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Back to 1971 index or Main Index Makan – No. 195 Official Organ of the 2/30th Bn. A.I.F. Association VALE B.J. He died suddenly and quietly at his home in the early hours of the morning of 20th April, and was buried with full military honours from his parish church of Saint Clements, Mosman, on 23rd April. A vast congregation of his friends and admirers, including many next-of-kin and members of the Association, filled the church to overflowing, and members of the Battalion were honoured to provide a guard from the church to the gun-carriage. To Lady Galleghan and his family we extend our deepest sympathy, and mourn with them the loss of our beloved B. J. How does one record the passing of a great man, who became a legend in his own lifetime? A man who was a strict disciplinarian with the highest sense of moral values and of duty to his country and mankind - outwardly forthright and overbearing and inwardly a humble man, so full of compassion for his fellow man that he was vitally concerned for the welfare of all whom he commanded, and unashamedly wiped the tears from his eyes when he saw the condition of his men who returned from the Burma-Thai Railway. A man so careless of his own safety, but so full of care for the safety of others. A man whose personal courage and unswerving devotion to his principles, particularly when conditions were at their worst, set an example which compelled all to follow, and in so doing they gained the strength to suffer adversity and hardship with a fortitude which undoubtedly saved many lives. Who amongst all the Commanders of the A.I.F. was initially more feared and disliked, yet always respected, and subsequently more revered and admired? Who devoted so much time upon his return to the care and consideration of his men? Yet he found the time to serve on many charitable organisations, and to devote the last 20 years of his life to unstinting service in Legacy. B.J. has left us, but his indomitable spirit remains with us now and always. For the many years since our return we have basked in the reflected glory of his stature and his good works. Let his memorial lie in our hearts, and in the desire to hold aloft the torch he threw to us.
To live
within the hearts of those The funeral service was conducted by the Venerable Archdeacon R.J. Hewett. The Right Reverend F.O. Hulme-Moir, Assistant Bishop of Sydney, delivered the address, which was a most moving and fitting eulogy to our late Patron. Rev. R.J. Bromford led the prayers, and Padre Alan MacLachlan (Presbyterian and an old friend) read the Lesson. Padres George Polain (2/26 Bn.) and our own Paddy Walsh (who flew down from Rockhampton to pay his respects) also assisted with announcements. The official pallbearers included four Major Generals and four Brigadiers, and Colonel Des Duffy represented us as Insignia Bearer for the processions at the church and at the Crematorium. The official ushers comprised representatives of various units and associations in the 8th Div., and included Alan Pryde as our representative. Our Patron, Colonel George Ramsay and President Arch Thorburn represented the Battalion in the official party of mourners. Our piper, Jimmy Webster, came down from Newcastle, complete with the pipes that he carried right through the P.O.W. days, and was ably assisted at the church by a piper from the Black Watch Company of 17 R.N.S.W.R. Jimmy piped a further lament at the Crematorium. A reliable estimate by the Verger placed the congregation in the church in the vicinity of 1,100, which included at least 200 next-of-kin, wives and members of the Battalion, while several hundred other mourners including members of the Battalion, remained assembled outside the church. Because of the strictly limited time available, and the extremely crowded conditions, it was not possible to have all our members move out at the conclusion of the service and before the procession commenced; but a large number were able to do so, and they formed an impressive Guard from the church door to the gun carriage. The chapel at the Crematorium was occupied to capacity, with the larger portion of the mourners remaining assembled outside. The funeral procession, the piping of the Lament, the Guard resting on arms reversed, the Firing Party with their precision volleys, and the Buglers with the Last Post and Rouse provided a most moving and fitting climax to a truly magnificent service honouring a great man who will be revered and remembered by us always. VALE B.J. Glowing and moving eulogies in the press and over the radio and T.V., and the vast numbers who attended the services and lined Raglan Street were a fitting tribute, and exemplified the esteem in which he was held. Although Police were on duty at all intersections and nine Police and M.P. Outriders were assigned to ensure uninterrupted movement, the cortege was so lengthy that cross traffic along the route was held up and thrown into chaos; and the escorts ultimately were required to request the cortege to divide, with the latter portion taking an alternative route. Owing to his engrossment with arrangements, and his natural failings due to old age and poor eyesight, your Editor may have missed seeing several of the members and very close associates of the Battalion who came from distant places and joined us to pay their respects, but he did notice: Frank Burlinson (former Adjt. to B.J. in 17 Bn.) and Brian Ferguson (2/26 Bn.) both from Brisbane ; Athol Flint (2/2 Pioneers) from Hobart; Stan Scarrabellotti (A.A.S.C.) from Brunswick Heads; and the following members of the Battalion:- Len Barnes, Cairns; Paddy Walsh, Rockhampton; Ken Parry, Brisbane; Jock Logan, Gold Coast; Harry Riches, Brunswick Heads; Don (Lieut.) Garner, Nambucca Heads; Ron Kentwell, Ballina; Neil Huntley and Darkie Douglas, Port Macquarie; Sid Stephens, Maitland; Jackie Fell, Cessnock; Jimmy Webster, Newcastle; Scotty Harris, Awaba; Wally Scott, Illawarra; Stewart Blow, Berry; Alan Hudson, Tottenham; Heck Heckendorf, Lockhart and Johnnie Walker from Melbourne. This, in itself, was a tribute to the man we mourned. Two incidents which occurred as the cortege progressed came to the knowledge of your Editor, and bear repeating. As the cortege was moving along Raglan Street, a woman's voice was heard to come from the mourners lining the route:- "I'll bet all the angels are checking to see that their halos are on straight". Further along, while the cortege was halted to allow embussment of the band and escorts so that they could precede it to the Crematorium, a street cleaner was observed talking to two young people - their voices could not be heard, but his replies were strong and clear. Cleaner:- "Black Jack Galleghan - he lived down the road"; and in answer to a further obvious query from the youngsters:- "If it wasn't for him, you'd all be eating rice now". Surely, it takes a B.J. to draw forth such comment. Everything about him was big - his stature, his actions, his voice, his thinking, his compassion and his humility. Who amongst us has not felt the weight of his tongue, and flinched before the wagging of his cane ? Who amongst us has not cursed him in Tamworth when he made us travel miles to our training areas, and forbad the drinking of any water while training in the middle of summer, or when, on our return from leave, he marched us from Kelso to the camp at Bathurst, and after a hurried meal of saveloys and mashed potato, sent us off on an all night compass march? But who ever failed to respect him, and his judgment; or ultimately grow to regard him with anything less than a deep affection? Honey Barnes probably summed it up for us all when the news of his death filtered through to Cairns, and Len wondered whether he could possibly manage to fly down and attend the funeral; and she said, simply and sincerely "But Len, you have to - he's family". At the assembly point on Anzac Day, when a certain sombreness pervaded the gathering, Andy Hyslop handed the Editor the following tribute:
