Diaries of John Kevin Lloyd - Part 19
[*IP*]
September
28
Another parcel from Australia this time from
David Jones in Sydney, sent by Ray Jacobs. Jolly
decent of her to think of it, too. It contained a
"Tripoli" set, a pack of cards, and three books -
"Theatre" by Somerset Maugham, "A Warning to Wantons"
Margaret Mitchell, and "Leaves from a Surgeon's Case-Book"
by James Harpole, nom-de-plume of a London
surgeon. Neither her address nor the date of sending
was on the parcel, so I'll have to relay my thanks
through Ines.
Amused myself by carving a pawn to replace
one lost in the barrack set.
S. M. Woodfine shifted from Barrack V to VI
as Barrack-Chief.
September
29
Orders for N.Z officers, men, and us
to move, none of 21/7 to stay.
Orders cancelled at 1730 hrs, handed
over Sec.ship to Johnny Fulton who
is staying with Knight, Sapsford,
Cullen, Spencer and 5th A.G.H.
1942
Nothing new. Good radio news.
MONDAY AUG 21
A half-holiday only - for some - and a day full of incident. 250 of our
heaviest sick men went off by train to Necompoton. The engine used was the most
antiquated I have ever seen in use. It was of low structure with a high funnel
and with a short high tender full of wood. Simultaneously with their departure
a first class softball match was played between the Yanks (Texans and navy
men) and the Australians. At the 4th innings the Yanks led 14 to 6 but after a remarka
2nd last innings the Australians beat them 23 to 21. The game was as good as a farce
to the spectators. Play had to be interrupted for the funeral of two Javanese boys who
died overnight. At night the concert consisted mainly of "The Wedding of the
Painted Doll". I went to bed early and rather tired. Evening meal was the best
ever eaten on POW rations. The 2 softball teams were played on to the field by the
band led by some comedians and looked "quite the thing" in their uniform dress
the Yanks in white singlet and red & white caps, the AIF in green singlets and caps.
TUESDAY AUG 22
Rex and I are playing a 25 rubber match against Treleaven & Murchison. We
are almost even after 8 rubbers. My French tutor returned to the job today.
Heard that we are to find another working party of 600 for the jungle. I
hope I am not selected to command. Two Dutch officers had all their gear
stolen whilst they played cards at night on the other side of a partition from
their quarters.
WEDNESDAY AUG 23
There were several bashings yesterday. One of the Japs concerned seemed to be
drunk. My water bottle was taken from the W.P. this morning but recovered later -
in this very hut.
THURSDAY AUGUST 24
Started using a 39 lb iron bar at P.T. today. Am reading "Henrietta Maria"
author unknown. The flooded river has swept away at least a section of the
wooden bridge. Heard that Kerrs men have been transferred back to this branch.
150 of them are standing-by for the jungle. The floods in their camp are getting worse.
FRIDAY AUG 25
Pay arrived at last. By selling my US dollar I was enabled to finish the month
with a tical still in my possession. Balance No 1 Bar Fund and asked Farr to
audit it. The Geographical Magazine of the Royal G.S. is a rather good publication
and costs only 15/- per annum post free. 2/29 paid 2/26 at softball and
beat them by one run. The ground was very muddy and resulted in a comica match.
SATURDAY AUG 26
There have been cases of men being bashed by Japs for looking at the broken
bridge from the camp because "these men must have been harbouring bad
thoughts." Sgt Bell is one of the victims. Went to Confession.
SUNDAY AUG 27
The "300" Party, transferred to No 1 Branch, left camp this morning by barge. I said goodbye
to Everdell and Hackett. We have submitted a list of another 300 men for a working
party. This will leave us with only rather sick men and we have had to protest. The
Jap Sgt inspected all sick men on the pde ground or in their huts excepting light sick
who were working. Weighed myself - 68 kilos with boots, shorts & cap. We have had several Jap
inspections lately. Today we were visited by the Col in charge of No 3 Bch and his
retinue.
MONDAY AUG 28
A half holiday but games were suspended until after a General's inspection.
Even then, the Japs took possession of the pde ground and demanded that we
should play a baseball match. They were winning 7 to 6 when the evening meal
bugle was blown. The concert consisted of a slapstick number "Going fishing"
excerpts from the life of Shubert and a Dutch celebration of the coming birthd
of their queen consisting of some national songs sung by a choir, a rapid drawing
of a Dutch scene and a Javanese scene backed by the crown, a native dance
representing the killing of the devil and finally the choir singing "Reginae Hostia"
I purchased a ½ yen note and a ½ tical silver piece for my collection. Air raid alarm.
TUESDAY AUG 29
One of my men, Smith GW by name, escaped during the night and was missed
first thing in the morning. He is not normal having attempted suicide by cutting
his wrists 6 months ago. The Japs put on a thorough check during the day. The
man walked in past the guardhouse about 7 pm and said he had been
at the river all day. He has been placed under guard in hospital. Late at night
107 men arrived from the jungle - all sick. They stated that the line had
been bombed on the two previous days but no P.O.W had been killed. Air raid alarm.
WEDNESDAY AUG 30
Some of the Japanese POW [[tobaris?]] were caught trading late at night. They had
been drinking also. Officers decided to start an officer's kitchen and
mess. We have taken over a small kitchen, have paid in Tcs 5 each and
expect our first meal on 1 Sep. All "B" men excepting men on
essential duties have now to do a ½ hrs P.T daily. This should be good
for their health and about 300-500 are affected.
THURSDAY AUG 31
Queen Wilhelmina's birthday. Lt Col Rearink addressed his troops in the
morning and entertained in his orderly room at night. The Dutch also had a
softball and basketball match. Just before lights out a Kempei seeing a figure
crouching behind the latrine near the fence called upon him to get up and as he
failed to do so he hit him with a piece of wood. It was the Jap Sgt.
