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| Name: |
Juan T. Limtiaco |
| Location |
Guam island |
| Email: |
jtlimtiaco@pacifictrucking.com |
| Website: |
www.pacifictrucking.com |
| Comments: |
My father, Fred Fall, a businessman working for an Australian Corp., was captured on Guam by the Japanese forces and was sent and imprisoned in Kobe, Japan during the 2nd. world war. I have never seen him and wish to know more about him and his maternal family in the U.S.A. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks, Mr. Juan T. Limtiaco
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| Name: |
June |
| Location |
Cornwall |
| Email: |
june2567@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
My grandad was a pow on the burma railway. He died on one of the hell ships. I would like to go there for my mum. Could anyone tell me how to go about it? |
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| Name: |
Paul Norris |
| Location |
Bristol UK |
| Email: |
paul@profilecommunications.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Does anyone know anything about my father's wartime experiences? He was William Francis NORRIS,10711853, a WO2 in the RASC. All I know was that he was captured at Singapore and went on the Burma Railway. He died in 1979. Thanks if you can help. |
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| Name: |
Trish Ware |
| Location |
Albany WA |
| Email: |
tfware@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
My father was Nigel John Sheedy a pow on the Burma Thai railway and also worked on the coal mines in Japan Fukuoka Camp no. 24. If there is anyone who might have details on my father I would appreciate you getting in contact with me |
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| Name: |
Terry Lyons |
| Location |
Windsor, Ontario Canada |
| Email: |
terrylyons@cogeco.ca |
| Comments: |
My late father was one of the men from the British Army that helped build the Bridge on the River Kwai.
If there is anyone out there that remembers Terry Lyons or any of their families, please contact me at terrylyons@cogeco.ca |
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| Name: |
Nicole White |
| Location |
Sydney, Australia |
| Email: |
nicole_white@live.com.au |
| Comments: |
I am the granddaughter of Eric Stanley "curly" Wright.
He was a PoW in Malaya, but he never spoke of this or his part in the war.
As my own Dad has also passed on, I am seeking info on his for my own sons, so they can fully appreciate their heritage and learn what a legend their Grand-Pop was.
Thank you Peter for a wonderful website.
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| Name: |
Nadeem Gul |
| Location |
Pakistan |
| Email: |
nadeem_gul25@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I want to search my step brother in japan, my late father remain prisioner in second world war in japan any my father got marrige there my late father name is Taj Muhammad. after release my father come back and also got marrige here i havethe picture of my father with his brother in law in japan of that time i can provide this picture
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| Name: |
carol vickers |
| Location |
bolton lancs |
| Email: |
madgran1@virginmedia.com |
| Website: |
none |
| Comments: |
been trying to find info and records of pows in kanburi my grandad was there but died in 1943. he is in war graves cemetry.he was in the loyals.from lancs in the reconnosience corp. would be grate full for any info.
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| Name: |
Stephen Coutts |
| Location |
Glasgow |
| Email: |
press.tdt@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi there, this is an excellent site.
My grandfather was a Japanese POW for the last two-and-a-half years of WWII. It is believed he worked on the Death Railway.
Corporal Hugh Cole [sometimes Coll due to his Irish accent], no 6983819, Royal Engineers. Served in Hong Kong-Singapore and Burma.
Pictures depict him with an ANZAC hat and there are thoughts he may have volunteered as a Chindit [if not captured at the above].
Any information would be helpful.
Keep up the good work.
And is there a contact in Japan to write to regarding his whereabouts between 1942-45?
Thank you all for your help and good luck in your quests. |
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| Name: |
kassie miller |
| Location |
esperance |
| Comments: |
i just wont to thank the solders who gave thier lives for us |
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| Name: |
Andrew Taylor |
| Location |
Darwin |
| Email: |
a.ltaylor@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, My great uncle Edward Harris Taylor service number NX35343 served in the 2/19 battalion in singapore and was killed on the 15th of Feb 1942. He was doing the same job as John Bell was doing,as far as I know.If some one could shed some light on this matter it would be greatly appreciated.
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| Name: |
Dawn Kitching |
| Location |
Barnsley, South Yorkshire |
| Email: |
dawnkitching07@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I am researching my family tree and know that my grandfather albert parker was a pow in a fukuoka camp.
I have no idea which one, all we have is a postcard saying he was well and that his thoughts were with his family. I am trying to find out what regiment he was in but am not having much luck. Can anyone help? My mum was only a baby when he went so doesnt remember anything about him and as with other families it wasn't talked about till its too late. |
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| Name: |
Jody Bradshaw |
| Location |
Western Australia |
| Email: |
greenacres3002@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
My uncle was in the 2/1 australian heavy battery in 1942. All that is known is he became missing on the 20 of February 1942 somewhere in Timor. His name was wx14453 Gunner John Gauld. If anyone knows what happened to this unit please email me to help put some minds at rest. |
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| Name: |
Michael E Nellis |
| Location |
Cumbria England |
| Email: |
michael.nellis@talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
Thank you for what you have done with 'Freeing the Demons'. I hope the contents of the CD have given you more food for thought and to sort out! [Possibly people seeking information about the POW's from the UK could consider contacting Ron Taylor at www.fepow-community.org.uk, where I am sure someone will be pleased to help them in their searches.] A Brilliant site Peter and a pleasure to count you as a friend. Keep up the good work, hope to meet again one day. Regards, Mike
[PS "We will Never Forget them" - You can count on it!] |
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| Name: |
Clifford Reddish |
| Location |
Nottingham UK |
| Email: |
clifford.reddish@ntlworld.com |
| Website: |
www.cliffordreddish.eu |
| Comments: |
I would like to put a link from my website to yours - perhaps you may be interested in my site. I am 90 years old and a former Japanese POW my web site is a readable story of my experiencies after my capture in Singapore. |
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| Name: |
linda molles |
| Location |
nsw australia |
| Email: |
steelefamily1@live.com |
| Comments: |
Great site trying to find info on my grandfather who was said to be prisoner of war in 1941or42 all my relo's are gone now so I have no one to get info off his name was Phillip Henry Curle he was in 2/18 bat service num; nx33041 enlisted June 1940 Paddington NSW he was dicharged Sep 44 so if any one has any info I would greatly appreciate any scrap of info thanks so much |
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| Name: |
Alan Ratnage |
| Location |
UK Essex |
| Email: |
michaela_saunders@sky.com |
| Comments: |
My great uncle, Thomas EMERY died at Chungkai on 19/01/44. He served with 155 Field Regiment ( The Lanarkshire Yeomanry) RA. Does anyone have any knowledge of Tom.
Regards,Alan.5 |
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| Name: |
Judy Selby-Boothroyd |
| Location |
cornwall |
| Email: |
jjudysb@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I would like to find out where my uncle was held prisoner. He was captured in Singapore on 14th Febuary 1942 his name was David John Dewsnap he was a sargent in the RA he survived his internment but was very damaged by his experiences. Please could some one tell me I would like to leave his story for my grandson along with my uncles medals. My uncle died in 1981
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| Name: |
Philippa Deane |
| Location |
London |
| Email: |
pdeane@macmillan.org.uk |
| Comments: |
My father Barry Deane was captured by the Japanese on 25 Dec 1940 and from Hong Kong sent to Japan for slave labour on dockyards. Born in 1911, he died in 1998. Would anyone know him? |
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| Name: |
Philippa Deane |
| Location |
London |
| Email: |
pdeane@macmillan.org.uk |
| Comments: |
My father Barry Deane was captured by the Japanese on 25 Dec 1940 and from Hong Kong sent to Japan for slave labour on dockyards. Born in 1911, he died in 1998. Would anyone know him? |
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| Name: |
Peter Winstanley |
| Location |
Perth Western Australia |
| Email: |
pgwinstanley@cambraivillage.com.au |
| Comments: |
I am the website owner. Around the end of April or early May I received 2 e-mails from the USA regarding POW's. These e-mails were accidently deleted. Could I ask for them to be resent.
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| Name: |
Ann |
| Location |
Sydney |
| Email: |
ann-marie.slattery@det.edu.nsw.gov.au |
| Comments: |
My Uncle was on 'the Changi road' as we were told. He married my aunt or rather she married him against the advise of his family. He was so damaged by his time as a prisioner. They had four sons,my cousins who I barley know. My memory of this Uncle is one of a kind man who was trapped in the war, coming out for brief periods, He was so sad.We are sad that we were unable to know the man he was before this terrible war. Thank-you for this web site, I have tried for many years to find out anything about my uncles history. His name was Gray Edmundson (guessing at the spelling, I only knew him as Uncle Gray, and only heard the surname once or twice) I no longer have contact with his sons so cannot check all other relatives are too old to ask (to painful) or dead. Thanks again |
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| Name: |
Alison Emmett |
| Location |
Adelaide SA |
| Email: |
aem02457@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
My uncle Bruce Gibbins (from Adelaide) was a gunner in 1 squadron and taken prisoner on Java. Is there a record of which camp? He was lost at sea on the Tamhoko maura on 24/6/1944 |
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| Name: |
Rance Jurevwicz |
| Location |
Highland, CA |
| Email: |
admin@veteranprograms.com |
| Website: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com |
| Comments: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com
Websites like this is a great service to veterans. Please continue with your outstanding work. We have added a link to your site on our monthly newsletter. Also, veterans who need information on the latest compensation news, compensation announcements, and compensation developments, please visit our website today. Also, have you ever had hard time of trying to reach your VA primary care physician? Sick of voice mails? Tired of getting the run-around when you call the VA? The new VA Locator service at U.S. Veteran Compensation programs will save you time, money and aggravation. Try it today!
http://www.veteranprograms.com
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| Name: |
Glenda Blair |
| Location |
StHelens Tasmania |
| Email: |
kbl4105@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
My wonderful Dad was a prisoner of war in Changi ,He is Roland Jetson known as Bill. I recently had the great privelege of attending a memorial at Greens Beach for the 2/40th. Of the only ten that are still alive, six of these wonderful men were in attendance. Their stories will never be forgotten, as we are so very proud of them we will always tell their stories. What brave amazing men they were, and still are.My Dad will be 90 on the 8-5-210, and is still an amazing, gentleman. |
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| Name: |
Ian Williams |
| Location |
Norwich, UK |
| Email: |
ilw1167@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
Grandfather (Max) and Great Uncle (Donald) operated a wireless set through Changi, Chunkai, Tamakan and Canburi. Mother Alison and Grandmother Vi were evacuated to Perth WA on the Narkunda. Wonderful to have found reference to my grandfather and his brother's contributions. |
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| Name: |
Ginger |
| Location |
Michigan |
| Email: |
lavertys@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I am looking for any family of J. Buchanan. I have a pair of chopsticks with this engraved on them:
1942 Thailand (Buchanan J), Japan 1941,1942 P.O.W. 1945 ( Buchanan J.), Milaya 1937. If any one can help me get these to the correct family, I would be thankful. These were my fathers, and I feel they should be with the correct family. |
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| Name: |
Ray Wooster |
| Location |
WOOLGOOLGA NSW |
| Email: |
ray.wooster@costaexchange.com.au |
| Website: |
ray.wooster@costaexchange.com.au |
| Comments: |
My late uncle NX47892 Pte Lionel Victor (Vic) Kearns AAMC 10 Aust Gen Hosp born Carrington NSW 21 Jan 1920 was like many captured with the fall of Singapore. Vic spent the remainder of his services as a POW, was in Changi from February 42 until August 43 and then sent with "L" Force to the railway in Thailand
Apart from a few whispered words from his younger brother, about escape and recapture nothing is known.
Vic never ever spoke a word of his service and during my family history research I stumbled upon his service records. I now know why.
Does anyone with information on L Force or 10 AGH they could share?
Cheers
Ray Wooster
ex RAAMC
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| Name: |
Carole Dixon |
| Location |
England |
| Email: |
caroledixon06@talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
Further to my previous request, I have added my email address in the hope that someone out there can give me some answers about my Father, Leonard Frank Tyler who was captured in the Second World War. |
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| Name: |
Carole Dixon (formerly Tyler) |
| Location |
England |
| Website: |
talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
My father, Leaonard Frank Tyler Army No: 7602305 was a POW in Ranau Camp, Batavia, Java. He was there from 1942 until his release. Can anyone tell me about this camp and did anyone know him? He never spoke about his experiences up to his death in 1986. |
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| Name: |
Betty Knight |
| Location |
Adelaide SA |
| Email: |
sparnonbetty@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
My dear uncle Frank Knight was taken prisoner after the fall of Singapore. He went missing 8th April 1942. On 29 Dec 1943 he was interred in Thai camp and then on 23 June 1945 was a prisoner at Fukuoka camp. He was the best uncle always happy but it never ceased to amaze me that this beautiful man of such small stature, being only 5 feet tall, how on earth he survived the atrocities that were meted on them.
It has taken so long to find a site so dedicated to those amazing men. Thank you so much |
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| Name: |
Colin O'Brien |
| Location |
Grapevine Texas |
| Email: |
covcity007@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather Patrick A O'Brien 155th Lanarkshire Royal Artillary.
He never talked about his imprisonment and I am now only finding out how horrific the 4 1/2 years of hell he went through was. He worked on the Burma railway as a labourer as did many of the captives, If any one can give me any information on this subject I will be very greatfull.
Also thier is charity COFEPOW that also has been very great.
Iam trying to find out what prisobn camp he was in?
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| Name: |
Roland Torrens |
| Location |
Canberra, Australia |
| Email: |
rolandtorrens@internode.on.net |
| Comments: |
My wife's great uncle BRIG Duncan Maxwell kept a diary whilst a POW in Changi, Formosa and Manch He kept a diary throughout the period it was transcribed by Glenn McIntyre does anyone know wher I can get a copy |
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| Name: |
Deane Thrower |
| Location |
Goulburn |
| Email: |
deanoaimee@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Hi, im researching my grandfather Maple John Leicester Thrower and his service within the 2/19th. I have limited information on him, to date i know he was a part of Rose Force and was a POW in Fukoka-22-Honami when he was released. Im hoping that you may have some records as he died in 1967. Thankyou |
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| Name: |
Web Site Owner |
| Location |
Perth Western Australia |
| Email: |
pgwinstanley@cambraivillage.com.au |
| Comments: |
This was extracted from YouTube comments.