Our
incomparable Leader now joins that
On through
the ages he will inspire us. VALE GRAHAME SANDS We were saddened by the death of our last surviving Honorary Life Member, Grahame Sands, at his home at Killara on 9th April last, after a fairly lengthy period during which his health had not been of the best. His funeral service was held at the Grahame Memorial Church, Waverley, on 13th April, where we were represented by the attendance of our late Patron, your President, Vice-President and MAKAN Editor. The vast congregation which attended the service was in itself a tribute to a kindly generous man, whose good works will long be remembered. His son, Richard, who was killed in action at Gemas, was a member of 15 Platoon, C Coy, 2/30 Bn. and, in the first war, Grahame served in 15 Platoon, C Coy, 30 Bn. His association with our Battalion extended over a period of almost 30 years, commencing with the formation of the Battalion Comforts Fund just after we had sailed and he continued his active interest in our affairs until his death. Completely modest and unassuming, his practical help continued during the whole of the period of his association, a typical example being our banner, which we proudly carry in all processions, the cost of which was largely defrayed by his generosity. As some recognition of his interest in us, he was made an Honorary Life Member of the Association - an honour which has only been conferred on two people since our formation. From Mrs. Marguerite Jenkins (Mother of E.R.M. (Bernie) C. Coy, who died on "F" Force in 1943) who has been a stalwart of the Comforts Fund and continues that association with the "Purple and Gold" Club, we have received the following tribute: "Grahame Sands was a modest, but a great and generous friend of the Comforts Fund. During the dark dreary days of the war, when clouds often hung low, his generosity brightened the Christmas parties for the children of P.O.W.’s in prison camps in Malaya and elsewhere. Crates of lovely toys, books, etc., plus bright wrappings and tie-ups arrived, which added so much to the children's parties. Our fetes, card afternoons, concerts, etc., were also increased by a cheque Grahame Sands". The ladies of the "Purple and Gold" Club join with us in expressing our deepest sympathy to his son, Dr. John Sands, and daughter, Mrs. Geoffrey Lamble, and their families at the loss of our friend, benefactor and Honorary Life Member. In order to maintain their late father's association with the Battalion and as a memorial to their brother, Richard, Dr. Sands and Mrs. Lamble have advised that they will defray the cost of obtaining the covers for MAKAN indefinitely, for as long as the Association requires them. This is indeed a very splendid gesture which we appreciate most sincerely, bearing in mind both the thought behind it, and the generous nature of the endowment. LAST POST
Brigadier
Sir Frederick Galleghan DSO, OBE, ISO, ED. Our Patron. To his widow, Susan, and family we extend our deepest sympathy. We were also saddened to learn of the death of Padre Lionel Marsden M.I.D., at R.G.H. Concord on 5th May, aged 59 years. A priest of the Society of Mary, who was ordained in 1940, he was a Padre attached to 13 A.G.H., and was well-known to many of our members, as well as being an old friend of our late Patron. He was a man of deep understanding and compassion, and a confidant of many, irrespective of creed. Despite his personal sufferings and those of his fellow Ps.O.W., he preached a doctrine of non-hatred of the Japanese, and demonstrated his faith in that creed by leading a Marist Mission to Japan in 1949. He once remarked that he would like to convert to Christianity one Japanese for every sleeper on the railway. The Mission still operates. Con-celebrated Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul was celebrated at St. Patrick's, Church Hill, on 7th May in the presence of Cardinal Sir Norman Gilroy and many Church and State dignitaries: and your Association was represented at the service by Lady Galleghan, Dorothy and Stan Arneil and your Editor. Our deepest sympathy is extended to his brothers and sisters, and their families. We also learned of the death on 20th April last of Mrs. Dorothy Parry, mother of Ken (D. Coy). Ken was present at the funeral of our late Patron, which made it a doubly sad event for him. To Ken and his family we extend our deepest sympathy. News has also reached us of the death in England, on 4th April last, of Mrs. Rosa Ball, widow of Frank (BHQ). Frank transferred to 27 Bde at Batu Pahat, but returned to us as a P.O.W. at Changi. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM SICK PARADE Kevin Ward and his team have had a busy time since last MAKAN. He reports the position as at 26th May:
In Concord: Discharged since last MAKAN:
Mrs. Bessie
Ellis From Concord to Lady Davidson:
Walter
Douglas (D Coy) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING A certain sombreness pervaded at the opening of our Annual General Meeting on 22nd April last, with President Arch making reference to the death of our late Patron on 20th April. All stood in silence in his memory. The President and the MAKAN Editor then reported on the arrangements for the Military Funeral of our late Patron, which was to be held on the following day, Friday, 23rd. A total of 22 members had gathered for the meal, and the attendance of a further 18 made a grand total of 40 members at the meeting, while proxies received by the Hon. Sec. totalled 40. The business of the meeting proceeded on reasonably even tenor, with the exception of some interruptions from Harry Head and Phil Schofield, and the election of Office Bearers, as shown on the title page of MAKAN, resulted in George Ramsay becoming our new Patron, Alan Pryde taking over the duties of Hon. Treasurer, and Harry Head and David Lloyd joining the Committee - otherwise, positions were unchanged. During the course of the elections , the meeting learned of the resignation from office of the Hon. Treasurer and the Chief Correspondent (see separate report). This is a blow from which it is not going to be easy to recover. The only item of the Special Business (Amendments to the Constitution) which caused any argument was the reduction of the annual membership fee for ordinary members to 50c. Four of the proxies and five members present voted against the Resolution, and the reduction to 50c as from 1st Jan., 1972, was carried by 71 votes to 9. All of the other resolutions were carried unanimously. This means that the Executive will now require to declare an annual subscription rate for MAKAN, which will require to be paid by all Life members and all Ordinary members as from 1st Jan., 1972. Further information on this will be published in later editions of MAKAN, with the Nov/Dec. issue advising the amount to be paid. From the information furnished in the Supplement to last