FRIDAY. SEP 1
The month of both Dad's and Mum's birthday. May God bless them and
keep them well. It is 2 years since I heard from home. Perhaps they are gone
by now. Am reading Edgar Snow's "Red Star over China". An Eurasian serving 14
days in our detention barracks went mad and put over a great turn. He was
taken by stretcher to the hospital. An Eng Sgt from another branch is serving
20 days for being in possession of a "Bangkok Chronicle". 120000 letters have been lying
at Jap H.Q. Thailand for some weeks now. Received another anti-cholera injection.
SATURDAY. SEP 2.
A pde was held at the hottest part of the day for the reading of a message
to all POWs from Colonel Sugasawa Superintendent POWs Thailand by the new
2 Branch Comdr Lt Col Yanagida. Sugasawa said to look forward for the
happy day when you can be repatriated and keep your mind at ease trusting
in your religious belief and take good care of your health. Particular
diligence of Med Staff to this end for sustenance of physical condition is
expected. Observe regulations" etc. Col Anderson and I had to parade the
attempted escapee to the new Lt Col for a lecture and for a sentence of 15 days for him.
SUNDAY SEP 3. Mass & HC. Setting moon was perfect at dawn.
MONDAY SEP 4
We are now in our 6th year of war. I lay awake for some hour or two last
night recalling my life since this day 5 years ago. Yesterday we completed our
25 rubber match against Murchison and Treleaven. They won by 1100 points.
The concert party presented "Cinderella" commencing at 6pm. The heat was horrific.
My shirt was saturated - but it was well worth while. The costumes, the wit,
the continuity were all excellent. The dog was very obviously a male. Later in
the night a drunken Jap guard caused a lot of trouble at our kempeis hous
Earlier Smith and Wagstaff were taken to Kanburi for further cross questioning
concerning the formers attempt to escape.
TUESDAY SEP 5
The first time for at least 3 months we had our sleep disturbed by several
flights of bombers and by the AA guns at the bridge. The temperature is very hot
again both by day and night. There are now few clouds to protect us from the sun.
WEDNESDAY SEP 6
Jap H.Q. moved in from Chunkai. Pde ground tenkoes started again. A new
medical classification was introduced under Jap orders. Light sick men are classified
as B, C, & D. according to their ability to do 2, 4, or 8 hrs light work or in the case of D
6 hrs heavy work. Unfortunately the scheme was deferred after it was completely
prepared. I feel as if I am in for another bout of fever.
THURSDAY SEP 7
During the night we had perhaps the greatest display of the R.A.F. since we came
to Thailand. Flights of bombers came almost directly overhead for 1½ hours
and I estimate that at least 50 planes took part. Some returned before the others
had passed on to their objective. A Jap here stated 45 P.O.Ws were killed by a bomb at
Nonproduc. 100 men from Chunkai and 26 from the Burma jungle marched in, the
former under Major Hereford Thompson R.A. 18 Div.
FRIDAY SEP 8
Red Cross goods from the Swiss Council at Bangkok were received. Apart from 48 cigarettes
and 1 oz of soap per man the remainder would be just sufficient to flavour a meal and to
give one article of clothing or bedding to every 5 men. Went for a swim, the first for
some weeks, A tremendous amount of wood and bamboo has piled up against the
remnants of the wooden bridge. The natives, men, women and children are salvaging
the best wood with a certain amount of difficulty. The young women fled when war
invaded the area but the older women were hardly affected.
SATURDAY SEP 9
Am reading C.J. Dennis's "Digger Smith" and A. B. Patterson's "The man from
Snowy River and other verses". They are like a breath of Australia and make me
home-sick. Nancy would like them very much. A driver brings further reports
of the latest bombing at Nonproduc and seems to confirm earlier reports. We have had to
alter our medical classification 4 times within the last week. This of course leads to much confusion.
SUNDAY SEP 10
Mass & H.C. as usual. More jungle workers marched in. Am making extracts of Dave
Thompson's notes on Malaya. Found a fragment of an AA shell just outside my
office. So far we cannot get tools to deepen our trenches. Camp Comdr has writt
a letter of protest about our proximity to a military target and our confinement
within such narrow bounds. The heat today is very oppressive and the day
ended with a beautiful sunset followed by a welcome shower of rain.
MONDAY SEP 11
A half holiday. Two pay officers arrived from Chunkai. Eng & American mail
began to trickle in. A lot of red cross goods were unloaded from the barge.
This appears to be from the Swiss Consul at Bangkok. The concert took
the form of a musical quiz. It was won by the Chunkai Br with No.
1 Br a close second. After the interval the 3 little pigs told the tale of
their adventures. A heavy thunderstorm and heavy rain closed the day.
TUESDAY SEP 12
Am reading "Holy Deadlock" by A.P. Herbert. It is an attack on the English
Divorce Laws and he certainly has some grudge against them. The casualties
at Nonproduc are now reported as 97 dead and 300 wounded. My back is rather worse
with acne than usual. RAP orderly Bennett treated them today and will repeat
the treatment tomorrow. A Japan party of 500 marched out of our former camp at
Kanburi.
WEDNESDAY SEP 13
Dogs are now worth 5 packets of cigarettes, payable by the Japs. Received another
batch of Red Cross good which includes 28 cigarettes and 1 cake of soap per man. The
food, somewhat more than last time, went to the kitchens, the milk to the
hospital. My Br received 6 shirts and no other clothing for 388 men. Tired
loads of men and natives are still being sent up the line towards Burma.
Smith, the absentee for 12 hrs hours - has been struck off strength to the Kempei
House at Bampong. I hope he is safe.
THURSDAY SEP 14
More rain. Heard that Williams & Winter (MO) went on the latest Japanese party.
Am reading "They Also Serve" - a story of P.O.W conditions in Germany during the
last war. A concert was held after dark but as it was raining the
audience remained in their huts. Wood is very scarce and activities have to
be curtailed in the laundry and in the kitchens.
FRIDAY SEP 15
Japs are no longer allowed in this camp excepting when on duty. Dogs
cause a lot of trouble keeping us awake at nightime. I was up several times
during the night to drive them away.
