Transcript of the diaries of Roy Clifford Mudiman, 1941-1945 - Part 3

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received warning of an air raid, almost immediately we heard a terrific din, caused by ack ack guns firing about 200
yds away. We hurried out of the Godowns & entered a patch of scrub just the other side of the road. A Flight of
B19's flew over the Godowns & dropped there eggs, scoring several hits, many incendiaries were dropped causing
many fires. They passed on. The Nip with us, thinking the raid was over, ordered us back into the Godowns. No sooner
had we entered the building, than the Blooming Ack Ack guns opened up again, giving us warning of more
bombers. We scurried back into the Mulga. The few air raid shelters were quickly occupied, while the majority of
men just laid in the shallow depressions, when the next lot of bombs dropped, scoring many hits, very close this time,
obviously they intended wiping out the Godowns by starting at the further end & working their way along. The
incendiaries sounded like a small ammunition dump going up. They caused numerous fires amongst the Godowns
timber stacks. The last lot flew over, & dropped their bombs, which strung out on our side of the road, missing the
Godowns by 15 yds, & us by 20yds, they circled around but dropped no More. During this I was lying in a shallow
depression & although I was covered with black particles, probably gun cotton which was spewed from the bombs
on exploding. The terrific heaving of the ground almost shook me apart, tons of earth & stuff dropped all around me,
it was a miracle they missed me. Then I heard Bill Toombs shouting for help 20 yds away. A few of us went over &
were surprised at the pitiful sight before us: Bill Toombs with 5 or 6 others at the beginning of the raid entered an
air raid shelter built of huge steel girders and angle irons. The last stick of bombs scored almost a direct hit on the
shelter blowing the shelter and occupants sky high. Toombs had a shrapnel wound in his arm, above which I tied a
ligature. Lofty Holman, dead, bones broken in arms, legs, body spreadeagled in a grotesque gruesome manner over a
pile of Girders. I helped carry him out, after taking Toombs & K. Trayhern out of the way. Trayhern, a brave man if
ever there was one, siting on a pile of girders, holding his leg, which had a hole as big as your fist, just above the
ankle, his other leg was broken, abrasions to the head & body, a pitiful sight to behold. He never murmed as we
shifted him. Pte Waite, dead, tangled up in a mass of girders with his brains hanging out. A nip orderly came along
& felt his pulse. He Looked horrible with his tongue, blue, swollen lolling out, mouth gaping - teeth all shattered. I
pushed his brains back in & closed the trap door in his head. We then commenced shifting tons of Girders to get
George Oliver & a Dutchman out. They were both dead. Eventually I left the others to it, & bludged a smoke which
I was needing badly. After a few more men came in the Nips held a Menko Several men were missing, so a search
party was organised. CASUALTIES, AUS. 3 DEAD- 1, GUNNER HUNT, BELIEVED BURIED, 3 others
WOUNDED - ENG. 1 DEAD, 1 BELIEVED BURIED – DUTCH 1 KILLED – 4 WOUNDED, NIPS ABOUT 50
or 60 dead & wounded. (Trayhern & Toombs were brought back to the Godowns of getting dressed at the nip
R.A.P.) The Godown next to ours is blazing fiercely, A Nip with a 2½ Gallon bucket, gallantly trying to quench the
flames a job for 3 or 4 fire engines. The Thai fire Brigade appeared on the scene, very smart in getting things in
working order. When they turned the water on, it sprayed all over the show, from hundreds of small holes
distributed generously along the entire length of the hose. What an ingenious invention. The firemen were a
picturesque sight to behold. The majority of them wearing brass helmets 8 asbestos suits, but no boots. At approx
1000 hrs another air raid alarm went, we fell in, in 4's carrying Tryhern & Toombs, marched out to the
dispersal area just outside of town – Nothing happened.
28-3 Another Reccy plane flew over today – Anxious to leave – The remaining 121 of us were very much
relieved when we eventually packed up & left by train – 35 men were crammed into each hot box which was
already full of gear. (1500 hrs) We saw many workshops buildings etc. which had been demolished by our bombers.
29-3 Arrived at a station 121 8/16 kilos from Bangkok after travelling a fair distance in an easterly dir. We
arrived approx. at 0100 hrs, & slept the Remainder of the night on a tennis court, which was situated between the
station & a small village (Mossies Bad.) We rested most of the day & at approx 2000 hrs we Packed up & started
marching towards our unknown destination. 1 truck load of the worst cases of sick left behind, to follow on by truck.
30-3- After completing a 21 kilos march we camped at N Mango Grove. We are 6½ kilos from the next town.
ARRIVED 0530 hrs We rest all day - We packed up again at approx 2000 hrs heading in a Westerly direction. We
rested at every 4^th Kilos Reg for 10 minutes - we crossed a small river Passed through a village & continued
marching S.W. by west - after Marching about 15 kilos we took a turning to the Right. S.E.E. & marched towards a
range of hills which we had followed along & we did another 2 Kilos   (17 kilos) & turned into a camp which had
only  just been Started at 00230 hrs of the 31^st 3^rd. 
31/3/45 We started working after lunch erecting huts. There are only 5 hut at present, but 14 huts are to be
completed – although many of the the men could hardly work, they were forced to do their bit – The wells here are
only 2 metres deep. Therefore we have plenty of water. The Kitchen does not have the facilities to cope with boiling
water. & not being allowed to boil our own, we are running a grave risk in drinking water straight from the well.
1-4- The sick men who were left behind, arrived in camp today, accompanied by the Air Raid Casualties.
2-4- A few sick men arrived in camp today, informing us of another party of 400 men on the way.
3-4- A party of 400 men arrived here today, bringing the camp total to 1200.
4-4- Working Outside camp building a road leading into the hills; 10 - 4 engine planes flew over today, we 