issue of MAKAN it would appear that the likely amount to be fixed for the six issues to be produced in 1972 will be $1.50, but this figure is one that the Executive will require to fix towards the end of the present year after taking into account the likely costs for 1972. CHIEF CORRESPONDENT In many respects this has been a sombre sort of MAKAN so far, and the gloom has not been lightened by the news of the resignation from the office of Chief Correspondent of Mrs. Bessie Ellis. In deference to her wishes, and at her specific request, her letter of resignation to the Hon. Secretary, dated 31st March, 1971, is published in full: "It is with great reluctance that I tender my resignation as "despatcher" of the Makan after so many years of happy service to the Association. Knowing the members and their reactions so well, at least I feel I do, I think that with the new amendments, we will have greater difficulties in keeping the members we now have of staying with the Association. John is also resigning as Treasurer as the new scheme will entail more time than he or Cecilie can afford. If the new idea is to work successfully each member will have to pay his subs and subs for Makan each year. This means the making out of receipts, forwarding same and the accompanying ledger entries for approx. 350 members each year, which as you can see, will greatly increase the work load of the Treasurer. Whoever takes on the job of sending out the Makan will have to work very closely with the Treasurer because of reminder notices regarding subs owing, as I know from past experience a lot of the members are very slow sending in their money. Am very sorry to have to do this, believe me, have enjoyed every minute, but perhaps someone younger and more able to cope with the new problems will be better for the Association. My best wishes and thanks on behalf of Cec, John & myself, to you Bruce, Andy Noble the Committee members and the Association members, especially Ron Stoner who was a tower of strength to us at all times. I will now join the N.O.K. List". President Arch's letter in response stressed the sterling job performed by Bessie, Cecilie and John over such a long period, and the very great regret with which the Executive agreed to accept her resignation. In the very early days of the Association, when we were all busy moving around and settling in, the problem of establishing a central point for correspondence was solved by the late Reg Ellis (BHQ) our first Hon. Treasurer accepting direction to him of all correspondence, as well as remittances of subscriptions. It was then that Bessie commenced as Secretary to Reg, and when his health deteriorated she carried on, on his behalf, with the duties of Treasurer and Correspondent; with some assistance from her daughter, Cecilie, who had married Jack Boss (HQ Coy). With the death of Reg in December, 1957, Jack Boss was appointed Hon. Treasurer, but, as he pointed out at our recent Annual General Meeting, the whole of the work has been done by Bessie Ellis, assisted by her daughter Cecilie. Between them, they have been the Association - the one common link with all members - and the keeping of records, despatching of MAKAN and assimilation of items of news for inclusion in it, answering of correspondence and the maintenance of contact with all members has been a most important and, in many respects, an oft-time arduous duty. Replacement of one so efficient and loyal to our cause is by no means an easy task and, for the time being, Phil Schofield has agreed to combine the duties of Chief Correspondent with that of Editor of MAKAN; while Alan Pryde has taken over the duties of Hon. Treasurer. Both of them are going to need a lot of support from you all to keep the affairs of the Association proceeding along the efficient, smooth lines established by Bessie, Cecilie and John; and members are asked to note that all subs and all correspondence should in future be addressed to the new Chief Correspondent, as shown on the title page of MAKAN. It is also hoped that wives and Next-of-Kin, as well as members, will continue their regular flow of news items, without which MAKAN will find it difficult to carry on. SERVICE CORNER
ARMY
CAREER: Reg Napper - LANE COVE. 2066. ANZAC DAY - SYDNEY We had a reasonably good roll-up of members with a neat 100 marching behind Harry Riches, who came from Brunswick Heads and carried the banner in excellent fashion, and Noel Johnston, who led the Battalion. Our newly-elected Patron had the honour of leading the 8th Div., and Des Duffy led 27 Brigade H.Q. Our banner carried a black rosette at the head of the staff in memory of our late Patron, and an eyes left was accorded Lady Galleghan, who watched the march from the Legacy post at the corner of Castlereagh St. and Martin Place. Old acquaintances were renewed and some glowing tales were told at the assembly point, with the new Hon. Treasurer and the MAKAN Editor having a whale of a time collecting subs (over $100) and getting news pars for MAKAN. Firmly convinced that he couldn't physically do the march, your Editor turned up to say hello to the boys, and collect an odd spot of news, but after finding Snowy Mason and Keith Broughton manning the Aid Post, and after receiving a few shots of their special stimulant, he literally did the march on his ear. It was unfortunate that we were unable to arrange for a central meeting point for a get-together after the march, but the way groups of the boys shot through soon after reaching Hyde Park, it was evident that lots of private arrangements had been satisfactorily concluded. All in all, it was a great day. ANZAC DAY - BATHURST Our official representatives were Eric Arps and Bruce Ford, and they were ably seconded by Harry Abrahams, John Black, Sammy Hall, Allan McNickle and Doc Wilson. Thanks, chaps, for responding to our request for a slightly larger contingent than usual on the occasion of the presentation of our trophy to the R.S.L. Band. Bruce reports: We all arrived on Saturday afternoon, and completed arrangements for the ceremonies next day. On the Saturday evening we had the pleasure of entertaining Clive Osborne (President) at dinner - a most pleasing experience. All of us were in attendance at the Dawn Service on Anzac morning. The 8th Division Memorial outside the Civic Centre was dedicated as a silent memorial, but in view of the recent demise of our late Patron, it was considered appropriate that a wreath in his memory might be placed on this memorial. Following the Dawn Service, in the presence of a few interested persons, Harry Abrahams places this laurel wreath with a minimum of ceremony. Clive Osborne had indicated a desire that returned men would support the Church services on Sunday morning. John Black accompanied Clive to a most impressive ceremony at the Catholic Cathedral; while Sammy Hall, Doc Wilson, Allan McNickle and I went to Clive's Church - Presbyterian. Shades of Sammy Hall, who stated that he could not accurately remember when he had previously been in a church for an ordinary service! At the Carillon Service on Anzac morning, Eric and I had the honour of being in the first rank of the column of march. All the rest of our contingent were in the ranks, except Allan McNickle who took up a place at the Carillon. It would be hardly necessary for me to elaborate on this impressive ceremony, but I should comment on the splendid performances by the various Militia and Cadet Units. They were superb. John