| Hi Spidge, many thanks for your kind assistance. In reference to your question, I recall Dad saying he was involved in fighting in Buna and Gona. Only this morning I gained some info from my elder Brother who relates an incident where Dad contracted Malaria while in New Guinea. Two Military officers visited him in hospital and indicated that although he couldn,t carry a rifle he could be trained as a Coastwatcher where the natives would assist him carrying eqpt etc. He also remembers that in Mackay the mail from servicemen arrived every 2 weeks. Several weeks went by with no mail and my Mother made enquiries with Military personnel. Eventually mail did arrive which my Brother remembers was heavily censored with most of the letter blacked out.Regardless of this Mum was ecstatic at just making contact. After the war Dad made a comment to me as I had just joined the regular army. He said don't ever volunteer and went on to tell me of his experiences as a coastwatcher.
Although all of his service with this group would be security sensitive, I would love to find out where he served during this time. I purchased a Book on the net this morning, History of the 49th which should give me more insight into his service. I am so very proud of all our servicemen who went through two world wars and laid down their lives so that we may enjoy the freedom which we have today.Sadly when I read the newspapers and watch TV and see the mindless violence that exists daily, I wonder if those old solders would be turning in their grave. Spidge, I have prattled on for too long, thanks once again for all your help. You are a gentleman. Kindest regards Allan. |