WELLBRAN:
Thank you for all involved in these clips, recording history for future generations, please do not loose these footages! I found it interesting having never been able to talk to my father in depth on his own experiences, as in our house it was a taboo subject. And then he died so young just when I was old enough to maybe start to ask him as an adult or man to man what happened to him and get it down in writing or cassette tape (at that time) That's why I have made my own clip for him, and plan another in the future when I have time and inspiration. Once again thanks, also to the young lad here who commented before me, well done to take interest in this. As a small boy I always thought my Dad story and people like him should be heard and told. As in many cases I have heard that these stories are hardly believed by others.
PREVIOUS COMMENT:
TheProudAussie -Cheers for the uploads. I may be young (16) but I really enjoyed the interview? with Bill Fitch.
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| Name: |
Laurie Harvey |
| Location |
Perth |
| Website: |
www.anzacheropolicelegend.com |
| Comments: |
I am after information regarding WX10822 Corporal Lawrence John Harvey of the 2/4th machine gun battalion. I wish to know which work camp Lawrence was in after the fall of Singapore and before being transported to Japan on the Rakuyo Maru.
Lawrence was lost at sea when the Rakuyo Maru was sunk by a US submarine in 1944.
Any help would be vital to family history.
Thanks to all involved with this terrific web site.
Regards
Laurence Harvey. |
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| Name: |
James C |
| Location |
Portsmouth, England |
| Comments: |
I never cease to be amazed at what these guys went through and am eternally grateful to them. |
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| Name: |
Melanie Talbot |
| Location |
South Africa |
| Email: |
jtalbot@futurenet. |
| Comments: |
Can anyone help? I am looking for any information on my grandfather Jan Wilhem Onink he was a pilot in the Dutch East Indies and was captured around 1942. I have no idea what camps etc he went to and am wanting to find out. Thank you |
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| Name: |
Mrs Lyn Kinsella |
| Location |
Purfleet Essex |
| Email: |
lynkinsella@aol.com |
| Comments: |
I'm trying to find the name of the POW camp my Dad was in during ww2 but I don't know how to go about it. Can anybody give me any advice please, thank you. |
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| Name: |
Ash Dixon |
| Location |
Perth, WA |
| Email: |
ash1972@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
This site and Lt Col Peter Winstanley are a blessing to the memory and the history of these brave POW's.
My Grandfather is Sapper Dixon 2/4 CCS who helped make the surgical equipment and artificial legs in 55 kilo camp and others. I am keen and eager to know more about not only my Grandfather and his time within the camps but also the brave Surgeons and work undertaken such as Lt Col Thomas Hamilton and Lt Col Albert Coates. If l can assist or help anyone please feel free to drop me a line.
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| Name: |
David Hope |
| Location |
Singapore |
| Email: |
davidahope@gmail.com |
| Website: |
www.singaporeevacuation1942.com |
| Comments: |
I am researching the evacuation ships of Singapore and am particularly interested in any information related to the sinking of the Kuala and the Tien Kwang off Pompomg Island on the 14th of February 1942. My website is http://www.singaporeevacuation1942.com |
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| Name: |
Arthur Wallace |
| Location |
Canberra Australia |
| Email: |
annevla@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Im looking for anyone who knows any jnfo about Bertie and Mamie Bell - Bertie was the Shipyard Manager of the Taikoo Dockyard during WW 2- POW at Changie we think. - |
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| Name: |
Brian Bevan |
| Email: |
bevanb@dodo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Tracing family history, I found my uncle (Sgt) Fred Bevan was one of the 2/3 Motor Ambulance Convoy. This site gave me a real perspective of him during WW2. |
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| Name: |
Rance Jurevwicz |
| Email: |
admin@veteranprograms.com |
| Website: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com |
| Comments: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com/id194.html
Happy New Year! We love this website. It has been very helpful for our members. Also, our members tell us that our website is the best place for veterans to find information about compensation, pension and benefits for veterans. We have been told that VSOs now recommend that veterans visit our website first before filing a claim. Veterans learn about the process, who to see, where to go, and how to maximize their disability claims. Visit today!
http://www.veteranprograms.com/id194.html
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| Name: |
Glen Barwick |
| Location |
Nowra, NSW |
| Email: |
glenjan42@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
My Father, Leslie Jones Barwick 2/20 Battalion was a prisoner at the Naoetsu camp. He died of his war injuries in June 1983. "Lest we Forget". "Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it"
Thanks for this resource. GB |
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| Name: |
Peter Winstanley |
| Location |
Perth Western Australia |
| Email: |
pgwinstanley@cambraivillage.com.au |
| Comments: |
Does anyone have maps of the POW Camps at Nakhon Nayok or Phitsanaluk which were occupied by POWs in 1945.
Three doctors were in Phitsanaluk, They were Captain Jim Marks (RAMC) Captain Tom le Gay Brereton (AAMC) and LT Poh (SSVF) |
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| Name: |
David Auker-Howlett |
| Location |
Mitcheldean, England |
| Email: |
daukhow@fsmail.net |
| Comments: |
My Grandfather was a Pharmacist in Kuala Lumpa
he was captured and held prisoner working on the burma railway, as many ex pows he did not speak much about his experiences, i am looking for any information on his internment as i am compiling family history for a future book. His name was William "BILL" Auker-Howlett. |
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| Name: |
Justine Stavris |
| Location |
Melbourne, Australia |
| Comments: |
My Great-Aunt, Jessie Duijm (nee Burlage), turned 100 years old on November 30th. Jessie is of Dutch-Indonesian descent and was interned in Japanese POW camps on Soerabaja in Indonesia as was her husband "Tjeerd Duijm". Tante Tita (as we affectionately call her), has not recounted much of her experiences as a POW however, given that her mind is 100% intact, I will make it my mission to find out more from her before it is too late. |
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| Name: |
j.k.pattnaik |
| Location |
india |
| Email: |
jajatikeshari56@gmail.com |
| Website: |
do not know |
| Comments: |
My father Late D.C.Pattnaik SR 773871{ Hav/SH},54 supply issue section{cnverted to 13 Indian composite platoon} 1st Indian Infantry Brigade,23 Indian Division REASC served in Burma,Singapore,Malay,Java,Sumatra{Indonasia} in 2nd World war under S.E.A.C. He was Mentioned-in-Despatches vide London Gazzette 27 Sept 1945{Supplimentary}. Received Jangi Inam,1939-45 War Medal 2nd WW Medal,Burma Star,received a japanese sword as personal war trofy. He was once made POW by Japanese Army wherein many of his co-soldiers were butchered, but later escaped by killing the Japnese sentry. Many times he was refering his Commandant Capt O.S.Knowles of 54 Supply Issue Section. I need his service records & need to know the whereabout of Capt Knowels, if dead, the address of his family. |
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| Name: |
Yolanda |
| Location |
Vic, Aust |
| Email: |
yollielyons@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Is there anyone who knew a Wolter Tammo Otten a POW sent to Japan to work in tin mine? |
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| Name: |
paul nice |
| Location |
nottingham, england |
| Email: |
nicep@fsmail.net |
| Comments: |
my grandad survived batu-lingtang camp as a joiner and some of his handywork is still standing and im looking to travel to witness this. has anyone been and if so have you any information
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| Name: |
Nick E. Diemel |
| Location |
Oregon USA |
| Email: |
ndiemel@chesx.com |
| Website: |
www.diemel.name |
| Comments: |
Hello, My name is Nick Diemel, my father was in the Changi prison camp and died there during the war in 1945. His name was Nicholaas F.J. Diemel , Ldst. Sergt. 1st kl. KNIL. I wonder if any one has pictures or lists of names of some of the Dutch KNIL soldiers? I would be greatful to get any information that is out there. I myself was in the Ambarawa japanese prison camp in Java during the war, with my family.
Thanks for this great website!
Best Regards,
Nick Diemel
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| Name: |
Allan Bell |
| Location |
Adelaide |
| Email: |
Taksin1999@windowslive.com |
| Comments: |
I happened upon your article about Jack Troedel and his mate Nugget Coombs (SX10134) in Changi together. Nugget was my step-father and passed away on 23-01-93 at the age of 74 after a couple of strokes and bouts of cancer.
I can remember my mother talking about meeting Jack at an R.S.L reunion many years ago.
My mother Yvonne died in 2005.
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| Name: |
Gerry Roosen |
| Location |
Australia |
| Email: |
bonjelina@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
After a recent visit to the war graves at the river Kwia we discovered a dutch soldier with the same last name as mine, It mite be a shot in the dark but he may be a distant relitive. My Grand parents and there children fled Holland after the war. My grandfather told us about how was involved in the dutch under ground but he never mentioned anything about any other relitives in the war, the soldier was A.J.Roosen, can some wone give me advice on how to research this further. |
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| Name: |
Frazer Kirkham |
| Location |
Scotland |
| Email: |
fraz40@msn.com |
| Website: |
fraz40@msn.com |
| Comments: |
I have visited Hellfire pass, the bridge on the Kwia, and the war graves at Chungkai, Kanchanaburi, where my great uncle died...Signalman James T Watt 2333800, aged 25, Dec 31st(New years Eve) 1943"A Son Of Strathaven,Lanarkshire, Scotland" making the railway is buried.
This is a beautiful part of Thailand, but to think our boys were made to suffer like they did!, unthinkable what they endured." At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them"
God bless them! x
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| Name: |
Rance Jurevwicz |
| Email: |
admin@veteranprograms.com |
| Website: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com |
| Comments: |
FYI: This is a very informative website. Keep up the great work. Also, if any veteran is looking for “inside secrets” to benefits and compensation please visit http://www.veteranprograms.com/id1070.html. The website is the most comprehensive stop on the Internet. Veterans can learn everything they need to know about getting what they have earned. The website also lists VSOs who will help veterans. |
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| Name: |
Ann Lockett |
| Location |
Mindarie (Perth) |
| Email: |
annlockett@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I applaud and thank you for the vital work you are doing Peter. |
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| Name: |
jim mc daniel |
| Location |
new orleans |
| Email: |
jamesmetairie@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
my cousin, john wisecup usmc was a survivor of uss houston and death railroad. his take on "survival factor = when your # comes up there ain,t no way around it. |
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| Name: |
Jeff Milne |
| Location |
Mildura |
| Email: |
jmmilne@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Peter, thanks for being the catalyst to get dad's (Lex Milne VX39668) story about Timor, Java, Singapore and finally The Sumatra Railway told. This is an experience of POWs about which little is known. I had heard snippets over the last 50 years but to have it recorded for future generations is great. |
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| Name: |
Jan R Hein |
| Location |
Sweden |
| Email: |
casanunda@bredband.net |
| Comments: |
Currently researching my roots and found my grand mothers brother Gerrit Kappert died as a POW of the Japs.....
I have all respect for this great research that has been done here. |
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| Name: |
seadoo |
| Location |
Ky. |
| Comments: |
I found a web site that has a complete lists of names of POW camps and the names of all POWs there . Go to www.mukdenpows.org. If you cannot get to this link, just type inmukdenpows.
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| Name: |
Sally Dingo |
| Location |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
moonshield@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Wonderful and respectful website. Thank you.
I am searching for my father's story. He was Sgt Max Butler of 2nd/40th Battalion. Tasmanian. Captured in Timor. imprisoned in Thailand. I believe he was NCO of Australian group on Mergui Road tragedy and assisted many men. He died in Jan. 1966. I would appreciate any information whatsoever. |
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| Name: |
Rodney Bennett |
| Location |
Gladstone QLD |
| Email: |
bben3418@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
G'day, my grandfather Joseph Bennett (QX23248, 2/19 Battalion) spent 3.5 years as a POW 1941 to 1945 and I am trying to find out what POW camps he was in. He did spend some time at the Outram rd Jail singapore and thats all the information I have. Does anybody know if there is a roll call of the camps?
Thanks |
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| Name: |
john omeara |
| Location |
melb |
| Email: |
ihatecarlton@msn.com |
| Comments: |
i wonder if any body knew of a Jack Gaskett i think he was in the twenty second reg ?he served in Borneo. i be wrapped if any old digger new him please email me if you have any pic or info
john |
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| Name: |
john |
| Location |
melb |
| Email: |
ihatecarlton@msn.com |
| Comments: |
a search engine on this site would be a great help,in looking up names |
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| Name: |
Audrey |
| Location |
Florida |
| Email: |
dacamcfly@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
My Mother that was Dutch, was in a camp in Indonesia. She shared very little with us. Now as an adult and with my Mom gone, I have been reading everything I can to learn what she must have experienced. Does the name Irvine Nabilcy or Irvine Wiggers ring a bell to anyone? |
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| Name: |
John Fragomeni |
| Location |
Rotary Club of Mt Lawley |
| Email: |
John.fragomeni@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Hello Peter, With apologies for the delay, I write to thank you for you talk to our Rotary Club recently. In your Anzac Day address to us, you brought to life a lot of people, names, places, situations and events and tied them together to give specific meaning to a very significant part of our recent history.
You obviosly know your stuff, but you are more than just another historian. You are passionate about your subject and I for one am moved that you are able to tie it together as you have done.I believe we have a need to raise awareness among our youth of events such as these, and of the impact they have had on the development of our national psyche. Through your work, you are doing just this!
Many members of the Rotary Club have spokebn to me since your address and have indicated how deeply moved they were by your address.
Again I thank you for your time with us and the message you shared on the night. Please keep up the good work.
