The Good Guts Official Newsletter of 39th AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION (1941-43) ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED PUBLICATION NUMBER 100018459
Views expressed in material submitted are not necessarily the views of this Association or the editor of the good guts. Responsibility for all comment is that of the author of the article. Information regarding member’s addresses may be No. 216 published in the newsletter from time to time for fraternal purposes. Members not wishing this information to be December disclosed must advise the editor accordingly. The Logo and Colour Patch may not be used without permission. 2018
MAY YOU BE BLESSED WITH HAPPINESS AND JOY THIS CHRISTMAS
THE PRESIDENT & COMMITTEE
39TH BATTALION ASSOCIATION
Alan Moore Celebrating 98 Years with Family and Friends
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear 39th Family and Friends,
As one year draws to a close and another spreads out before us, it is inevitable that we look back at the highs and lows of the year we will shortly farewell and make plans for the New Year.
It saddens me to report that 2018 has seen the passing of four 39th Veterans. The last one to leave us was George Palmer who died peacefully in Queensland last October. Our condolences were sent to the family and several members were able to personally convey their sympathy at his funeral. The Committee is dedicated to attending all 39th veterans’ funerals and, if requested by the family of the deceased, the Banner is also taken. However, it has not been all upsetting news this year. In February we witnessed what I believe to be the dedication of one of the most meaningful memorials I have ever seen. The Walk of Honour at One Tree Hill in the Dandenong Ranges National Park is proving to be an outstanding success. As well as tourists or hikers stopping to read the panels there has been a lot of interest from people wanting to find out more about a grandfather or great grandfather, asking how they go about tracing his military history or even what books are available to read about the 39th Australian Infantry Battalion.
This awakening interest is also shown by families planning picnics to coincide with a relative’s panel being on display. Panels are rotated monthly by the hard working Alf Mallia, a Life Member of this Association and the driving force behind the project, so it might be an idea to check on the website, www.39battalion.com for a current list of displays before planning your visit. However, whether you check first or just go, can I recommend that you certainly visit this world class memorial. Remember also, it is not too late to arrange a panel if you have a 39th veteran in your family. Another high point of 2018 was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Camberwell Grammar. The school has agreed to hold and preserve memorabilia owned by the Association and to be custodian of the Banner where it will be proudly on display for all to see. It is reassuring to know this is another step taken to ensure the stories of the 39th Battalion will live on through the activities of this school’s respected cadet unit.
With 2019 just days away the Committee is already developing ideas to support the veterans and promote their Battalion. The latest plans for One Tree Hill will soon be unveiled and include three BBQ shelters displaying 39th, 2/14 and 2/16 Battalion photos and information. I have seen the early drawings and am overwhelmed by the size of the project and the enthusiasm of those planning it. There are also ideas for a camp, visits to members in outlying areas and greater involvement in schools to name but a few of the new initiatives. Of course, the usual happenings such as the AGM with a guest speaker, ANZAC Day Marches and Kokoda Day commemorations will continue so we hope there will be something for all members to be involved.
In concluding this Christmas newsletter, I want to take this opportunity to send my very best wishes for a safe and meaningful Christmas to each of you.
Deeds not Words,
Merren Stockdale President
As we go to press, to our knowledge, we have 17 surviving 39th Battalion Veterans.
DISTRIBUTION - Victoria 12: Queensland 3: NSW 1: SA 1
THANK YOU The 39th Battalion Association is very grateful for the support given by the Victorian Veterans’ Council and wishes to acknowledge our grant this year from the ANZAC DAY Proceeds Fund to support the publication of the Battalion Association Newsletter, The Good Guts, during 2018. We have been the fortunate recipients of this grant for the past seven years and it has greatly assisted us to maintain the standard of the “Good Guts” that our veteran members have come to expect. OFFICE BEARERS - 39th Australian Infantry Battalion 1941-1943 Association Inc PRESIDENT Merren Stockdale Email [email protected] Mob- 0408592608 VICE PRESIDENT David Bellairs E-mail [email protected] HON.SECRETARY David Howell Email [email protected] TREASURER Norman Stockdale Email [email protected] MEMBER Malcolm Owen Email mocommittee39battalion.com. MEMBER John Redmond Email [email protected] NEWS LETTER EDITOR Mary Holloway Email [email protected] Mob- 0407552891 MEMBER Ross Darrigan Email [email protected] MEMBER Rupert Dalley Email [email protected] MEMBER Alfred Mallia Email [email protected] MEMBER 1/39 BATTALION Tim Fitzgerald Telephone [03] 54477213 WW1 Email: [email protected] 1916-1919 CO OPT MEMBER Alan Moore Email [email protected] BATTALION BUGLER Darcy Manks BATTALION PIPER Ian Mckenzie 39th BATTALION WEBSITE and www.39battalion.com PO Box 664 Mailing Address KEW Vic 3101 INTERSTATE NSW Judith Matuschka 12 Fiona Avenue Wahroonga NSW Tel: CONTACTS 2076 [02] 9489 0401 QLD George Friend Qld 4032 Mob [email protected] 0418 418 0282
On the 11th November I wore my red Remembrance Day poppy with respect and humility and called to mind the story of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance. We all know that the tradition originated during WW1, in the rural countryside of Flanders where the poppies grew wild in large numbers. Their bright red colour reminded the diggers of the blood spilt on the battlefield in the cause of freedom. But does the colour red always mean danger and bloodshed?