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heard them drop their eggs S.E. of here.
5-4- Working in the mountains building roads.
6-4- General Info - Reveille 0730 hrs. Parade 0840 hrs. Lunch 1330 hrs to 1500 hrs. If we arrived back at
camp before 1930 hrs, we have to help build huts until 2030 hrs, at which time we have tenko? which keeps us out
of mishah? Until approx 2130 hrs - we quite often work after 2000 hrs outside the camp. Lights Out 2230 hrs
8-4- Received a letter from Mum dated 21st October-43- Not bad eh!
9-4- Another party of 400 men arrived in camp last night bringing the total up to 1600 men) Food here now is
much was than Tamuan. – Break. 1 pt. plain plap? & an pt. rice & ¼ pt sombol which is always sour when we
come to eat it on the job. Tea. 1½ pts rice – ½ pt Stew.
10-4- Contacted my 35 attack of Malaria – Bed down
13-4- Another party of 400 men arrived in camp now bringing the total up to 2000 men.
14-4- The Japs had a     ? on the Sick men today, sending them out to work - including myself.
14-4- They are now erecting huts in the hills lining the road. They obviously intend making this a transit camp.
17-4- ½ day Yesamay.
20-21-4- Had the cold shivers for over an hour, which was succeeded by a terrific cramp in the chest, on the right
side, & I was unable to yell out or move, in fact it was almost suffocating.
21-4- Attended a sick Parade at Reveille & was marked Bed down, with a temp. of 103. My temp rose during
the day to 104 – Quinine, I am unable to keep food down – Vomiting often. Pains in the chest so severe I can hardly
move. Cold shivers again, coughing slightly.
22-4- Nothing to eat all day. Chest pains have subsided a little.
23-4- Chest a little better – Spitting blood each time I cough.
24-4- Still coughing up blood.
25-4- Although I do not feel well, and am still Spitting Blood I am to go to work tomorrow.
27-4- Working outside camp again
1-5- The monsoons have now commenced Raining daily - paddy fields flooded
3-5- Huns F.W.Good    ? Conference on in Geneva which is expected to end on the 10-4- To Build a
latrine here – one has to build it above the level of the ground on account the flooded ground.
17-5- Neville Isaacs passed away today - complications set in after pneumonia, that makes 3 deaths here so
far.
29-5- Received 2 letters from Mum dated 27-7-44 & 6-8-44
Contacted my 37^th dose of malaria. B.D.
31-5- Admitted into B.D.Ward 13.
1-6-45 Restrictions 1. No smoking out of the hut except when around a     ? hole & ash tray filled with water.
3. Not to walk around with your hands in your pockets. 4. No man is allowed to lay down in his hut during the day,
whether sick or otherwise (except dinner hour) 4. No man is allowed to read books or gamble. 5. No Bathing
except between the hours of 1300 & 1500 & 1800 to 2100 hrs. 7. No man can wear a sweat towel around his
neck.
2-6-45  discharged from hosp. I am on party standing by to march.
3-6-45- 1 party of 800 men (including myself) left Nakaum Nai this morning, & with all our gear to the 53 Kilo
peg, a distance of 11½ Kilos from the camp in a Westerly direction, we camped in the paddy fields, void of shelter. It
rained very heavily during the night, turning the paddy field into duck ponds.
4-6- Reveille 0630 hrs, Break & left, carrying our haversacks & rations. We marched 25 Kilos & reached a
small village where we halted for the night in an open paddy field. Once more we were drenched to the Skin, but
managed to roll out at 0200 hrs on the very wet ground.
5-6- Reveille 0730 hrs. We marched 16 Kilos & camped on the outskirts of a fair sized Thai Town in
another Paddy field, where once more we were drenched to the Skin. A fair sized river flows through the town,
passing under a large Steel Span Bridge.
6-6- Reveille 0530 hrs. Left 0940 hrs, & arrived at the 124½ Kilo Peg at approx. 1600 hrs. Strange to Say it
did not rain. We camped in what appeared to be an old park, on the side of a hill – 15 Kilos march.
7-6 Reveille 00715 hrs. - left 0900 hrs & marched 15 Kilos or so to 139 (KP) where we turned off into a paddy
field, just outside the limits of the old town wall. We Passed through a large town – Well built – by the name of
LOP BURI – a wide concrete road passes through the town. The Railway & River also pass through the town. The
crumbling ruins of the old town are Said to be over 500 years old. We camped under a copse of Mago trees – It
rained as usual –
13-6 We still camped on the outskirts of the town – A party of 200 men who left Nakum Nai prior to us are
here at present. They sent over one of their very sick men who died shortly afterwards of Blackwater Fever, & was
buried in the Thai cemetery. That Party has been 140 Kilos north of here, mending a road. They marched an 