SATURDAY SEP 16.
Chunkai has sent about 1000 men back to the jungle and it is anticipated
that another 250 will go soon. Black, O'Brien, Condon, Pickup, & Bostock are
back in Chunkai from Noncompoton, and all look well. The hospital buildings
are the best that POWs have had so far.
SUNDAY SEP 17
Mass & HC as usual. Jack V has had a letter from his father. Woolcott Forbes has
been brought back from S. America and has turned kings evidence. Shrivers
and Spender have received sultanas. Privates pay is supposed to be 12/6 + 4/10 deferred
and Canteen Profits + 3/8 from Red Cross. Food in Singapore is very dear. $30 for
a tin of Bully Beef $5 for a pint of katong rijah, 2.50 for a pineapple, 1.20 for an
egg. Brig has left for Japan. Japs. here intend to build a new camp
entirely commencing in about one months time. Another small batch of
letters were received - but none for me.
[*1 4*]
October
4
Mass & Communion & gift of 2 tins of tobacco
from my favourite surf beach. One was a tin
of "Three Nuns" and very nice too - got a promise
of a loan of Windisch's "New Photo School", which
is all to the good.
Examined Jimmy Ellis's opposite number, found
him a bit flabby and out of condition, but otherwise
not bad - bit emphysematous also
Dated 22 Jul, but Post it/wk -16 July
→This morning I received a letter from Lorna Packer.
Jack still going strong in the oil-business, Tom McM.
back home two weeks, Don McDonald (Lucy's husb) on
way to Darwin, Mr. Parker dead 3 months of Tb,
allegedly caught from Don. John David tall and
Dux of III form, very fond of me, and knows
all the German on my card (? of 8 March). Her
sister Joy married now 14 months. Lorna & John still
in love.
Wrote letter and card to Glad, letter to Mum and
card of sympathy to Mrs Parker on their bereavement
(c/o Jack).
[*⇡ Dated 22 July, but PostMark 16 July*]
October
5
Mum's birthday
Nothing much to report except bridge in
the afternoon and the return from censoring
of my two books on photography
"Portraiture & the Camera" - Marcel Natkin D.Sc.
and
"How to Make Good Pictures" - Kodak.
MONDAY OCT 2
Shortly after midnight 6 more Dutch marched in from Burma including Hesse.
Blair came back into this area probably to Chunkai a few days ago. The parcels
received from America were only partially distributed in a Burma camp. The rest
were kept by the Japs or were distributed as prizes to diligent P.O.Ws. We are
having light rain almost every day and wonderful sunsets. The concert was up to
it's best standard, presenting "The Monkey's Paw" and a Red Indian scene entitled
Winatonka. The announcer was a new man from Chunkai. He told the story of
his visit to Wales and his meeting with 3 sets of twins, all of the same family
and their mothers retort to his question "Did she have twins every time"?
TUESDAY OCT 3
Started to write my story. The Jap adjutant punished one of his guards today.
We do not know the reason. He tongue-bashed him, then bashed him, tore
off his shirt, knocked him over, kicked him in the head, stomach and privates.
The unfortunate man defacated and urinated and was carried out a blubbering
mess. The Adjt displayed no emotion or sign of exertion.
WEDNESDAY OCT 4
Received a card from Nancy dated 25 Dec 43 and a 25 word letter from Kitty
dated 23 Oct 43 - addressed to [[Kriutkwakay?]]. It is tremendously heartening to
know that Nancy and all families are well. Party of 200 is to move just after
midnight on its way into the jungle, including Dave West, Charles Lovell
and Sgt Hutton. A few more men marched in from the jungle. Heard that
a petrol dump near Tamarvan blew up and burnt today. Also that there was a hut
full of red cross local purchases at the same place and still more mail has arrived
at Honshu.
THURSDAY OCT 5
Another concert with some new English comedians and singers.
Rain in the late afternoon made conditions in front of the stage very bad.
FRIDAY OCT 6
100 men including Plunkett followed Dave West into the jungle at 0400 hrs.
The railway is relatively very busy lately. Trains are packed with men, materials and
vehicles. Today a train passed with swarm of POWs sitting on the roofs of the trucks.
Discovered a son of Chas Davis, Manager of Moreland SS Bde. He is J.P Davis of my own
Bn and was in the Darwin Mobile Force before transferring to the 2/3 M.T. Cards as late
as May of this year were received yesterday. Letters are now being received through the
Apostolic Delegate, Sydney, in addition to ordinary cards. Listened to Brandts talk
on the Gold Standard. Blair paid us a visit from Chunkai. He spent his jungle days at
79 + 75 kilos in Burma. Burmese men women children on the line have terrible skin
disease and were dying at the rate of 10 every day.
SATURDAY OCT 7
No mail today - but more letters have arrived in Jap H.Q. Played very
first game of volley-ball. Col Anderson told his story of Muar. It was in his
car that Basil Maher was sitting wounded when it was hit by a shell. Paid Sulong.
SUNDAY OCT 8
Mass & H.C. Visited by a Gordon Highlander Officer - Lieut W. de Mier, of American Mexican & French
parents, educated in France, spent years in Mexico and was a New York stockbroker just prior
to the war. 3500 letters were distributed today, dated as late as March in Australia. Some 8000 old
letters arrived at Jap H.Q.
MONDAY OCT 9
I was awakened about 0200 by something I was not conscious of. I got up and looked
outside in the passageway and the office but could not see anything suspicious and
thought I was suffering from illusions. In the morning, the confiscated kit bag
containing the two articles I was going to return to Wilson was missing. Sick
figures are still very high. Out of my Bn of 434 strong, 134 are in hospital and
165 are sick in lines. Discovered later in the day that my shirt was stolen
last night with the kit bag. This reduces me to one patched shirt. Japs staged a
thorough search of the camp. Every man was paraded and squads of guards
accompanied by POW officers searched every hut. A delightful situation was
created during the search. Torches, wire and weapons seemed to be their objective.