Black, Allan McNickle and myself went to the home of our Bathurst member, Bruce Pratt (D Coy) for luncheon after the march and Carillon ceremony, and we had him as our guest that evening. Our Bathurst hosts expressed the opinion that the attendance at the Cairn was the best they had seen. Doc Wilson placed a wreath on the 9th Div. Memorial, I responded to Councillor Locke's address, and Sam Hall recited the Ode (Clive Osborne commented that he would like to have Sammy as his "permanent Ode sayer"). At this juncture, the presentation of our trophy was made to the band by Eric Arps. It had been intended that John Black should follow up with a presentation to the winner for 1970, but unfortunately the lad was not able to be present. The band masters were delighted with the trophy - other senior bandsmen spoke to Eric in a most touching way saying how pleased they were that it was given as a trophy for the juniors, and "nothing like this has happened to the band before". I noted the following wreaths in addition to our own:- In Memory of Fred Campbell; John Arthur Sundry; F/Sgt. M. S. Brennan (No. 28 Flight Training Corps, The Chief of Air Staff), and from 9 Div. Association; R.S.L. Bathurst; Women's Auxiliary, R.S.L. Bathurst. To conclude the day, John Black and I went to the War Cemetery ceremony at 5 p.m., and we all went to the lowering of the flag at the Carillon at 6 p. m. It goes without saying that we were all overwhelmed by the reception and kindness shown to us by everyone during our visit. We are all aware of the continuing interest in our Battalion shown by the Sub Branch, the Club and the Citizens of Bathurst, and we can only repeat that they all excelled themselves on this occasion, for which we thank them all most sincerely. While it is admitted that Old Soldiers are inclined to grow a bit sentimental, no one could help but be moved by this most impressive Anzac afternoon ceremony at our Cairn. It is an annual pilgrimage, very personal and well worthy of the effort, and is commended to you all - Ed. TWO BUGLES 1943 - SHIMO SONKURAI
I heard a
lonely bugle blow 1970 - BATHURST
I heard a
lonely bugle blow Andy Hyslop. POET'S CORNER During a recent visit to R.G.H., Concord, when the place seemed to be full of 2/30th, your Editor caught up with Ted Rickards (B Coy), down for his regular check-up. Ted is a Greenkeeper with the Mungindi R.S.L Bowling Club and despite, as he put it, a very meagre schooling in his youth, he has turned to writing poetry over the last couple of years. Fiercely proud of his Aboriginal and Australian heritage, scornful of intolerance and race prejudice, and a Crusader for the Brotherhood of Man, his work is remarkable; as exemplified by the following, which was prompted by the recent remarks of some of Mungindi's citizens. As Ted recited it, your Editor scribbled it down, and trusts that he has recorded it faithfully:
Anzac. Part
of our heritage, part of our history,
Nursed and
nourished by the brave and the proud,
But these
critics could not know what life might have been,
They did
not sweat and bleed Yes, in the day's first light, when night's shadows flee and hide, We'll stand before the Cenotaph with all our dignity and pride.
We'll give
thanks to the Lord and the fallen for deliverance from War, After roaming all round Australia Changi (George) Aspinall (HQ Coy) was there. He has now come back to Sydney to live and works with O'Donnell, Griffin, Electricity Supply Building Projects Division - a division of Squire O'Donnell's mob - and, apart from a spot of eye trouble, is much the same Changi. He still carries a mass of most interesting photos which he took during P.O.W. days, and has managed to preserve in excellent condition; and still carries a camera whose shutter never seems to stop clicking. George, unfortunately, lost his wife in 1952, but was able to brag about his son (23) who is contemplating marriage, and his daughter (19). He was a sitter for a sizeable amount for subs. Ray Godbolt (D Coy), from Newcastle, didn't seem to look much different from the boy we knew in Army days. It will be recalled that his eldest son lost his life in an accident 5 years ago, but of his three remaining sons, two are married, and Grandpa Ray has two grandsons. Ray sometimes sees Don Schumacher (D Coy) who has now retired from the Tramways/Bus Dept. and is a T.P.I., but still in reasonable shape. It wouldn't be a show without some representative of our late cobber, Tommy Gardner (D Coy), turning up ; and son Jimmy had the honour for Anzac Day. Jimmy is in the R.A.A.M.C., stationed at Parramatta, and he proudly marched with us. Snowy Mason (D Coy), looking as fit as a fiddle and in between dispensing medicaments from the Aid Post, came up with the news that his family consisted of one boy (18) and one girl who is the apple of his eye (3 - born on 1st April, 1968); but that doesn't make Snowy any sort of an April Fool. Keith Broughton (HQ Coy), still as dapper as ever, also not looking much different from Army days and in between assisting Snowy at the Aid Post, could only brag of one daughter, who has done the right thing by getting married. Round about July, Grandpa Keith should be handing out cigars as well as medicaments - he sprang a few years' subs in advance on the strength of it. NEWS, VIEWS AND WHOS WHOS As may have been expected, the assembly point for the Anzac Day March, with 100 of the boys milling around, swapping stories and getting all sentimental after 25 years since discharge, provided a field day for the Editor. Our usual long distance runners, Graham McLeod, Wally Scott, Andy Hyslop and Ray Simmons were there, as well as a few others who had made the trip for the funeral on the Friday, and had stayed over for the March. Bill McKenzie (Transport B. Coy) was up from the Riverina looking, like most of us, a bit older and a bit more stooped than of yore, but looking very fit, and still carrying on with his cockying. No one has yet trapped him into marriage, but he had his niece, Mary, and her friend to greet him at Hyde Park, and take some photos. George Stephenson (HQ Coy) was up from Mollymook, to which place he went to live a couple of years ago when he retired from A.C.I. Metal Stamping Section. He has three sons, but didn't do any bragging about any grandchildren. Noel Hampton (B Coy) has come back from Ballina to live out Liverpool way (if it doesn't get too cold in the Winter) and looked very fit as he bragged about his grown-up family of two boys and one girl. One of the boys is married, and if all goes according to plan, Grandpa Noel will be handing out cigars about the time MAKAN goes to press. At 54 years of age Ack Ack Martin (HQ Coy) who hails from Jervis Bay, looked as though he could push a decent sized teak tree over, and he probably could as, believe it or not, he is still following the shows, etc., competing in wood chops; and winning upon occasions, what's more. He could only boast one boy, now grown up and long since fled the nest. Les Melrose (HQ Coy) declared he was reasonably fit, and still able to do an honest days bludging - he might even be able to knock up a tin leg or two. He boasted of two boys and one girl, but no marriages amongst the children to date. On the other hand, Peter Mason (HQ Coy) who made his usual Anzac Day appearance looking as fit as he obviously was, bragged about his family of one boy and one girl, both of whom are married and are doing the right thing by Grandpa Peter, who