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| Name: |
keely reid |
| Location |
three springs W.A |
| Email: |
cuddlebud11@hotmail.com |
| Website: |
pows-of-japan.com |
| Comments: |
hi my name is keely
i have started a history challenge in
carnamah district high school and im doing jack thorpe
ive looked at this website and read the whole lot
i have had some laughs and have gotten a lot of infomation so i think this would really help my project |
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| Name: |
Tina M. |
| Location |
Fredericksburg, Texas |
| Email: |
tina@ctesc.net |
| Comments: |
This site is awesome. My Dad was a POW from 11/41 to 6/45 in Fukuoka No. 2. He passed away 2 1/2 weeks ago and I miss him so. He didn't talk much about his experience. I am interested in any and all info I can get. I am his youngest and only daughter. |
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| Name: |
Rance Jurevwicz |
| Email: |
info@veteranprograms.com |
| Website: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com |
| Comments: |
We love this web site. Like ours, it offers a lot of information that veterans can use. Have you seen the new 2009 Presumptive List of service-connected conditions? If not, visit http://www.veteranpograms.com to learn what benefits veterans can get today. |
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| Name: |
Sgt Ian Cook |
| Location |
Adelaide |
| Email: |
redgate2008@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
This Book has left me feeling shame and Guilt, because I am RAAMC, and knew nothing of these men. An absolute must for all up and comming Military Doctors and Health Services Pers.
Demonstrates the worst and best in Man, but most of all pays overdue homage to a group of men, who have been lost in the black hole of Military and they deserve better. If you see the book grab it with both hands a box of tissues and enjoy
Sgt I. Cook
R.A.A.M.C
Honour the Dead
Fight like Hell For the Living |
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| Name: |
Robert Brokenmouth |
| Location |
Adelaide |
| Email: |
brokenmouth@internode.on.net |
| Comments: |
Peter, it was a privilege to meet you today. The internet is chockas with pointless sites and a storm of dopey data. It is my hope that your site will continue for decades to come; the one thing life has taught me is that human nature just doesn't change. Contact me if you want a copy of that film on the Japanese in Manchuria. Fabulous site. |
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| Name: |
Audrey |
| Location |
Buderim Queensland |
| Email: |
esh55662@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
I found your site by chance and I am very impressed with the volume of information it has amassed. Great work.
My interest is in the P.O.W. camp in Borneo where my uncle, Gunner David Roy Shaw was interned after the fall of Singapore. His service number was QX15018. He joined up in Gympie Queensland and Died as a result of inflamation of the bowel 1945.If anyone has further information I would be pleased to hear. |
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| Name: |
Jacqui Durtanovich |
| Location |
Perth, Western Australia |
| Email: |
jacquidurtanovich@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
What a wonderful site. I am researching my family and have come across 3 photos of Changi Prison, 1 of the cells, 1 of the 4th Floor of the Civilian Gaol and 1 of the hospital huts. The backs of the photos have been written on by my Great Uncle Roy DAVID who came from Scotland. I don't know anything more about him other than he lived in Glasgow and had also been sent to America following the war to recuperate before being sent home. I don't know if anybody out there would have known of him but I felt it was worth a try to see if I could find any information. Thank you |
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| Name: |
simon roberts |
| Location |
mullumbimby,NSW |
| Email: |
roberts.simon3@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I'm Sir Albert Coates' eldest grandchild. Iknew him while I was an uncontrollable larikan, but only within the last decade or so have I shown an intense interest in his heroics. I would like to know more |
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| Name: |
Shirley Martin |
| Location |
Dawesville Western Australia |
| Email: |
samsongmau@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Harold Martin is now 92 and lives in Albany Western Australia he was mentioned several times in the article concerning Bill Armit. and recently visited the grave sites of his mates on the Burma railway.
He recently travelled to San Francisco where he visited the Submarine the Pampanito which is moored in SanFrancisco as part of the Museum. He is still quite fit and able to climb down the subs ladders and through the tight spaces. The Sanfrancisco Chronicle under the heading Harold Martin. has a peice written about him and can be found on the internet google if you would like to read his story. Harold has been reticent about his experiences during the war until recently. I have printed off a copy of the Artcle concerning Bill Armit and posting it to Harold. I hope this will help folk searching for answers Regards
Shirley ph 08 95823252 |
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| Name: |
Jeff M. |
| Location |
BC, Canada |
| Comments: |
My wife's late Grandfather, Charles Constantine was UK Army signal corp, taken prisoner in Singapore. He survived his time in the hands of the Japanese only to learn his job was gone when he got back because he volunteered rather than wait for conscription. Disgusted they left England for Canada. I have documents, letters, and some photographs but would like to hear from you if his name rings a bell. Thanks. My email is jmoncalieri (at) shaw (dot) CA |
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| Name: |
Luhsun |
| Location |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
Luhsi@yahoo.co.uk |
| Website: |
http://au.geocities.com/fokkersmountainpat |
| Comments: |
Hello, My grandfather helped run Smokey Joe's cafe in Changi. Piet Bakker. It was run to raise money to feed the Dutch troops. At the time he was in his late 40's. He never told us about changi. As a kid I had a traumatic time learning to swim breaststroke from him because that's how he swam up a river in Java to blow up a bridge. If anyone knows any stories about Smoky Joe's please send them to me. |
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| Name: |
Alison Phillips |
| Location |
Portsmouth Hampshire U.K |
| Email: |
florid_persona@rocketmail.com |
| Comments: |
My beloved great-uncle Leonard Daughtrey was a P.O.W . captured in Singapore in 41. He was in anti-tank , and from a village called Emsworth near Portsmouth. He lived on to be 86 , only passed away only 4 years ago . I just took a trip today to visit his widow. He was a very amazeing person , and although troubled by the past , he had great humanity , and a love of the natural world thatv he passed on to me . Thankyou for this site , and i wish any surviving members all the very best. With love and thanks , for all your increadable stories of survival and courage X
P.S I know he was at Kanu 2 |
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| Name: |
P Tripcony |
| Location |
UK |
| Email: |
Tripcony@aol.com |
| Comments: |
This is a new site to me on the internet so was pleased to find it. My father was not on the Dreaded railway but was a signalman on HMS Exeter sunk 1st march 42 during the battle of the Java sea.
He was in the sea for 36hrs and picked up and taken to Makassar POW camp for 6mths after was transported to Nagasaki Japan, fukuoka camp 2b and worked in the shipyards as a riveter, many perished in the winter months there, but Dad survived until the A bomb dropped, one of the few westerners to witness the bomb from the ground, He died aged 52 in 1974 we are convinced the A bomb was to blame for his early death...try telling that to the MOD..a joke.Here is a link to my Video clip on youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hF-Tast2Ua8
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| Name: |
John Lenehan |
| Location |
Sydney NSW |
| Email: |
john.lenehan@optus.com.au |
| Website: |
na |
| Comments: |
Peter, it’s hard to express my gratitude in the effort you have gone to tell the John Chalmers story, and indeed, all the stories of these wonderful, compassionate and brave souls. I was reading various excerpts to my wife Sue and when I got to the account of the doctor’s death you quoted from Bamboo and Bushido, I was unable to continue and had to let her read it herself. Tears welled up in her eyes as well. Her Dad Ted (Merton Villiers Clarendon) Harridge and uncle Leonard James Harridge were also Changi POWs. Both wonderful men.
Through your hard work, interviews and research, piecing together first hand accounts, John Chalmers has had his story told, 64 years later. You may not feel this presently, weighed down with trying to complete these works, but what you have done in is more than historical, it has created what I consider to be a sacred memory.
My mother was the youngest sister of Mary, John’s wife. She recalls John as a happy and compassionate man, always willing to go the extra mile for his patients and his friends. This is confirmed by the many excerpts in the article. She died in 2006, not long after I corresponded with you, and would be thrilled that this story has been told. I hope one day to ensure this article gets to any descendants of John, who, I understand, was survived by a sister.
I am indebted to you for your hard work.
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| Name: |
Charles Evans |
| Location |
Victoria |
| Comments: |
A very interesting website. Must have taken lots of research. I never knew there were so many doctors on the line. How about more info on the orderlies who assited the doctors.
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| Name: |
simon a roberts |
| Location |
mullumbimby NSW |
| Email: |
roberts.simon3@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
I'm Sir Albert Coates's 1st. Grandchild. I'm a Christian and I believe that even though he never spoke much of his faith; nonetheless that is what saw him through that horror. |
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| Name: |
Marshall Gass |
| Location |
Auckland New Zealand |
| Email: |
marshall.gass@xtra.co.nz |
| Comments: |
My Dad, James Patrick Gass served in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Burma between 1939 and 1944) and was discharged on 29th October 1946. He served in Assam Burma from 1939 to 1942 and in Malaya from 42 to Discharge. Dad often spoke about harrowing experiences in the trenches and Japs 'seraching for him' as a sargeant. There was however, one part missing which he would never talk about. I suspect he was a POW at this time. He mentioned names like Pekoku, Lungshay, and Rangoon. He also mentioned names like Muir, Sweeney, Campbell and Jenkins all of whom I have no idea about. His experiences were character builders for us youngsters and I now know why he lapsed into silence and the drink whenever he bought this part of his life story up, Must have been the trauma.
Dad died on 22nd November 1985 and took with him some of the most disturbing war tales I have ever heard. Is there someone out there who may have heard of Sgt James Patrick Gass and his time with the RAMC? Be glad to share stories.
Marshall Gass |
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| Name: |
Harper Wright |
| Location |
Cheshire, U.K. |
| Email: |
CRHWright@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
I am very pleased to have found this great site. Congratulations to all involved in making this information available.
I am researching my wife's great uncle Brig. Duncan S Maxwell MC who was a POW in Changi, Formosa and Manchuria. Although he was veteran of Gallipoli and the Western Front and an infantry brigade commander in WW2, he was also a medical doctor. Family tradition says that eventhough he was a "senior officer" he served as a medical officer while a POW.
I'd appreciate any information or leads that anyone may have about Duncan Maxwell.
Many thanks
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| Name: |
Sophie Browne |
| Location |
Norwich, Norfolk |
| Email: |
brownie20f@yahoo.co.uk |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find out more information about my Granddad. His name was Sidney Browne and he was a nurse with the Royal Norfolk Regiment. He died when I was 8 years old, I am now 25 and wishing he was here to answer my questions. I have been getting quite emotional reading this website. I have just found this book online Behind the Fence: Life as a P.O.W. in Japan 1942-1945 and wondered if anyone could tell me if it was any good or not? Also where on earth do you go to find out more info about P.O.W? Thanks, Sophie |
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| Name: |
william watt |
| Location |
n'pton england |
| Email: |
mww123@googlemail.com |
| Comments: |
my father Peter Watt was taken POW when the Encounter went down in the Java Sea. Cant find him on any camp rosters. were the survivors of the "Encounter" kept together? if so does anyone know which Camp they were held in ? |
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| Name: |
Eileen Bailey |
| Location |
United Kingdon |
| Email: |
eiseandtony@hotmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Trying to discover which camp my late father-in-law was in after capture somewhere nr Java or Timor.
It has been said he was taken by ship via Hong Kong to Fukuoka but which one I do not know. He was repatriated after the war and spent abt 6 months in Canade. sadly but understood he never spoke of his time there so we are still searching for information after his death in 1998. He was Frederick Charles Bailey RA.
other details like army number i can give if needed. thank you |
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| Name: |
jane gosling |
| Location |
norfolk england |
| Email: |
jangos@talktalk.net |
| Website: |
dont have 1 |
| Comments: |
trying to find out anyhting about my great uncle. arthur thomas fisher. he died thailand - burma railway. he was in the royal army ordance corps. died on 27/12/1943. thats all i know. if anyone has any ideas about further places to research i would be very grateful. |
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| Name: |
joke |
| Location |
nederland |
| Email: |
jovanni@ziggo.nl |
| Comments: |
the name of my oncle is sgt m.j. Arbouw, died and burried in Kanburi his grave number is 230006-vak 7 rij a no 38 and died 10.12.1943
who can tell me something about him??? |
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| Name: |
Eric Fels |
| Location |
Brisbane |
| Email: |
ericbible@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I first joined the Army in 1974 and resigned my commission in 2006. Having just read Wayne Pelling's reflections I am amused that he thinks he understands the life and sacrifice of soldiers during times of war. It is not all heroics and anzac day. Stories sometimes have the habit of of reaching mythical porportions. While soldiers are definitely brave to keep in the front lines even when they suddenly become aware of the dangers of war (as are those who face danger in civilian employment)it is quite another to make heroes of people who are supporting war efforts which is really all about killing. Unless Wayne has served in the army there is no way that he could appreciate what soldiers go through, even in ties of peace. |
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| Name: |
Rance Jurevwicz, Capt., USA, Ret |
| Location |
Highland, CA |
| Email: |
info@veteranprograms.com |
| Website: |
http://www.veteranprograms.com |
| Comments: |
FANTASTIC Web Site! We have added a link to our monthly newsletter so that more veterans can be made aware of this tremendous resource. Also, please visit our web site to learn about hidden government benefits you are eligible for and how to significantly increase your service-connected compensation or VA pension. http://www.veteranprograms.com |
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| Name: |
Carol Burnett |
| Location |
Melbourne |
| Email: |
c.burnett@latrobe.edu.au |
| Comments: |
I am doing a family history of Keith Ruthven Portbury - POW in Changi and then the Burma Railway. IHe was in the 2/4th Anti Tank Regiment and was kpresumed dead when the ship Rakyuo Maru was torpedoed by American submarines. I am trying to locate the camp that he was in and wouldc love to know if there are any people reading this sight who may have any knowledge of him.
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| Name: |
Sharon Fair |
| Location |
NSW Australia |
| Email: |
sharonfair@dodo.com.au |
| Comments: |
I am researching 2/10AGH medical core. Australian war records of POW's. My great uncle was inturned in Singapore. If anyone has information on this I'd dearly love to hear from you. There's not much written about the 2/10AGH, very sketchy indeed.
