Diaries of John Kevin Lloyd - Part 22

Conflict:
Second World War, 1939–45
Subject:
  • Documents and letters
Status:
Open for review
Accession number:
AWM2022.6.45
Difficulty:

Page 1 / 10

ONOAY AUGS Heard that the search was due to the excape of 14 Off 4OB from 1484 tat a bat night with iupertin 102103 bad hedachs and bachat hevn abated during the day. an taking 8 tablet of quinive. Am able t camp recently. They reached 7t where they were betlayee by Burnans feat a little. Makes one feel timbly depressed. another man died. (and I were killed in the pioceas. They had maps, compasses lne buewtan in their possssion 1008 per head was paid to the capters. The other 1s will be that. As the gap command is concened to tuuk good the health of Seveal men returned discharge from base at 30 hils 5047. Av6 24 Jape and POWs rice esky will now be available from the thinbuy tuling much better Has a warm bath (a la sparsor) Was deteit banbien! They are rice paste and yrast! Two telegiar have been rcived o take ccommand of 200 Aft to hanifu to the 108 camp for 14 do though the Red erers by 2 member of isble camp N01 (Br P0W) the Watrection. are Dutch are be return the to help alongi teature trs - 2 teleglams in 18 wouths for 40 -50,000 P0Ws Weighd 66 ki also from hill. Sav west appointed as my adgt Persoued wle UXI33gb T.R. MITCHELL died at 55 bits Molnati TUESDAY AUGSI and then more of A1F cancelid I am glad becuuse I am while toomen went by truck to 113 bls for the day to wort. This is to be a eale. Was able to attent Rosary again daily intitution and seem to inticate that whn will not be maid AreurSONY AVE to the 108 to live as pursensly advised. a let of loose tobaico, 800egg an 30 feting a little strangn, about 20 Dubch in 2boxes of chissagah came bath with Hoshi Native labone continues to tumbin Yance but on a disgusting him off 40 th shies Lap the tine. po unated by our mabrility to prent an Ilear MEAUESOAY SEPI hadicton huse to ruplict leve todie Capt Cumi injustice a Duman canled into camp this never about 1000 tus he made he received and he is placed in the unpt deaganised his trouble a fer 2o to gods or hies. they did not come immediately and ast looking ratte then an trut. Heard that died Hore recan, thratt serval peope M aahe the pap sta eal evidently disfired for the 55 hil Laber when the first sie astd the ttch bes do about wd there sumbath. Hhave my bost Weman t anet fine and at the guarbause be struck him tutice in it a h he locale about tet a proynboot whic an RCAaanet te ham to suffer this lmmiliation banboo. We 1h n for cante tpape nothing about it. If we apot the gap bewell SEP THURSOAY wealll for 1500 hen. The hal ae mon to wrt catly arrind today, sore 20 odd are wher them act like sarages. they are not for this camp. The sick Burnon died A0426 it. I miss colou the sunet hle sow cou last night 3 Dns Wether. Dr anuthing, Hear that $1100 of rar are dead and bat the cute They were taken into the guare han serand at beater hast been treached at 55 hils hospital A Wrle, to our man who reported the he for over an tho br and puvalant appaiently itaine t is ladly deficint am leater bak and but with a rifle. the pap eee but bunn distive old alither inbnanen, a starty of G aperca. the City it further i this invening the Beeman summed to be released, 10AII aBes ote that we are to send 200 A15 to the we orruaa in been issued with a pair of clogs. About kot us neew Every man a some 2o men retard from 30 hils, all Dutch left the W h Sat. O Bowd today Officers that hed by gaps for past conferationt t an issue of thats including myself Lint lekisell was Kne the sick is the 55, te fit, to the 108. The fup and his mad perfamarce throughout the day SFPA 2044 Dver Both Datatur have buthdays this month, ttay thod ples then al complaint about som of the wout quard tent enly to and keep them well leveal men in the RAP look gharky They at the 55. Had my second goe umban. Jack Tlanagan dudn wasted away to shin and bene, unbelievably then ane pate was the best for a long time. I May. Athurdarree at hotat froap the gu by 3uhe only aer branglin and it will be a mingete if they survive Uleus poison the systum. I saw surches of tene in one wants by today w lie SuOAYSEI5 eBane cerit Warted, to play bd appointed by C.. to coniderate and superise trygtore Spent ment Neve 9 thereinghty. Iill of onr mene of 200 to the 108 of the day looking over the cause Treatment of uleers canefurs being sulmain again Jip aldrers still going th ugh. aerears of pain from the R.AS. Told that the cast of a board ar quarter has been dedrreed to $20 per month from 1 dry 4 on the pde granne for a but
4 5 4 4 2 4 4 1 29.00 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 2 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 44 4 5 42 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 2 4 4 4
MOWAY SEP2 sook over duties as Camp Adjt whilet Hene is ill, Expected alld the arrial of the Big but lifted not can Raied all day at present we have 1380 mer in camp pens 11 of bols andrson- Walhiam tace including Hamilton bamb waiting to move on Of there 783 as warked No Duties a lamp Dubres, 74 an in hospital 69 in Kabaris, 106 worked today one 48 are unployet on odd jober for the lap Enjurerso Guards. dearsbof mere chatira at the 108 -1 care that the railway has be laid from t end to 159 hiles and that the instule cousun aben to 708 camp when werk is completed. WUESDAY SEPLI Emen followed by 26mn of the AHW lore called in and book the oth 4 on to 108. Then 33mn under Lient Wodley of the Perk arr bo stay the night ct 2300 bu anather 163 carnedby heam from the san wrce sick you to lest here indefiritely their offier are Lawson when and condill, Arty and Mehelson & Nathison of Wlliams son Ths latter faice have been killed on then feet they wt snt so bs onord rst for 3oi4 and work again. They move ttheir lrabie quently the are crowded perhaps 18 to a bayofter have to carry cooking gear and rations on these backs for 4 silds or las. IEDUESOPY SEO22 tent the maning settling the new aruals in. The are all in a lan condition By arrived with Nasatumo Mtate 280 and 146 te s tid at the 50 & 55 lads camps respectively New alrivals stated they have seen bed o con veia burn at 116 camp (1 Tert Heare Carlus stary of the ouing of hhimself and daughty (agus) han Busban to lydng si ssbaill Ire artcle in Wemans weekly about November 1929. THUESOAL SFE23 angaine day left on a flying visit to 122 kils camp 10.V. to for an English pourd note. 3 Chaptain adii Hol. Kamsan m Veracarrived Ith as night just for the night ther sam pessiblity of a few of on worst cases bun moi bo a hesptal in Uoulmein, balf was born in hiaal Hen book over once again. 7024 Brigandtag retund Had been up as la as 132 are contanted & sow aslaya Tou). They have lost 1780 dead out of 7000 so far. They believe they will return to Malage as soon as work is limsbed then our sick an to be concentiated abbut 100 hilss from Bankol at KANCHANABRI, white incintraba at 83 95 100,105,108,114a 122 campe. 2/29 per armag cottected $575 for our men at 55camp. Non returning from 55 paint a very gir picture 6or7 bgs to be bue teoletly daity vere diof dead way dea for hur befor retue TIRORT SEO25 Dadsor Dens wiith day God Bless them with We have had daske huaa narly 3 weeks Ang ar way departed. Heard tall by Carler of his expeass the Durclufor Wekno stalel to week until daall belliating Bridge tomnennt start SEP. 26 62. Sah Odis were will ides the our bembers. f t the abo MONDAY are the newspapies to be suppressed? The last edition icuve as dated 5 lef. Perhaps the war is going against them. Cattleman arrived from 83, and said there had been no bombing there or at the 62. I gave Laws R5 in the hope he werte bein sane turt or chintagah wixt time be comes Whilst I wa sun baking a wike approached to within 2 feet before be was notices by majer devett. A dry miny day which ithis conttions in the camp very pleasat. The section of a but which we cleared for use as a second hospital was deried to no beause ane muard objected to its being too close to the Guardheres. oover 100 men will have to wove beeauar of this whom S0AY SEP28 tap returned to noral hours. Offent prise for bestrat tap half disappeare lake at night. another man died and was buried & memorial gate to the cemeteynew. Rdwod made it are bart There is looking after the geaves I am finding the humiliation which teap on our heads almost unbearable. We are sut Me Jap when When we ark for wide dispersement areay we holl that benbu will not hurt your there is ins need to worry. When we ask for hat heap not to warly I will bell you when the plagig cening WOUESO atia of 12 and 19 tet carrived Jap clarm that order boy teat tuppet govenment of Badoglio have been comtmanded by missolim gue leading Burmere Interlude by Warrin, a stoy of but expirien 5 yars as an office of a worby Boy-during the 193032 Rebellion. 47 56P30 The view from the vicinity of the Larche's house is very much mor tursting tince he has had the jinale cleard away the minrit u beautilue. Tust gold and blue thelr red and blue. The band played a few pleces, they are very much improved. I am now making cop of a star chart and expect soon to be able to continue my stillies I Iar my farrilyag their remenclative tine drays heavily When ERIOALLO Interlude take Te out of B uade son ging onr can disly conditon and are will against lat and fly the gaps will do nothing about i an letering earther and siring earlier to take advantage of daylast SATUROAYOCL) the nabure workmen give a war cay as tthey go out to wort tant ingI wish they would be just as withunarhe in keeping their quarters cleary SUNDAT OCF3 the thistian basher given for gambling He is a thong withodist Father Vergeest a Dubch Cahnnan, arrived with the butherin parter Nearly 100 hu went to confersion in the matnary whilst iaptan Bashlord held a pustistant sevice at the stage. At last I ha but of coffee. The stars are visible again at night and I am g shebeliy his
