anticipation I feel is akin to the feeling of readers of the serialised novels of the Victorian era.

Thanks for taking the time and making the effort to post these letters.

_________________
Michelle

I'm really suprised that they did not meet on his leave, and a bit disappointed

I looked up the "Wild Cat" (where is Skippy when you need her) and it is either a nature magazine or an adult magazine

I thought "Wild Cat" may have had something to do with the oil/petroleum industry. Brian keeping an eye on his investments.

_________________
Michelle

Is there an oil/petroleum industry magazine called "Wild Cat"?

One doesn't get the feeling that it would be an adult magazine. He seems to have pretty strong beliefs about behaviour eg he enjoys a beer but doesn't want to join in the unrestricted drinking of his mates.

Roy seems to have a strong influence on the family and he had very strong views on propriety. I also doubt if he would have got his mother to get adult mags for him.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

It took an hour on google but here it is. Advertised by an antiquarian book seller.

(Sydney: Printed and Published by Henry Kenneth Prior for The Bulletin Newspaper Co.) Half leather bound volume pp. iv (Index), 576 (270 x 210). Stock Exchange, Commerce, etc. and of particular interest being published during the Great Depression. Includes advertisements, some illustrated.

I had already found that it was published by the same people as the Bulletin but this confirms that it was a stock and commerce magazine. Probably not as interesting as an adult mag but more in character

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Good job! I didn't for one minute think it would have been the naughty mag. I thought more the nature one.

Letter numbered 3
Dated 22.3.43

Dear Gordon,
There is just time to write a few lines before I go on shift after lunch. We have settled down to the old routine again and are working regular shifts at the signal office and work on the average eight hours a day.
Two parcels of papers arrived the other day dated 26 Jan to 4 Feb., and yesterday I received letter No 1 from Em. It was written on the 12th and posted air mail so it seems that the service could be improved.
The letter from Len was waiting for me when I arrived back and I think the photo of you is quite good.
Went to mobile pictures the other night and saw "Three loves has Nancy" and "Young Dr Kildare", both old pictures but very enjoyable.
They have started a small canteen here and Sydney bottled beer is available. It has not rained much the last couple of days although the sky has been overcast and it is very cold.
Sorry to hear that both Roy and Alan have not been well and hope that they will be themselves again soon. Several of the chaps here have had bad colds but I have ben lucky so far.
No doubt you have seen Phil by now, suppose he has settled down to three months at home. Some people have all the luck.
Well it's nearly lunch time so I must finish up.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 6
Dated 28.3.43

Dear Em,
Very glad to receive your letter No 4 which arrived this morning. It was posted on the 22nd taking 6 days, which is not very satisfactory. No sign of letter No 2 yet.
I note that you were at Killara the other day and am glad to hear that Peter is still improving. They should all have a good time at Avalon.
So "El Capitan" has managed to spend a few nights at home. It is such a bad example for him to go AWL like that.
Things are still the same up here, went to the pictures on Friday and saw "The Mark of Zorro," not a bad show and the shorts were good.
We have had no rain for almost a week now and except for the cold nights the weather has been pleasant. He Reader's Digest for August has arrived and as I have not yet finished "English Justice", I have plenty to read at present.
By the way, envelopes are at a premium here so you might send some up. Coffee and milk is obtainable here and we have had supper the last couple of nights.
We don't get any papers here but they type out a newsheet which gives us the headlines. Also hear a bit on the wireless.
You will have to excuse the scribble as I am writing this while on the switchboard. Hope some of my missing letters turn up ere this
Best of wishes
Brian



Letter not numbered
Dated Herberton Qld
30.3.43
Posted in Sydney

Dear Em,
A friend of mine is leaving for the southern states tonight so I am taking the opportunity to send this letter part of the way with him.
At present I am situated in quite a pleasant spot about 7 miles from the above town. There is plenty to do as it is a new site but we have not been overworked so far. However, I expect an era of intensive training to commence shortly.
The mail service is not very good and I have only received 3 letters from you since I left.
From all accounts, the town is of the one horse type, and I have not considered it worth a visit yet. There are no rest days here and the shift work makes it hard to find the time.
The food is as good as could be expected but I would be happier if the canteen carried a larger stock. About half of our crowd are still away but the next two or three weeks should see most of them back.
The tablelands are very cold at night and I'm not looking forward to winter. It takes a lot of courage to have a cold shower even now.
I am with several of the old chaps from Stratfield and we have all made ourselves as comfortable as the surroundings will permit. There is a slight chance we may be separated into other sections if any extensive reorganisation takes place.
Now I have some good news for you. From what I hear it is reasonable to hope
that some accumulated leave may be granted between May and August. My last trip south was only tropical leave and since then has been altered considerably and I must onsider myself lucky to have got 14 days. If, however this other leave comes off, I should get about 16 days or so, still we may have to move south before it starts.
General opinion is that we shall see home again before going away, and that is not likely before the Spring . (starts in September in Australia) No doubt a lot will happen before then. Don't think Joan will see Bill for some time yet.
Please let me know whether you receive this letter but don't make too many remarks about it. Several of your letters have been censored recently.
No new clothing has been issued yet but I managed to get a new greatcoat. Some of our kit bags have arrived and I expect mine soon.
I am not looking forward to the next couple of months but perhaps I am being a pessimist.
Time is short, so I must close now.
Best wishes
Le P.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