The concert was awful. Most of the items were flops. The Br songsters and comedians are very poor.
TUESDAY OCT 10
My wedding anniversary. Nancy is even more in my thoughts today. I hope she
celebrates the day. Here I am taking a day off from my usual activities. I have put
deep red flowers alongside the photo of Nancy and the children. God Bless them all. My
most fervent wish is that they are well and happy - and that I can join them soon.
Several fish about 6 inches in length wriggled across the parade ground during
morning tenko. We had a heavy shower just before dawn. The guards are
making trouble with their leaders because of grievances under which they are
smarting. Their adj is stated to be too severe and wants them to work all
the time. Also they resent being kept in the service after the expiration of their period
of enlistment for 2 years. A variety concert was provided - much better than last night
WEDNESDAY OCT 11
Rowan Rivett talked about the political collapse of France. It was very interesting.
THURSDAY OCT 12
Some medical supplies were found by one of our workmen in the orchard just
outside our camp, near the Jap side. It is understood that one of the guards may have
stolen them and had to dispose of them before a search or threatened search. We are now
having our wet season, rain falls almost every day now. The guards take possession
of our parade ground every evening now to train for the sports meeting. Our
jockeys also try out their mounts. Received another two cards from Nancy, the 10th &
11th dated 8th & 27 Feb 44, and also a snap of the whole family with Howie. It is
really wonderful to know and see them well 7 months ago. I was feeling depressed but these bucked me up completely.
FRIDAY OCT. 13
We have another Marine Officer with us for a few days - a Capt Alwyn. Visited
the new site of the farmyard. We have some 350 cattle, 80 pigs, 30 goat and 1 monkey. Life is
invariably monotonous and boring. It is really painful. My one ray of sunshine is
the families and the prospect of receiving more mail any day. Part of a train ran
off the line up near the border. 19 Nips were killed and some guns were destroyed.
SATURDAY OCT 14
Anns birthday, 11 years old - and I left her a very small girl of a little over 7½. I went
down with an attack of fever. Temp 100.2 and blood slide showed B.T. Concert party from
Chunkai marched in - closely followed by Lt Col Williams & Staff of 18.
SUNDAY OCT 15
Feel better and was able to attend Mass. An international sports meeting was held during the
morning. It was controlled by Japs & POWs were allowed to compete in most events. The blin
horse and [[?]] jockey events and the five men with tent tied to bamboos race were very funny. POWs.
won all but one straight out race. Eng & Dutch held their own with the A.I.F. The Nips commenced
the day with a P.T. display and finished up with a public [[dismiss?]]. Prizes were pencils, [[?]]
books, tooth paste, etc. In the afternoon there were 3 soccer matches, Jap v Jap, Br v Dutch,
AlF officers v O.Rs. At night the band marched past the Guard House to the specially erected
stage. Several 100 PO.Ws followed to attend the concert. Japs had the front seats, with
their families behind & POWs at the back. Japs gave the concert except for both band
items. I went on later with Col Hamilton for ½ an hour and saw a romance in a flower
shop, a beggar turned statue and some songs. Excepting for the stage setting and
the dresses of some of the women, the show was very western.
MONDAY OCT 16
A half holiday as usual and a race meeting was held with the usual wooden horses,
bookmakers, tote, stalls, fancy costumes etc. The Jap adjt and about a dozen others attended
The Chunkai orchestra gave 45 mins of delightful melody including 2 songs composed and
sung by D Punt. His "Dawn of the Day" should go far. Pinocchio was presented
alright but I did not attend as I am being careful of this fever. Instead I had a
long yarn with Captain Skinner of the Argylles who spend 17 years in Jap with Shell Oil
TUESDAY OCT 17
Attended "Pinocchio". Cicadas make a terrific din at night. One is located just
near my bed, but I have not been able to find him. Sunsets are still magnificent
WEDNESDAY OCT 18
Green & I started yesterday a 25 rubber match against Murchison & Treleaven. Bn Camp HQ
has now to tenko with the rest. Read Blecher Sharps "Java". Am reading
Eric Remarque's "Flotsam". Have had to place a lighted lamp in our hut to
meet the threat to steal our blankets and my shirt. The new arrivals are
Lt Col J. R Williamson of the 1 Ind Heavy AA, Major T.F.S Christopher, the same unit,
Capt C.G. Skinner of the Argylles, Capt AG Close of the Gordons & 3 Dutch officers.
Close was stationed at the H.L.I Barracks near Glasgow when Rudolf Hesse was
brought there by 2 majors on the night of his arrival.
THURSDAY OCT 19
Yesterday Howitt and Major Harris were bashed by Takiyama (?) the QM soldier who
does the work. Howitt was sacked and Comdr Low has taken his place. It is
early twilight when we rise in the morning and it is dark again at 8.30 pm
I returned to tenkos again.
FRIDAY OCT 20
New staff is as follows: - Camp Comdr Williamson, Senior American, Dutch, & Aust Off
Sharp, Mateus, Anderson, Camp Adjt Hence, Staff Capts Fleming, Close, [[Grange?]] mail
Toose, Pay Campbell, QM Lowe. A steady stream of stores & men flows up the line,
perhaps 6 trains per day. Red cross goods have arrived for all Bch II including 400 tins pork, 75 cows,
67 bags beans & peas, 200 tins coffee, tobacco, flour, pepper & curry. Branch is now divided as follows
here 3093, Chunkai 2518, jungle 3823, Nicompotong 2146, attached from I & IV Bchs 1300 + 1800.
SATURDAY OCT 21
Weighed 69 kg with cap, shirt, shorts, boots, & gaiters. Am playing 25 rubber match with Green
against Murchison & Treleaven. Nippon Times describes attack on POW camp in Australia by a
Koala Bear. A Dutchman suffering from cerebal malaria has been raving loudly all day.