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average of 12 Kilos a day, carrying all their gear – fixing the road as they marched. They have been under
shelter 1 night since they left NAKAM NAI. – They have not received any money yet – we forwarded them $100 to
buy medico gear with.
14-6- That party of 200 men left here today Bound for North. It had been raining heavily all day, the water is
rushing into the paddy fields rapidly – at dusk we were given orders to move camp, as the grounds here would be
under 3 of 4 ft of water before morning (Thai Tales) We moved to a new area, in the grounds of an old ruined
temple just inside the crumbling city wall which is approx 35 ft high and about 10 to 12 ft wide. It is dangerous in
here because of the towering ruined temples, they have no roofs under which to Seek Shelter The Highest one
would be 70 ft high. There are numerous Pagodas, Idols, and other things of interest scattered around. It continued
to rain but the water soaked rapidly through the tiled floor. There are many bad ulcers cases here now. Some are as
big as your fist and about ½ in. deep. Food rations are very poor, 400 grams of rice per day 1½ pt plain rice for
Break - 1 pt rice for lunch & ¼ pt of Pumpkin or Melon water – & for dinner 1 pt steamed rice & ½ pt of soup
similar to that of lunch. No meat or fish, sometimes about 100 eggs for 800 men. The only work we are doing at
present are camp Fatigues such as Carrying water, wood & rations to the Kitchen. The Thais here are very 
Sympathetic towards us, and have shown it in many ways, eg. by offering to feed us (offer declined by Japs) 
Working, they threw us food, but if anybody is caught accepting it they got Severely punished. We made a lean to 
shelter today of bags & Grass. It keeps a lot of the rain out. The foundation of these buildings are volcanic rock. 
We go to the river each day for a bath.

18-6- Food has not improved nor the weather. We are expecting to move from here shortly. Many Carts have 
been brought into camp. We have been issued with two Kilos of Rice per man to carry on the journey. Quite a few 
sick men are expecting to be evacuated back to NON COMBATAN under the care of Cpt. Breaston. 100 sick men 
who are unable to walk will remain behind until such time as transport arrives, leaving 654 men of the original 800 
to march.

19-6- Reveille 0600 hrs. I was detailed for the vanguard of 80 men to pull the carts laden with Kitchen gear, 
rice, Nip tents etc. We are not allowed to place any of our gear on the carts. We left Lup Buri approx 0900 hrs 
Carrying all our gear, plus rice & pushing the heavily laden carts, we headed in a N.E. direction. We eventually 
came to a halt after completing 20 Kilos. We camped in a paddy field, devoid of both wood & water. No tea served. 
LEFT LUP BURI 16 CARTS

20-6- We had a meal at 0200 hrs in compensation of the 1 missed yesterday. We sat up most of the night, shivering 
with cold, drenched to the skin. Reveille 0730 hrs. left about 0930 hrs after having eaten ½ pt plain rice for 
Break. We carried ½ pt plain rice for haversack Rations. We marched 13 Kilos & were surprised to find Shelter for 
the night in a large Shed. After having completed our camp fatigues we ate 1 pt rice & ½ pt pumpkin water for tea. 
It is terrible to be hungry, a mans ribs seem to want to cave in all the time - We gratefully poured the Bed rolls.