It is true red is the colour used to warn of inpending danger and people are said to see red when they are extremely angry. When an organisation is in financial difficulty they are said to be in the red and so we could go on listing similar examples.
But who among us has never watched a magnificent sunset or sunrise and felt uplifted by the glorious colours of nature herself. Songs are sung about and florists promote the giving of red roses as a symbol of love. In fact, walk around any well cared for garden and some of the most beautiful flowers will be in various shades of red. As Christmas draws ever nearer that jolly man in red brings joy to children all over the world.
It is so easy to think of red as a harsh and unpleasant colour but more often than not it is the harbinger of love and dedication. The blood stained battlefields of the world came into existence because of the belief in freedom – call it liberty if you wish. If this was not so, despots and tyrants would aways have their own way and become an even more evil oppressor. Throughout history goodness and virtue have eventually truimphed and seldom without the stain of blood.
As Santa’s red clothers bring joy to the hearts of little children: as the glory of the sunrise and sunset reminds us of the beauty of nature; as the Remembrance Day Poppy causes us to recall to mind the great debt we owe to those who fought to protect our freedom, I am convinced that red is indeed a special and beautiful colour. LEST WE FORGET .
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
39th Battalion Events
Proposed Calendar Dates for 2019.
Events are printed bold are events 39th Bn Assoc. is running or helping to run. Italics are events to which Association invited * = cost
2019 January rd th February Sun 3 11 am 15 Ex POW Memorial Service Ballarat Ex Prisoners of War Memorial Tues 19th 1800 for 1900 Committee Meeting East Malvern RSL,
March 1800 for 1900 Committee Meeting East Malvern RSL,
April Sun 14th 1100 Annual Meeting & lunch East Malvern RSL Sun 21st 1330 Anzac Day Service Kew RSL Wed 24th 1030 Anzac Day Service Austin Health- Heidelberg Hospital Wed 24th TBC Anzac Day Service for Schools Kokoda Terrace- Dandenong Ranges Natl Park Thurs 25th Anzac Day March Melbourne May 1800 for 1900 Committee Meeting East Malvern RSL,
June 1800 for 1900 Committee Meeting East Malvern RSL,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Many Best wishes for a wonderful day to each of our members who have Birthdays in December and January
A special Happy Birthday to all our veterans who have their special day in December and January.
A particular mention to John Akhurst who will turn 100 on the 25th January . Have a wonderful day John.