has two granddaughters and one grandson to date. Jim Saunderson (B Coy) wasn't the slightest abashed by that record. He came up with the information that he had three boys and one girl, all of whom are married and, despite the fact that he hadn't visited the Aid Post, he frankly admitted that he had so many grandchildren he had lost count. On the other side of the picture was John Greenway (C Coy), who hasn't even married. He reckons he is too busy looking after the famous prize gardens at Chatswood, as a member of the Council Garden Staff. Following a bit of praise about the gardens and the information that he wasn't financial, poor John was a sitter, and coughed up a few dollars quietly. Jim Walshe (HQ Coy - and note the "e" on the end of it) looked as fit as a bloke who could push a bus over with ease. Though married, in view of the boasting which had gone on, he modestly admitted that he had no family. This modesty was catching, fortunately for the Editor, who now goes around in fear of some of the Battalion personalities whom he has maligned in MAKAN. Zipper Charlton (B Coy) was there, looking as fit as a bull - at least the size of one around the girth. Although married, Zipper admitted to no children, but he vehemently declared that he was none the worse for the belting he got from Jimmy Hill. Your Editor publicly agrees with this statement - so we are cobbers again. It was a relief to catch up with Ray Donald (B Coy) who was far from bellicose and was strutting around like a pouter pigeon, with one of his boys in tow, who marched with us. Ray bragged about two sons and two daughters, of whom one son is married, and has made old Grandpa Ray the proud possessor of a couple of grandchildren. He was a bit quiet about one of his daughters, who has deserted the Army and is going into employment with the Navy. Talking of the Navy: Ron McBurney (A Coy) was there, looking as fit as any Gendarme can look, and your Editor was reminded that at Ron Stoner's farewell dinner (Mch. /Apr. MAKAN) it had finally been discovered that it was not alcoholic remorse, but contemplation of the years to come which had driven Ron into the corner. You see, his son Philip (spelt the correct way) has also deserted the Army and has joined the Navy - he is currently serving on "Perth", ferrying troops and supplies to Vietnam. In the years to come it will be good to see Big Mac pounding the beat in George Street, respectfully saluting a high-ranking Naval Officer as he strolls by escorting his mother, Enid, to some important function or other. Any one with a name like Philip (even if there's an "I" of a difference between him and the Editor) is sure to rise high in his chosen profession. Dennis Garland (B Coy) who professed to and looked like excellent physical condition could not brag about any more than twin daughters (aged 20). Unlike lots of identical twins, they have not gone together, but have shot off on independent overseas trips. One was currently in Spain when the other recently arrived in London. In the face of such affluence, Dennis was a sitter for a few years' subs in advance. Popeye (Ron) Kentwell (C Coy) is another of those "heart" types whose looks belie his real condition, and he did the March with ease. Although he gleaned the information that Popeye apparently owns half the real estate in Ballina, and that his wife was O.K., your Editor's notes do not indicate the composition of the Kentwell family - bad mark. About this time, someone came up with the information that Lofty (O.C.) Gersbach (HQ Coy) had recently re-married. Congrats, Lofty. Darkie (Bill) Douglas (B Coy) proudly owned up to three children, one of whom (a daughter) is married - her husband just having been called up for National Service. Darkie sees a bit of Curly (L.B.) Gill (C Coy) who lives at Orange. Curly had a nasty accident about 18 months ago, but has now recovered completely. Country air seems to suit the Gill family - they have two boys and three girls, some of whom are married, making the Gills grandparents - but Darkie wasn't sure of the number. Reg Napper (D Coy) was looking very dapper - and so he ought to , as he is an Instructor with the Army O.C.T.U. (Your Editor is of the opinion that Reg and Stuart Peach are the last two of the Bn. to remain serving members of the Army). In the process of knocking the trainees into shape, Reg keeps a look-out for anyone connected with his former mates. So far, he has only caught up with one - a nephew of Ron Maston (C Coy) who graduated with distinction recently. If any of you have anyone interested in an Army career, get onto Reg - he may be able to help. Jack Goodwin (HQ Coy) swore he was 100% plus, despite a lengthy period of illness with at least 20 operations for this and that. He works at Grace Bros. and his only child (a daughter) is married with one girl. Grandpa Jack celebrated by coming to light with a Life Membership sub. Doughey (G.H.) White (HQ Coy) wasn't going to be outdone by anyone, so he came to light with a Life sub, which laid your Editor in the aisles to the extent that he omitted to get Doughey's vital statistics. Doughey looked very fit, and he'll safely keep until next time. Darby Young (HQ Coy) was there looking as fit and as young as ever, and bragging about his son and his daughter (24) who is married, and is the mother of two. Grandpa Darby didn't have his clippers with him, so could not oblige with the oft-requested "short back and sides". Jack Carey (D Coy) looked as though his shadow had lengthened and widened, and there was no question about him being fit. With two girls and one boy in the family, Grandpa Jack bragged of one daughter, who is married and has two children, while the other daughter works in the Commonwealth Bank at Eastwood. Tom Helmrich (B Coy) looked very fit, and was neatly attired in the latest Van Heusen style (probably one of the perks the boss enjoys), and admitted to a family of two boys, both married, and three girls. So far Grandpa Tom can only brag of one granddaughter. Doug Blanshard (A Coy), now a Departmental Manager with Yvette Fabrics, didn't appear to be showing any signs of wear, and looked as though he could still play a game of football. With one girl (17) and one boy (14) in the family, he couldn't do any bragging about grandchildren. Another one of the younger fry present was Andy Noble (D Coy) who won't reach 50 until September next, so ought to look as fit as he declared he was. His elder daughter married only last January, so he couldn't boost the Don Coy tally in the Grandpa Stakes. His son is with the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission - currently at Menindee - and his younger daughter (16) is still at school. Lindsay Fairweather (HQ Coy) still doesn't cast such a big shadow, but he declared he was very fit. With two girls and a boy in the family, and with one of the girls married, Grandpa Lindsay was able to come up with one grandson, to help along the HQ Coy tally. One whose shadow certainly has increased was Arnie Trusler (HQ Coy), but your Editor got to talking with him and omitted to get his vital statistics. However, he looked fit, and he'll keep until next time. George Winchester (C Coy) declared he was generally O.K., and continued to work in the Accounts Section at Repat. He could only boast of two girls (23 & 21) in the family, neither of whom is yet married; and he subsequently sprang a few years' subs in advance. Alex Campbell (BHQ) still stands as