21-6- Reveille 0730 hrs. Moved 0930 hrs after eating 1 pt of plain rice for Break. WE carried the same for lunch. 
Once more we were surprised to find shelter for us after marching 16 or 17 Kilos, beside a muddy, sluggishly 
flowing stream, in a Thai Village.

22-6- Reveille 0900 hrs left about 1030 hrs. We were allowed to put part of our gear on the carts today which 
made it a lot easier. We marched about 10 kilos & camped beside a muddy little stream - flowing W, very few 
men found shelter. We are in the midst of a Thai village.

23-6- We rested all day. The Thais here are friendly towards us.

24-6- Reveille 0730 hrs, left 1030 hrs & arrived at our bivouac area at 2100 hrs. after travelling 19 Kilos. We 
marched alongside the railway line, & it was very hard work for the men, pulling carts over the sleepers. 
(RAILWAY ON THE 162 Kilo peg) BAN MEE is the name of the Station from which we commenced our march 
along the railway line. When the axles of 3 carts broke the men had to carry them - there were also several stretcher 
cases who had to be carried 1 of our men was knocked out with a rifle butt today -head split open, for brushing up 
against a guard. (BAN HUEY KAEO 165-14 173-15 K.P. Band played as we passed through CHAN SEN) We 
passed BAN HUEY KAEO on the 166 1/8 Kilo Peg. from Bankok. We camped just around the 180 Kilo Peg. 
_________? CHONG KHAF is the name of the station. We had to cook our own meal here because the majority of 
the Quarries? Are broken. When we passed CHAN SEN Station which is on the 173 15/16 Kilo Peg - The Town 
band played for us - during this Thais were throwing us scraps of food & cigarettes, 18 Kilos. the sick men were the 
only ones under shelter! I saw for the first time a complete circular rainbow around the Sun. The Eclipse of the 
moon also took place we got to Sleep (0230 hrs 25-6)

26-6- (BAN ME KOK) Reveille 0730 hrs left at 0930 hrs & halted when we reached 194 Kilo Peg where we 
made camp, just outside a station. Only the sick men were under shelter. We had to cook our own meals again.

27-6- A day of rest - & don't we need it, everybody is extremely exhausted & I had rigor this night which lasted 
over two hours. issued with 5½ pts of rice.

28-6 (NONG PO 212 K.P.) Rev 0730 hrs Le 1000 hrs Ar at the 212 Kilo Peg just before dark a distance of 19

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Kilos. Shelter available for sick only – we certainly got drenched – after cooking our own meal we returned to our wet Bedrolls.

29-6- We left at the usual hour but being on the advance party – dragging trucks, we arrived at 1600 hrs at our 
destination. Shelter available for a very few only. We are still following the line. Distance 14 Kilos. – Station BAN 
MA KOK 225 Kilos from Bangkok.

30-6- 11 Kilos – Some Camped under a dilapidated building on 236 K.Peg.

1-7- 16 Kilos – Yesterday, when we arrived at camp, hungry as usual we picked a weed thought to be Pig Weed, 
but this morning the majority of the men were in a drunken Stupor. I with many others had to crawl out on Parade 
on hands & Knees. We couldn't even stand up for the first hour. The dizziness started to wear off after a while & 
we were able to stagger along to our destination. Many men had to be carried - The doctor said the weed we ate last 
night was the cause of it. Every Man jack of us sighed with relief when we left the Railway at UNUNG PLING at 
the 246 Kilo Peg, we then marched another 6 Kilos, Past an aerodrome until we reached a temple overlooking a 
river. Rained a little – we are expecting to rest here about 5 days. We are Still cooking.

2-7- Resting – We are Camped about 6 Kilos west of UNUNG PLING. 
There is a river about ½ Kilo Nth. of 
here. A small tributary runs off the man river here – Aerodrome 1 Kilo East – A temple Situated on the hills behind 
us South, it has a long straight stair case leading up to it. We are also in a hollow with plenty of mozzies to keep us 
company We have been issued with tomorrows rations. 1pt of rice per man. Mackie Watts very sick.
3-7- It is rumoured that we are waiting for the sick men who were left at Lup BURI to catch us up - We built 
ourselves a shelter from Bamboo & Elephant grass. Si mister - Watts - Lowcock & myself – Bill went to 
Hospital with fever – Mack has got the Shits – Harry & I have very sore mouths & find it impossible to smoke very 
hard to eat. VITUMANOSIS. I also have a fever & a bad cold – Another pt of rice issue.