16-Dec-1920 Jack PAYNE E AIRLIE BEACH QLD 19-Dec-1920 Les ARNEL A KAPUNDA SA 6-Jan-1922 Stuart MURRAY. HQ MERBEIN VIC 19-Jan-1921 George TURNER E CAPALABA QLD 25-Jan-1919 John AKHURST C BENTLEIGH VIC
MEMBER NEWS
Many thanks to Alfred Mallia for all his work at One Tree Hill, especially for his efforts to have a red poppy placed on all the panels along the Walk of Honour and the flags flown at half mast on Remembrance Day. At the beginning of each month Alf rotates the panels so that each veteran who has a panel in their honour is remembered. In this edition of the GG there is a list of the panels on display for December. The Association is very grateful to Alf for all he does to honour the veterans. *Hi Mary- Having a rare quiet night in, I was having a good read of my recently received Good Guts. It’s always interesting reading but I particularly wanted to congratulate you on your speech from the Kokoda Day Commemoration. I connected with it on so many levels, so well done. It was good to read about the signing of the MOU with Camberwell Grammar. Schools have an important part to play in the keeping of the memories associated with the different conflicts in which Australia has been involved. I don’t know if your paths ever crossed at the St George’s Memorial Service, but in more recent years I’ve been in touch with Gwen Hutcheson whose father, Ivon, was with the 14/32. She’s a teacher but also very active in any opportunity to spread the message. She puts together a wonderful ANZAC ceremony for her school & I must admit I’ve borrowed bits of it from time to time for use at our own ceremonies. We have a trumpeter from one of our local secondary colleges play the Last Post & Rouse, & those first notes still send a real shudder down my spine! It’s sad to see only 18 39th surviving veterans but that’s to be expected. Having said that, some of them are still obviously keeping well & in good spirits. I hope you’re keeping well. Do keep up the great work with The Good Guts. It’s important. Best wishes – Peter Gray, Principal, Caulfield Primary School
*Tim Fitzgerald reported that the Bendigo Military Museum has now repened after refurbishment. Why not make a visit if you are in Bendigo.
*Merren and Norman Stockdale took time in their holidays to visit Cec Driscoll and Stuart Murray in Merbein. Cec has now moved into the same care facility as Stuart. While they were all together, a reporter came to interview Cec and Stuart for the local paper. When in Stawell, Merren and Norman visited Dot Jardine [widow of Harry Jardine} and June Radford [daughter of a veteran]. Both were very pleased to see their visitors as they find distance a problem in attending Association functions.
* Other committee members have also been visiting our veterans. John Redmond has been to see Arthur Grassby and his wife Jean as well as George and Una Cops. Ross Darrigan has called in on John Hannah and Jack McLeod. Mary Holloway also visited Jack. Alan Moore has had many visitors helping him celebrate his birthday. John Akhurst was a very special guest at Alan’s bithday party. John will be 100 in January. Arnie Forrster demonstrated his skill at ballroom dancing by taking to the dance floor with another guest at the KTF [Kokoda Track Foundation] Ralph Honner Oration Gala Dinner. Arnie willl be 100 next August.
* Max and Nicole Kirwin are now out of hospital following their car accident. Nicole is at home but Max requires more care. We wish them both all the best for a quick return to better health. George Friend keeps in regular touch with them.
* Paul Ham’s book “Kokoda “ is available for borrowing through the Bolinda App-Borrowbox library. This app makes it easy to browse, borrow and listen to e audiobooks or read ebooks. To find the app, type in Bolinda App-Borrowbox library and follow the links to install it and you are ready to start borrowing.
* New Members - John Honner; Sydney, NSW. Son of Colonel Ralph Honner - Phillip Buttigieg; Qld. History Teacher and writer, 6 RAR Association
*Name Badges Our apologies to those members waiting for their name badges. The Committee has been looking for a new supplier for the Association Name Badges. It seems that our seach is over. Orders for new name badges will only be placed quarterly. Timelines for ordering will be on the Battalion website. Please place your order and pay through the website if you would like a new name badge.
GEORGE W. PALMER 23rd June 1921- 11th October 2018 V126037 VX117701
We feel extremely sad, but privileged, to honour the life of George Palmer - a gallant soldier of D Coy in the 39th Battalion. A Battalion of which he was so proud to be a member.
No one could have imagined that a militia battalion sent for garrison duty in Papua New Guinea would find itself engaged in battles that marked a turning point for the defence of Australia and ultimately led to the defeat of the Japanese Empire. This was the Battalion to which George belonged.
High on the Kokoda Track, on the pillars at the Isurava Memorial are engraved four words
MATESHIP, ENDURANCE, COURAGE, SACRIFICE
These are the qualities demonstrated by the men of the 39th Infantry Battalion and stand as a reminder of the deeds of the past and to inspire future generations. The men of the 39th sacrificed so much for their country to ensure the freedoms we enjoy today.
George was not only a loyal and active member of the 39th Battalion association, he was also a loving and devoted family man. His long and happy marriage to Josie was an integral part of his life. His children, grand children and great grandchildren all hold many memories of his commitment to his family. George is also remembered as a keen supporter of his local community and his Church.
George - you are sadly missed by the 39th Battalion.
You have certainly earned the respect and appreciation of all Australians
In the jungles of Papua New Guinea there were no red poppies to lay in honour of the dead and so the Battalion Padre used Lantana, which grew there in profusion.