WNDAY OCTA attended tass at 0700 and received Holy Canmumen the fi time since May. Most of our men had not sen a piest sine Februay last about 140 mew were present. I am much more resig o this life and in fait feel clated. What a pety it is that we had cawed up hass with thesr living with us. The gat no pe usual thinks sevice. At down they fall in in hm laving bat a the senia wan report to the officer when he areives. The officer the faces bast also they all remove cape and 3 recitations are bung by then they bon ow and the officer and respended to by the me sing a more couplels Itanding upright they recite a few wouds 5 b at off. Aoxary was said in the evening but sat rtncap andb that I have it. another body was burid the thirtieth gutis TUESOAY OC I surng with ares swd Thew were all with ofr i I has arr aart onto en I am cohying out a storchart rather Vagust departed Tou Mendidion a pleasant with relatively cold in by fin Weathat ispaters have crived, wespy him fapan itself. Was able to wa of coadagat with Kon wurell as a cort of 6.10 pered HURSDAY OCL restday turhoed in the pde gryd and a search we conducted. Thy simbly locsed our gear for cannar, torchys wat ipesse glasses ct. They Loon my winstle miss care and ass old map which I was teying to take ham nvel in suns to be no gurint reson for the sean mon but lost. They take ratiery of all rort which are causes and absolutely not ris mongh whatever goods convilants the canteen. On teplessness and the awantages the tabe inturiat aad depienae. Has a barrd seciral narry aplere i tyrens to le in the evening. Col Harres (Br) and major anderen (2/30) called in their fires sow reduced to 3000 with roo0m bespital and 2000 dead they exheet to ap. Roberts w ceturn to dealaga, within 14 days -KL, Spoh and Penarg. Red ca acquitted of the charge plansing to escape dt wyall wealterte are doing selitaly in bhange jail. Onlly 3,000 P0Ws all natallhis an left at Change adear guard new they were ordered to New Munra, mutrand Thinanne were disbanded. An offices fime of 300 are doing har labour in the quaine her ERleAY.OCTE thereaith died this incuring the 31st Lunce we left Charge, No 1 Bn has Eoat 5 dear including s excuted I heard that sane 92 audpitatin had been don at the 55. Thanblezayat as supposed to have been bombed on 4s days consecative SATURvOY O anixture of Ameean hie am reading Manrice Walsh's the hre adidly thalll in t molg and tehish atture Corend perty pf thinking of Varrey 147OXI hape she is celibt Du wedding annivuacy, God Blis dear Varrey tion. The first wster car calle i soure way and not sad about our ut MOWOAY OCTI ale sort of problims are being worked out by many men all oer the camp. Every where are goe one hear men aiguing as to the logic of didnetions made. It is somthing to buak the nscnatay there are problins about the 3men with bfe or white paint in their forheads sin with black or white has on, the s containey of 8.51 garlen, the carpt itx9 the 2 flocks of shup 10&14 thong, the 2 rarlus tenchs on 2 loops, the 2 long tearns and the thort loop, the livin who a 20120 too, you are a leftmen how ole is the liftmen! Wih arrail activel the gap enges sent in for their ciples and carried them all day. nord wop go through every day a pap bass bar yf ber putebed at the 95 for 20r3 magorks. Noterhigh night are deligetful bue make an to me to go home. OcT 12 The frrst steam team pulfed through today Appaintly The nights n ebi days fiml. tunstred in a the ling i of a desprese perfect now with once mnoen. Ther wri which is talking in the inventigent at houre are can wite lim the monnlight trecald against wwallpe SOA i were hept in camp to fill up ane bank of latu bs teuplar timI near the station and to dig otn ached all this Rappi work M ad be in to bed early wih from was ve Japs who stlen2 algm some coffe ane wand a duct with oth wth OCF14 o plees her and matn her trappy twve L on burthday M I am ser ths. Cachacton wich stamach muh reen theas Had a bad night. Whn il e at aral VR0 Thie as sick with fever and the effects of guining Sea the quantity of did to We hee I felt improved Rex tali Rurnan and tt arty of 60 from the 55 aex is losking Atcl quite fit but thinker than uual. He had to abos don a est of the 2/29 have died ther, t lates oas dit, some o men being Pot tenderson at last home cantur food has reached the ampuitations number 96 and deaths 19841F. Ryn anomeirsue of loap two bodies were buried here today ben of deceased members of the anderson dorce. There is an incleased number of visits by gaparine irpection purties of lake. We anticipate a mont
MENDAY OCT18 an awfurl bost Teeing much bether at last. Am read with the tible young Native. It appears to be wiithin by an aushabon name trie unspeatt, the most conceised inemenst hat te dast eatey immaal hear where writing 244 reading Aya Hobbs went to the 30 and hap bumning to the 55 a fl days ago wen kedety called in on hn way to the 135 Capt white gare and was left behind. with arm is Fate in the weath and the kusienas reating to report as reached the general time of the Suceper, Naples is ours, and the taps anticipabe a quictining of the war against them exspicially wie. It can never be quick wough for us. Another wan died atill further. Mchawley told 3 very good to wt wush brogue the hst of lat confiring how be hat that searhand Sans and wingel a tndlved was i with 6 tolking polities and tell me you our court of at bunt as ale way for a Rehistant arrd the third with the station of th 2 lrishman waiting behind & bdge for the lanalore and hepen slaming has suppered to the old Ginbleman. 6o iven marched in LFOAEEDN absout bethe now an reading thefan Bwrg's Magellan and to we aue the world. When are is ill this life as ixtendy dip ack with nothing to do t mr fon the day besand with at of thught abov iustien and hontiletien we and the black fauspaet of another 12monts of imprisonment. Weight 101 or 64Kiles TIURSDAY O) prand the most beautiful and minrgu thensi Srna Lasteverin have wer dud in the shy out of a linge bak of ae coloures ilad who hop eages with hippd with bdiant gold ose a small misty clone which was ihee with all the hus of the cambur. It look just lob a bige shell oghtly illuated with it colors chinging slowly, theer har ue to be krunning now I am not yet very chay we feel water out BIAAY OC72 a haleday- at last lood is very fiver lately rice, sterid petaton and in occasional flavouring of meat Life here has became deadly manratnens. I saw Nitchills alew yest lay Bit of wae now blacknt it at n and the man is next a selitor. 2/29 deaths to date are Bill, Divey, whls ansell oxentem Roberen Elles bather Stward Hentirio itbill very goo sri OALOCT23 I jeel much stranger but am still disversed Have heare the rann and again that siner officers will soon be separatd from the rrt and pishably taken by Japan 3 neuspapers dated to 1 Oct arrives Jah still held bille and vew utan ising on to dadang in NG. The Brsins are ste and wi ant alery the sipe ant the Tumin will share betwen veples ane Pan INDAY Ireturned. Hend the samp with hapd. Andrissn 340 who has ye may. Has the nave nailavay tarn to alten did throrgh NONOAY OCT25 a plaise which we could not recoqnine as a fapanice place passed over at a great buight and cause back again a few minuks later. The time of the day, tndday, are the herdly and couase indicatd that it was a rice plane baking psheg of the line. I sinceut hape no bombus will follow are pay this camp atvisit, a we have uo slit furthes as I write thas and are running all over he book, the table and my arm. the have been attealhed by some chiudigal wench I obtained at per viss there are plunty of cattle about now because it is anti cipated that a Giveral will wsit here tomorrow. Wo window lressing to rove up-what WUESeALOCT26 The cump is cleanee up for the inspection. Aut not has been pulled down and is being rebuilt Tully of the 2/2 Pargers i Hawtharn dud last night. Lastmight also I met jart corni alf Warks beother I remembered him after 20 yea he unddle of the morning andattard enerals hain pass besdidnat Spise the hraurs, small wothy an with only & ors brth hav guat difficilly igsut eo VEOUESOO expeted t a I for h arrivalne dipature a fahe awived from later. Healy. Havny gust uder 1900 and of thet De We new is disgracful a few annrican and wh arhu N 60ct t being alkd by low tabour o out cauned ten independerc 14 oct undr Joshar Che Thily VRS from the Lap. tithn Sl not teip was i & has ber past from 4 ar 15 9 4 and thes rel was died to eery thin in the body Oather borry, taron and hals were badly and sterved from the 20 with many men. His believet that we there will be no lowsnath of the 50 hospital During my inxfection of the sump If tim that I had to be down for 10unvertes whee seack 120n refmd O2 On sbrngth is now 1954, and were men are atill comig in oack but so for has given out us officied information. The lt dd who is now her from the wany 2t hits querl he said that latches, two wen dide Heard that dran g5 t hailane in Dcember in an night is bathling will against grat oddr Rossito tunman, and havn areived with many men Iwould appear that anderson Wilhiams, Apsemmen and English forrs will go in to 116 soon fap hande states we will leave 2000 fitmer of M beanth he and beui ill go to Banglash Went to Confeasion. The concert partys pearters are work linte ing to SUNOM OCTS tass and received Holy Communion at 845 pm. The oacisiding whit ante thorseve in settmade