Regards Sharon
(A family research project) |
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| Name: |
Rob Nicholson |
| Location |
Hayes Kent UK |
| Email: |
mrwohl@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi
My Dad was Sgt Nicholson in...
"A composite story of POWs in Hoten Camp, Mukden, Manchuria"
Stealing drugs for Doc Des Brennan...
I dread to think what would have happened if he'd been found out - I sometimes think it's a miracle I was ever born.
Rob
xxx |
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| Name: |
Peter Badger |
| Location |
Sydney NSW |
| Email: |
peter_badger@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My daughter Shani just discovered this website and was so surprised and proud to read the articles about my Uncle Harry Badger as I have been as well. I never knew much about my Uncles involvement during the War except that he was a POW. Now I also know where to find him I will make contact. Thankyou for producing this website and to all who have participated in it you should be very proud Australians as I am of you. |
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| Name: |
Sam Wassell |
| Location |
Barnsley, England |
| Email: |
sjwassell@talktalk.net |
| Comments: |
My fathers uncle Thomas Bates of the signal corp, was a P.O.W. and worked on the railway and bridges, I know very little,we had his cffin plate for over 25 years, and my father put it on his uncles coffin when he died in the mid 80's.He suffered from having experiments done on him and the usual diseases that went with the region, UP TO HIS death he could not forgive the japanese brutality, and could not understand any englshman buying a japanese product, he would get so angry when japanese dignitories met the queen,and it was on tv and in the papers.Despite this he was a very caring person and loved his family and yorkshire cricket immensly. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
Randall J. Harmon |
| Location |
Williams, AZ |
| Email: |
Rjh20062@aol.com |
| Comments: |
My uncle Joe was a POW at Makassar from March of 1942 to 1945.
He was on the USS Pope when it was sunk by the Japanese Navy on March 1, 1942. He died in May of 1969 when I was only 9 years old. Does anyone have futher information on this camp? Are there any living survivors from any of the ships that were involved in the second Battle of the Java Sea? Please write me back at Rjh20062@aol.com. Thank you so much. |
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| Name: |
Wayne Pelling |
| Location |
Mitcham,Victoria,Australia |
| Email: |
pellhacst@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
I commenced general nurse training in 1974 at a small metropolitan hospital in Melbourne.I looked after many WW2 veterans, and I remember on a very busy night, when we had an old man being quite stroppy because there was not enough staff to supervise his smoking, two patients who were about to be discharged the next day offered to watch over the old bloke. They told me-they were mates- that they had been in Burma during the war and had spent many nights awake watching over mates. They said no more.It was only in the last 8 years ,did I realise that I had witnessed a piece of history ,in that no POW died alone in those man made hell holes.There was always someone there with them until they passed away.
Our family doctor for ten years was AJM White,a tall,thin,quietly imposing figure.My 21 year old son,informs me that White's father was the CO of the Light Horse Regiment that became cannon fodder on the Nek in Gallipoli ,but I do know how accurate that is. I recall that Dr White died of an illness that I presume was as a result of his POW experiences. I am 51 on Sunday ,and I hope that the experiences of the POW camp doctors ,will not be forgotten by our Society nor the next generation of Medical Practitioners.
As the Book of Ecclesiasticus says"
"These were merciful men whose righteousness hath not been forgotten"
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| Name: |
Kate Muir |
| Location |
New Zealand |
| Email: |
harrispk@xtra.co.nz |
| Comments: |
I am looking for information about my mother Adriana Georgina Grootenboer (aged 10 years in 1945) and my grandmother May Turner who was a teacher who were both kept in a prisoner of war camp in Sumatra, and evacuated to Singapore at the end of WW II. Both survived. |
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| Name: |
Joye Slater |
| Location |
Sydney |
| Comments: |
Peter, Your article about the life of Captain (Dr) Don Cumming's life and his wartime experiences moved me to tears. Thankyou. I believe you have certainly covered all the main aspects of his life and you have compiled an amazing account of his years as a Japanese POW. I was particularly interested to read Les Hall's notes of Don "treating by voice alone" as for a short time after graduation Don worked at "Broughton Hall" hospital for nerve and trauma patients, which evidently stood him in good stead under the tragic conditions of the camps, and the lack of supplies. Postwar and following his return from London,as you reported, he resumed practices in Newcastle and Sydney, but soon consolidated his professional activites to a very large partnership which he and Dr Ross Moxham built in Paramatta. Except for Don's medical abilities and reputation I think you could describe him as one of this world's "Quiet Achievers", so I appreciate your work in recording the history of men and women such as these true heroes of our time and nation. Joye,(his cousin). |
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| Name: |
Rosemary Matthews |
| Location |
Glenmore Park NSW |
| Email: |
rmathews2@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
A wonderful website bringing descendants of soldiers/POW's together so that memories and information are shared . Is there anyone out there who remembers Sgt. Keith Walter Scott Ireland NX14368, my father. He came home and lived until 1972. He worked as a prisoner of the Japanese on the Burma/Thailand railway at the Burma end of the railway. |
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| Name: |
Case Scholtes |
| Location |
Brisbane |
| Comments: |
Son in law of the late Pvt John Browne 2nd 2nd Clearance Battalian Medical Corp
POW after the fall of Singapore and served with Weary Dunlop Group on the Burma Railway My wife Cheryle has a video he recorded before his death, she will contact you |
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| Name: |
Peta Church |
| Location |
Kyabram Victoria, Australia |
| Email: |
peedi74@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you for this site. I have been looking for anyone or any information on Private Peter Ripley Gale VX67597, 2/ 10 Ordnance Field Park, Australian Army Ordnance Corps. Disembarked from Singapore on the 26th January 1942, he was then reported missing on the 16th February 1942, & on the 2nd Nov 1942 he was reported as a POW. He left Changi on the 28th March 1943 on board the S.S. DeKlerk arriving at Berhala Island in the 15th April 1943 he along with the other POW's were held the until the 5th June when they were taken to Sandakan by barge. The next day the were transferred to the 8 mile Camp. After being a POW for 3yrs & 2 mths on the 16th April 1945 my Uncle Peter died. If you have any further information or if anyone new him I would love to hear your thoughts & memories of my Great Uncle Peter Ripley Gale. Thank you.. |
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| Name: |
Steve Wilson |
| Location |
Perth |
| Email: |
wilson53@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Enjoyed your company on our recent to Singapore where we visited the Battle Box, Changi Museum, the Ford Factory and other battle sites. Thanks for sharing your vast knowledge on WW2 with me |
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| Name: |
SHARON |
| Location |
MNC NSW AUSTRALIA |
| Email: |
sfair@dodo.com.au |
| Comments: |
My granmothers younger brother was a POW in the ww2. I believe he was in Malaya. I have been trying to find out which camp he was in. I havn't been succesful yet. Can anyone tell me where to look for the names of soldiers in the camps? I've trolled through the govt sites to no avail.His name was Richiu Charles Stewart Abraham from Bull NSW Australia. |
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| Name: |
Julie |
| Location |
Virginia |
| Email: |
julie.pressley@ubsh.com |
| Comments: |
My grandfather was a POW ( still alive) . He was one that was captured
and was shipped to Burma to help build the BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER KWAI. He came down with beriberi but somehow survived. He has a plaque honoring him in Fredericksburg TX Nimitz museum.
He is not in the best health and recently went into a nursiing home facility. I know him as the best chocolate milkshake maker. |
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| Name: |
garry alexander |
| Location |
mooroopna victoria australi |
| Email: |
yangary@opusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter inform me about the war as I was not born. I had an uncle James Thomas Downie 2/29 Bn, who was over there. If any one knows anything about him and what happened to him it would be appreciate most greatly.
my e mail is yangary @optusnet.com.au
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| Name: |
rob disspain |
| Location |
perth, western australia |
| Email: |
disspain2@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
my favourite uncle (in the UK) was John Everrett.
He spoke fluent japanese and was employed , by the RAF in espionage in Burma - where he was caught and tortured. would be grateful for any info regarding this period and subsequent periods of his life. |
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| Name: |
Wayne Pelling |
| Location |
Mitcham,Victoria,Australia |
| Email: |
pellhacst@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for your excellent profile on Dr Alex White,who was the doctor who delivered me and was our family doctor until about 4 years before he died. I believe it was bowel cancer perhaps brought on by suffering amoebic dysentery whilst he was a POW.
I also saw the late great Dr Glyn White in action when I was undertaking midwifery nursing 25 years ago and read of his work on Death Railway.
The book of Ecclesiasticus chapter 10 sums up my feelings "their bodes are at peace ;but their name liveth for evermore". |
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| Name: |
Kevin Lloyd Rees |
| Location |
Bridgend, Wales |
| Email: |
kl.rees@ntlbusiness.com |
| Comments: |
I am trying to find out information relating to my grandfather who died in 1993, he was a Japanese POW from I believe 1942-45, his full name was Elwyn Charles Lloyd Rees, known as Charles or Charlie, he was from St Clears, Carmarthen, South West Wales.
He never spoke to my father or my grandmother about his experiences and I wish that I had the chance to ask him more as I got older. Is there anyway of finding out where he was stationed, are there any lists kept of the POWs? I would appreciate any help that you could offer. Many thanks, Kevin (19/03/08) |
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| Name: |
John Lease |
| Location |
Clifton, Virginia |
| Email: |
jlease@fdic.gov |
| Comments: |
My father's cousin Lewis McFadden was a POW.
He was a gunner on the USS Houston who was captured after the ship sank in 1942. He never forgot how the Japanese treated him. My father was also a WWII vet but was fortunate enough to not be captured. |
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| Name: |
Becca |
| Location |
Australia |
| Email: |
luv_angel_music_baby72@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
hey all im doing an assignment in school on the Japanese treatment of prisoners of war and i found that i have i am moved and touched by POW's stories i want to learn as much as i can about the trials and suffering of prisones of the japanese. I would really appreciate it if any one knew any websites or books that provide factual information on the lives of POW's in WW2. I am touched and deeply moved by the amazing tales of survival and suffering of past and present prisoners of war |
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| Name: |
Tony Wege |
| Location |
Nuriootpa SA |
| Email: |
wege@internode.on.net |
| Comments: |
Thanks for your website. Like so many people these days, I am trying to find out about our families' past. In my case it is my step-uncle, William G Gass of the 2/4th reserve motor transport company, POW of the Japanese April 1941 until September 1945. His military record has nothing for this period. He died only two years after he returned home - motor accident. Now 60 plus years later, I am trying to document his story. Where do I start?? |
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| Name: |
Chris Brown |
| Location |
Scotland |
| Email: |
the_lighthouse@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
My name is Chris Brown, I am a military and social historian (Ph.D., St. Andrews) and I am currently compiling information for an academic study of the day-to-day lives of POWs and Internees of the Japanese Captivity. I am anxious to hear from anyone - military or civillian - who would be willing to share their memories with me. I am perfectly happy to respect the confidence of anyone who - for whatever reason - might like to remain anonymous. If you feel you would like to take part in this project, please e-mail me at the address below.
Yours,
Chris Brown. |
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| Name: |
Shirley Barnes |
| Location |
England |
| Email: |
sgblay@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Really pleased to see that there are still those who respect the sacrifice made by so many.My Dad, who is 87 and still going strong, was captured at Singapore. After being at Changi, he was taken to the Thailand, to work on the railway. He was at Bampong, Kanburi,Tonchon, Tarsao and Tamarkan. He was taken back to Changi much later and sent in the hold of a ship to Japan. The ship was the Kachidoki Maru, which was sunk by the Americans, and after being in the sea for eight days, was picked up and taken to Japan, where he was put to work in the camp at Sakata. He was released in 1945 weighing less than six stone. As far as he is concerned, he has been living on borrowed time since the fall of Singapore, so has enjoyed every day he has had since then. Mt dad has always been able to talk about some of his experiences, but it is only in recent years he has talked about the more horrific things he witnessed or had done to him. I listen because he has to tell me, but it's not easy to hear what he has to say. He does not hate the Japanese butlike me , has no respect for a country that is still not able to acknowledge what they did to so many people from so may countries. He has long ago given up hope that the Japanese goverment will accept that they did anything wrong and offer him some compensation for his sufferring, but still hopes that they will be able to look at themselves and at least find some small amount of common human decency and say sorry. We all assume that they are labouring under the misapprehension that if they hold on until the last person who they damaged, dies, that they will have got away with it. They are seriously wrong, as the children and grandchildren of FEPOWs will not forget either. Thanks again for the site and keeping the memories alive. |
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| Name: |
Georgina Shaw |
| Location |
UK |
| Email: |
georgina.shaw@kch.nhs.uk |
| Comments: |
Very good website. I am trying to find any info on my uncle Walter Paterson Dougherty from Glasgow. I was told he died in Burma on the railway. But am unable to find him on the War Graves site. He was tall and had red hair, I was told he suffered badly at the hands of his captors due to his height. Has anyone heard of him (probably in a Scottish Regiment) |
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| Name: |
Jyotsana C |
| Location |
Adelaide South Australia |
| Comments: |
Thanks Peter for including Dad's (Ian Campbell) information on your site. He would have loved to have his stories included here. Like many other returned soldiers he spoke little about his horrific experiences, never to us as children, and did not condone war . He would occasionally relate humorous POW incidents to us. Something that stood out for me, reading his diary, was how he, and the other young prisoners of war, became sicker much more frequently as the years went on. No wonder he did not complete writing his diary.
In his old age Dad struggled to receive a war pension. His comment about 'the shrapnel in his head being a war wound' expressed his sarcasm in response to previous letters from government bodies that said his ill health was not a result of his POW experiences.