We lay this sprig of lantana in memory of you and your comrades Thank you for a job Well Done
George Palmer - second from the right. The man in the tin hat
PEEKING INTO THE PAST
As we begin our association with Camberwell Grammar School we take a peek into the past when the 39th Battalion Association began its link with the Southport School on the Gold Coast. Below is a copy of the newspaper cutting describing that historic occasion.
Southportonian Article 2018 Army Cadets. Conan Bland
The Southport School Army Cadet Unit has a posted strength of 332. Alpha Company is made up primarily of new recruits, supported by experienced NCOs capable of delivering a recruit induction package. Bravo Company consists of second year cadets, supported by NCOs capable of delivering a more advanced, creative training program with a military theme.
This year, once again, the unit showed a strong commitment to supporting the local community through attending a large number of commemoration services. ANZAC Day saw 450 Army, Navy and Air-Force Cadets attend The Southport Street March. This is a special event, supported by up to 20,000 community members who line the streets and the grass verges of the cenotaphs.
The Brisbane march is supported by TSS Cadets due to our custodianship responsibilities whilst holding the 39th Battalion Banner. Although there were very few veterans marching behind the famous militia battalion banner this year, our boys will continue to honour the memory of the Kokoda veterans through participation in this march.
Rather than send cadets in the traditional uniform, we sent members of the historical guard party dressed as Light horseman from The Great War. This pays homage to the Old Boys that died in World War One, particularly in the 100th year since armistice. Other commemoration services supported by both the cadets and the cadet band include the Korean Veterans Service and the Kokoda Service at Cascade Gardens.
This year, in addition to the Historical Guard and Flag party, the service was attended by 25 PNG students as part of our boarding community who celebrated laying of pavers to recognise the Pacific Island Battalion and Pacific Island Regiment members who made the ultimate sacrifice during The Second World War.
Alpha Company complete a recruit training package delivered primarily from junior NCOs. The common military lessons include basic and advanced drill, field craft, navigation, movement between terrain, survival skills and structure and rank in the AAC. These lessons are mixed in historical presentations on the school and unit as a way for the boys to appreciate, and importantly respect the 110 year history of cadets at this school. Bravo Company completed an alternate training program which maintains recruit skills while building their skills and knowledge throughout the year. Bravo Company also have a greater emphasis on team building activities that provide opportunities for all members regardless of rank to show the qualities of leadership we hope to bestow upon the boys.
This year, the Annual Camp was held at Greenbank Training Area. The camp was supported by 25/49 RQR and 9 RQR soldiers providing instructional support in addition to bringing military weapons and equipment for the boys to use.
All Cadets rotated through activities at Greenbank and Enoggera Military bases. The boys got “hands on” experience with the latest EF 88 Austeyer Rifle. They participated in basic weapon handling before heading to the Weapons Training Simulation Range (WTTS) where they fired on a simulated range to test their marksmanship principles. This was an amazing opportunity for the boys to use a facility that is crucial to the development of our ADF. They also got to see other Infantry Weapons, including M18 A2 Claymore, M72 A6 Short Range Anti-Armour Weapon, MAG 58 General Purpose Machine Gun, and Carl Gustav 84mm Rocket Launcher and F89 Light Support Weapon. With names like these, it’s no wonder that boys thoroughly enjoyed the lessons. At Enoggera, cadets were pushed outside their comfort zone by conducting training on an overwater obstacle course. The course is suspended up to 5m over a large pool and there are no safety ropes to stop the boys from falling – if they fall they get wet!
External ex-special forces soldiers also facilitated a survival lessons and tracking which focused on identifying and interpreting sign in the bush. A mobile climbing wall was a very popular activity were boys raced to the top of a 40 foot structure as was a huge inflatable movie screen that was used during the evening. External contractors and TSS Staff also ran a series of competitive problem solving activities that included a Giant Grid and Escape the Room activity. The “Escape the Room” activity was particularly popular where cadets rotated through 3 themed rooms that pose a series of puzzles that must be solved to “escape”.
This year, The Cadet Graduation Parade was a fine affair with the boys putting on an excellent display of self-discipline as the 39th Battalion Flag fluttered high on flag pole adorning the clock tower. The date of the parade (24th October) fell close to the centenary of Armistice. A crowd of approximately 500 watched on, made up of mostly parents while over 100 veterans from WW2, Korea, Vietnam and modern conflicts assessed the self-discipline, dress and bearing of the current generation.