5-7- We received our pay today.

6-7- That Party of sick men from the ruins arrived here today – 105 men – They had travelled by train – They 
brought news that large parties P.O.W. from Tamuan & Chun Kai are heading this way - travelling by transports. 
We packed up & crossed the river – No 1 & No 2 Marching Parties. We camped in a Mango & Banana Grove to 
await the rest of the party who will probably be over tomorrow – we crossed the river in a small launch, very slow 
work. The large bridge which is intended to cross the river is not yet completed. This camp is called NAKAM 
BOAN. The Thais here are treating us extra well & would give us the world if the nips would allow them.

7-7- the remainder of the party joined us, it rained, but the mozzies continued their attack.

8-7- 158 sick men will remain behind tomorrow when we leave. We received 4 days ration of dry rice to carry 
with us tomorrow (4 1/3 pts)

9-7- Reveille 0600 hrs left 0900 hrs & travelled 19 Kilos to the 15 K.Peg we turned left after leaving the town. 
We camped just beyond a village a wood party of 60 men were given permission by the Nips to accept gifts from 
the Thais. Naturally we excepted the gifts which they eagerly pressed into our hands. After arriving back at camp 
with the wood we were lined up. The Nip in charge of the party, under the supervision of (Diamond) the boss 
grabbed a huge bamboo pole a good 5" in diameter & went to town on us – Every man in his turn was Knocked 
down Many heads were Split open several men Knocked completely out.

10-7- Marched 17 Kilos to the 32 Kilo Peg. where we camped in another open field. There was a fork in the road 
at the village, we took the Right hand Road. We were given 12 bony chickens between 600 hungry men for 
Rations.

11-7- Marched 17 Kilos.

12-7- Day of Rest. Issued With Rice & Vegetables

13-7- Marched 18 Kilos

14-7- 14 Kilos - Never a day passes without the men getting a bashing – the Nips need no excuse, they do it just for the fun of it.

15-7- Marched 16 Kilos along a reasonable road, then turned off into a jungle track on the right & marched a 
further 2 Kilos we came upon a small village situated on the Banks of the River.  18 Kilos Malaria once more. 

16-7- Marched 20 Kilos I helped to carry a broken cart. Reached a small village on a river named NAKAM 
CHUM we had to wade across the river to get to the Temple on the other side where we camped. it was dark when 
we arrived, very tired after marching over the very muddy ground. – They have no Quinine to give me for my fever.

17-7- A chicken, which constituted our companies rations was raffled. 10 men won it. I included. We also 
received a small vegetable issue mainly Kang Kong. A day of Rest. We were astonished to receive a Pork issue 
approx ½lb between 3 men. Quite Good. Fever on me again. I also have Yellow Jaundice. I feel very sick in the Stomache and find my meals hard to eat.

18-7- Day of Rest.

19-7- Issued with 4 days ration of rice & 3 days of Kang Kong Commencing from tomorrow. We also got issued 
with 1 desert spoon of oil – the same of salt & 1/3 d.s of pepper between 3 men. We bought $1.00 of dry meat

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(maggots) & $1.00 of Rice in town last night. We also received 1 egg between 3 men – we consider this a good 
ration compared with what we've been used to.

21-7- Day of Rest we now have 6 days rations of Kang Kong & Bringles? (2 days & they'll be rotten) & 7 days 
ration of rice (5/6 pt per day) we are expected to move tomorrow, not only carrying our rations & Packs but also to 
push the loaded carts through he muddy track – Up to date our destination is unknown.

22-7- Marched 16 or 17 Kilos along a narrow, muddy pathway, wide enough for 1 man only. The men on the 
carts had a tough day of it, hacking their way through. 5 pigs had to be carried, weighing between 130 to 200 lbs. 
Broken carts & quarries also proved to be a nuisance, fortunately owing to my sickness I only carried ½ bucket of 
vegetables besides my gear. We started off by following the river down, we branched off to the left & when again 
we struck the river it was running in the opposite direction it's about 1 Kilo wide. The Thais did not object to us 
picking fruit from there small orchards as we passed through. we camped near a small campong near the river.