SUNDAY OCT 22
Mass & H.C. Dutch cerebal died. Bartlett, a mental case, escaped. Col Williamson claims
he was cured of malaria 22 years ago by Christian [[?]]. An NCO here was [[suspenders?]] with his full
[[?]] dress plus sword. Another man went mad from fever.
MONDAY OCT 23
Another 75 men marched in from the jungle under Bryant 2/10 Fd Regt. Sgt Steel of
the Pioneers died. Thompson the Med Ord who was guarding Bartlett was put into the Jap Guard
House on rice and salt, yesterday, but was released today. Bartlett was found by the
Jap Kempies and was shot in the leg according to a Jap story. Thompson was
taken to Kanburi as a witness. The Jap Adjt cancelled all concerts until the end
of the War as a reprisal. 4 more men marched in about evening tenko time. My Bn
strength is now 450. Sleeping huts within 10 metres of the fence were demolished to
that distance from the fence. Ration scales were 450 gm rice , 80 meat, 500 veg, & flour
tea, salt, oil & condiments - the best we have ever had.
TUESDAY OCT 24
Another Dutchman died of blackwater fever. During the early hours of the morning
a Dutchman had a nightmare and awakened half the camp, & a Jap guard a train
dropped a pay officer, and another Dutchman started a thief-scare, all within 5
minutes of each other. A working party of 200 "C" men left at 2200 hrs for the jungle.
Jap Dr selected 150 "B" men for a W.P. to leave tomorrow. Thompson returned from the
Jap Kempies. He had been well treated and states Bartlett has not been injured.
Thompson is Mrs O'Briens brother. Read Emrys Jones's "The Shame of Vichy"
WEDNESDAY OCT 25
Two more WPs marched out, 150 "B", & 150 "D". I have lost Wirring, Kneebler,
Dobbie and 90 ORs. 2 men marched in sick from Dave West's party. Concerts
were approved again and a variety turn was presented. Charles Green is very
sick - complaint uncertain. Mail has commenced coming in again. The interpreter
bought about a dozen good books at Bangkok. Bird life in the paddy fields
newly enclosed in our area is very plentiful, egrets, martins & swallows, [[monarchs?]], black fantails.
THURSDAY OCT 26
Two men returned from Dave Wests party at 213 kilo. Japs are quite considerate and
only officers are being saluted. Mail comes in daily now. Am reading
Emily Brontes
"Wuthering Heights". Have run out of lead for my Conklin pencil. Webber and
2 other officers paid us a visit from Chunkai. 130 Dutch marched in from the other
camp at Kanburi. They are attached here for work in the AA post.
FRIDAY OCT 27
Recce plane hovered overhead for some time this morning. Charles
Green gave me an old shirt. It is very acceptable.
SATURDAY OCT 28
Capt Skinner went off to the jungle with Red Cross goods for three centres.
Officers are working at present in our garden and in the Nip garden across the road,
at the cemetery and at the workshop. [[?]] of USA and Col Williamson are very engrossed
in the design for cruising boats. Several officers plan to go sailing after the war.
SUNDAY OCT 29
Many bombers came over about 3 a.m. and woke the camp. Some were
arriving for 40 minutes. Others appeared to drop bombs closer than Bangkok. Many
men, principally Javanese, hurried to the outskirts of the camp. They seem unable
to control their fear. Went to Mass & H.C. Japs told us that Bampong had been
bombed. Red Cross good distributed. My share was a ¼ cake of tobacco and 9 packets of
cig papers, and 11 cigarettes. Advised that another 1000 men are to go to the jungle. Yarned
to Lieut Saunders of the Hong Kong & Singapore Royal Arty. He was in party that marched
160 kilos in 10 days, camped in the open jungle without huts for a wet season, lived on 8 oz rice
per day, for 3 weeks & were forced to work on railway after 1 days rest. He worked for 12 months
[*2P*]
October
6
Trip to Brisdorf, 128, to have my "sore
ear" seen to, chat with "Blue" Pearce and
George Shier - Must consider their possible
transfer here.
Came bak on train with about five
French lasses in it, cheery souls, who, given
the opportunity, probably work night & day.
A Norwegian Todt man gave me a short
description of R.A.F. raids in Norway, seem
to be fairly good.
Found two damaged parcels from W.A.
on my return - one from Godfathers (Boans)
March 2nd, with the board only of a
"Race round Australia" game, the other with
4 x 20 Presidents, two novels "The Bloody Tower"
and "Love has Wings", and 2 packs cards (Boans)
3 March, ? Godfather, ? Glad.
October
7-9
Nothing of importance - Visit by young
Jerry Stabsarzt - Light workers for checking on 12th.
[*4*]
October
10
Four letters today, two from Ines (24th Feb
and 29th April) - First tells of parcels sent, of
Mum winning the local croquet singles, and Dad's team
the Bsn. Shield again. The main point in the
second is the receipt of a letter from Nico in Bombay
a fortnight before. First I've had from Ines for
months - hope its the start of a stream.
The others were from "Godfathers" 22 Jan announcing sending
of parcel and from Geneva acknowledging my
note re probable change of address to Lamsdorf.
Mine sent July 14, theirs on Aug 3rd.
Had puzzling case in Revier up to to-day. ? Ty
? Typhus then just before ambulance came to [[transport?]]
Another lad who fell 30' 3/12 ago threw a series of
fits and I had to post relays of watchers on him
throughout night.
SUNDAY NOV 12
Am reading Holdsworths "Money and Banking". Konbyi seems annoyed
with me for not giving him some milk and cigarettes out of the Red Cross
consignment. Was ordered to be ready to move out at midnight but nothing happened.
MONDAY NOV 13
Caught a [[diesel?]] at midday to return to Tamakan. Was accompanied by a
Capt Walker with an Australian whose arm was badly broken in a [[?]]
accident at 132. Wild life was very interesting again. I saw monkeys, peacock,
jungle fowl, hornbills, wood pigeons, parakeets, doves and [[?]].
I passed a train bearing POWs going up to the jungle. Best part
there were 3 letters waiting for me, one from Nancy dated Mar 43 and 2 other
ones from Yid. Mess is much amused at my losses at cards.