The boys lived up to expectations and put on a fine performance. The Senior Cadet Graduation Dinner followed the parade with the veterans, community groups and staff meeting to celebrate the service of our students who committed to the program throughout the last 5 years.
During the dinner, Mr Keith Fennell gave a rousing speech to the boys on the importance of brotherhood and mateship. It was very well received by the boys who are looking forward to transitioning from school to the adult life.
During the Parade we remembered Old Boy Captain Leslie Russell Blake who died on the 3rd October 1918, just 5 weeks before the end of the war. Captain Blake was a notable adventurer, having been a member of Sir Douglas Mawson’s’ 1911-1914 Antarctic Expedition as a geologist and cartographer. He enlisted as an artilleryman before being commissioned as an officer in 5th Field Artillery Regiment. Captain Blake was awarded the Military Cross for Gallantry during fighting at Pozieres before tragically being killed by a stray shell in the village of Nauroy on the 3rd October 1918.
Major George Friend, the Queensland representative of the 39th Battalion Association, had the privilege of presenting the 39thBattalion Badge to the Senior Cadet.
A VETERAN’S STORY Many of our veterans are no longer with us but their stories live on for us to share. This is the story from Gordon Bailey - "D" Company -17 Platoon
The Night I Walked With God In this issue of The Good Guts we thought it would be appropriate to reprint this item from the issue of September 2002 of “A Reminiscence” written by Gordon Bailey
I was a corporal in 17 Platoon and we were on a "Standing Patrol" between Isurava and Deniki during August 1942; and, with Don Simonson and Harold Marsh in charge, were ordered to move on the track towards Deniki and advise of any Japanese movement towards our HQ's. [I am allowed to use Don's Christian name as we are both in legacy! ] The patrol had settled down in positions covering the "Track' when, just after dark, the Japanese attacked the patrol with grenade and small arms fire. I received a deep wound to the chest and immediately lost consciousness. I have no idea as to how long lapsed before I regained my senses but, on doing so, realized that I was "on my own". My chest was covered in blood and I can easily understand that my mates had assumed I had been killed. Being alone in that situation was rather frightening and one naturally thinks the worst; particularly as we all knew of the Japanese way of treating prisoners! Enough said! I had lost so much blood that I found it difficult to stand, bit I also knew I had to make my way back to the unit. Naturally, I also knew that the Japs would be between myself and HQ's. To cut this story short, I crawled - more than walked - back, expecting at any moment to be challenged by the Japs. I did survive that experience and was challenged by one of our own scouts and was taken to the MO [Medical Officer]. I believe the time was 12.30 am when the Doctor, on examining me, said he could see the "Apex" of the heart.. I learned that the apex is the first covering of the heart. I was given the help of two New Guinea Boys who assisted me back to Port Moresby. I have entitled this story "The Night I Walked With God", and I do know that there is no way I could have survived had I been alone. Gordon Bailey
ONE TREE HILL-WALK OF HONOUR PANELS ON DISPLAY FOR DECEMBER
VETERAN VX NUMBERS PANEL POSITION
K.Barkus V 40506 VX135892 2 S.Pyke 11 C. Pyke V42272 10 R.Edgell V 68439 VX120253 13 J.Dawson V 56140 VX117313 15 W.Davis V 50677 VX103103 18 A.Moore V 36205 VX100094 19 N.Hall V 40106 17 R.McCorkelle V 68332 8 I. Charlwood VX117312 5 J. Akhurst VX 3 B. Fry V 42487 VX141616 20 R.Simper V 280083 VX117712 1 Saunders VX1829 6 Clark VX41816 14 Hunter VX59749 4 Foy WX3921 9 Idle VX2889 16 Mansfield 12 Metson 7
HONOURING OUR VETERANS Harold Bould Awards
This literary competition was first held within the Cardinia Shire in 2008 and was named after Harold Bould. The competition is open to all year 10 students from all the secondary schools within the Cardinia Shire. Now students are invited to submit an essay of approximately six hundred words addressing these issues “Why would you like to trek the Kokoda Trail” and “What was the importance of the Kokoda Campaign in the Battle for Australia”. The concept came from the adjoining Baw Baw Shire, organised by the State Member for Narracan, Gary Blackwood. The purpose of the competition was to encourage young people to research and understand the sacrifice by so many ordinary people, like a farmer from Cardinia, made in WW2 to keep this nation free. Harold Bould was one of ten children, his family were potato and onion farmers from Cardinia, near Pakenham. Five brothers from this family enlisted for service during WW2. Harold and his brother Keith did not come home. Private Harold Bould who served in B company, 39th Battalion, was killed in action at Kokoda Village. on 29th July 1942, only eight days after the Japanese invasion of Papua New Guinea, he has no known grave. Brother Keith was taken prisoner at the fall of Singapore and he died when the prison ship returning to Japan was sunk by the Allies.