He has told her he is 7 mile away from Herberton and I was lucky to find a time line of Herberton
1943/1945 6th Division A.I.F. Based in Wondecla area

So he should be in Wondecla, Qld.

I like the way he signs off this time....Le P

Letter numbered 7
Dated 1.4.43

Dear Em,
Sorry I have not written for a few days but have not had much time.
Your letter No 5 arrive yesterday together with Gordon's No 6 of the 23rd. It seems that the air mail takes at least a week.
So Alan has been on leave again, glad he has got over his flu but sorry that Roy is not too good.
Very amused at your account of Lilia's latest activities, guess she is annoyed at being called up, still a bit of work won't do her any harm. The only trouble is it makes it harder for you, don't suppose you can get anyone else.
The movies were around again last night, "Pacific Liner" and "Jungle Princess". I think I saw the last named when I was at school. Not much of a show and it was a very cold night.
The enclosed cutting is from "Smiths". I make no comment.
Parcel No 13, a cake, posted on 15/1/43 has arrived. Have not opened it yet but the tin seems to be air tight so the content should be OK.
Received another comforts issue the other day, tobacco, soap etc.
Had a letter from Bruce Spencer today, he is doing his flying training at Temora and seems to like it.
A number of kit bags have arrived but mine was not among them. However a lot more are expected so I have hopes.
It is nearly tea time now so I shall close.
Best wishes
Brian


So what was this about? Did Brian originally want to join the air force? It didn't sound like it in his first letter so maybe he is referring to one of the other family members.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

This telegram was dated 12.5.43 so a month after the last letter. No idea what it means. Then the letters start again on 25.7.43 when he seems to be back at the same camp as before. He takes up his old numbering system again at 66 with this letter. Perhaps there was a large gap due to getting home leave when he would not have written.


Letter numbered 66
Dated 25.7.43

Dear Em,
Your letter No 96 of the 18th came today, also one from John Brown. John's letter was written on the 17th and came air mail so it looks as though it travelled across country.
I note that you are going to send Alan's address on and I shall write to him when I get it.
Sorry to hear there is so much flu down your way at present and hope you keep clear of it. We have been lucky here as there has been very little sickness at all so far.
Went to the pictures again last night, the second time this week, and saw "The Rage of Paris" which was delightful in spite of the cold night.
At the moment I am reading "High Wages" which is quite good. You may have read it.
I have quite a good supply of writing paper and stamps at present but envelopes are scarce and I shall be glad if you will send me some more. Please put some greaseproof paper under the flaps as they stick even in this climate.
Things are very quiet today as it is Sunday and I have been on the spine since I came off shift at lunch time. (Does this mean lying down?)
There is nothing more to pass on now so I shall close. Will write again tomorrow.
Best wishes
Brian.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Smiths that he talks about is Smiths Weekly:-

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith%27s_Weekly

I'm sure all males wanted to join the brylcreem boys, goes without saying, so I suppose they had to trick them to fill the army positions

John 2½ months is a long time for Brian not to write to Em and Gordon so do you think you may have some missing letters?

Brian's service record became available today. If you would like to read it go to:
http://naa12.naa.gov.au/scripts/SearchOld.asp?O=I&Number=5648568

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I think there are some missing but he goes back to the old numbering system and it is fairly consistent. There are other gaps coming up followed by a long period of writing.

Smith's Weekly is remembered for the famous cartoon of two building riggers hanging off a girder with the caption for gor'sake stop laughing! by Stan Cross. He also wrote The Potts and there is half a Potts cartoon on the back of the press clipping. You can see the cartoon here:

http://www3.slv.vic.gov.au/latrobejournal/issue/latrobe-65/fig-latrobe-65-053a.html

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Thanks for sharing his service record with us John. We now have a bit more of a picture of him (I must admit I couldn't read the service part of the record as it was a bit blurry) but I now know he was 5'8'' tall, has brown hair and brown eyes, had a birthmark on his right thigh, was not married, passed 3 subjects in his intermediate cert. and can tap out 20wpm in morse.