high as ever, and looked very fit, but although he could boast of three sons, with the eldest 23, none is yet married; so Alex was well behind in the Grandpa Stakes. So was Ray Streatfeild (B Coy) who could brag of one girl and four boys, with the eldest at 25; but none of them is yet married. Ray looked, and declared he was fit. Darcy Pickard (B Coy), another of those "heart" jobs, reckoned he was now O.K., but admitted to letting his B Coy side down. Although married, he has no children. It was probably this lack of support which caused him to come up with a few years' subs in advance. Ernie Ross (A Coy) rallied around their banner, and proudly announced a family of two boys and three girls. One of the girls is married, and Grandpa Ernie has a grandson, in addition to the R.S.L. Life Membership badge which he received at Auburn R.S.L. for services rendered - he was Vice-Pres. for 13 years. He declared he was fit and well, and looked it. David Lloyd (C Coy) was observed amongst the throng wearing a tie of 2/29 Bn., with whom he marched, and helped swell their numbers to about one dozen. Poor David has a mixed-up allegiance. You will recall that early in the fighting he shot off on that special job, Rose Force. He finished with that just as the 2/29th were being reformed after being badly mauled in battle, and David was transferred to the 2/29th Bn. as a Company Commander. His discharge papers show him as from that Bn., so he has to do the March with a foot in both camps. He looked fit enough to be able to do that with ease. Two HQ Coy-ites, John Kreckler (fitter and fatter than ever) and Vince Leonard (still the same as of yore) were observed in deep conversation about bowls. Vince was the only one who had responded to John's suggestion about a bowls day (there had been a bit of a mix-up in the phone number in the MAKAN announcement) and they reached agreement on John's thought that it might be an idea to try and arrange a day amongst teams from units in the Division for a B.J. Memorial Trophy - which would be a simple thing, probably cantered around an empty cartridge case which John had recovered from the Firing Party at B. J. 's funeral. Vince, whose eyesight and memory are not better than your Editor's, also came up with an idea that at gatherings such as assembly points, it would be a good lurk if bowlers amongst the lads wore their name plates, and others labelled themselves. We are not getting any younger, and it would certainly make it a lot easier for most of us; and it would outwit blokes like Jack Carey, who even pop on dark glasses to disguise themselves. A welcome visitor at the assembly point was our old friend, Dr. Carl Gunther. Until he reached the retiring age he was Medical Superintendent of Lady Davidson Hospital, since when he has carried on, still doing a remarkable job, as a Departmental Medical Officer at the Grace Building. Some 500 of us can remember when we came back from the railway job and were so lousy that they segregated us at Birdwood Camp. Carl Gunther was the M.O. assigned to the task of cleaning us up, and I remember Lenny the Lieut. following his instructions to the letter, and taking a positive delight in scrubbing all the scabs off my infected scabies and other sores while I yelled and squirmed in what had initially promised to be a lovely hot bath. That treatment, plus subsequent liberal applications of Carl's palm-oil-based unctions worked miracles, and I was whole again, and my old cranky self in no time. Sure, Carl looked a bit older, but the years seem to have treated him kindly, and there are lots of good works left in him yet. Len Barnes (HQ Coy) wasn't at the March - he had come down from Cairns for the funeral on Friday, and had to get back - but it is only fair to toss him into the Grandpa Stakes, and help boost the HQ mob's tally. An extract of a letter from his wife, Honey, dated 14th March, reads:- "Len is in Sydney, just for the week-end, to attend the christening of our eldest daughter's first son. We now have three grandchildren, and two more are due this week, so we are really getting oldies - in fact our 30th wedding anniversary is tomorrow". (Congrats on both counts Ed.) Incidentally, their youngest daughter, Peita, is in the W.R.A.A.F. at present stationed at Regents Park. Amongst those whom we don't see very often, who were able to make it for the funeral, but couldn't stay on for the March were:- Johnnie Walker (BHQ) from Melbourne, looking particularly fit, casting, if anything, a larger shadow than usual; and now retired from the Army with the rank of Lieut. Col. Don (Lieut) Garner (B Coy) from Nambucca Heads very sun-tanned, a bit thin, but looking very fit. Sid Stephens (HQ Coy) from Maitland, and Scotty Harris (HQ Coy) from Awaba, both looking as youthful and as fit as they did in the Army days. Jackie Fell (B Coy) from Cessnock, slightly more rotund than when we last saw him, but very chirpy and fit none-the-less. Alan Hudson (D Coy) from Tottenham, minus his racehorse, still with a youthful bloom, and looking fit. Heck Heckendorf (BHQ) from Lockhart and Stewart Blow (HQ Coy) from Berry also both appeared to be fit and well. Neil Huntley (B Coy) from Port Macquarie of course managed both events in a fit and sprightly manner; but then he is one of our regular Long Distance Runners, and it wouldn't be normal if he were not at any important event. Then there were scores of others at the funeral who, while they don't qualify as Long Distance types, certainly march in the forefront of those we don't see very often. How long is it since you last saw Doover Brown (A Coy) or Basher Clayton (C Coy) ? Like most of our Country and travelling members, it has taken a long while to really catch up with Bruce Pratt (D Coy) but, with the contingent we had at Bathurst for Anzac Day, he was a sitter. Bruce was one of our coves who had a remarkable trip home. Wounded in the head at Gemas he eventually found himself, more dead than alive, in the Manor House Hospital. Just before the fall of Singapore, he was taken from there and bunged on a Chinese junk, which ended up in Surabaya. Things were a bit hot there, so he was transhipped, and eventually reached Ceylon; from whence he was finally sent home - sort of going from Eastwood to Ryde, via Burke. On reaching Australia, he spent 16 months in hospital, where they sneaked bits of his bone from here and there and patched up his skull; and got him in sufficient shape to be able to discharge him subsequently as fit and whole. He thereupon did a C.R.T.S. Course at the University in Civil Engineering, and after graduating as an Engineer, he worked in Rhodesia, South Africa, and spent six years in England before returning to Australia two years ago. Up to that time he had acquired a wife and two children - a boy and a girl - and one would have thought that with his odd trip home and subsequent travel he would like to stay put in one spot - he probably would. But, although his present job with the Commonwealth Dept. of Public Works, Civil Engineering, allows him to live at Bathurst, the territory under his control extends from the Queensland and South Australian borders to the edge of the Riverina in the south, and east to the Great Dividing Range; so he spends a lot of time flying around the various jobs. Having a home at Bathurst at least allows him to have his son at University and his daughter at High School. With the passing of our old friend Herbert Pratley, we were a bit concerned for the caring of our roadside Cairn, but we need not have worried. The Pratt family team (Bruce, his wife and daughter) had the Cairn in excellent condition for Anzac Day - having even repainted all the surrounds - and they have offered to take over all responsibility for the future. With an Engineer on the payroll, we are sure to overcome the slight problems we have at present regarding erosion and drainage. Thanks, Bruce and family. Unfortunately, we did not have an opportunity to see very much of our one and only Padre, Paddy Walsh, who flew down from Rockhampton for B.J. 