The words of Lt. Col. Ralph Honner, DSO. MC. CO. 39th Australian Infantry Battalion remind us that:- “They died so young. They missed so much. They gave up so much, their hopes, their dreams, their loved ones. They laid down their lives that their friends might live. Greater love hath no man than this”
The service and sacrifice in defence of our homeland, must always remain as part of our heritage, Our generation has a duty to ensure that the next generation of Australians understand that sacrifice and that it is never forgotten.The Harry Bould Award is held annually with the intention that, each year, the winner or winners, will receive a fully sponsored escorted trip to Kokoda and learn at first hand something of Australia’s history.
This year the selection panel have received applications from colleges in Cardinia Shire and after a comprehensive process, Brianna Sherry from Officer Secondary College and Anna Whelan from Pakenham Secondary College were have been chosen for this life changing experience.They will train under the direction of tour leader David Howell of Kokoda Historical.
Brianna Sherry from Officer Secondary College and Anna Whelan from Pakenham Secondary College with veteran Jack Duffy
Alan Moore Cup and the Peter Holloway Cup On the Sunday 28th October thirty eight school teams competed for the Peter Holloway Cup as part of the annual Kokoda Youth Challenge program in the Dandenong Ranges National Park. This is a fifteen km run through the ranges. The Alan Moore Cup was uncontested this year but is a thirty km run for school groups. Both Alan Moore and Mary Holloway were there to congtatulate the competitors and present the Peter Holloway Cup to the winning team from St Joseph’s Primary School, Elstenwick. Red poppies were also placed on the honour roll of the 39th fallen.
Arthur Grassby Scholarship
Arthur served with B Coy in the 39th. He now lives in Bairnsdale. Named in his honour, the aim of this scholarship is to send two East Gippsland Year 11 students each year to walk the Kokoda Track in honour of the veterans and to gain a better understanding of the Papua New Guinea Campaign of World War 2.
The schools invited to present students for consideration are: Bairnsdale Secondary College Bairnsdale Specialist School Cann River Secondary College Lakes Entrance Secondary College Nagle College Orbost Secondary College Swifts Creek Secondary College
The Paynesville RSL agreed to be the base of operations and have opened a special bank account for the funds raised to support the scholarship. The organising committee is Tim Bull, Member for Gippsland East, Gary Gaffney, CEO of East Gippsland Shire Council, Nick Murray and Peter Wertheimer [Pictured here with Arthur and Jean Grassby]. The Scholarship program was launched at the Paynesville RSL on the 14th March this year. Local organisations and businesses were encouraged to donate to the program and support the local young people. Fundraising was so successful that 3 students were chosen as the inaugural winners of the Arthur Grassby Scholarship.
The successful applicants this year were Year 10 students Tom Southern [Bairnsdale College, Kelsey Cuttriss and Ginger Kleehammer [both of Nagle College. They undertook some pretty extensive training at Mt Taylor before heading off to Papua New Guinea.
On their return they told their stories at the Paynesville RSL and then at the Metung RSL. It is reported that those listening to their accounts of their experiences were brought to tears by the respect they had for the soldiers in whose footsteps they had been treading. All described it as the experience of a lifetime and one parent was heard to say ”We sent them away boys and girls and they’re come back as men and women”
So inspiring was their presentation that Metung RSL has decided to sponsor their own student for 2019. A great effort for a small RSL.
Tim Bull is hoping that next year that sufficient funds will allow for four or five recipients to be chosen. He said “ We want our youth in East Gippsland to know that the great life they are living today and the way of life that they enjoy is largely because of heroes like Arthur and many other Gippslanders who didn’t come back.”
Arthur, who wasn’t much older than the students when in 1942 he was part of the Kokoda Track Campaign, is very proud to be involved with the scholarship program. He feels very humble to be honoured in this way, but like all our veterans he deserves the recognition for all they did for our country.