TUESDAY NOV 14
Settled in and cleaned up. Whilst I was away the MPs arrested 31 [[officers?]]
for subversive activities and some, including the Jap QM who has given us so much
trouble - Takeyama - for stealing medicines and food belonging to us. Several have
been released. Weighed myself 67 kilos wearing shirt and shorts only (see 21 Oct). Wagstaff
Heard that Jap parties up to Kurrai 39 only got away from Singapore. The rest
are working in the town. Attended concert.
WEDNESDAY NOV 15
Wagstaff and 49 from my Bn marched out to the jungle. There are many visitors
for pay, canteen and red cross goods. Deaths out of Groups 1-5 and HQ, to 31 May
44 were 7626 (Br 3534, Aust 1349, Du 2616, USA 127) out of 42,808 (Br 20478, Aust 7872, Dut
14583, USA 535). In addition deaths in [[?]] Forces (60,000) are estimated up to 6000,
in Rangoon, 212 in VPI, Mergur & Tonboy [[whilst?]] AIF figures for Malaya are POW 14991,
killed 379, Died wounds 106, missing 2309, wounded 1001, boarded home 1030, Java 3272
nurses 133, Burma 47, taken off 78 = 20,451. Our insect fastened itself on my neck and
was not noticed by me for a few hours when it was pulled off with difficulty. Capt
Myers of RC of S told story of his sojourn in the BEF in France.
THURSDAY NOV 16
Started French. Swim parades are now held on river bank in Jap compound. First
new hospital hut is in course of construction. An Englishman attempted suicide
by cutting his wrists. Canteen has to be carried on by permanent "B" men or officers.
FRIDAY NOV 17
Whilst I was away in the jungle several POWs returned from Singapore jail where
they were serving a sentence for stealing [[chumkits?]]. I weighed myself fully dressed - 70 kilos -
see Nov 14. About 50 very sick men arrived from 239, one died on the train.
Most of the camp went down with fever within a fortnight of their arrival there from Samakan
4 months ago.
SATURDAY NOV 18
Attended funeral of the man who died on the train. The cemetery is much
improved. Another man died from the same party and was buried. A WO producing
the next concert party pressed me to sing but after a trial I have withdrawn.
SUNDAY NOV 19
Mass & H.C. The Nips have asked for an officers party to build a hut for the sick who
are expected here from Chunkai 560 in all. There is much pressure to work officers &
to send all O.R.s to the jungle. Officers are clearing the cemetery, keeping the gardens, running
the canteen with the help of some "B" men. Lights out was fixed at 2300 hrs [[respectively?]]
MONDAY NOV 20
Am reading John Buchan's 'The King's Grace". Started work in the garden
to relieve some of my Bn officers who commenced work on the new hospital
hut. I enjoyed the work thoroughly and the subsequent swim was most
acceptable. I felt a new zest in life. Another 38 malaria cases arrived just
after the concert from the same camp as the 66 we have here already. Two
died on the train and a third just after his arrival here. They have had no
quinine for several days. Only 18 out of the camp of over 500 were at work yesterday.
Caught an "ikan [[hleh"?]] (mud fish) and am keeping him in my bath tub.
TUESDAY NOV 21
A fourth man died and all were buried this morning. A part of men arrived
from Chunkai. There are only 36 of my AIF Bn now left here. The rest of them are
in the jungle, at Noncompoton or on the way to Japan. I wonder if they arrived
there safely. Attended an indifferent concert. Another man died at night.
WEDNESDAY NOV 22
Two Dutch Chaplains arrived from Kanburi camp. Funeral of 2/4 M. Gunner who
died yesterday. Attended 2/30 Bn birthday celebration with Ramsay, Cumming,
Treleaven and Capt Alan Close of the Gordon Highlanders. Weather is now getting
cold especially at night. POWs from Burma state that this railway is unusable
between the 45 kilo and Moulamein. It is constantly being straffed.
THURSDAY NOV 23
Camp is now 3344 strong. Air-raid alarm at 2230 and some hundreds rushed
to the far corners of the camp. Jap Doctor examined "B" patients of two Bns
and ordered over 50% to be marked up to "C". Many of these will be seriously
set back by any hard work or heavy lifting. Jap Jurri no longer requires
officers working on hut-building. Mass & H.C. by Father Vergeest.
FRIDAY NOV 24. Mary's birthday, and she is 6 years old. May God Bless her.
[[Slds?]] Boorsman goes went to the jungle today. Some 20 officers arrived in from Nacom
poton. There are now 51 Br officers in this camp. There are very few sick at
Kanburi camp, food is better, but officers are being forced to work a full
working day, digging drains, carrying rice, bamboo etc. and gardening,
and all sorts of petty restrictions are imposed by a Jap Sgt in command
who is apparently exceeding his authority - for his own glorification.
Shimojo is his name. A few 2/29 men met to discuss a birthday celebration
SATURDAY NOV 25
A little less than 200 men and officers marched in from Chunkai. There
were several Lt Cols among them and they immediately built themselves
in. A good many of them are poorly clad and not very robust-looking.
Nights are now lit with a wonderful moon. I play bridge at night some times.
SUNDAY NOV 26
Mass & H.C. Yesterday a party of 30 men who were digging the boundary
moat under a Jap. were ordered to dig another 5 metres by an inspecting Sgt
even if it took them to midnight. They had already completed the contract
set by the Jap in charge. Heard the story how in ^Thai jungle camp a POW went
down with cholera and was ordered to be shot by a visiting Jap officer. Two
Br officers went out with Koreans and the victim who was on a stretcher and
attempted to stop the shooting. When it appeared that the Koreans were going to do the deed, Primrose took a rifle from one of them and shot the victim. The Jap
officer got 2 years sentence from a military court. Inspection by Jap OC. Then POWs
MONDAY NOV 27
A half holiday. I fished without success during the morning. 3 native
canoes came past and cast circular nets simultaneously. They caught a
few fish including 2 which would weigh about 3 lbs each. They are very
skilled in casting from the prow of a light canoe and their partners
are also clever at handling the craft. Bird life is very plentiful on the
river. I saw 3 sorts of kingfishers: the pied kingfisher which is grey and white
and 2 sorts of blue and brown, one large and one small. There are also sand
pipers, herons, crown-kites. and others I am not able to name. A man of 2/30 died
and was buried. The Dutch presented a very fine performance at night. It was a story
of several hours into meeting in a [[Gov?]] [[?]] at Bureau and their subsequent trip to
Holland. The music, costumes (Dutch & Javanese), the scenery and the acting were excellent.