SNOA NOVI vaney will have all our young ans home today. I hope they ying hard for me as I am for them. I wonder has Johnly made bs Holy Communion yet Lod Bless them all I collected R654 Dan 2/4 Bar pusonel for on wint inn at the 55. Kitching to tthe stay how 3 POWs in his cattle party at the 64 were aldony ode bern nealect and callounss of the pap in charge Has me Counternion again in the evening. I am still rather the 6 am lating all I can get. although SDAYNOV Watch a sam of ant large then any other Iever sun about 15 along the cattle yard ferce and up a fe, this heart was drep for albart ant mont qruibly in an dircton and and home and perhaps for 203 noters. at the same time a young is had a uriscauage of a calf just in a fermer state. In the evening an crvet part gave a splendid perfurdrage of sailors in "Thips how reliction of in musical cometies. The wwup was dreven pirer to the orart and fun tutherland hidden in a wriless ot on the stage dicciibed the race in tine Eaie Welch faster and brought h te first fou in accecance with the pe underesad official drawin a wunt parze. Dia hans as aso twaktima VeOE & holidgy - some spease jop day. am reading tnn Vichers by Linclare Lewis. It is a pownfully written story of this wilfon workn almown reforence and with a tendercy to fle love. Hea another sincert at the command of the Caps and for the gap es bonlyft attended another man fom Willia force died THURSOAY NOV4 the body left aveenight for burige was in a bad way this incinin and had to be partially covered byot the service coule be hild. His isn 10th grave hun trumme gave a very interssting talk of his experiecin Pow of the trnh in tyred. He was flown to dthem, ten to falsnika on tin an unprovised prson shrip then the aunistied was signed the Seemans told the tuch to getent of tuen and so the priseni were iat on a 7 day tearn soveny through fugo Hure Anstia Bavine, and ha to a foet in Zoulon. There they were sent back to Palishin by boat. he numbered 36 officers and were 10W for jurt 2 months CKIDAY NOV3 thrink M laty wards are saying that the offensine in Bunsia has begin wreter that they are taking the initiabive. Another man died. 41st Mejer Has spent is a directa of evusis inshers it alge was there accountant for ATUROAL NOVC 2o day saw 2 bad cases of ben bere the patient bys were wollan to tn they emal orize and then cratum hiis. We now number nearly 2200. Purchasd 2p Chindegal, Lakely we have veen ssime new angures which here csme from thartand, Wyto SWOAY NOY s is theeaturring the Crimea. Thubas boseh tases of suate anx received, hee fndia htlenaan ar their as sodesrs. Thess &He, ban a li MONDAY NOV Hoshe returned with 500 packets of chinrdegah and -inresufmed as yet o tim of coffee. sice again he has left ns donen. No5 banch often procums agg and fluis. It is cunual laziness. He himself always has plenty of poulter, ig trust dod mulk. At my suggestion the co is going to submit to the Jap anewly of the condition of the health of all men here. I am sure that the fa believed that because we send out 600.700 worker duly that in have the ait men. This of course is quite enovions. I talked for oi an new manry with t barry as we shall and dowen the pasd gian the mculight. He told me that Ihamine jouned his order in 141. nete to combat the albijences hereiy with only 16 mumbers; now the are 37 Poverces all over the world mambering 7000 members, their man purpsse is the spreading of requence to thy Holy Warre by local and fang dussions & the Holy Hame couity. Another wan dudy the 42n WUESOAT NON9 incuised all my 8+ exeruises by 5070 and as a wrult am feeling a pit btarned of thindigat free frn the tcon antion which beright all the sent waiticpated also in a disbting of dris fist. It will be intenting to for of the Korears after this war. We heard 12 merbes ago of trouble in hored. Are thin g ad all loyal to faper Tome of netenally crurel and thuman irrespecting of the doya. Huth sard WroSbaY V The railway hras been cone dane at improvements Houre the pape held a isenty men went sut for shis work at party on their specially built oper foun. Then musie was quite immuncie and they are very arse thei entitaiment just one stip removed from the pune dancing aun a fir bach in on the pde grenne in the ansonligh in taing for our departed from wer THUASDAY NOVH tamp the settled donen now into theh quarters and the congistiastas been considuably eared; furthe mtch cane and gune t h anew fap lawd ont The flys seem to be in the decline at th the camp like a cyclare in the evenie With an othe quar w mound me ground, bashed people near the wtchen crastd in on the rosa bashed one of the corrent party are then calld for te adjt. TRIDAY NOV112 Harke kept his querts on parse for ranhom to talk to them Heard hat 3000 filmon of nes 3st brariches will remain, not will go towards Havgants tate from happ Brand, who is about 184 with some nan who could not walk further take they are standing by to return to Lingapere. Wills dure my portiant IROAY NOV 1. ho mun dred, both Williams Torce Hoshe refused pemission to amputate a leg to will apply to 40 benet was excellenI Lnowwhite 3 little Fishe (Wale heahs) MOAV. NOVIA thing to do. Agu now intihule h as t puqenty men lo alying accr
November 23 November 24 1 wilh he I hages 0 sl Dot pat 60 Henat gro lt ns b Bo o Ad Thin So ia
al came and and andr November De 29 De2 November 12
NoDA7OCC tere verspap arrived. We are pushing on with our arrangement for the move to Kanchanabiai Special stubehen have to be made for lying patients in the hain. The Christian asked lpe uslins who was his inchnam among the POWs We had previously told the Chrrstian quite frankly what it was, but be was not quite sabistied ave had to ask the lpe. This lpe calls him Holy foe and when astned said that the christians inchname was yoe. The Chuistian astend was foe a good name hertainy said the lope there is Log0 Joe Salin and oe Cuitain WUESDAY DEA2S. you the Larchs and informed him that for 2days now onr retie was rue and ralt. How on earth they expect iven to remain fit for work on tisiation is beyond me another are raid alaim. JAEOUESDAY VEC2 wook over camp adjts gob for the period of the mores. Co Hen go on the first tarn. a very busy day THURSONYDEESC the first drapt was intrannd according to plan at about 0830t Rerelle was at 5500 in and all boggoge was searched, puncipall for bools. 279 got away. and all avangement for the nxtdays more ERID bad to be mide she second draft got away sabisfortority. 239men aerived from the 5 bils as lit workers. One man Roberts iscapd from the hainand wt to the gungle. The deaths at the 55 toballed 351 and ampulationsaboe 50 50 of whom died and are ineluted in the 357 above SATURDAYTAN I. 1944 ten years day and a boliday. Onr retur is still only raddr avdgrice and with my sor tongure I can eat only a little haddish with the lice. Miss at 1500 bis and offerd for my dear wife ard famity. Another draft got away today under drajer Kenan and had to crowd into 72 sinchs The Jop other was annoyd wher Fishers disappeoie of this ceuding of 45-55 wn in one turch. Manry mor ho SUNUAY TANE to use mthis another holiday and another draft successfully furhed off Mans again at 1005 hs air intertaining concert was bild but by now all the band has goin. MONOAY TANS The lefth draft moned out according to retuedrite. The king, bath tt vate bunt and a batien ariyd and have bo go through with us. I warked ufel alont 6130 his apter midnight and then paclaed UESDAY VANA apper oily s houes sleep I moned ont with the last party. We had ily 10 carriage for 284 Pons including 24 lying cases who havil 8 to a buck peas 2adreleys. We had 19 officers and batinen and 2 Jab in our tench. Took a nat of boited we and salt which we ale waite we were ride teached at NIKI for some 4 hours. An amarcan died and his body was left with the POWs at NIK1 for bonrial. Ware apper dark we were issued wth another meal of lie chip and firh. The fish could not be eateng WEONESDAT TANS Was able to match only a little sleep in ceamped positions, and daylight found us tired and diety. The bine follows the MEKLONE fon and the seiniy is very good. The river is brood and wbar and the line wwish and buins along ih bank. In places the line is out wnh the lace of hugh clipp overlooking the river some bridge are very large and in geneal the gap bew completed a very diffcult rirentabry ove the bodies of thousand of cousand asable fstils laborr. The encture of the wrenly is inniduably different from therngh of Borma. The countey as were open the vigatation is drier and mmuch ualler all barntos is quite unall compant to the bu bambos several eagles could be reen. The only settlements are thos built by the Japs. We had no food irsued but were able to buy a few bananc late in the apternoon? We detamed almgsise the camp immediately apter crossing a magnificient concribe and steel bridge guarded by AA. Guns! There was the usual tints we were bid and allothe ho viry quarters. MSo O spert the day settling in Camps 12 and s and some Dubl and the so called SANCKok hospitae guenp are all here in oe camp neaily 3000 men and already we are crowded The caut howi as much superio to the jurgle camps. The floors are single length, the anea is cleare equipment is much e reaionable tus vewn wooden banks to hald the humped wate peinty of an Lard tunti eontamen for fire fightes druwfiturs in the latirans awood i I supplied by the sais a cartin and wooled foods is already funt surmiing parades are pumitted at 1600 and 1700 lu daily inletions against plague chatere and lyphord are buing given spea gaind is used for growns vegitably a duck faun supplis bale duch for 3 Hiekels, buppin Hools are more pantiful and barbus are opirating I moved into purnanent quarters wer thea waww 11091all BIDAY TANT I hav heen appointed to command No/ Camp vill bot Ramsan who is commanding the whole camp twartis my 279 and Winn ury adgt. The Bro shill remains as a visitar. Mre Dubeh were broiny in himporiuly I hape Jap Eves are everywhere day and night rations an much bitter and we are able to buy a few iggs. Caran suge ehe firm the Canbeer. The atnorpher of the camp is very bught and we are exirting a steady prssure on the men to mov some of their last discipting cleance brubs bil layent smarter pd ground wait, saluting, ite. My pellages is improving alread SATUADAY SIVS thich houble, in getting some hundreds of num to unload rice am having a swem every aptenoon. D force workers we wil still along the line, the remaman are at Taiss. Lame Brilish Psw. 40 for an while here in this camp, building a railway immorial A fom went Burmas Bre to Bornes, D to Thauland, t to Bornes, F do that, C he Japan 1309 4 t