Thanks again Peter. |
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| Name: |
NEVILLE DAVIS |
| Location |
BRISBANE |
| Email: |
nevdavis@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
CONGRATULATIONS, PETER, ON A WONDERFUL CONCEPT
. IT IS GREAT THAT YOU HAVE RESEARCHED THE EXPERIENCES OF THE POW'S ON THE RAILWAY SO EXTENSIVELY AND IN SUCH DETAIL
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| Name: |
Terence Clifford |
| Location |
Sydney |
| Email: |
terry@clifforddirect.com.au |
| Comments: |
I have just been advised about your great website. I am trying to find out about my grand parents and father. My grandfather and his wife, George & Anne Clifford and their daughter Jo, who where in the Japanese POW camp in Borneo. They were planters in Malaya. Also looking for details on my father Major John Clifford who was with the British Army in Force 136 who was dropped into the jungle with 6 others to recruit villagers to train and fight the Japanese. I have some information and I'm looking for more places I can look or details that your readers may have. Can anybody assist? Thanks in advance. Terence Clifford. |
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| Name: |
ALAN RICHES |
| Location |
UK |
| Email: |
ASRICHESFAMILY@AOL.COM |
| Comments: |
My father Henry Charles Riches was a Staff SGT in RAMC. He was awarded BEM for his devotion to duty in Tonchan cholera outbreak in 1943.He was also in River Valley RD. WAMPO,KINSAIYO,NAKONPATON,MERGUI RD,
He was in 9th Coast Reg, 125 anti tank,Indian Medical.
its a long shot but if anyone has any information I would be grateful
I also thank Peter Winstanley for his much appreciated help.
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| Name: |
James W Turner |
| Location |
Kiryat-Gat Israel |
| Email: |
jamesturner@walla.co.il |
| Comments: |
Thankyou Peter for this web site.My grans brother James b Miller-Kelly
Just want to remember my grans brother
James b Miller-Kelly who died in japanese capitivity 31/10/1942 in Sumatra we dont even have the name of the camp.Thankyou Peter for this web siteOur families have never recieved an apology from the Japanese govt on the pows Time has not been a good healer. |
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| Name: |
Ken Broadhead |
| Location |
Sydney, Australia |
| Email: |
broadheads@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
This website and the research it is based on will ensure that the suffering that allied POWS endured will remain on the public record indefinitely, and thereby confer a form of immortality on these men and women. Having now made two visits to the sites of the Burma Railway in Thailand I am more than ever in awe of the endurance and strength displayed by Australian and other Allied prisoners. I am also increasingly angry at the poor strategic and operational decisions made by politicians and senior commanders which led to so many of our people becoming prisoners of the Japanese. |
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| Name: |
Robyn Lim |
| Location |
Brisbane/Nagoya |
| Email: |
rbynlim@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I would like to establish contact with any former POW who was in Camp 26 in Fukuoka. (Aso Yoshikuma coal mine) |
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| Name: |
Margaret Webster |
| Location |
Tamworth Australia |
| Email: |
gmwebs@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Great to stumble on your informative website. I am seeking information on my uncle, Max Dudley Smith (NX29700) of the 8th Div. Sigs. He worked on the Thai-Burma Railway but died at Kanburi on 7.10.43. He was in F Force, Ponds Party with Dr Roy Mills at medico. This a found out after reading Roy Mills book and I was very excited to read my uncle name in his list of medical records, the first direct reference to Max Smith which I have found. His only relatives back in Australia were a brother (Frank Graeme Smith - my father, now deceased) and a sister living in Brisbane. Both Maxs parents had died before him and so it is ut to me, his niece, who never met him, to search for information. Also could someone please give me the address or website for VicEddy, the magazine of 8th Div. Sigs. I dont know much about my uncles movements in Singapore or Thailand. He was a strong Christian and apparently belonged to a group of Christians in Changi know as the "Rabid non-conformists". Does this ring a bell for anyone. Any information would be most helpful. |
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| Name: |
David Flynn |
| Location |
Boca Raton, Florida USA |
| Email: |
dflynnesq@adelphia.net |
| Comments: |
Peter, your web site and its content - words fail me in attempting say how wonderful and informative it is. I was a survivor from the USS Houston, and met many wonderful Aussies, English and Dutch as a Japanese POW. Itruly enjoyed your guestbook and comments. I saw many familar names. Thank you, David Flynn |
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| Name: |
John Connell |
| Location |
Cootamundra - NSW |
| Email: |
connjc@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Keeping their memorary alive will eventually lead to a greater understanding of what the AIF achieved in their endeavours to defend the Malay Penninsula against the odds that were stacked against them |
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| Name: |
John Connell |
| Location |
Cootamundra, NSW |
| Email: |
connjc@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
I was only 8 moths old when my oldest brother left for Malaya as a reinforcement for the 2/19 Bn. The scars of the campaign can still be felt today - my family was lucky - my brother was to return home and share in our family life for many years. Many other families were not so lucky and it is only by good hearted people researching the massive material that is now surfacing that many answers will be found. You have created a great site to visit and to research... thank you so much for you contribution to our history. |
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| Name: |
Gai Segol |
| Location |
Queensland |
| Email: |
gaicroyston@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for all the information you have given me. I wonder if there is anyone out there who remembers Harry Stewart Gardiner (Jazz) who was in the 8 Div. Provost Corps. He is my mothers brother and as I am researching our family I would like some more information about Uncle Harry. From what I can gather he was on the Thai Burma Railway and then sent to Japan where he was in the mines at Omuta Fukuoka Camp 17, when the A bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. If anyone remembers him, or his name has come up could you please email me. Thank you again, your web site is a truly marvellous endeavour. Keep up the good work. |
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| Name: |
Eve Craven |
| Location |
Geraldton, Western Australia |
| Email: |
karslake@wn.com.au |
| Comments: |
My late husband, James Craven, joined the British Army (Royal Army Medical Corps) in 1935. After serving in Britain and India he was later sent to Malaya and Singapore (commissioned into the RIASC). He was captured by the Japanese and sent to Changi. From there he went, in June 1942, to work on the Burma Railway. He actually volunteered thinking he could maybe have a better chance of escaping, and was in the first group to be sent to work on the railway. He recorded many of his trials, and those of the other POWs, enabling me to write about his war years. ("A Kind of Destiny" by Eve Karslake Craven - now out of print.) Thank you, Peter, for keeping this history alive. |
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| Name: |
Peter |
| Location |
Perth W. Australia |
| Email: |
stix1@iprimus.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for a very interesting talk which you gave on the POWs of Japan. If only there were more of you to keep up the good work that is on your Website, then perhaps the youth of the world would not be in such a mess as they are now. Many thanks. |
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| Name: |
Hilda Fitzgerald |
| Location |
canberra |
| Email: |
hildafitzgerald@netspeed.com.au |
| Comments: |
I have read the articles with great interest, having become more aware of the story of the PoW ,after nursing a wonderful doctor at our aged care facility.I had so much admiration for this elderly gentlman, that i accepted to address a conference, regarding issues being faced by veterans, and veterans living with disability.I would love to hear some comments from veterans ,about a such an important issue. |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth van Kampen |
| Location |
Tilburg in the Netherlands |
| Email: |
evkampen@home.nl |
| Website: |
www.dutch-east-indies.com |
| Comments: |
Peter, I am more than pleased with your webside and the Books I may read. Since I grew up in the former Dutch East Indies, today Indonesia, I have always felt close towards the Australians. I have also an eye witness of the Australians and Dutch guerilla transported in bamboo pig baskets. I was only 15 years years old when I saw this and what has touched me even deeper were the cries for water and help in English and Dutch. It was and is in my eyes unforgivable. I read an awful lot about World War Two, and what the Japanese military have done to so many innocent people. I have only started reading about this war since 1995, before that I couldnt even talk about it, nor about my Dad and uncle killed by the Kempeitai in Indonesia, Java. I am very grateful to you Peter that I may read how also many others have badly suffered under the Japanese occupation. We must never forget what has happened between Pearl Harbor(1941) and Tokyo in 1945. Thank you very much! And greetings from Holland to Australia. Elizabeth |
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| Name: |
Jan (John) Berg |
| Location |
Perth |
| Email: |
opaberg@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for informing me about your website. Thanking you for including my diary as well. I passed your website on to ex POW friends in the Netherlands as well as there is a lot of information in it that affects ex Dutch East Indies Dutchmen as well.Will keep in touch. John |
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| Name: |
Capt. George W. Duffy |
| Location |
Exeter, New Hampshire, U.S.ofA. |
| Email: |
geoduffy@thepipeline.net |
| Comments: |
Peter: You asked me to put something here that perhaps would jog a few memories. Most former prisoner on Java will remember the 72 British and American merchant seamen who were handed over to the Japanese at Tandjong Priok in early November 1942. We eventually went to the Cycle Camp. Later some of us went to Kampong Makassar. In June of 1944, some of the crew of the AMERICAN LEADER were sent to Japan. On their last night at sea the TAMAHAKU MARU was torpedoed by the U.S.S. TANG. Of the eighteen AMERICAN LEADER crew mebers only five survived. At the same time, a small number of us went to Sumatra via Singapore where we worked on the Pakan Baroe railway. In September 1944, 2200 prisoners and 4300 Javanese laborers left Batavia in the JUNYO MARU. She was torpedoed by H.M.S. TRADEWIND with an enormous loss of life. Four of the AMERICAN LEADER crew were drowned. When we left New York in April 1942 there were fifty-eight men aboard. Only twenty-eight survived the war. For related articles, go to http://www.usmm.org See my window on opening page. |
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| Name: |
Ron Lobegeiger |
| Location |
South Australia |
| Comments: |
Why is there no mention of Sandakan in an other wise excellent site. It appears no one wants to mention The horiffic treatment handed out to the diggers at Sandakan and Ranau. |
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| Name: |
Teun Heijstek |
| Location |
The Netherlands |
| Email: |
teunheijstek@hetnet.nl |
| Website: |
home.hetnet.nl/~teunheijstek/mizumaki.htm |
| Comments: |
Not only for my search for descendants of Dutch POWs who died in World War II in detention in Japan is your website helpfull but also for people who know less or nothing about what had happened in WW II. Kind regards to you all Teun Heijstek. |
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| Name: |
Eluned Schweitzer |
| Location |
USA |
| Email: |
elunedrib@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Found this website while browsing in Bangkok on business trip - will visit the River Kwai memorial next week where my uncle David Youdell was a prisoner from 1942 to the finish of the railway, following which he was moved to Japan to work in the mines. Thank you for keeping up the recollections. If anyone has come across a D. Youdell please let me know. Best regards, Eluned |
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| Name: |
ray jacobs |
| Location |
melbourne |
| Email: |
rjacobs@melbpc.org .au |
| Comments: |
Dear Peter You have a very special website &thank you for all your assistance especially in regard to my Fathers diary that is on your site. Ray Jacobs |
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| Name: |
Audrey |
| Location |
Florida |
| Email: |
dacamcfly@earthlink.net |
| Comments: |
My Mother was in a camp in Indonesia. She share very limited stories with us. Now as an adult and with my Mom gone, I have been reading everything I can to learn what she must have experienced. Does the name Irvine Nabilcy or Wiggers ring a bell to anyone? |
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| Name: |
John Dickson |
| Location |
Scotland |
| Email: |
jalbem@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
My Brother Died in Nikkie Thailand 2nd September 1943,member of 2nd Gordons Captured in Singapor |
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| Name: |
wiliam van Ginkel |
| Location |
Hamilton, On. Canada |
| Email: |
wvginkel@execul;ink.com |
| Comments: |
Keep up the good work. Searching for a jap prisoner of Bangkong camp, Java by the name of Friedl Stadler |
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| Name: |
Kevin Roberts |
| Location |
Erowal Bay 2540 |
| Email: |
wro54880@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you for printing this on the Web. I am always interested in the history of our POW. My uncle Bert Roberts lost his life on the way Japan afyter the fall of Singapore. After my father died in Scottsdale TAS, in 1955 Ray Denney looked after me until I finnished my schooling at the end of 55. Ray was a quite bloke never talking about his years as a POW. I have his book The Long Way Home. He autographed it Peace in Your Time. EX LAMAE Fleet Air Arm RAN |
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| Name: |
Graham Reader |
| Location |
Windsor, Ontario, Canada |
| Email: |
greader@uwindsor.ca |
| Comments: |
Excellent site. I am particularly interested in the Timor information as my dad was there with the 79th Battery of the 21st LAA (R.A.). Also being ex-RN I am interested in Naval/Militray history in general. |
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| Name: |
linda |
| Location |
camden |
| Comments: |
I was very moved by the accounts written of POWS experiences. My grandfather was a POW a signaller with the 8th Division. I never really got to know him, he died when I was seven. Thanks to all those that put their stories out there, makes me very proud of being your fellow Australian. |
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| Name: |
Harry MEDLIN |
| Location |
Crafers West, S.Aust. |
| Email: |
hmedlin@chariot.net.au |
| Comments: |
Well done Peter. I am pleased that you have my Reminiscences including Timor, Tsuji, my 2006 Bangka Island massacre Memorial Address, my POW experiences and lessons etc.. You may put whatever you like of it on your Website. I have also written about our ACTION with and then capture by the Japanese on 23 February 1942 but that is Embargoed at the present time. Keep up the good work. Best wishes and regards. Harry. |
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| Name: |
Oebe Wal |
| Location |
Friesland, Netherlands |
| Email: |
oebewal@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
This is a very good informative site. As a boy I was imprisoned by the Japanese on Java island. At present I am trying to put that period on paper at the request of my children. Since many pows were in Kampong Makassar, just South of Batavia, I might get some information from them on the following gap in my memory. Where was the main gate of this internment camp located? Was it directly on the main road Batavia-Buitenzorg, or more inside and off that road? And, was the large house of the Japanese commander of the camp in- or outside the main gate? Thanks for your attention, Oebe. |
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| Name: |
Oebe Wal |
| Location |
Oosterwolde Holland |
| Comments: |