23-70 Marched 14 Kilos. wallowing through the mud, Ken deep in places – The men on the carts had another 
tough day of it. Having to unload their carts on several occasions, then after dismantling them, carry them over the 
deep unbridged gorges. I was only carrying 1 quarry today, but it was enough for me. After reaching camp - the two 
forward were compelled to go back 5 to 6 Kilos to bring in the carts which eventually arrived in camp approx 0200 hrs of the 24-7.

24-7- 5 Kilos. After marching 4 Kilos to reach the river where the bridge was uncompleted we had to wait several 
hours before our turn came to cross by dingy. We camped about 1 Kilo from the River. Once more we came upon 
the road which is only partly finished. Camped in the Rain.

25-7- Rested all day. We had to supply wood fatigues & do a little work for the nips.

26-7- Marched 24 Kilos, & camped by the roadside. Although the road was rough & muddy in parts, unbridged in 
others, we found it quite good after the bush trek. Still heaving towards N & N. West.

27-7- We marched 2½ kilos to the 1½ Kilo Peg where we camped for the night in a field where there were Thai 
barracks – The sick occupied the newly built cement building, obviously the THAI Army administration H. 
Quarters at some time. The Nip guards are almost unbearable now using rifle butts & boots whenever they feel 
like it.

28-7 Rest all day. Rice ¾ pt for 2 meals.

30-7- (RAHANG) 2 Englishmen escaped last night & apparently made good their getaway. We remained on 
Parade all day, huddled up in the hot sun which beat down upon us unmercifully. Late afternoon – 5 officers & 
several guards came into the camp. With them they brought the 200 Nakam Nai Party. They had been up a fair way 
& they believe that we were coming up to aid them complete the large Building Program which consisted of 300 
or 400 bridge but they were rushed back unexpectedly. Our Nip Officer Diamond, handed us over to the newcomer 
(a captain) rations improved immediately at last 200% better, although we could still eat twice the quantity.

31-7- During the night we were rudely awakened by the blare of bugles sounding TENKO. We remained on 
parade for over 1 hour, listening to the lecture the officer delivered to us. Obviously a few of the Kimpies had seen 
a few of our men talking with the Thais in town. He threatened to cut our rations if this did not cease – Four men 
stepped out, admitted their guilt but surprisingly they were not punished – These Nips seem reasonable enough.

3-8- Another Jap officer took over the camp – he is middle aged & seems to be a quite old stick

6-8- 1 Englishman died today of Dysentry – Double Pneumonia

9-8- 2 more Englishmen escaped last night but no fuss was kicked up about it.

11-8 Another Englishman died of Dysentry & Pneumonia – Unfortunately the Doctors have nothing at all with 
which to combat dysentery or Malaria, not even bandages with to dress the bad ulcer cases

12-8 Marched 4 Kilos Packed up in a hurry & moved at 1600 hrs – We turned east when we reached the 
crossroads. We camped on the gravely runaway of an Aerodrome 3 Kilos East of RAHANG. 114 Kilo Peg is just 
along the road. We now 18 to 20 carts I fair condition to pull - We left 70 odd sick men behind at the hospital. We 
have marched Approx 450 Kilos up to date.

13-8 Marched 18 Kilos to the 97 Kilo Peg. Pushed carts today

14-8- Reveille 0700 hrs moved 0900 hrs Marched 19 Kilos camped near 78 K.P. arrived 1530 hrs.

15-8- 13 Kilos. Camped near a small village in a paddy F. A Dicky Bird flew into camp today & said that the 
curtains had fallen.

16-8- 18 Kilos Mached to the 47 K.P. just beyond a village

17-8- 17 Kilos We passed through a fair sized 38 K.P. town. While passing through we were informed by several 
Thais that the blue was over. I actually believe it for the first time. We had intended spending the night there, but the 
Kimpies made us push on a further 8 Kilos out of town.

18-8 12 Kilos Marched to the 20 Kilo Peg. 7 men escaped. no fuss.

19-8 24 Kilos Marched to the 44 K.P. Rained like hammers to Hell.

20-8 17 Kilos Passed through a large town situated along the Banks of the River which flows under a large steel 

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bridge. PITSAN LOCKE is the name of this bridge. we arrived at an old Thai or Jap Camp –  Boggy – Mosquitos –
½ under water. A Party of 152 Sick Men have been here some time – Mackie amongst them. They lost one man 
back at Nakam BOAN.

21-8 4 more men shot through – Rations very poor – Had to cook our own meal as usual having no wood we 
pulled half of the fence down. We were Officially notified today that the hostilities had ceased on the 15^th. But the 
armistice had not yet been signed. Promised us rations would gradually improve.