RECRUITS NEEDED Kitchner sought men but we need both men and women
THE ASSOCIATION NEEDS MEMBERS TO JOIN THE COMMITTEE
COULD IT BE YOU!
Nominations for election to the Committee at the Annual Meeting will be received in March
SAVE THE DATE
SUNDAY 14TH APRIL 2019 ANNUAL MEETING AND LUNCH EAST MALVERN RSL
More Details in the February Good Guts
THE RSL SALUTE
In London on Armstice Day in 1920 during the ceremony to unveil and dedicate the Cenotaph in Whitehall, a funeral procession accompanying the remains of the Unknown Soldier, which had arrived from France the previous day, was to halt at the Cenotaph during the ceremony before continuing to Westminister Abbey for interment.
The official party included the Empire’s most senior soldiers, sailors and politicans and as many Victoria Cross winners as could be assembled. The ceremony concluded with a march past. The Regimental Sergeant Major of the Guards Regiment conducting the ceremony, faced with a gathering of highly decorated and high ranking military men and VC winners, all wearing rows of medals, decreed that all would salute the Cenotaph as they marched past by placing their hand over their medals, signifying that” No matter what honours we may have been awarded thevyare as nothing compared with the honour due to those who paid the supreme sacrifice”
The RSL maintains that tradition to honour the dead by placing the right hand over medals [not the heart] during a march past on ceremonial occasions or at a wreath laying ceremony.
REMEMBRANCE DAY 1th November 1918 - 11th November 2018
This year marks 1oo years since the end of World War I. Known as the Great War, it was thought to be the war that would end all wars. All sides suffered an incredibly high number of needless deaths, and the war devastated an entire generation. In fact, the sheer amount of destruction and death has only been eclipsed by World War II.
Since it ended, all countries involved have held memorials to remember their fallen dead who sacrificed their lives for the good of their country. This fact is all the more so in Australia. For Australia, the First World War remains the costliest conflict in terms of deaths and casualties. From a population of fewer than five million, 416,809 men enlisted, of whom more than 60,000 were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner.
November 11, Armistice Day or Remembrance Day as it is now known in Australia. A day to commemorate our fallen soldiers while also helping us understand the true scope of these soldiers' sacrifice. Even a hundred years later, we should not forget their incredible acts of heroism.
Regardless of why our country went to war, we should never forget the selfless acts of these brave men and women.
Union Jack that belonged to the 39th AIF Transport Section and was signed by members of the Company.
Tim Fitzgerald attended the rededication of the Kingston Avenue of Honour on the 100th Anniversary of the end of WW1. A particularly poignant place as a number of the 39th AIF who did not return from France are remembered there.
LEST WE FORGET R RALPH HONNER ORATION GALA DINNER
NEW ITEMS FOR SALE IN THE ONLINE MEMORABILIA SHOP
Small banners are now available. Length – 35cm from the rod to end of the fringe Width- 20cm Banner 23 cm across from one end of the rod to the other Please place and pay for your order online through the Battalion website www.39battalion.com
Books for Sale- A good read just in time for Christmas $50 each which includes package and postage.
COL RALPH HONNER ORATION GALA DINNER
On Friday 26th October Mr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial, delivered the 2018 Ralph Honner Oration on leadership at the KTF [Kokoda Track Foundation] Dinner held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Sydney. This is the second time Mr Nelson had been invited to give the Oration and once again he did not disappoint his listeners.
Brendan began by saying he was present to honour the memory of a great man, Colonel Ralph Honner and the men who served under him and to reflect on his leadership skills. Leadership cannot be caught but it can be learnt through experiencing the example set by others. Such an example was that set by Ralph Honner – a leader , a scholar, a family man and a soldier. His military record reflects his leadership qualities and the citations recorded there confirm his abilities. His finest moment was his leadership of the 39th Battalion. He was a man, who by his actions and the values he held, contributed to the ennoblement of humanity.
As Australians how often do we reflect on the words of our National Anthem- we sing and hear them but often take for granted the good things about our life. We Australians are more defined by our beliefs and values but most shaped by our heroes and villians. This has been the way since the arrival of the First Fleet, continued on the battle fields of Gallipoli, the Fall of Singapore, the Malay Peninsula and in the prisoner of war camps, Dunkirk, the battle fields of Europe and the Middle East to the shores of our own country with the bombing of Darwin and the Japanese submarines in Sydney Harbour and to the Kokoda Campaign.