Dear friends, I was pleasantly surprised by the quick answers I received on my question about the location of the main gate of the WW2 POW camp Kampomg Makassar just S of Batavia ( now Jakarta). Thank you. I did not receive a conclusive answer; but the reactions were helpful and interesting. Maybe one of the readers can help me still further? Since in Kampong Makassar (or in short KM), some 1200 Australian POWs were interned from April 1942 onwards (just one month after the capitulation of the NEI), it is clear that this camp plays an important role in the Australian WW2 history. Let me therefore tell you a bit about KMs past and present. To many of you this might be no news, but to others it could be informative. Before WW2. In the eighteenth century large areas of land S of Batavia were bought by wealthy Europeans from the local landowners. The lands were transformed into plantations for commercial crops. KM became under German and Dutch owners a flourishing coconut plantation. And later on a coconut selection farm where also pigs were raised. The owners built a large Dutch colonial mansion. Around 1925 the plantation and mansion was sold to the NEI govt and the house became in the thirties the barracks for the Veldpolitie, indigenous police. The plantation was located some six km S of Meester Cornelis (Jatinegara), a Southern suburb of Batavia (Jakarta), and placed E of the road to Buitenzorg (Bogor). Bogor was 40 km to the South. On the E fringe the farm was bordered by the vale of the small river Tjipinang, with paddy fields or sawahs. This fringe was an alluvial N-S ridge only between 1 to 2 m above its surrounds , 200 m wide and 400 m long. West of the ridge there was a drain and before the WW a narrow strip of paddy. The said ridge, on which the Japanese build the barracks compound of KM, was some 700 m E of the said road and the mansion 300 m. During WW2. The Japanese occupation, soon after the allied surrender on March 8 1942, started the construction of the POW camp on the alluvial ridge. Well suited, because of its isolation. Even towards mid 1945 the camp was not detected by the allies. The camps Japanese commandant, as well as the Japanese, Korean and Indonesian (heiho) guards were housed in the mansion (known as Kampong Makassar or Tjililitan Besar). Both Indonesian contractors and POWs build the long primitive bamboo huts with palm leaved roofs in only a few months under Japanese supervisory force. By April 1942 KM already housed a substantial number of Australians. During the next two months more were brought in from areas around Tasikmalaja, where most Aussies had themselves interned. KM was for the 1200 inmates relatively good bearable, mainly because of the , at that period still "humane" Japanese camp commander Tanaka and the tactfulness of Cnl Dunlop, the Australian commandant. From January 1943 KM became a transit camp for thousands of allied en Dutch POWs, awaiting further transport overseas via Tantjong Priok harbour. After October 1944 too many Japanese vessels were lost and the sending abroad was halted. Most remaining POWs were transported to Bandoeng ( 15th Bat.) and Batavia (10th Bat. Or Cycle camp) Conform the new "strategic insight", vulnerable women and children were interned in coastal regions, where allied landings were expected. KM became from early 1945 a camp for women and children, a so called work camp for production of vegetables ( for other camps) and of pigs (for Japanese stomachs). After Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, KM remained a concentration and protection camp for its remaining population because of the threats of Indonesian independence groups towards none indigenous people. We ( my mother, smaller sister and myself )were transported to Bandoeng (to be reunited with my father) in a heavily guarded train ( by British-Indian troops) on 28 November 1945, as one of the lasts. After WW2 The Dutch greatly improved and refurbished KM in July 1946 and used it as a transit camp for Dutch military engaged in the actions against Indonesian independence forces. After the transfer of sovereignty to the Indonesians end 49, the camp was after 1955 "taken over" by squatters from elsewhere on Java. They were attracted by the big city Jakarta and its, often disillusioning , opportunities. Presently one can no more recognise the former barracks compound. Its a hotchpotch of huts, shacks and other constructions. The mansion, however, is still there, albeit very neglected in its maintenance. Fortunately there is hope fore a restoration since it has been declared a national architectural monument. It is now almost completely "packed in" by buildings. A large area W of the mansion, where vegetable fields were located during WW2, is now occupied by buildings of the main hospital of the Indonesian Police. The new Jakarta to Bogor tollway is as far as I can judge just cutting into the Western fringe of the former barracks compound. If you intend to visit the ex-KM it is off the Kramatjati Old Bogor road and walk down the Jalan RS POLRI until you hit the mansion. |
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| Name: |
Christy Chappell |
| Location |
Indiana |
| Email: |
cchapps@yahoo.com |
| Comments: |
I am very interested in contacting other Dutch Indonesian POWs. My husbands grandfather never speaks of the war and I have recently been reading what few books I can find to educate my children on their heritage. Any contacts or rec. reading would be greatly welcomed! |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth Strong |
| Location |
New Zealand |
| Email: |
Elizphil@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Just read in our local paper an article about pows who worked on the Burma Railway . The name of the prisoner has the same name as name(maiden) of ny late husbands mother and I was wondering if this soldier mentioned in the article could be related. His name was given as Private Harry Mann, Royal Corps of Signals, from Keighley, West Yorkshire, England. My late husbands family came from Yorkshire. Any information would be most interesting to receive |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth Cummins |
| Location |
New Zealand |
| Email: |
elizphil@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Seeking information about Pte Harry Marsden, Royal Signal Corps, originally from Keighley, West Yorkshire, England, who was taken prisoner of the Japanese in the fall of Singapore and worked on the Burma railway. seeking information of Pte Harry Marsden, of the Royal Signal Corps, originally from Keighley, West Yorkshire, England |
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| Name: |
Scott |
| Location |
U.S.A. |
| Email: |
scott@theramseys.org |
| Comments: |
Hello to all. I just wanted to say thank you to all the WWII veterans out there, and a special thank you for the POWs that endured the camps. I just wanted to pass along that I have been interviewing and collecting stories from WWII veterans since June 2004. Since then I have also made a video in tribute to them showcasing some WWII Museums and Memorials in the U.S., and would like to send a copy to any veteran that would like to share his or her story with me. There is NO charge for the video, as I do NOT accept money for the video. It was made to thank you for your service, determination, courage and sacrafice during WWII. Please contact me if you have any questions and I hope to hear from any WWII veteran overseas. Take care, and thank you again. A wonderful site for POWs. Scott |
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| Name: |
Clive Nicholls |
| Location |
Stratford-upon-avon, United Kingdom |
| Email: |
clive@butterflyhotels.co.uk |
| Comments: |
To add more information to my earlier entry - my father was a Lieutenant in the RIASC, which I am still trying to find more info on. he was captured in feb 42 and sent to NO 1 Malayan POW camp, Changi until May 43. His commander was Col Holmes. He was then in transit to Bampong, Kamburi and then Tonchan. I have all this info from the questionnaire he completed whichis held at Kew and which has been kindly obtained for me by Michael Greenwood who is researching his grandfather. My father then worked building the railway at Tonchan and in July 43 at Hintock River Camp. It appears that he was ill after this as in August he was at Kamburi hospital. Then in Dec 43 he was at Sime Road until May 44. May 44 until August 45 he was in Changi Goal. He returned to the UK on board the Ekma. Any info would be very useful as it is only now that I feel I should be researching my fathers experiences in the far east and I am 55 !! and my father died when I was 7 of a heart attack brought on by his maltreatment. he had to have a leg amputed in the early 50s and was obviously not well since returning. My mother would never talk about it. She has recently died so I feel able to research ! |
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| Name: |
Clive Nicholls |
| Location |
stratford-upon-avon, United Kingdom |
| Email: |
clive@butterflyhotels.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Congratulations on your excellent site. I am researching my fathers time in the far east and at last I am getting somewhere. He was in hospital in Kamburi, Thailand having suffered badly at Hintock River Camp. |
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| Name: |
Craig Woodhall |
| Location |
Puckapunyal, Australia |
| Email: |
nellie17@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Peter,
Id like to first of all thank you for placing a very respectful website on the web to present very informative stories of POWs of the Japanese. I stumbled across your site whilst looking for information on my uncle who unfortuneately died as a POW in Timor as part of 2nd/40th Bn. His name was TX8342 Edward Francis Saunders from Latrobe Tasmania. He was my grandmothers brother and the remainder of the saunders family is now gone so I have no information on him at all. As a serving soldier I like to look into my military heritage and would be very interested to hear from any old members of 2nd/40th Bn.
Regards
Craig Woodhall |
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| Name: |
MGBADA EZE |
| Location |
lome, lome togo |
| Email: |
mgbadaigbo@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
Brings back memories, we were with you and others April 2001 |
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| Name: |
Kev & Dot Drinnen |
| Location |
Brisbane, Australia |
| Email: |
kevdrinnen@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Peter, Your comprehensive website is a great supplement to the knowledge we gained on 2003& 2004 Quiet Lion Tours Anzac Day. We look forward to further updates,
Regards, Kev & Dot |
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| Name: |
Muriel Butler |
| Location |
Birkdale Queensland, Australia |
| Email: |
deanmissy@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Hi Peter
May I congratulate you on a wonderfully informative site.
I, too, have a web site 2-26bn.org, which is dedicated to the men of the 2/26 Battalion, which was the only Infantry Battalion raised in Queensland.
We and others like us,must do our utmost to make sure that true story of the part Australians played in the war in South East Asia is told and retold.
Most folk know about the part Australians played in the Middle East and Europe, but a relatively small proportion know of our involvment in the war with Japan in S. E. Asia, and especially the inhume treatment of the POWs by the Japanese particularly during the building of the Thai-Burma Railway, at Sandakan and in the mines in Japan itself.
The true story of Australias involvement in this conflict must be told and retold. People must know the whole gut wretching truth, not some whitewashed, politically correct version, or distorted incorredt versions presented by one particular foreign government. |
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| Name: |
Lyn Neal |
| Location |
MANJIMUP, Australia |
| Email: |
lynneal@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thanks Peter for the excellent work you are doing to ensure that we do not forget the people who enlisted to protect our country, and particularly those who died for us. Ive been reading a few of the books about the Burma Thailand Railway and still have others to read as yet. To say Ive enjoyed reading these books would be a lie - however theyve certainly given a clear insight into the inhuman dealings on the Railway. It is interesting to note that the recollections of Ian Denys Peek in one-fourteenth of an elephant describes the dreadful illnesses and particularly cholera taking a much greater toll on the southern railway than those described where Australian medical officers were in charge and took steps to reduce the spread of the disease. I can well appreciate your deep respect for them and the need to tell their story. Peek does make mention of a big Australian doctor making a huge difference at one of the camps where he was interned. |
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| Name: |
Graeme Williams |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
geejayw@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
I wrote yesterday of the passing of my friend, Denny Scanlon. I got to thinking what it was that sets men like Denny and his fellow POWs apart. And I guess this could be my eulogy to him
After all they suffered, and the heinous treatment they received, so many of them, against the odds, lived well in to old age. They did not let bitterness, anger, or hatred destroy them. Even though they had every right to feel these emotions. They didnt complain about the lasting effects on their health. They just got on with it.They only seemed to speak of the funny episodes of their captivity, and only fleetingly, if at all, about the bad ones. They had extreme tolerance and patience. They had compassion.They even forgave, if not forgot.
And who could forget?
I think there is something for us to admire and aspire to, in the example they have set.
Graeme Williams
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| Name: |
Graeme Williams |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
geejayw@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
I am reading your website tonight, as I think with sadness, and respect, for our great family friend Denis (Denny) Scanlon, who passed away today 23/2/06, aged 93. Denny was a member of the 2nd/40th Btn. from Tasmania, and a POW. He was an inspiration to my wife and I, caring, generous, and an absolute gentleman. I have been to Singapore twice in recent years, and each time I am there, I make a pilgimage to the Changi Memorial to pay my respects to all those brave men. It is one of the most moving experiences of my life, and I feel a presence there. I believe all Australians who visit Singapore should place this at the top of their list.
Lest We Forget
We Will Remember Them
Graeme & Sue Williams |
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| Name: |
Ian de Renzie Duncan |
| Location |
Paris, France |
| Email: |
renzie@parislive.fm |
| Website: |
www.parisliveradio.com |
| Comments: |
Dear Peter, my Grandfather was Captain Ian Lovell Duncan, medical officer, and I have been greatly uplifted by your work and article on his life as an officer and Japanese POW. Thankyou.
Ian de Renzie Duncan |
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| Name: |
Daryl Henbery |
| Location |
Brisbane |
| Email: |
webmaster@2-26bn.org |
| Website: |
www.2-26bn.org |
| Comments: |
You've done a great job with this site Peter. I think it's important to get the POW story out so that it will never be forgotton. Webmaster The Official 2/26th Battalion Website. |
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| Name: |
MAJ Annette Newell (Ret'd) RAANC |
| Location |
Perth WA, Australia |
| Email: |
annettenewell@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Reading the articles from this great webpage has given me a special, and sometimes terrifying, insight into what our soldiers and nurses suffered. What an inspiration those people have been! As a Nursing Officer in the GRes and Regular Army I have never seen these horrors of war and hope I never do however I have a wonderful respect and admiration for all those who have served and for Peter who has tirelessly researched and collected these personal stories of suffering, bravery, defeat and triumph. Attending the 2004 Remembrance Day Trip,by the Defence Reserves Association,to the Thai Burma Railway was one of the most moving and informative trips I have done. Thank you for the recent account of Sister Hannah's experiences as a POW. |
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| Name: |
Di Allpike |
| Location |
Two Wells, South Australia |
| Email: |
diallpike@bigpond.com.au |
| Comments: |
thanks Peter for telling the stories of these people who should never be forgotten. It has given me an even greater insight to Jim (Jim Allpike WX7064 2/4 Machine Gun Bn, subsequently captured in Java and then associated with 2/3 MG Bn)- a truly remarkable man. I shall pass this information on to his grandchildren. I am proud to have him in my family. |
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| Name: |
John Winters |
| Location |
Sorrento Vic. Australia |
| Email: |
jandmwinters@iprimus.com.au |
| Comments: |
Peter, Great additions to your web-site.Have read Tommy Busine's NX77799 story,a wonderful read!!. Had pleasure of travelling with Jim Busine Anzac 2003.A dedicated man in wanting to keep the memories of what happened on the Railway forever in our minds. |
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| Name: |
Anthony Rengel |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
joe_kwel@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Peter,
Good to see this site is growing. I hope the photos I am sending you can be put to good use. |
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| Name: |
George Hulse |
| Location |
Brisbane, Australia |
| Email: |
brisboats@bigpond.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you for the insights into what being a prisoner of war to an Asian enemy was like. It corroborates (although you might not want it to) the act in my Troop in South Vietnam of swearing to each other that none of us would be taken alive. We remembered the cruelty of the WWII Japanese, the North Koreans and the treatment of two infantry diggers who were captured by the enemy in 1968, and then found dead in a market place with the obvious signs of death by mutilation. Your work is, in my opinion, a re-affirmation to all our servicemen, that in a future conflict with an Asian enemy, surrender is not an option. |
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| Name: |
Peter Russell Scott |
| Location |
Gold Coast, Australia |
| Email: |
holdfast279@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
Congratulations to Peter Winstanley for his efforts in creating a great website.