22-8 We are certainly enjoying this rest – We have refused to do any further fatigues. Our food is now being 
cooked for us. A Guard fired 2 shots over 1 of our Blokes last night who was going through. Roll call showed 15 
men to be missing, by Daylight the Nips had recaptured 9 men - 1 gave himself up - 5 had escaped The Nips are 
rushing clothing into the camp. Probably don't want us to be seen in our ragged G. strings. We have an Electric light 
going now.

23-8 4 more men escaped – We have at present received 2 pairs braces – 1 shirt 1 sweat towel - 1 G. string 1 
pair boots & 1 pr of socks 1 blanket between 2 men – Mozzy net 10 men.

24-8 6 more men went through – Nips have begun to wire us into a smaller area. We are not allowed to leave our 
huts of a night now – we have to shit in a U.S. bucket at corner of hut. We are allowed to use latrines of a day. Any 
person leaving Hut must be accompanied by a Nip Guard, issued with a few more blankets, which gives us 1 each, 
also soap & medico gear.

25-8- The nips have completed wiring us in, & on our solemn oath we were allow about again Food 
greatly improved but still not enough.

26-8 Vaccinated for Small Pox owing to the man who died about a week ago (Small Pox Plus Pneumonia)

28-8- 450 men left here this morning at 0200 hrs/Rumour has it that they are going to another camp 100 Kilos Nth 
of Bangkok. Balance 451 men We Received a Message, presumably for Maj Locket. Approx 1700 hrs a party of 
Poms arrived here – The came from Cheing Mie – Travelled by train

30-8- Packed up and prepared to move

31-8- We arrived at PITSON LOCKE Station & we left by train approx 0300 hrs We carried haversack rations
We wandered through many of the towns which the train stopped at – We flogged eveything within our reach so as 
we could buy something to eat. We arrived at TAKURI a station on the 193.6 Kilo Peg. where we felt the first signs 
of freedom. Maj. Barnett of Tampee days & Major Locket a Parachutest, We boarded trucks & were taken to a 
camp 1½ Kilos from the TEHOURI Air Strip which the P.O.W. of this camp had finished days prior to the War 
finished. Maj. Locket was Wirelessed for Planes to come and pick us up – 1 plane Dakota expected tomorrow to try 
out the air strip.

1-9- Twin Eng. Dakota arrived & after flying low over camp several times he dropped 7 bundles by Parachute 
which landed in the camp - Cigarettes, – Vitamin Tabs.

2-9 Another plane landed here today & left, taking 25 men with him to Bangalore

3-9- Owing to a case of Small Pox in camp we are to remain under Quarantine until 16-9-45.

4-9- Plane brought more reading matter & sports gear – Wrote to Mum.

5-9 Went to TAHOURI on leave with Harry

7-9- There are 6 graves in this camp. Camp approx 3 months old – RAAF Group Com. visited camp. Received 
5 letters from Mum dated between Oct 44 & January 45 – Wrote to Win

8-9- Visited aerodrome.

9-9 Went to town 

11-9- Wrote to Mum issued with Battle dress – We are on a 10 day course of MEPAQUINE.

12-9- Plane on it's way to RANGOON From SAIGON Made Forced landing here – carrying 30 P.O.W. They slept 
the night in camp.

13-9 Those 30 men left here by another plane today – The one with Engine trouble remains.

14-8 I am cooking in the Kitchen on Night Shift.

15-9 2 plane loads of Poms left here today.

16-9- disarming of the Nips by P.O.W. Several Souveneres.

19-9- Left the Kitchen to stand by on the next party to leave

20-9- 2 plane loads of Poms left here today.

21-9- Packed up – got as far as Station & turned Back. About 8 plane loads of Poms left here today

22-9- Over 20 Dak Planes landed here today – They took all the Poms away except 200. We packed up once more 
& arrived at the Staion at approx 1400 hrs – We left TAKOURI at 1530 hrs riding in passenger cars – Got Pissed –

23-9- Arrived at BANGKOK about 0030 were transported to the Race Course Camp – God Forsaken Hole – 
Mosquitoes – Stink – Went to town on leave through China Town – Slum Area – Chinese in Riotous mood – Japs 
working in camp - crawling Bastards.