MONDAY, AUG 23

Had a bad night with temperature 102o - 103o bad headache and backache.
Fever abated during the day. Am taking 8 tablets of quinine. Am able to
eat a little. Makes one feel terribly depressed. Another man died.
Several men returned discharged from base at 30 kilo.
TUESDAY, AUG 24
Feeling much better Had a warm bath (a la sparrow). Was detailed
to take command of 200 AIF to transfer to the 108 camp for 14 days
to help along work at that section. All Dutch are to return there 
also from here. Dave West appointed as my Adjt. Personnel selected

and then move of AIF cancelled. I am glad because I am still 
weak. Was able to attend Rosary again.
WEDNESDAY AUG 25
Got up about 0930 feeling a little stronger. About 20 Dutch went 
off to the 55 kilo. Jap shimban Yanoi put on a disgusting turn 
and leaves us all infuriated by our inability to prevent any 
injustice they may choose to inflict. Several contradictory orders
were received by adjt over night. About 1000 hrs he suddenly called
for 30 men to go to 55 kilo. They did not come immediately and 
the Jap started to scream, threatened several people with a stick 
and pushed the Dutch Comdr about. Later when the first sick
man arrived at the guard house he struck

him twice on the head with his bamboo. We have to suffer this humiliation 
and can do nothing about it. If we report the Jap he will 
make life unbearable for 1500 men. The hot headed swine
among them act like savages.

THURSDAY AUG 26

Feeling much better. During last night 3 Burmans were discovered in 

camp. They were taken into the guard house, screamed and beaten with 

[[?]] sticks and belt for over an hour, our man who reported the pressure 

was bashed and hit with a rifle, the Jap guard had been drinking 

and this morning the Burman seemed to be released without further 

ado. Received orders that we are to send 200 AIF to the 108 - once again 

McCarrtey and some 20 men returned from 30 kilo. All Dutch left this 

caring for the sick to the 55, the fit to the 108. The Jap Guard known as 

the BB confirmed his mad performance throughout the day.

FRIDAY AUG 27 

C.O. made official complaint about the worst guard but only to 

the shimban. Jack Flanagan died recently at the 55. Had my second good 

sunbath since May. Attendance at Rosary was the best for a long time. 

Had another issue of soap. This gives us plenty. 3 "ushers" only ever brought in 

the first for weeks.

SATURDAY AUG 28

Still fine weather. Fever quite gone. Band concert.  Started to play bridge 

again. Still no word of our move of 200 to the 108.  

Jap then went to Moulmain again.  Jap soldiers still going through.

SUNDAY AUG 29

Japs searched every man's bit whilst we stood on the pde ground for a tenko. 

They took my compass. I feel the loss as I wanted to get this back to Australia.

MONDAY AUG 30

Heard that the search was due to the escape of 14 off to ORs from 146k 

camp recently. They reached YE where they were betrayed by Burmans 

and 2 were killed in the process. They had maps, compasses and binoculars 

in their possession. 100 Rs per head was paid to the captors. The other 12 

will be shot. As the Jap command is "concerned to keep good the health of 

the Japs and POWs rice cakes will now be available from the Thanbuzayat 

Canteen". They are rice paste and yeast! Two telegrams have been received 

through the Red Cross by 2 members of mobile camp No 1. (Br POWs). The 

Japs feature this - 2 telegrams in 18 months for 40-50000 POWs. Weighed 66 Kilos. VX43396 J.B. MITCHELL died at 55 kilo.  Malnutrition

TUESDAY AUG 31

100 men went by truck to 113 kilo for the day to work. This is to be a

daily institution and seems to indicate that men will not be moved 

to the 108 to live as previously advised. A lot of loose tobacco, 800 eggs and 

2 boxes of [[chindagah]] came back with Hoshi. Native labour continues to 

pour out along the line.

WEDNESDAY SEP 1

A Burman crawled into camp this morning to die. Capt Cumming 

diagnosed his trouble as pneumonia and he is placed in the empty 

hut. Heard that Fred Hare went fast looking rather thin and 

evidently destined for the 50 kilo hospital.  Weather is definitely 

finer and I had my third sunbath. Gave my book "Woman" to 

an RC to swap for a prayerbook which he located about to be 

used for cigarette paper.

THURSDAY SEP 2

 A herd of cattle arrived today, some 30, odd and the first for [[?]] 

They are not for this camp. The sick Burman died this morning. 