His work is a living and growing memorial to the sacrifice and service of our men and women at war, and I am sure that it will help future generations come to understand the PRICE THAT WAS PAID FOR THE FREEDOM THAT WE ENJOY, and never let anyone take it away.
My late father DX561 Sapper Lewis Frank Scott signed up in 1940 and, after service with the 7th Division in the Syrian and North African Campaigns, was cast into Japanese hands by Wavell on Java in 1942. He buried his best mate DX562 Sapper James Russell at Kilo 100 camp in Burma in 1943.
Those members of the 2/6 Field Company left alive on completion of the Railway were sent to Saigon, then on through the gates of Hell itself, namely Omuta Camp 17, Fukuoka Province in Japan. They remained there as slave labour in the Mitsui coal mine until the atom bomb was dropped on nearby Nagasaki.
Research by Peter Winstanly is helping people understand the terrible treatment and torture our loved ones received at the hands of the japanese and korean guards, and why this may have made their life so difficult when they returned to Australia. For his efforts my family thanks him most sincerely. |
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| Name: |
Rick Hayes |
| Location |
Melbourne, Australia |
| Email: |
mrdurtal@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Thanks for your help and generousity Peter...You maintain a very fine tradition! I'm glad that these sites are available so that we won't forget.
Rick |
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| Name: |
Fred Hekking |
| Location |
Cupertino, USA |
| Email: |
fhekking@excite.com |
| Comments: |
It's amazing how todays culture doesn't even understand what these men went through. My grandfather, Dr. Henri Hekking, enlightened me as to what happened in the camps. Until the day that he passed, he never spoke about the Japanese with any anger or hatred. Another man who recently passed was Tom "Slug" Wright. He was another inspiration in my life. He also survived the sinking of the USS Houston. I can't thank the Vets of any era enough for giving us the freedoms we have today. More so the hatred and anger that was left on the "war fields" and not brought home. I understand that not everyone has had the same experience, I wish they had. To all the Vets who read this, THANK YOU! |
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| Name: |
Betty Miles |
| Location |
LaConner Washington, USA |
| Email: |
deerpond1@juno.com |
| Comments: |
My brother was William Charles Batchelor Jr. He was on the USS Houston when it was sunk. As a Jap POW he was in many different camps but wound up in Burma on the Railroad of Death where he perished at 80 Kilo camp on Oct 1 1943. I miss him every day. Hope to hear from someone who may have known him. |
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| Name: |
Wally Gargano |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
wgargano@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Although I am a military officer of nearly 40 years, I have learned a lot in viewing this web site. Well done Peter. |
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| Name: |
Enid Johnson |
| Location |
Bribie Island, Australia |
| Email: |
enidy16@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for your dedication. You have covered so much. My brother (Rolly Small NX66852 2/10 Field Ambulance "F" Force- died Songkurai 28June 1943)and all those who died there are remembered in such a fine tribute.It is a great comfort that there were such wonderful doctors and mates there with them when we at home could not. |
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| Name: |
Jeff Single |
| Location |
Orange NSW, Australia |
| Email: |
jeff_single@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
The bravery,ingenuity and mateship of these soldiers can never be forgotten. As a veteran of the Vietnam (war?) it makes me very humble to see what these people have been through. We need every bit of history possible to be recorded in the hope that it may stop anything like this ever happening again. I know it is hard to speak about what has happened in a war situation, but I believe we need to see more of it. Well done on a great website. |
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| Name: |
Dick Stewart, 2/19 Battalion AIF |
| Location |
Sydney, Australia |
| Email: |
jste6128@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Thanks for a very good web page. Most of my incarceration was in Japan, first at Kobe and when that city was bombed-out we were transferred to a town outside Nagasaki. We were in that city a few days after the a-bomb had been exploded and were amazed at the damage. The bomb saved us from being executed,as this was to happen when the Allies landed in Japan. Needless to relate, that proved unnecessary. |
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| Name: |
Terry Thomson |
| Location |
erskine, western Australia 6210 |
| Email: |
terrythom@erskinegrove.com.au |
| Comments: |
A well researched site. The stories are of human courage, whilst enduring inhuman treatment.
After visiting the Canberra war memorial last year, this site has brought back some very sad memories of that period in my lifetime. I just hope none of my six young grandsons ever have to experience anything like this. |
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| Name: |
morris casey |
| Location |
Queensland, australia |
| Email: |
emsee5981@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Im researching a gent that I worked with 40 yrs ago. He was a POW in camp#26 at Keisen Kyusu Japan. His name is/was Pte Edward Brown QX13341 Australian 8th Div Sigs. I am presently waiting for National Archives records. He gave me a wallet with Japanese invasion money & a bundle of wrappers from all the items he received from a red cross POW package.
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| Name: |
Alexander Downer, Minister for Foreign Aff |
| Location |
Canberra, Australia |
| Email: |
minister.downer@dfat.gov.au |
| Website: |
www.dfat.gov.au |
| Comments: |
I would like to commend you on your well-researched and presented website, which demonstrates your commitment to preserving, for future generations, the stories of hardship and gallantry of the Australian prisoners of war captured during the Second World War. Best wishes for your ongoing efforts in collecting and documenting these important histories. |
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| Name: |
Arlene Stokes |
| Location |
Perth, WA |
| Email: |
Arlene.Stokes@det.wa.edu.au |
| Comments: |
This is fantastic, brings back so many memories of a fantastic trip (Quiet Lion Tour 2000) to see what those wonderful men endured for our freedom. |
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| Name: |
Christine Richardson |
| Location |
London, UK |
| Email: |
christinerich@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
My aunt and uncle, Archie and Helen Coleman, were prisoners of the Japanese. They were taken prisoners in Hong Kong. He was Scottish and the manager of the British Ice Cold Storage Co. Helen Coleman was Canadian, Does anyone have any information about them? |
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| Name: |
Kate |
| Location |
Brisbane, Australia |
| Email: |
pklucas@tpg.com.au |
| Website: |
www.angelfire.com/folk/ww1/agj.htm |
| Comments: |
A terrific site Peter. Not enough can be said about Prisoners of War and what they went through. My father was a POW in Japan and was in the 4th Anti Tank regiment. After 60 years his photos and writings can be seen by all. |
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| Name: |
Cheryl Killen |
| Location |
Lakewood, USA |
| Email: |
cheryl.killen@multicare.org |
| Comments: |
Looking for any information regarding Col. Wade Killen USA Army 102nd Inf. who was POW in Philippines then sent to Manchuria, Mukden, at least part of the time. I know he spent most of the war as POW, and was able to come home. I would love to receive any information those might have. I am married to his son, and never got the chance to meet Wade. Thank you all in advance. |
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| Name: |
John Deering |
| Location |
Enniskillen, N.Ireland |
| Email: |
pat.deering@btinternet.com |
| Comments: |
I am currently collecting as much information about family members who were engaged in the Second World War and I would be most interested to learn about him. I am most grateful for the responses so far.
My information todate is as follows:-
ALLAN G.D.[George Douglas b.1912
Accountant. Pte 13353 FMS Armoured Cars POW
George or ‘Pop’ to friends and family came from Aberdeen. He survived the experience of Changi and the Burma Thailand Railway. He married Blanche Barnett a widow, who had been a prisoner in Sumatra, some of our family remember that she marched from camp to camp and one of them may have been called ‘The Hill Station’. Her first husbands name was Edward Percy Barnett and he died on 3rd April 1942 at:-
BOKIT MARAJA ESTATE
PEMATANG
SIANTAR
SUMATRA |
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| Name: |
David Johnson |
| Location |
Harpenden, UK |
| Email: |
davidjohnson@dunelm.org.uk |
| Comments: |
I read your article on Stanley Pavillard with great interest - Stanley Pavillard was our family
doctor in the Canaries for many years, he was a close friend of my parents,
and I am still in contact with two of his daughters. I have very fond
memories of Stanley, and of long summer afternoons around their pool!
Just a few points - the Pavillard family were British citizens, but
originally, I believe, from Switzerland. They were part - as was my
mothers family - of a large British shipping/trading community which had
built up in the Canary Islands from the middle of the nineteenth century,
and were connected with the Elder Dempster shipping line, which ran from the
UK to West and South Africa and South America - the Canaries were an
important coaling station in those days.
Stanley was the youngest of seven brothers, and also had a younger sister.
After the war he married an Australian, Irene, and returned to Las Palmas in
the Canaries where he practised medicine for many years, latterly in
partnership with his nephew. He practised with unique style - he was always
transported to house calls in an immaculate chauffeur driven Rolls Royce. He
retired in the early 80s, by which time his eyesights was seriously
deteriorating, something which he attributed to his privations as a POW.
Stanley and Irene had three daughters (Linda, Anita and Sandra), and the
younger two still live in the Canaries - in fact, Anita is the UK
vice-consul in Las Palmas. Irene died in the early 90s and Stanley, who
was by then almost totally blind, spent his last few years at St Dunstans
home for blind ex-servicemen in Brighton. He died in 1997 and his obituary
was published in the British Medical Journal, No 7110, Vol 315, on 20
September 1997.
Stanley had been awarded the MBE for his work as a doctor in the POW camps.
Hope this is of interest. |
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| Name: |
Bill Flowers |
| Location |
Melbourne, Australia |
| Email: |
wflowers@bigpond.net.au |
| Comments: |
Congratulations to Peter for his coverage of a group of Officers who were unfailing in their work and dedication to the troops.Having spent my time in Changi for the 3.5 years, I would like to see the same coverage given to those marvellous doctors who unstintingly serviced tha area. Thanks Peter. |
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| Name: |
Dawn Burr |
| Email: |
deburr@student.ecu.edu.au |
| Comments: |
Does anyone know where the 2/3rd machine gun battalion went to in Japan when they were working in the coal mines under the sea after they had finished the Burma railway? |
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| Name: |
kaitlin ajduk |
| Location |
Carnamah |
| Email: |
ajy@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
I have been to Thailand with Peter and it was a great experience. I thought it was interesting and that was a fun day and we wont forget it. There were different people who went there and it was great for them too. We talked to POWs and we listened to them and we got along well. |
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| Name: |
David Cooke |
| Location |
ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA |
| Email: |
davidcooke7@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
In November 2005 I am travelling to the Burme railway with the a group and am really looking forward to the trip. Upon my return I will certainly post my opion to this website. Thank you for the oportunity of being able to attend. Regards David Cooke. |
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| Name: |
Bill Coates |
| Location |
Canberra, Australia |
| Email: |
coatesfour@netspeed.com.au |
| Comments: |
Fascinating website and highly informative. As the grandson of one of the medicos in question, Sir Albert Coates, it is particular interest to me and other members of the family. |
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| Name: |
Laurie Maddison |
| Location |
lynward66@hotmail.com |
| Email: |
lynward66@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
I have been to this site many times since its inception but have somehow never got around to signing on. I know you will be getting together information on the K & L Force groups when you have the time. I do know that these were smaller groups of mainly medical personnel who were sent to Thailand to keep the coolies alive and working. My father, George Moser was a Sergeant, No 6969, in the FMSVF 3rd Field Ambulance. His Unit comprised Lt. Col GF West, CO; Major J Coutts-Milne 2 I/C; Capt. Robert Hardie MO; Captains Mackintosh, Emery, J.Mitchell, Kandiah and Abbas. Lieuts. l. Tutner, and J Daly QM died Chungkai 14th May 1944; Sgt Major A Robertson and Sergeants Dick, Dunk and Moser.I have managed to track their progress to the fall of Singapore and know that they left Changi for Kanchanburi 25th June 1943. There is unconfirmed information that he (they?) was, at some stage, with Weary Dunlop. Thereafter the trail is lost. I find this so frustrating and just about every day wish that more information would surface to help fill the gaps, although I realise that most of the men must have long been deceased. However, there must be some people, relatives maybe, who would have information which they can contribute. Peter, you are giving them a rare opportunity to tell the unknown story of these groups. I hope they find this site. Cheers and thankyou, Laurie |
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| Name: |
Elizabeth & Fred Rixon |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
elizabethrixon@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
To have travelled with John Parkes & Bill Haskell on the Remembrance Tour 2003 will remain one of the greatest priviledges of our lifes!
To witness thier stories of deprivation & the grief they still bore for lost young mates,for seeing first hand the enormity of the railway construction under appalling conditions in almost impenetrable jungle.
This journey was made possible by remarkable & dedicated people, including Peter Winstanley who have sought to bring recognition & to preserve for history the sufferings & the triumphs of those brave young men.