TUESDAY NOV 28
For several days past we have been on short rations. The rice store was short in
rice but over in beans and the Jap QM insisted on adjusting this before the
Inspection on the 26th. We were given beans instead of rice and whilst beans are
more nutritious, they are not so bulky. The concert was held in brilliant
moonlight. All printed books had to be handed in for Jap censorship. Started
French conversation with van Vogel of the a sugar plantation in Java.
WEDNESDAY NOV 29
The 2/29 Bn's birthday - but the celebrations we planned had to be postponed
At 1930 hrs when we were on "tenko", 21 4-engined bombers appeared from the west
in 2 waves. We scattered and took cover, when the AA guns opened fire. The
objective was the AA post, 150 yds away, but 4 bombs hit the camp and razed
the [[rest?]] of 3 huts. Several [["streki"?]] were dropped within the space of a few
seconds and I must confess I felt frightened. I reached the craters about 1
minute after the explosion and was confronted with a body dying on the
side of the water and a foot sticking out of a trench. We worked like fury and
dug out several men, a few being still alive. Bns worked in hourly relays
and one man was dug out by us alive at 0300 hrs - 5 hrs after the explosions.
Received 3 cards from Nancy, Ann, and Yid, and a snap of Mary in her school
uniform. I cannot fathom why Glendene ave should be sold. For the rest the news is excellent
THURSDAY NOV 30
Several bombers went over about 0300 and many men went through the [[pener?]]
full scale tenko was ordered about 0400 hrs, as many POWs were caught by
the guards, returning to camp. I did not get to bed until 0530 hrs. Yet another
full scale tenko was held at 0800 and lasted over 2 hours. Sugisawa visited
the camp, but we can get no satisfaction to our demands. We are too close to
a military target, we have no red cross signs, we are not allowed to disperse
if we stay in camp we will be bombed, if we attempt to go through the
fence we will be machine-gunned and now our men have to clear
up the mess at the AA post. Have are 14 bodies awaiting burial and 4 still missing
a combined funeral was held at 1600 hrs. Two more full scale tenkoes
were held at 1400 and 1900 hrs, each lasting 2 hours. Held 2/29 reunion postponed
from yesterday. Rex & I made speeches, we supped cake, yeast and cigarettes
and enjoyed a few jokes by Wells & McQueen.
FRIDAY DEC 1
The AA post was not greatly damaged - but 1 or 2 guns were hit. 2 buildings
were destroyed the railway had to have a few new rails & the telephone wires have
to be renewed. Bodies were being burnt on the edge of a rice field near the post.
We had a good nights sleep and feel much better. Nightwatchmen started
again last night. Yesterday we were visited by a Jap plain clothes secret
police interpreter who yarned to a few senior officers and Thompson the
Red Cross orderly who was involved in the most recent case of attempt to
escape. Met a Lieut Lawrence Salmon, a planter from the Yong Peng Estate
who was alongside Jock Alleff when he was killed. Jock was hit by
burst of MG fire, first in the hand and then in the back. His body was
left unburied, as the unit withdrew immediately afterwards. Recently
Salmon was a P.O.W. in the K.L. goal with 700 other European POWs
and states that there were at least 50 Australians there, nearly all
from 2/19 and 2/29. Recently I saw 2 fish jump out of shallow water on to
the bank and another time I saw on skim along on the surface
of the water for 7 or 8 yards. Received 2 cards one from SSB and the other from Kitty.
SATURDAY DEC 2
D. De Vogel who is teaching me French seems to be very wealthy. He owns
some 4000 acres of sugar plantation about 30 kilos from Bandoeng. The Malay
name of the plantation is something like Kadepaten. He has his own plane
and runway, and was the pilot who flew Laverack, Wavell and Brooke-Popham
whilst they were in Java. He wants to give me an address of
his cousins in the ^large chateau district in western France. Kadepaten is about
the end of the railway running west from Cheribon. Air raid alarms during the
day and one at midnight. Additional workers are being brought in from other branches
to do this work and to rebuild the wooden bridge. Two bodies are still missing
Lt Col Ishi took over command of this camp. Col Black, O'Brien, [[Condon?]]
and McDonough came back from Chunkai on 29 Nov. Many Cols came with
them including Lt Col Swinton of East Surreys, Milson of Sigs, Burbitt of Norfolks, Lincoln-Gordon
of RE, Southern of Punjabi, Johnson of Suffolks. Went to Confession
SUNDAY DEC 3
Planes came over from the direction of Bangkok at about 0200 hrs - the
second alarm this night. The men are still nervous and most of the western
portion of the camp is vacated as soon as an alarm is sounded. The
Japs will not transfer works from the perimeter "bund" to the digging of slit
trenches despite our requests. They think it is more important to prevent
our escape than to protect us from bombs. Anyone who wished to escape
could have done so every day and night for the last 2½ years. Ishi has
already prohibited music, singing, concerts, rehearsals, etc. except between
1200-1700 hrs on holidays - an unnecessary hardship. Officers are being forced
to take their share of "bund" building every night with the ORs. We hope
to get the job completed and then much more essential work will
be commenced by the Nips. Mass & H.C. for Nancy and the children. At 1900
hrs we heard a terrific bombardment towards the south and some minutes
later 12 planes passed by on their way north. 45 minutes later an even greater
bombardment was hear in the same direction and this time 21 large bombers
passed almost overhead. They were fired upon by the AA guns but the shooting
was the most inaccurate I have seen. The bombers fired several bursts of
MG fire but nothing hit the camp.