's Funeral. He arrived on the Thursday evening, spent the rest of the night with Des Kearney, attended the funeral service at St. Clements, in which he played a part, and then had to dash off to catch the 4.30 p.m. plane back to Rockhampton. Naturally, he looks a bit older - who wouldn't 25 years after our return and at 68 years of age - but he is still the same Paddy - he even remonstrated with your editor when he eventually attempted to observe the decencies and address him, and introduce him to the other Clergy by his correct title; and Stan Arneil was kept busy after the service, wiping lipstick off his face following greetings by some of our wives. A lot of us will recall that day at Kami Sonkurai (the only Yaz – for the Prince's birthday - that we got on the line) when Paddy held an Army (Protestant) Church Service at the teak log. They hobbled up on sticks and we carried them out of the so-called hospital, and no one ever had a more intent or more appreciative congregation. As we dispersed at the conclusion of the service, your Scribe, with his usual lack of respect, and irreverence, remarked to him: "Paddy, you'll fry when the Bishop gets to hear of this": and, with that typically wistful Paddy Walsh look and expression, he replied: "Scho, I don't think HE, or the Bishop, would object". Who ever ran himself more to the point of exhaustion than he did, trying to administer to the needs of the sick and the dying - whatever their creed. But, that's our Paddy, and we love and respect him for it. Ken Parry (D Coy) was another Long Distance Runner from Brisbane who attended the funeral, but could not stay down for the March, whom we haven't seen for ages. He looked as fit as any youngster could be expected to look, and was obviously pleased to renew old acquaintances, even though under the shadow of the death of his Mother on the same day as B. J. With your new Hon. Treas and your Editor working on him, poor Ken was a sitter, and was promptly relieved of a couple of sizeable amounts for subs, a tie and donation. Jock Logan (D Coy) followed a further donation he had sent down by post, and was able to blow in at the tail end of the Annual General Meeting, and to attend the funeral the next day. He had to catch the plane back to Palm Beach, Q. forthwith, and couldn't stay for the March on Anzac Day. He looked as fit as a fiddle, with no noticeable reduction in the shadow he cast, and is still very much the same Jock we have known for 30 years. Per favour his letter to Arch Thorburn, we received some news of Garry Rickwood (C Coy) who has given up farming in England and has moved closer to London, at Hull bridge, Essex. His son, Garry, got his B.A. Hons. and is presently doing a Management Training Course, but he expects shortly go back to the Uni to do a post-graduate course, and then to pursue an academic career. With the visit to London of his nephew, who has recently won a Commonwealth Press Scholarship, his niece, a lecturer at the Teachers College, and his brother, who is now President of B. P. Alaska and visits Head Office in London frequently, Garry hopes that his proximity to London will enable him to see more of his family, and any of his mates who visit the Metropolis. After tracking him down through his sister, Jack Burke (C Coy) sent in a Life Membership sub, and gave some news of his wanderings over Australia prior to him settling down in Dalby, Q. What with polyneuritis and osteoarthritis, plus a few more, he is now a T.P.I., and more or less pinned down in Dalby. Doc Wilson received a letter from Steve Kirton (HQ Coy) who has been living in Vancouver, Canada, for some time, where he follows the occupation of a building contractor. Apart from being called Steamboat (his initials are S. S.) he was one of the very young ones who joined us, having his 18th birthday about the time we first arrived in Malaya. He obviously has some family, as he mentioned that Max, his eldest son, was married in December last, but that's as far as we got. From his letter, it would appear that Canada suffered a big freeze at the beginning of the year, which cost him a couple of months work, and had Steve exhausted, digging himself our of his house each morning. However, he seems to get by O. K. It took a while to catch up with Arthur Purdon (BHQ) who now lives in retirement at Tenambit, N.S.W. Though his wife does not enjoy the best of health (and that prevented him from attending the Funeral) Arthur declares that he is in fairly good health, and keeps himself fit and occupied with housework, gardening and gemmology - mostly carving in stone. He included a photo of a carving of the 8 Div. Memorial at Bathurst, which he had executed for B. J. and had delivered to him early this year. Both the carving and Arthur showed up A.1+ in the photo. Dexterity, of mind and hand, was always one of Arthur's gifts - he will be remembered by many of the boys who became mobile again after being fitted with limbs designed and made by Arthur and his team at the Limb Factory he set up in Changi - he had even invented the Purdon joint, which allowed the limbs to move in something like a normal fashion. A sizeable enclosure put him well in front with subs. Contact with Arthur reminded your Editor of the age stakes in the Bn. With the death of B.J., who at 74 on 11th January last was in truth the Old Man, George Ramsay, 72 on 8th January last, has assumed the mantle; followed by Len Dawson, 71 on 17th May and Arthur Purdon, 70 on 24th December last. Some of us aren't getting any younger, are we? Curly Hardman (HQ Coy) had a pretty good run for quite a while following discharge, but everything seems to have caught up with him over recent years. Following his wife's lengthy illness, necessitating extensive operative treatment, his own complaints caught up with him; and to make matters worse, Repat. refused to accept his last serious complaint as being due to War Service; and they discharged him from the R.G.H., while stating that he needed rather urgent operative treatment. At last advice he expected to be entering Royal Sydney Hospital for urgent major surgery. Jack Maclay (B Coy) had some helpful remarks to pass at the Annual General Meeting, and followed it up with a pretty sizeable donation to our funds. Thanks, Jack, for your help in both directions. Mrs. Enid McLean, widow of Ron (A Coy) wrote in from Tamworth, and sent in a donation towards publication of MAKAN. Once more we repeat that it was totally unnecessary, but her interest and generosity are very much appreciated. Ron, it will be recalled, copped it in the left shoulder at Ayer Hitam. He promptly got over that, but was unfortunate enough to get caught on "A" Force on the railway job, and eventually lost a leg at Bangkok in 1944. Even this, and rather indifferent health over the last years, did not prevent him becoming a pillar of the Kirk; and a man known