The sunset had some colour in it. I miss colour as much as 

anything. Heard that 1100 of F Force are dead and that the century 

has been reached at 55 kilo hospital "A" Force.  Colds are now 

prevalant - apparently vitamin A is sadly deficient. Am reading 

"The City of Gold", author unknown, a story of S Africa.

FRIDAY SEP 3

Every man has been issued with a pair of clogs. About ½ of us received 

an issue of shorts - including myself. Lieut Pearsall went through 
yesterday. 

Sgt O'Dowd today. Officers thanked by Japs for past cooperation.

SATURDAY SEP 4

Both Dad & Mum have birthdays this month. May God Bless them

 and keep them well. Several men in the RAP look ghastly. They 

have wasted away to skin and bones, unbelievable, thin and pale,

and it will be a miracle if they survive. Ulcers are poisoning 

the system. I saw 5 inches of bone in one man's leg today.

SUNDAY SEP 5

 Appointed by C.O. to co-ordinate and supervise hygiene. Spent most

of the day looking over the camp. Treatment of ulcers sometimes brings 

screams of pain from the R.A.P.   Told that the cost of a board and 

quarters has been reduced to Rs20 per month from 1 Aug 43.




Back Book Cover 
 

MONDAY SEP 20

Took over duties as Camp Adjt whilst Hence is ill.  Expected all day 

the arrival of the Brig but [[he?]] did not come.  Rained all day. At 

present we have 1380 men in camp plus 11 of Cols Anderson-Williams 

Force including Hamilton Lamb waiting to move on. Of these 783 are 

marked No Duties or Camp Duties, 74 are in hospital, 69 in Kabaris, 406 

worked today and 48 are employed on odd jobs per the Jap Engineers or 

Guards.  Heard of more cholera at the 108 - 1 case. That the railway has to 

be laid from this end to 159 kilos and that the mobile POWs will 

return to 108 camp when work is completed.

TUESDAY SEP 21

8 men followed by 26 men of the A&W Force called in and took the other 

11 on to 108. Then 33 men under Lieut Wodley of the Perth arrived to 

stay the night. At 2300 hrs another 163 came by train from the same

force, sick men to rest here indefinitely. Then officers are Lawson 

Marbin and Everdell, Arty, and Nicholson & Mathuson of Weltrams force.

This latter force have been killed on their feet. They work sometimes

 20 hrs or more rest for 3 or 4 and work again. They move their location

 frequently, they are crowded perhaps 18 to a bay & often have to carry

 cooking gear and rations on their backs for 4 kilos or less.
WEDNESDAY SEP 22

Spent the morning settling the new arrivals in. They are all in a low 

physical condition. Brig arrived with Nagatomo. States 280 and 146 have

died at the 50&55 kilo camps respectively. New arrivals stated they have seen bodies of POWs being burnt at 118 camp (F Force). Heard Carters story of the 

journey of himself and daughter (aged 21) from Brisbane to Sydney on

 horseback. See article in Womans weekly about November 1939.

THURSDAY SEP 23

Brig and Nag left on a flying visit to 122 Kilo camp. I.O.V. to 

Col. Ramsay for an English pound note 3 Chaplains including 

Father Vergeest arrived late at night just for the night. There is 

some possibility of a few of our worst cases being moved to a 

French nun's hospital in Moulmain. Calf was born in kraal. Hence 

took over once again.

FRIDAY SEP 24

Brig and Nag returned. Had been up as far as 132 and contacted F Force 

(Malaya Force).  They have lost 1780 dead out of 7000 so far. They believe they

will return to the Malaya as soon as work is finished. Then our sick are

to be concentrated about 100 kilos from Bankok at KANCHANABRI whilst

we remain concentrated at 83, 95, 100, 105, 108, 114 and 122 camps.   2/29 personnel 
collected Rs75 for our men at 55 camp. Men returning from 55 paint a very grim
 picture. 6 or 7 [[?legs]] to be burnt collectively daily. Men drop dead or are dead for hours before noticed.

SATURDAY SEP 25

Dad's or Mum's birthday. God Bless them both.  We have had daily heavy rain

for nearly 3 weeks. Brig and Nag departed. Heard talk by Carter of his experiences

in the Dunsterforce. Workers started to work until dark - ballasting. Bridge tournament started.

SUNDAY SEP 26

Heard that our bombers had raided the yards at 62 . Ch Pdes were well

attended despite the absence the workers.

MONDAY SEP 27

Are the newspapers to be suppressed?  The last edition received was 

dated 5 Sep; Perhaps the war is going against them.  Cattleman 

arrived from 83, and said there had been no bombing there 

or at the 62. I gave Laws Rs5 in the hope he would bring

some fruit or chindagah  next time he comes. Whilst I was sun-

bathing a snake approached  to within 2 feet before he was

 noticed by Major Merrett. A dry sunny day which makes conditions

 in the camp very pleasant. The section of a hut which we

 cleared for use as a second hospital was denied to us because

 one Guard objected to its being too close to the Guardhouse.

 Over 100 men will have to move because of this whim.

TUESDAY SEP 28

Work returned to normal hours.  Offered prize for best rat trap.

Calf disappeared late at night. Another man died and was buried.

There is a memorial gate to the cemetery now. Redwood made it and Carter

is looking after the graves. I am finding the humiliations which

the Jap heap on our heads almost unbearable. We are subject to every

whim. When we ask for wider dispersement areas we told that "bombing

will not hurt you.  There is no need to worry"..  When we ask for rat traps

we are told "not to worry I will tell you when the plague is coming".

WEDNESDAY SEP 29

"Greater Asia?" of 12 and 19 Sep arrived.  Jap claim that orders by

puppet government of Badoglio have been countermanded by Mussolini.

 Am reading "Burmese Interlude: by Warren, a story of his experiences

 of 5 years as an officer of a Foundry boy during the 1930-32 Rebellion.

THURSDAY SEP 30

The view from the vicinity of the Taicho's home is very much more

 interesting since he has had the jungle cleared away. The sunset was

 beautiful.  First gold and blue then red and blue.  The band played a

 few pieces. They are very much improved. I am now making a copy

 of a star chart and expect soon to be able to continue my studies of

 their nomenclature. Time drags heavily. When will I see my family again.

FRIDAY OCT 1

Made some notes out of "Burmese Interlude". Native quarters

are in a very dirty condition and are nullifying our campaign

against rats and flys.  The Japs will do nothing about it. I am

now retiring earlier and rising earlier to take advantage of daylight.

SATURDAY OCT 2

The native workmen give a war cry as they go out to work each

morning. I wish they would be just as enthusiastic in keeping

their quarters clean.

SUNDAY OCT 3

"The Christian" bashed 5 men for gambling. He is a strong methodist

Father Vergeest - a Dutch Capussian, arrived with the lutheran pastor.

Nearly 100 men went to confession  - in the mortuary - whilst Chaplain

Bashford held a protestant service at the stage. At last I have

run out of coffee. The stars are visible again at night and I am

refreshing my sketching knowledge.

 

MONDAY OCT 4

 Attended Mass at 0700 and received Holy Communion the first

 time since May. Most of our men had not seen a priest since

 February last. About 14 men were present. I am much more resigned

 to this life and in fact feel elated.  What a pity it is that we have

 no priest living with us. The Japs followed up Mass with their

 usual Shinto service. At dawn they fall in in line facing East and

 the senior man reports to the officer when he arrives. The officer then

 faces East also they all remove caps and 3 recitations are sung by

 the officer and responded to by the men. Then they bow low and

 sing 2 more couplets. Standing upright they recite a few words 5 times

 return caps and break off. Rosary was said in the evening but Father

 Vergeest insisted that I take it.  Another body was buried - the thirtieth.

TUESDAY OCT 5

The weather is now dry and sunny with a really cool breeze blowing

from the South East. Major Hobbs has arrived here ill with other sick

men. I am copying out a star chart. Father Vergeest departed. Some 30

attended rosary.

WEDNESDAY OCT 6

Weather still very fine and pleasant with relatively cold nights. 

Newspapers have arrived, mostly from Japan itself. Was able to share

a packet of chindagah with Ron Murrell at a cost of Rs10 from a Jap.