We salute you & will dedicate our knowledge to our childrens children that they will never forget! |
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| Name: |
Lance Scott |
| Location |
Perth W.A 6000, Australia |
| Email: |
ironside@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
I would be nice if other website providers, could work to your standards. Congratulations on this outstanding site |
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| Name: |
Graeme Hammond |
| Email: |
ghammond@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
Peter
This is a terrific web site, well done and keep up the good work
All the best Graeme |
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| Name: |
Pauline Dawson |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
hiyah@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
2nd 29th & all who did not return.lest we forget
Thank you for this web.It will help to explain to my grandchildren what their Great-Granddad went through.My father was with F.Force and passed away 17 years ago,I often saw that haunted look that he could not hide.We had his ashes sent back to all his lost brothers in arms as was his last wish.I hope to take my young ones up to Hell-fire pass.Thank you again. |
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| Name: |
Warren Glenny President DRA |
| Location |
CASTLE HILL, NSW |
| Email: |
warrenglenny@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
Peter,
Congratulations on the site and for keeping us aware of this dark period. We should never forget the sacrifices of our POWs |
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| Name: |
Dana West |
| Location |
Hoffman, Illinois, usa |
| Email: |
vlwest@frontiernet.net |
| Comments: |
My Great-Uncle, Melvin Malandht was an enlisted crew member on the USS Houston when it was torpedoed during the Battle of the Java Sea. He was taken POW for the duration of the war. I want to find more info about the POW camp he was in and if there are any other survivors still living that may have known Mel.
Thanks, Dana West US NAVY Vet |
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| Name: |
Bert Lane |
| Location |
Perth, Western Australia |
| Email: |
bertlane@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
Well done Peter. With people like you doing what you do - these stories will never erode. Nor should they.
Lest we forget |
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| Name: |
Colonel David Dufall (Rtd) |
| Location |
Bangkok, Thailand |
| Email: |
davedufa@lox1.loxinfo.co.th |
| Comments: |
I have been associated in some way or another with the Thai-Burmna Railway and the POWs who toiled on the line since 1979 but more closely since 1990, then as the Australian Defence Attache to Thailand. Peter Winstanleys outstanding efforts in researching the medical aspects of those dreadful years has revealed details of the history of the line which all can follow in a user-friendly style. There can never be enough research of this nature. |
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| Name: |
Mr.Beale |
| Location |
NSW, Australia |
| Email: |
emailstuff2000@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: |
I am seeking photos, stories or general knowledge of the Naoetsu POW camp 4B Japan, where my Granfather (Fred Beale)and his brother (George Beale)were imprisoned after the fall of singapore. Two Aboriginal Brothers from Gunnedah in NSW. George died in the camp and sadly Fred passed in 1992 after long battles with war related illnesses. I also have pics some of the camp and the men. If interested please contact me.
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| Name: |
Douglas F Smith |
| Location |
northam, australia |
| Email: |
superscot22@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
i remember helping to carry the AATTV banner in 2000 when we marched through fremantle to the museum.....it was a great plessure and we won too... |
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| Name: |
Douglas F Smith |
| Location |
Northam, Australia |
| Email: |
superscot22@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
i will always remember them .... |
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| Name: |
Robert Likeman |
| Location |
Townsville, Aus |
| Email: |
likeman@austarnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
An outstanding work of reference and a valuable contribution to the history of WW2: well done ! |
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| Name: |
Andrew Corlette |
| Location |
Walcha, NSW, Australia |
| Email: |
corlette@northnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
An impressive web site and a credit to the authors/contributors. I learnt things about my father, Major Ewan Corlette that he never revealed to his children and also about other brave men such as Major Arthur Moon, who was my godfather, and others with whose names I had only passing familarity. As Australians, we are very aware of the legend of Weary Dunlop, undoubtedly a truly great man, but it is most gratifying to see other medicos from the Death Railway being afforded the recognition they so richly deserve. Lest we forget.
I wish to thank Peter Winstanley for initiating the concept and for his research on my father. And thanks also to the surviving diggers who contributed their recollections. |
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| Name: |
David Weymouth |
| Location |
WARRNAMBOOL, VIC, AUST. |
| Email: |
dapit_109@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
An excellent tribute. My Father Don worked under LtCol Coates (2/4CCS) as a medic on the Burma Rail. Sadly passed away (though peacefully) in April 2003. He would have been proud of this magnificent effort. |
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| Name: |
James .S. |
| Email: |
js42@ozemail.com |
| Comments: |
Very interesting, and very well presented. |
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| Name: |
Sarah Freegard |
| Location |
Geraldton, WA, Australia |
| Email: |
smart1_64@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
What an excellent website Peter. It brings back so many wonderful memories from when I was fortunate enough to take the Quiet Lion Tour 2004. Well done, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth of such a wonderful site. |
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| Name: |
Kevin Bovill |
| Location |
Perth, Western Australia |
| Email: |
kbovill@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
Peter, this is a worthy tribute to all who suffered and died as POWs on the Thai-Burma railway. A tribute also to the spirit and determination of those who survived and are with us still.
May we never forget the barbaric brutality of the Imperial Japanese Army of that era. |
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| Name: |
Cailtin Wills |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
caitybear65@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
What a fantastic website Peter. It really does bring back a flood of memories from the ANZAC trip 2004, which I was fortunate enough to attend. I still remember our bus trips singing our patriotic songs proudly. Thank you for the wonderful experience. A great website and easy to follow and drive! |
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| Name: |
Jan Foster |
| Location |
nee Denney Bridport, Tasmania |
| Email: |
jan.foster@education.tas.gov.au |
| Comments: |
Having spoken by phone, it was great to read your research.
Well done, for trying to explain the work done by so many medical servicemen, in the bad times during their work on the railway. My father was there as a Medical Orderly and through his book The Long Way Home our family got to understand much more of his involvement with Weary and Ewan Corlette in particular. Great to read more from your work Peter. Well done and Thanks. |
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| Name: |
John Tick |
| Location |
Perth WA, Australia |
| Email: |
tickje@git.com.au |
| Comments: |
Peter,
Great little web page very interesting and informative.
John |
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| Name: |
Neil MacPherson |
| Location |
Mandurah, Western Australia |
| Email: |
macphersonbros@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
A task and a challenge well met Peter, my contribution I hope depicts another aspect of those mere mortals that were also Gods to us, but who also shared our daily existence. Lt Col Eadie Melbourne Ear Nose & Throat Specialist, elderly to us then, who shared the same bug ridden bamboo slats, the lice, the same hunger, ill treatment yet was expected to provide us at Tanyin Burma with the miracle cure for all our illnesses. Capt Rowley Richards the young tyro, never letting up against a savage over lord, not only on the railway protecting the sick and administering to our needs, but on Jeep Island, Singapore taking punishment on our behalf from -the Jeep- a vicious jumped up Jap NCO in charge of us 600 POWs. Capt John Higgins, loved and respected on the Railway, -Cyclops- to us all, his care and devotion not only while sharing the month long journey to Japan, battened down in the sweat soaked hold of the Awa Maru, but always cheerful while administering to the daily needs of us young Coal Mine workers, wasted skeletons all living with a near use by date. |
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| Name: |
Midge Carter |
| Location |
Perth WA, Australia |
| Email: |
midge@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
Peter Im sorry I did not sign this the first time. You have done a superb job here and I will continue to pass your site on to others. Trish and I found the 2004 QL Tour a most moving experience and I feel truly flattered that you were able to use so many of my photos. Im looking forward to the 2005 Tour. |
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| Name: |
Kellie Blight |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
kellie_ellie8@cutey.com |
| Comments: |
awesome site Peter! its great to see your dedication to the cause. the POWs were and still are inspirations to us all. anzac day in thailand 2002 will be in my mind forever! keep up the good work! |
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| Name: |
John Adeney President Naval.Military & Air |
| Location |
Perth, Austraia |
| Email: |
john.adeney@csiro.au |
| Comments: |
Congratulations on producing a very comprehensive introduction to the Burma-Thailand Railway. The efforts and selfless determination of the medical personnel to support their fellow prisoners of war during captivity was marvellous and was done amongst the most awful working conditions, endemic disease and malnutrition.We will remember them |
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| Name: |
Ray & Judy Firth |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
rjfirth@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Brings back memories, we were with you and others April 2001 |
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| Name: |
Barry John MAY (Revd) JP |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
barry.may@police.wa.gov.au |
| Comments: |
Toured in April 2004 with wife Kath. Took part in Anzac service in Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. A very moving and spiritual experience including Hell-fire pass.
A worth-while venture/tour, particularly with four ex-pows on tour with us. |
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| Name: |
Rudi Christmann |
| Location |
Dachau, Germany |
| Email: |
RuR.Christmann@t-online.de |
| Comments: |
Hello Peter,
Very interrest work about the 2nd WW in Asia. |
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| Name: |
John Delgado |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
terendak@iinet.net.au |
| Comments: |
As a veteran of another era (1962-84)this website is a deserving tribute. As the President of Perth Legacy it is a stark reminder of why Legacy exists. Many thanks, John |
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| Name: |
Pat & Mick Bell |
| Location |
Geraldton, Australia |
| Email: |
teks@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for your hard work. Well done.
For Mick and I your web page has brought back memories of an unforgettable jouney. We are still trying to comprehend the deprivations inflicted. The poem at the end of Neils address (Anzac day 2004) says it all. |
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| Name: |
Christiane Arriëns |
| Location |
Bangkok, Thailand |
| Email: |
chrisarriens@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Hi Peter, this is a great web page! Well try to find the information you asked about the Dutch medical staff on the railway. Thanks for the good work, also on behalf of Foundation Friends of the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. |
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| Name: |
MURPHY |
| Location |
Albury, Australia |
| Email: |
john.murphy2@defence.gov.au |
| Comments: |
As Regimental Sergeant Major of the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps I have a working and mentor link to our medical past, of which POWs lacked in many ways for many reasons.
This site brings some of the real struggles our fore-soldiers had to contend with. Well Done. |
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| Name: |
Aaron Lambley |
| Location |
Mingenew, Western Australia |
| Email: |
lambley2@westnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
I had the pleasure of attending one of the quiet Lions Burma-Thailand railway tours this year and this website is truly a wonderful addition to the worlds knowledge of those events that occured |
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| Name: |
Mike Miltimore |
| Location |
Land O Lakes, FL., United States |
| Email: |
LandM1@GTE.net |
| Comments: |
Well done! |
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| Name: |
Glenn Holk |
| Location |
Roselawn Indiana, United States |
| Email: |
g.holk@mchsi.com |
| Comments: |
Very well written web page of a trying time in mens lives. Informative and well illustrated work.
Thanks for presenting this to us. |
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| Name: |
Jenny Mercer |
| Location |
Perth, Australia |
| Email: |
jgmercer@optusnet.com.au |
| Comments: |
A most interesting and informative site. The time and effort that has obviously gone into making these pages was well spent. Thank you. |
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| Name: |
John Millard |
| Location |
Turramurra, Australia |
| Email: |
millards@ozemail.com.au |
| Comments: |
Thank you Peter for your considerable effort in creating this most respectful memorial that will be so accessible to so many.
I am Dr Phil Millards son. Seeing things written about my dad that I hadnt heard before .... about his tough yet compassionate journey with all of you who suffered so harshly is a precious gift to me and no doubt my brothers and sister. I will show this to mum ...his wife Joan ... it wil mean a lot to her of course.
Thanks ....
John |
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| Name: |
Jonathan Moffatt |
| Location |
Coventry, United Kingdom |
| Email: |
JonathanMoffatt@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Thanks for this website, Peter. It is a valuable contribution to the subject of the Thai-Burma Railway. There is much about Doc Pavillard in Ron Mitchells memoirs Baba Nonnie Goes to War and also about a Cockney medical orderly called Pinkey Riley -that name should make George Wiseman smile! Another Medical Officer Ron rated very highly was Captain Charles Pitt RAMC on the Tavoy Road in 1944. |
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| Name: |
Lu Meredith |
| Location |
Perth, Western Australia |
| Email: |
merluton@wantree.com.au |
| Comments: |
As a personal acquaintance of Bill Haskell and having accompanied him on one of his many Anzac trips to Hellfire Pass and adjacent areas I acclaim your efforts in recording for posterity this terrible blot in our history. Thankyou for a job very well done. |
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| Name: |
Don Gutteridge |
| Location |
Sydney |
| Email: |
dhgutteridge@bigpond.com |
| Comments: |
A sterling enterprise by Peter Winstanley(and his surviving subjects and the relatives/friends of departed heroes).This is a critical and defining period of Australian,British, Dutch, and even American history,both medical and military,and Peters work in pursuing the facts, and in establishing this website, has prevented much of this material from fading into relative obscurity. |
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| Name: |
Mike Galvin |
| Location |
Perth WA, Australia |
| Email: |
mikegalvin@hotmail.com |
| Comments: |
Excellent web page. Very well done Peter.
The events along the Railway during WW II should never be forgotten as they serve as moral, ethical and historical signposts for us all. Study of the whole episode provides lessons in Command, Leadership and survival like no other. All students, of all nationalities, should understand the Railway and learn from it. |
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| Name: |
Andrew Mason |
| Location |
Melbourne, Australia |
| Email: |
mason@tlo.com.au |
| Comments: |
The Railway was a tragic piece of Australian and Allied nations history. There are so many men that encapsulate our word mateship - developed in Gallipoli and entrenched in the Pacific, how tough these fellas must have been. Thanks Peter for looking into these men as without this information they would not receive their rightful accolades. Well done. |
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| Name: |
Hassan Saddiq |
| Location |
Bristol, England |
| Email: |
hassan.saddiq@royalmail.co.uk |
| Comments: |
Gone but not forgotten, men fighting for a REAL cause deserve the most respect and admiration. |
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| Name: |
Geoff Jones |
| Location |
Brisbane, Australia |
| Email: |
jones@squirrel.com.au |
| Comments: |
One cant travel on the railway without sensing the spirit of those who suffered and died. This webpage is a fine tribute to their courage and sacrifice. Well done, Peter. |
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| Name: |
Trevor |
| Location |
Bristol, England |
| Email: |
treva31@gmail.com |
| Comments: |
My deepest respects to those who were there. |
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