for his good works in Tamworth, until his untimely death in 1969, at the comparatively young age of 47. After a lapse of a few years, we caught up again with Mick Bailey (HW Coy) who sent along subs to convert him to Life Membership. He admitted enjoying reading the odd copy of MAKAN which he managed to lay hold of, but, like his brother, Gerry, didn't give us any information about himself. He was noticed at the Gemas Memorial unveiling, and didn't appear to have anything of a major nature wrong with him. Following a bit of prodding, our Riverina Correspondent, Terry O'Rourke (C Coy) belted off a brief report, which arrived just too late for last MAKAN. Apart from his job with the Forestry Commission, Terry has been Hon. Sec. of the Narrandera Sub-Branch for the past seven terms. He reports: On 15/2 '71 the local branch of the P.O.W. Assoc. laid a wreath - Keith Mulholland (D Coy) is President, and I am Hon. Sec. About 12 of us then gathered at Keith's house for refreshments, with Keith, Les Perry (D Coy) and myself representing the Bn. Bill McKenzie (B Coy) and Vic Hamlin (C Coy) could not make it. I attended a funeral today (20/3/71) and Laurie Mountford (BHQ) from Leeton was there - he is fairly well at the moment. Keith is O.K. I have a sore leg at present - fell over and tore my shin on a pine stump - otherwise well. Les Perry works for the Commission, in our tree nursery. He is fit most days, and is a keen bowler now. He is married, with three girls. My eldest daughter, Margaret, is a 3rd Year Arts Student at Sydney Uni where she has a teaching scholarship. Son, John, started at the Sydney Water Board recently as a technician-in-training for Electrical Engineering. Jim is in 4th year and Kathleen in 1st year. No more. Regards to all - more later. Footnote: After the Anzac Day March Andy Noble was mucking around the Legacy post when he met up with a lass whom he thought he must surely know. It turned out to be Catherine, daughter of Keith Mulholland, in Sydney on holidays. She was especially looking for someone from 2/30 Bn. to convey Keith's good wishes to us all, and his regrets that he could not make either the Funeral or the March. Mrs. Marguerite Jenkins (mother of Bernie - C Coy - and a stalwart of the Comforts Fund, etc.) phoned at the end of March to advise that she had recently returned from a holiday at Hill End and Bathurst. She was not able to get out to the Cairn, so she placed a wreath in Purple and Gold flowers on the 8 Div. Memorial in Bathurst in memory of Bernie, and all those who did not return. She mentioned that Mrs. Doris Hendy (step-mother of Len - D Coy - and a "Purple and Golder") had been very ill of late, but was now home from hospital, looking very much thinner after having lost two stone in weight. Mrs. Jenkins also subsequently sent in the pictorial page of the Mosman Daily with very good photographs of B.J.'s Funeral. Mrs. Leila Hill, wife of Jimmy (HQ Coy) sent in his subs and said Jimmy is still plugging away, with his chin up as high as he can get it. We have been delighted to welcome back into the family the following, with whom we had sort of lost contact over the past few years: Changi Aspinall (HQ Coy), Nugget Crummy (BHQ), John Greenway (C Coy), Jim Webster (B Coy), Arthur Purdon (BHQ). We are anxious to get all our cobbers back into the fold, so if any of you should happen to meet up with any member of the Bn. who is not receiving MAKAN, grab his address and let us know - we'll do the rest. Lloyd Stuart's (D Coy) mother did the usual, and sent in his subs. In her covering note she advised that Lloyd has not been the best of late and has required a bit of going over by Repat; but he still manages a bit of golf now and then. Do you remember Batu Pahat, Lloyd, when you were one of that select team representing the Bn. against the locals ? Then there were the "Royal Caldecott" and "Olive Road" Golf Clubs at Caldecott, where you seemed to hold your own satisfactorily. Stan Crummy (BHQ) has moved to South Casino, and following his recent couple of heart attacks, is still unable to work. It is hoped that regular receipt of MAKAN will keep him in touch with some of his mates. Ian Pryce (D Coy) sent in an apology for the Annual General Meeting, and enclosed a sizeable donation for our funds; but didn't bother to include any news - his rude reference to your Editor is a well-known fact, so doesn't rate for news value. Sammy Hall (A Coy) came to light with his sub, plus enough "interest" to convert him to a Life Member. No news of course - not even a snide reference to your Editor, which is surprising. Perhaps Joan has reformed him. Roy King (B Coy) writing from Adamstown, with an enclosure for transmission on to Lady Galleghan, concluded with: To me, all I can say about the Old Man is "No better man shall ever be that I have ever seen". We also received a letter from Northcote, Vic., from Mrs. Margaret Phillips (daughter of our late cobber, Len Ryan - Band, BHQ) offering condolences on the loss of our late Patron and saying some very nice things about him; which we do appreciate. Thelma Simpson (wife of Jack (Curly) - B Coy) writing from Minnamurra, sent in his subs and advised that Curly has not been of the best of late, but still manages to carry on with his job with the Electricity Commission at Lalla Warra; where he has been since the building of the station first commenced. He fills in his spare time gardening and fishing and, Thelma declares, lavishing more affection on the other female in his life - his pet Mini - than he does on her. Meanwhile, Thelma finds plenty of occupation, in addition to her normal chores, with process work at home for a local manufacturer. They both send their greetings, and hope that any of the boys who happen to be in the vicinity of 42 Charles Street will call and see them. Althea Southwell (wife of Les - A Coy) sent in Les' subs, and in her accompanying letter from Braddon, A.C.T. advised that the pair of them had another overseas trip last year which included America, Canada, Hawaii, Fiji and Pago Pago. Since that wasn't quite enough, they then went back to have another look at Japan and Hong Kong, and came home through Singapore; where they visited most of the old spots, including Kranji War Cemetery. Despite bad luck with a rogue taxi driver, who mucked up their visit to the Gaol, they enjoyed the visit so much that they contemplate doing one of the 8 Div. Tours about September next. Les has not been the best over the past five months, but is now on the mend; and he and Althea seem to have developed into real globe trotters. Keith McFarlane (A Coy) from Murwillumbah is pretty regular with his subs, but his covering note contained absolutely no news - how about some next time, Keith? EPILOGUE Space precludes the inclusion of DO YOU REMEMBER and ADVERTISEMENTS, NOTICES, Etc., but if you have read this far, and you are remotely interested in statistics, you will realise that this king-sized opus contains some mention (however scant) of 137 different members of the Bn. The magnitude of events occurring since last issue has supplied your Editor with the material to achieve this, but as there are no similar events in the foreseeable future it behoves you all, particularly those who have not been mentioned in this issue, to pick up a pen, or the phone, and let your Editor have some items for next issue; which otherwise will prove to be a very slim one. Will you help? Back to 1971 index or Main Index |