THURSDAY OCT 7

A rest day. [[?Tenkoed]] on the pde ground and a search was

conducted.  They simply looked our gear for cameras, torches, watches,

compasses, glasses etc.  They took my whistle, map, cane and

several useless old maps which I was trying to take home as

souvenirs. There seems to be no genuine reason for the search

but loot.  They take rations of all sorts which are consigned to

us and absolutely rob no through whatever goods come into

the canteen. Our helplessness and the advantages they take infuriate

and depress me. Had a band recital. Many articles were returned to POWs

in the evening. Col Harris (Br) and Major Andersen (2/30) called in. Their force

is now reduced to 3000 with 2000 in hospital and 2000 dead. They expect to

return to Malaya within 14 days - KL. Ipoh and Penang, Red cross rep. Roberts was 
acquitted of the charge planning to escape, but Wyatt & McAllister are

doing solitary in Changi jail. Only 3000 POWs all nationalities are left at Changi. There are no Indian guards now. They were ordered to New Guinea, [[mustered?]] and

were disbanded. An officers' force of 300 are doing hard labour in the quarries here. 

FRIDAY OCT 8

Meredith died this morning, the 31st. Since we left Changi, No1 Bu has lost 58

dead including 3 executed. I heard that some 92 amputations had been done

at the 55. Thanbuzayat is supposed to have been bombed on 4-5 days consecuativily.

SATURDAY OCT 9

Am reading Maurice Walsh's "The hill is mine".  A mixture of American dialogue

and Scottish scenes. Concert party performed splendidly. Strolled in the moonlight thinking of Naney.

SUNDAY OCT 10

Our wedding anniversary. God Bless dear Nancy. I hope she is celebrating

in some way and not sad about our separation. The first motor car called in.

MONDAY OCT 11

All sorts of problems are being worked out by many men all

over the camp. Everywhere one goes one hears men arguing as to the

logic of deductions made.  It is something to break the monotony.

There are problems about the 3 men with blue or white paint on their

forheads, 3 men with black or white hats on.  The 3 containers of 8, 5 & 3

gallons, the carpet 16x9, the 2 flocks of sheep, 10 & 14 strong, the 2 railway

trucks on 2 loops, the 2 long trains and the short loop, the twins who are

20 & 20 too, you are a liftman how old is the liftman? Much airail activity

The Jap Engrs sent in for their rifles and called them all day. More

Jap troops go through every day. A Jap brass band has performed

at the 95 for 2 or 3 nights.  Moonlight nights are delightful and makes

it easy for me to "go home".

TUESDAY OCT 12

The first steam train puffed through today.  Apparently

the line will be finished in a few days time. The nights are

perfect now with full moon. There is a brilliance of a tropical

moon which is lacking in the moonlight at home. One can

read quite well in the moonlight.  Vaccinated against smallpox.

WEDNESDAY OCT 13

200 men were kept in camp to fill up one bank of latrines

near the station and to dig 2 other banks to replace them. I

had to supervise this.  [[?]] work. My head ached all

day long and I went to bed early with fever. I was very

restless all night and so were the Japs who were celebrating

and drunk. Acquired some coffee and shared a duck with 9 others.

THURSDAY OCT 14

Little Anns birthday. May God Bless her and make her happy.  I will

never forget my first sight of her and her dear mother. I am

very feverish with headaches, backaches sick stomach, much worse

a very heavy feeling.

FRIDAY OCT 15

Still bad with fever. Had a bad night.  When sick life

as a POW is unbearable.

SATURDAY OCT 16

Still just as sick with fever and the effects of quinine.

SUNDAY OCT 17

No better so I have decided to reduce the quantity of

quinine. By evening I felt improved. Rex Lalur Kiernan and

Phillips returned in a party of 60 from the 55. Rex is looking

quite fit but thinner than usual. He had to abandon a lot

of his kit.  Some 6 7  men of the 2/29 have died there. The latest

being "Pop" Henderson. At last some canteen food has reached

the 55. The amputations number 96 and deaths 198 AIF. Received

another issue of soap. Two bodies were buried here today, both

of deceased members of the Anderson Force. There is an increased

number of visits by Japanese inspection parties of late. We

anticipate a move.

 

MONDAY OCT 18

Feeling much better at least. Am reading an awful book

with the title "Going Native". It appears to be written by an

Australian name Eric Muspratt. The most conceited, inconsistent,

erratic, immoral liar whose writings I have ever had the misfrtune

of reading. Major Hobbs went to the 30 and Capt Cumming to the 55 a few

days ago.  Major Krantz called in on his way to the 130. Capt White

returned with the pay. Farmer is ill again and was left behind.

According to reposts ^ dated Oct 4-6 contained in the Greater Asia the Russian advance 

has reached the general line of the Dnieper. Naples is ours and the Japs

anticipate a quickening of the war against them especially in

Burma. It can never be quick enough for us. Another man died.

TUESDAY OCT 19

Have improved skill further. McCawley told 3 very good stories

in rich Irish brogue. The first of Pat confusing how he had shot 4

Black and Tans and winged a landlord was interrupted with "Quit

talking politics and tell me your sins, the second of Pat bursting aside

the friend with the statement " Make way for a Protestant" and the third

of the 2 Irishman waiting behind a bridge for the landlord and hoping

nothing has happened to the old Gentleman". 60 men marched in.

WEDNESDAY OCT 20

Just about better now. Am reading Stefan Zweig's "Magellan" and his

voyage around the world. When one is ill, this life is extremely depressing. For the days I lay on my back with nothing to do I was obsessed with the blackest of thoughts about the injustices and humiliations we suffer and the bleak prospect of another 12 months of imprisonment. Weight 10s.1L 

or 64 Kilos.

THURSDAY OCT 21

Last evening at sunset appeared the most beautiful and unique phenomena

I have ever seen in the sky. Out of a huge bank of sand coloured clouds whose

top edges with tipped with brilliant gold rose a small misty cloud which was coloured with all the hues of the rainbow. It look just like a huge pearl

shell brightly illuminated with its colours changing slowly. Through trains

seem to be running now. I am not yet very strong, and feel washed out.

FRIDAY OCT 22

A holiday. - at last Food is very poor lately - rice, stewed potatoes and

an occasional flavouring of meat.  Life here has become deadly monotonous. 

I saw Mitchell's ulcers yesterday.  12 inches of bone now blackened is showing

and the man is just a skeleton. 2/29 deaths to date are Bell, Davey, Wilson, 

Ausell, Oxenham, Robinson, Ellis, brother Stewart? Henderson, Mitchell. Very good concert.

SATURDAY OCT 23

I feel much stronger but am still depressed. Have heard the rumors

once again that senior officers will soon be separated from the rest and

probably taken to Japan. 3 newspapers dated up to 14 Oct arrived. Japs still hold Bougainville 

and New Britain and we are pressing on to Madang in NG.  The Russians are still 
battling along the Dnieper and the Germans still stand between Naples and Rome.  

SUNDAY OCT 24

Inspected the camp with Capt. Anderson SMO has just returned. Heard

that Ba Maw passed through by train to attend the railway opening. Had the usual
Church Pde. The food and life here is utterly depressing.

MONDAY OCT 25

A plane which we could not recognize as a Japanese plane

passed over at a great height and came back again a few

minutes later. The time of the day, midday, and the height and

course indicated that it was a recce plane taking photographs

of the line. I sincerely hope no bombers will follow and pay

this camp a visit, as we have no slit trenches. As I write this

ants are running all over the book, the table and my arm. They

have been attracted by some chindegah which I obtained at

Rs7 per viss.  There are plenty of cattle about now, because it is anticipated that a General will visit here tomorrow.  More window

dressing to cover up - what?  

TUESDAY OCT 26

The camp is cleaned up for the inspection. Hut no. 4 has been

pulled down and is being rebuilt. Tully of the 2/2 Prongers who

comes from Hawthorn died last night also. met Jack

Wark. Alf Wark's brother. I remembered him after 20 years. The

General's train passed in the middle of the morning, and although we

waited until 3 pm for his return he did not put in an appearance.

The trains, small as they are with only 4 or 5 trucks have great difficulty in

moving outside our fences.

WEDNESDAY OCT 27

Once again the General is expected. He arrived - but is only a Col. 

We had the usual pdes for his arrival and departure.  A few hours

later, Healy, Nann and Tubb arrived  from Thanbuzayat with some 80 men.

We now number just under 1900 and No. 4 hut is being rebuilt.  The crowding

is disgraceful. A few Americans and British are here also. The grade of the line

just outside is being altered by POW labour. Greater Asia dated 16 Oct arrived.