[*IP*]
Jan 13th - Slept in all morning, up in time to shave and play basketball at 1300 hrs, bathed, ate,
then refereed a game. Sick-parade and P.T. and Baseball in evening completed
the activities of the day. Heard from the dental party to 404 that 404 and 401
had amalgamated - if true, it means we shall very likely have no additions. Jimmy Ellis told me
in afternoon that a fag-parcel had arrived for me, my first Had a crack at the P.T. and volley-ball
this evening, found the weak spots and no mistake. Met our Waterloo at inter-room basket-ball to-day -
Irish put us through to the tune of 3-0.
Jan 14th - Stiff as a poker to-day, can hardly move. Had a look at my cigarette parcel and found
it was quite a large one, seems to be about 400. Have struck no packing note as yet but think it comes from A.R.C.S.. Very good too. Had Chapman in to-day to give me my
first lesson in elementary art. I think it will be O.K.. Tonight one of the men gave me a pair of shoes - just
what I had need for sport and for comfortable wear about camp - they fit very well. He wouldn't take anything
Lost a few R.Ms at Solo this evening.
Jan 15th - Oberstabsarzt came in, had a look about and passed Andy [[Murriun?]] as permanent [[Lichte?]] Artist. Picked up few R.Ms. at Solo again in afternoon, and had
another pipe-opener at P.T. and pass-ball.
Jan 16th - Quiet enough all day, found myself picked to play in a scratch Rugby game
to-morrow. Our first picture-show started at about 1845 hrs. and was going along quite nicely
when our first air-raid alarm for a couple of months was announced
^at 1930 and we were all pushed back into barracks. Grand show with plenty of invisible planes and all the
fireworks, when, at about 2100 hrs. the world came to an end. The S.M. Sgt. Mackay and I finished up all
over the place with walls, ceiling, beds and furniture mixed up with us. We picked ourselves up, I got through the
window and round to the wrecked M.I. Room and Revier. Two badly hit, Heron and Stanex, first with shrapnel in
at right buttock, finishing near navel, in a bad way. Stanex with a nice hole through left thigh, nothing to bone or [[?]].
Treated them more or less in dark, two others with damaged backs, and about 7 minor injuries. Barracks more or less
wrecked. Got two away to hospital, boys salvaged what they could of [[glass?]], less light sick, marched off to 520. It
was a big bomb and landed 40 yds outside wire, opposite our room (completely wrecked) lucky to be alive - All Clear 2345
Jan 17th - About 9 of us left in camp, Revier cases and light sick to 520 by ambulance. We worked during day
at salvaging medical gear, and hear that Maninfeld French camp is burnt out with over 50 dead.
Our lads allegedly split up between 517 & 404 for 3-4 weeks till our own is rebuilt. Had a
look at crater 25' deep by 8-10' deep, lucky escapes in every barrack, out own being the most lucky as we were the
closest room. - a light-standard outside our room 10" thick was half cut through a couple of feet above head level.
Heron, who died an hour after admission, was in the furthest room from the burst when he was hit. Definitely unfortunate.
Some lads were just missed by shrapnel cutting through buildings, and several bits were picked up. Blast came end
on to barracks & collapsed dividing walls. Recovered nearly all my own gear. Another heavy raid tonight 1930-2130,
Went into German concrete-shelter, and we slept in room in German barracks at night.
Jan 18th - Spent day talking one of our lads, Horton, to 128 to have his knee operated on, and tried to
see Gormley who was injured in rail on 16th. and was sent in with bad back. Not permitted to
see him but heard it was merely a muscle injury and he would be out soon, and those of the crew who
escaped from a R.A.F. plan on 16th. were in there also, about three, badly hurt. Went to 119 also and saw Stanex
who is doing very well. Was permitted to see the officers there and had a few minutes with them. They're very
comfortable now, and have an extra sleeping-room for two on Station II. Heard what appeared to be heavy
bombing away to the W. and N.W. from about 1900 to 2200 hrs., and a preliminary warning was received, but nothing
eventuated. Germans report reprisal raids on England & London. Received a pay of R.M. 36 which I took,
shall probably need no more for a couple of months.
Jan 19th - Were told this morning that I, Sgt. Jones, & Roy Walkerden would be shifted to 520 in afternoon,
so made ready and moved off at about 1345 hrs. with three lads to help us share the [[Landrover?]]
loaded with our gear & immediate medical needs. Got here eventually, and found our people
packed into passages, boiler- and bath-rooms, and occupying everything but the latrines & the rafters. Had our first
sick-parade at 1930, but it was unsatisfactory, through no-bodys fault, as noting of particulars had become disorganised
and it was difficult to find what was needed in unfamiliar territory. Our sick are lying on palliasses in what was
the dental surgery and a couple of beds in the regular Revier and have increased in numbers, as injuries became
evident after excitement had died down and fatigue from two mile march with kit on dark icy roads was added.
I was in luck as far as accommodation went, as there was plenty of room for me with Neale & Fr. Scarborough, and Hewitt.
The bulk of my gear inspired them to considerable comment, not all of it polite.
Jan 20th - Communion at 0800 Mass - Father says it each morning, and I shall make the most of it
while opportunity offers. Checked over some of the sick again this morning , and Father and I
managed to finish about 700-up against two of the lads at Bridge after lunch - first game I'd
had since Eric C. left Staaken, and I was extremely rusty. Advanced sick-parade to 1630, as last night it
ended a little after 2100 hrs - much too late. Father and I had a longish session at Italian later,
which is all to good, and I feel in a much better mood to tackle German, too. News is filtering in that the
the Russians are doing well, and have almost isolated the Caucassus, and that our people are doing well in the Med.
and in N. Africa - Tripoli being approached from all sides.
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