Kokoda – the story of small groups of men infestimentally small against the mountains and the enemy, brave men, afraid but still kept going. Encouraged by their leader Ralph Honner who believed in them, the men of the 39th Battalion were engaged in desperate fighting. Under his leadership they gave their best. Their story is now legendary. The Salvation Army chaplain of the 2/14th Battalion wrote in a letter home about the men he saw fighting. He said character transcends everything in life - courage, endurance, sacrifice and mateship are the strands that bind us together.
Brendan finished by saying “The veterans here tonight are examples of the best Australia has ever seen. They hoped and believed in a better future for our country and those we love. The best way to honour them is to live our lives the best way we can Thank you to our veterans and their families”.
Five veterans were special guests at the dinner including our own Arnie Forrester who was the life and soul of the party. At 99 years of age Arnie was still able to take a quick turn around the dance floor.
A highlight for Arnie was the opportunity to speak with John Honner, son of Col Ralph Honner, who also was present at the dinner. They were able to share some memories together.
TIME FOR A LAUGH Some Military Yarns During a training exercise the lieutenant who was Happy Hour driving down a muddy track encountered another another car stuck in the mud with a red faced colonel at the wheel. “Your jeep stuck, Sir?” asked the Four old retired blokes are walking down a street in lieutenant as he pulled alogside. Maroochydore. They turned a corner and see a sign “Nope” replied the colonel, coming over and handing that says, *Old Timer's Bar - all drinks 10 cents! him the keys, ”Yours is”. They look at each other, and then go in, thinking this is too good to be true. Having just moved onto his new office, the pompous new colonel was sitting at his desk when a young The old bartender says in a voice that carries across airman knocked at the door. Conscious of his new the room, 'Come on in and let me pour one for you! position, the colonel quickly picked up the phone, told What'll it be, Gentlemen?' There seemed to be a fully- the airman to enter, then said into the phone,”Yes stocked bar, so each of the men ask for a beer. In General, I will be seeing him this afternoon and I’ll pass short order, the bartender serves up four icy cold on your message. In the meantime thank you for your beers, and says, 'That'll be 10 cents each, please.' good wishes, Sir.” Feeling he had sufficiently impressed the young enlisted man, he asked,”What is The four men stare at the bartender for a moment. it you want?’ “Nothing important Sir”, said the airman, Then look at each other, they can't believe their good “I’m just here to hook up your phone”. luck. They pay the 40 cents, finish their drinks, and order another round. Again, four schooners are IT Support for Grandm produced and the bartender again saying, 'That's 40 cents, please.' They pay the 40 cents, but their The computer swallowed Grandma, curiosity is more than they can stand. Yes, honestly it’s true She pressed ‘control and enter” They have each had two beers and so far they've And disappeared from view. spent less than a dollar. Finally one of the men says, 'How can you afford to serve beer as good as this for It devoured her completely, 10 cents each?' 'I'm a retired tailor from Sydney,' the She must have caught a virus bartender said, 'and I always wanted to own a bar. Or been eaten by a worm Last year I hit the Lottery for $25 million and decided The thought just makes me squirm to open this place. Every drink costs ten cents - wine, liquor, beer, it's all the same.' I’ve searched through the recycle bin And files of every kind; Wow!!!! That's quite a story,' says one of the men. I’ve even used the internet The four of them threw down their beers and couldn't But nothing did I find help but notice seven other people at the end of the bar who didn't have drinks in front of them, and hadn't In desperation, I asked Mr Google ordered anything the whole time they were there. One My searches to refine man gestures at the seven at the end of the bar without The reply from him was negative, drinks and asks the bartender, 'What's with them?' Not a thing was found online. The bartender says, 'Oh, they're all Victorian grey So, if inside your ‘Inbox’, nomads from the caravan park, waiting for happy hour My Grandma you should see, when drinks are half price. Please ‘Copy, Scan’and ‘Paste’ her, And send her back to me.
John and Pat Akhurst with Ross Darrigan
John Redmond and David Howell visit Alan Moore for his birthday
John Redmond and Jack McLeod
Goerge and Una Cops with their daughter-in-law Carol were visited by John Redmond
Arnie Forrester with his daughter Margaret Pavlovic John Honner shares a photo of his father Col Ralph
Honner with Arnie
And then with Mary Holloway
Arnie on the dance floor