The Philippines proclaimed their independence (?) on 14 Oct under Jose Laurel.

THURSDAY OCT 28

A member of No 1 Group was caught stealing from the Jap kitchen and

was tied to a post from 4 AM to 9 AM and then released. He has beri

beri badly and is very thin in the body. Father Corry, Cameron and Lalor

returned from the 30 with many men. It is believed that soon there will be

no POWs north of the 50 hospital. During my inspection of the camp I felt

giddy so many times that I had to lie down for 10 minutes.  Lt Col Black 

returned.

FRIDAY OCT 29

Our strength is now 1954, and more men are still coming in.

Hoshi is back but so far has given out no official information. The

Sgt Major who is now here from the original 26 kilo guard has said that we

go to Thailand in December in small batches. Two men died. Heard that Frank Knight is battling well against great odds.

SATURDAY OCT 30

Rossiter, Trummans, and Fraser arrived with many men. It would appear

that Anderson, Williams, Fitzsimmons and English forces will go on to 116 soon.

Jap Comdr states we will leave 2000 fit men of No3 branch here and the remainder 
will go to Bangkok. Went to confession.  The concert party practices  are worth listening 
to.

SUNDAY OCT 31

Heard Mass and received Holy Communion at 845 pm.  The overcrowding is disgraceful. Men are sleeping everywhere, under floors even, in self made bunks.

 

MONDAY NOV 1

Naney will have all our young ones home today. I hope they are

praying hard for me as I am for them.  I wonder has Johnny made his

first Holy Communion yet.  God Bless them all. I collected R6545

from 2/29 Bar personnel for our unit men at the 55. Kitching told

me the story how 3 POWs in his cattle party at the 64 were allowed

to die from neglect and callousness of the Jap in charge. Had Mass 

and Holy Communion again in the evening. I am still rather thin 

although I am eating all I can get.

TUESDAY NOV 2

Watch a swarm of ants larger than any other I ever seen . About 10

deep they ran along the cattle yard fence and up a tree. This trail was 50

yds long and the ants moved quickly in one direction for at least 1/2

and hour and perhaps for 2 or 3 hours. At the same time a young cow

had a miscarriage of a calf just in a formed state. In the evening the

concert party gave a splendid performance of sailors in "Ships Inn" and

selections from musical comedies. The ^ hut sweep was drawn prior to the 

concert and Jim Sutherland hidden in a wireless set on the stage 

described the race in true Eric Welch fashion and brought home. 

The first four in accordance with the prior undisclosed official drawings 

as usual. I did not -- win a 10 cent prize. Did 2 hours as nightwatchman.

WEDNESDAY NOV 3

A holiday - some special Jap day. Am reading "Ann Vickers" by 

Sinclair Lewis. It is a powerfully written story of this welfare 

worker, almoner, reformer, and with a tendency to feel love.  Held 

another concert at the command of the Japs and for the  Jap 

Engineers but only 5 of them attended. Another man from William's 

force died.

THURSDAY NOV 4

The body left overnight for burial was in a bad way this morning 

and had to be partially covered before the service could be held. His is the 

40th grave.  Lieut Trummans gave a very interesting talk of his experiences as 

POW of the French in Syria. He was flown to Athens, then to Salonika and 

put on an improvised prison ship. When the armistice was signed the 

Germans told the French to get out of Greece and so the prisoners were 

sent on a 7 day train journey through Jugo Slavia, Austria, Bavaria, and 

France to a fort in Toulon. Then they were sent back to Palestine by boat. 

They numbered 36 officers and were POWs for just 2 months.

FRIDAY NOV 5

Jap guards are saying that the offensive in Burma has begun. I think they 

mean that they are taking the initiative. Another man died, 41st. Major Harris 

of  2/4 MT is a director of oversees motors. McAlgar was their Accountant for 

awhile. 

SATURDAY NOV 6

To-day I saw 2 bad cases of beri beri. The patients legs were swollen to twice their normal size and their scrotum 4 times.  We now number nearly 2200. Purchased 1/2 pkt

of chindagah. Lately we have seen new engines which have come from Thailand. They are 

Jap.

SUNDAY NOV 7

4 issues of Greater Asia received.  Russia is threatening the Crimea. Shubas Bose has 
formed a Provisional Govt of India. Indian women are training as soldiers. Mass & Holy Comm. 

MONDAY NOV 8

Hoshi returned with 500 packets of chindagah and -  unconfirmed as yet - a 

tin of coffee. Once again he has left us down.  No 5 branch often procures eggs 

and fruit. It is criminal laziness. He himself always has plenty of poultry, eggs, 

fruit and milk. At my suggestion, the CO is going to submit to the Japs a 

survey of the condition of the breath of all men here.  I am sure that the Japs 

believe that because we send out 600-700 workers daily that we have this 

many fit men.  This of course is quite erroneous. I talked for over an hour 

with Fr Corry as we strolled up and down the parade ground in 

the moonlight. He told me that Lt Dominic formed his order in 1216 in 

France to combat the Albijenons heresy with only 16 members, their main 

purpose is the spreading of reverence to the Holy Name by local and foreign missions & the Holy Name Society. Another man died, the 42nd. 

TUESDAY NOV 9

Increased all my PT exercises by 50% and as a result am feeling 

very tired. Obtained a 1/3 of a packet of chindegah free from the 

canteen which bought all the recent consignment. Participated also 

in a distribution of dried fish. It will be interesting to follow the 

fortunes of the Koreans after this war. We heard 12 months ago of trouble 

in Korea. Are these guards all loyal to Japan? Some of course are just 

naturally cruel and inhuman irrespective of their loyalties. Hoshi said we leave 

in a month.

WEDNESDAY NOV 10

The railway has been closed for general improvements. Some 20 

were out for 5 hrs work at 2300 hrs. The Japs held a moonlight 

party on their specially built open platform. Their music was quite 

unmusical and they are very fond of noise. Their entertainment is 

just one step removed from the primitive dancing around a fire. 

Each night now I do about an hour's stroll on the pde ground in the 

moonlight in training for our departure from here.

THURSDAY NOV 11 

Camp has settled down now into its new quarters and the congestion has 

been considerably eased; furthermore it is much cleaner and more tidy.  

The flys seem to be in the decline at the moment. A new Jap Guard hit 

the camp like a cyclone in the evening. With another guard he went 

around the grounds, bashed people near the kitchen, crashed in on the rosary, bashed one of the concert party and then called for the Adjt.

FRIDAY NOV 12

Hoshi kept his guards on parade for 1/2 an hour to talk to them. Heard 

that 3000 fit men of nos 3 & 5 branch will remain, rest will go towards Bangkok. 

Note from Capt Brand who is about 184 with some men who could not walk 

further. That is they are standing by to return to Singapore.  Mills drew my portrait. 

SATURDAY NOV 13

Two men died, both Wiliams Force. Hoshi refused permission to amputate a leg but will apply to HQ. Concert was excellent. Snowwhite, 3 Little Fishes (Water & Seal's).

SUNDAY NOV 14

Japs have now instituted house police - to give themselves something to do. A great number of our men get about on crutches. Also one sees frequently men carrying around 

"a specimen" on a leaf.  Assisted at Mass at 1930 hours. 

 

MONDAY NOV 15

Japs are building air-raid shelters in the jungle - just enough for themselves.

Another hut is falling over. During the night men can feel the movement. One

upright [[unckia?]] and made a noise like a pistol shot. When the Jap officer

and NCO are away, as at present, the Guards droop most forms of discipline. The Guard mounting becomes an individual effort. They talk loudly into the 

early hours of the morning. They forget their morning prayers to Nippon,

and a few of them, particularily a Jap named Oriery, commonly known as 

the "Boy Bastard" or BB, become laws unto themselves and make things

unpleasant for as many as they possibly can. Trains started to run at

the early evening.

TUESDAY NOV 16 

A holiday -  the first of three consecative rest days. Newspapers up to Nov

6 received, but I cannot be bothered reading much of such trash. 1/20 of

the items contain news, the remainder is nonsense, mostly saying

brave words to keep up their courage like the small boy whistler in the 

dark. Am reading George Thomas's "My Mind a Kingdom".  It is the diary of 

one year of the life of the author who is permanently incapacitated with 

muscular atrophy, together with his Mother and one brother and one

sister.  The father is a christian. Another concert was given.