24-9- Tinny & Vic came over from Stadium. We evacuated our condemned camp & over to the University for 

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Moral & Political Science by trucks. This camp is comfortable although we have to sleep on a bag on the concrete 
floor Food Poor – 1 AUSSIE GUTSHOT

25-9- Received 2 letters from Mum – I replied – Went around town visited – Light Moon Cabarette - 
SHOOTING - Cut off from camp.

26-9- Volunteered for Piquitte? - were transported to the Chinese Chamber of Commerce - Rotten Stink 
hole. Mosquito blowflies -

27-9- Made friends with Tai Chum who Bought the Drinks  * Visiting *

28-9- On Piquitte? From 1800 hrs until 0200 hrs the following morning Bridge leading to China Town

29-9- Leave again  * VISITING *

30-9- Wrote to Dot.

2-9- In draft of 46 men who went to Air Post. WROTE TO JACK.

3-9- Left Aerodrome at 0930 hrs – arrived in Singapore at 1500 hrs. 5½ hrs flying transported to a tent camp 
about 2 miles from Changi Unit – Ferod? No. 1. Cigarettes in Abundance – Recreation hut No. 1. Issued with 
stretcher Mess gear Blanket There's no doubt about it, it's home from home.

4-9- Men are coming in & going each day by plane, & lines

14-10 Standing by Cannot get my mail from P.O.

15-10-45 embarked from Singapore by Moreton Bay via nth Sumatra

24-10-45 arrived Fremantle leave until 1800 hrs to 2359 hrs

24-10-45 Paid 5.0.0 (pounds) Wrote letters to Dot Mum Win.

24-10 Moreton Bay fr. Sing Coming from Sing with 1,166 service pers & civ on board, the Aberdeen & 
Commonwealth lines. Moret B. is expected to arri in Guge? Roads about 3 PM tod, The 
? Of those on board there R 1098 Ser Pers, Inclu 65 sur of HMAS Perth, of who 9 will disem at Frem. Serv Pers for 
the various sts R as follows WA 99 SA 62 V 263 NS 338 Q 157 TAS 54 NT 1 duty pers, 124 ?: WA 7 S 6 V 24 
NS 26 Q 5

27-10 Paid 5.0.0. (pounds) Crossing Bight - Bit Rough - 

28-29- Nights very cold - I have a touch of Dengue.

29-10 Victoria hovers in sight. Passed very close to Lady Percy island

30-10 Pulled in at Melbourne, next to the battleship King George V - Vice & Tasmanians got off - we had leave 
until 1600 hrs. 2 lockets for Faye & Dawn cost 65/- All pubs shut.

2 Thursday 11-45 Reached Sydney. Very warm reception -  ? took us to Ingleburn Camp where we were 
issued with 100 clothing coupons Ration Groceries Tobacco Ration 50.00 (pounds) & 28 days leave. Met Mum & 
Win who took me home Went to Windsor, on arriving back at Rivo was met by Dot & Mavis Slept on Win 
verandah. Slept & fed at Win for 2½ weeks then Started Batching again. Bought Motor Cycle for 79.10.0 Permit 
at Windsor Registration & 3rd Party Policy at Traffic Department Sydney & Consumers licence 3 galls? Per month 
(unfortunately the next five pages have been torn out of the diary)

The following are items notes at random at the end of the diary.

Birthday 15-7-22

Army Birth 15-7-21

Menangle Camp 7-10-39 32 days

Walgrove Camp 9-4-40 76 Days

Enlisted Cadets 27-11-38

Enlisted Militia    "     "  39

Reported to 101 Con D for discharge 3-1-46

Militia Regimental No 522562

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"A" AB 83 Service Book

Original Pay Book No 90007

Enlisted 3-6-40

Abroad 3-2-41

P.O.W. 14-2-42

Recovered P.O.W.

Embarked for home

Arrived home 1-11-45

Leave 28 days 50.00 (pounds)

Leave 33 days 20.00 (pounds)

Sickness

BEFORE CAPT.

MELANGITIS PT. DICK

GERMAN MEASLES WALLGROVE

WOUNDED SINGAPORE 10/2/42

AFTER CAPTURE

ACUTE DYORRHEA 1-5-42 CHANGI

MALARIA B.T. 20-4-43 TOWSO

43 RELAPSES up to BAHANG 1-8-45

YELLOW JAUNDICE 15-7-45

Blue Moon – Tonchan

Eclipse of Sun TAMUAN

Rain Falling like snow NAKAM NAI

Rainbow at Night (grew) 2 days from LOP BURI on march

Eclipse of Moon CHONG KHAF

Rainbow Circular around Sun CHONG KHA