WEDNESDAY NOV 17

Up to yesterday, 270,000 flys had been handed in for the bounty of RI per 1000. 

This represents less than a a fortnight's catch. The fly menacing is declining. Heard

that casualties among F Force are now 2400 out of 7000, mostly British. As at

Mergui the Australian has shown himself tougher than his English brother

655 men of No3 branch of died in this area, and I estimate 555 at sea, Rangoon, Savoy etc.

Deaths at 55 now number 251. Frank Knight died of gangrene about a week ago.

THURSDAY NOV 18

At the 55, Walters 2/29 died a short time ago. Dysentry is taking toll from 

among those men who have been weakened by other causes. Amputation can now

number 111. We have started another bridge tournament and I am partnered

with Ewart. The sunsets are improving lately. Tonight it was beautiful.  It is 

the only colour we see here apart from the eternal green of the jungle. 

The glorious array of colours from blues through orange to pinks and reds ever changing 
but ^the movement so gradual as to be imperceptable has a soothing effect on me  

and carries me back home to Naney.

FRIDAY NOV 19

The Japs have rebuilt our stage for the forthcoming celebrations. Likewise we 

have cleared the area surrounding the cemetery, a track for the "horse" races has been

made around the pde ground, a sweep has been organised, and Japs are 

practicing for the concert everywhere. Eleven men went by railway truck to 55 kilo

for leg amputations

SATURDAY NOV 20

A memorial service for the dead was held at the cemetery commencing at 1030.

A special cross suitably engraved and supplied by HQ was erected beforhand

and private wreaths and flowers had been placed on the graves. The men were

blocked in around the cemetery with officers on one side and Japs on the other

side of the entrance. Two services, Protestant and Catholic were held. Official wreaths

placed and the Taicho read a message from Nagatomo to the souls of the departed.

Several Japanese army prostitutes appeared in the camp in the evening.

SUNDAY NOV 21

Celebrations commenced with a Jap pde and 3 Banzis at 0800 hrs.

Immediately afterwards all P.O.W.s paraded alongside the Japs and an address

from Nagatomo was read by the Taicho and its translation by the C.O. The

C.O. then replied - and did not fail to make the best of his opportunity.

His speech will be typed and sent to Jap HQ. This was followed by a combined

concert and strangely enough the Jap items were as good as our own. My share

of the extra food is a tobacco tin of salt, one onion as big as a cherry, 2 eggs, 2

limes, 3/4 lb of chindagah and a taste of pork in the stew. The evening official concert

party arrived and gave a splendid performance which was followed by the items

deferred from the mornings concert. The Jap soldier dying for his country and the 

strong man fighting evil spirits in the temple were symbolical of Jap, modern and old.

A ^ horse race meeting was held in the afternoon. The Japs bet quite freely on each

race, they ran a race of their own and entered into the fun of the thing.

MONDAY NOV 22

Dutch officer said "K" force left Changi with 30 MOs including 5 Dutch and 240 men . In

his native camp 2000 died out of 4000 in 4 months. Acted as Camp Adjt for today only. Capt Summer sent me a 1/2 pkt of sugar from 55. 

TUESDAY NOV 23

Wrinpole and Hackney passed through on a train. Lovett had a yarn with them.

The "F" Force deaths are now reported to be 3060, a staggering figure. The nights

now are very cold many men get so cold under their thin covering that they go

outside to the few fires that burn all night. Full working parties are required as

usual. 

WEDNESDAY NOV 24

Little Mary's birthday and 5 years old today. God Bless her. This [[?means she's]]

a schoolgirl when I will see her.  Fred Hare went through, but I did not see him.

David West gave me a shirt. Another man died. Newspapers dated 11th 13th &16th arrived

Japs claim to have sunk 4 battleships, 2 Aircraft carriers and many other warships in

battles near Bourgainville Island on 3rd & 5th Nov.

THURSDAY NOV 25

Jap paper makes further claims of sea battles in the Solomons & New Britain

on 8th & 11th Nov in which we suffered many more losses. The railway is carrying mostly

troops, motor vehicles and horses and very little of each. The length of a train 

is never more than 10 trucks. The engine drivers seem to enjoy waking us at night.

3 cooks, a nightwatchmen and another man were badly bashed after lights out

because they were believed to have stolen some Jap chindagah. They spent the rest of a 

very cold night at the guardhouse.

FRIDAY NOV 26

I saw the cuts and bruises on Russell the man who received the worst beating

last night. He had some 8 nasty marks up to 5 inches long on his back and hip

2 on his cheek and his ear was cut. In their own newspaper they publish the "inhuman"

treatment suffered by an internee who returned from America to Japan last month.

He was imprisoned for 6 long months, was not allowed to see his wife for 4 1/2 long

months, had to exercise in his cell and return his spoon after each meal. Poor man!

SATURDAY NOV 27

48th death today. Started PT again as my interior seems to settled down,

CO rather ill with fever. Heard that F Force are being moved out steadily from NIKI.

SUNDAY NOV 28

C.O. seems to have decided against protesting to the Taicho about the recent bashing

and I am very disappointed. All senior officers share my views. 2/29 Bn personnel, about 60 in all marched to the Church Pdes. About a 60 in all  marched to the Church Pdes. About a dozen Catholics attended and I offered

them Holy Communion for our [[?]]and our dead.

 

 November 

 23

November 

24

 

2                                                                   

November 

 11

 Dec 22

Was lying in this morning when the oberstalanz

came and looked about - I handed him another 

list of medical requirements.

Received two letters, one from McTroy, general news

and information that Australian Red Cross was

sending a supplementary 200 cigarettes per month

to Australian P.O.W. The other, from Ron written

on 22 Nov., was very cheerful, and hinted at

good news all-round - said he was making arrangements

to send the things I had asked for, and wanted

to know whether the cigarettes from Rothman's 

had started arriving yet. Sorry to have to tell 

him they've not - Baxter's X-Ray -->fr.[[J. Postmail to hand]]

Another party has stopped work, and ten 

men began clearing a stretch of ground outside

the front gate as a football pitch.

 -----------------------------------------------------------

 Dec 23

Stanway was at Stalag again Today, asked 

permission for Fr. Scarborough to come on XI Sunday

but had no luck - told he was coming on

Sunday 27th. German guard had XMass Dinner in Hall 

- pork chip & potatoes

 

November

 12

Dec 24 - X.Mass Eve

Issued with Christmas Red x Parcel - to last

till Tuesday, very good.

Put a toe-to-knee plaster & walking iron on 

Baxter then, late in afternoon had attached to us an

RAMC Sergeant and a N.Z. medical orderly, both from

404 Dabendorf. They were to have come on 28th but were

given a ½ hrs notice after the whole of 401 Neukölln

walked in on them, about 160 in number. Others will come

to us later. Now that 401 have combined with 404

it's hardly likely that the latter will come to us, and 

instead of my being joined by Capt Annan, he is 

joined by Capt. Readman.

General Festivities is all wand tonight, bags of 

local beer in barrels - would not be out of place

at a Sunday School picnic and as quite a few of

the boys resemble the proverbial fiddler's bitch as

might be suspected that the rackets have followed

us from Staaken.

Small party in our room - S.M., S.M. Dobson, Sgts. 

Mackay & Stanway, Jimmy Ellis, [[Teldaweberl?]] and I, 

which thanks to the F.W. was not a flop. He's well

disposed quite helpful, and equally [[?]] off.

In spite of a glorious dyspepsia this afternoon I 

ate well, including steak & Kid. pud, smoked and drank

and to my amazement, felt better for it. Thought of Glad

& kids most of evening

 

 

MONDAY DEC 27

More newspapers arrived. We are pushing on with our arrangements

for the move to Kanchanabrai. Special stretchers have to be made 

for lying patients in the train. "The Christian" asked Cpl Molino what 

was his nickname among the POWs. We had previously told the 

Christian quite frankly what it was, but he was not quite satisfied

and had to ask the Cpl. This Cpl calls him "Holy Joe" and when

asked said that "the Christian's" nickname was "Joe". The Christian asked

was "Joe" a good name. Certainly said the Cpl, there is Tojo, Joe Stalin and

Joe Curtain.

TUESDAY DEC 28

Saw the Taicho and informed him that for 2 days now our rations

was rice and salt. How on earth they expect men to remain fit for 

work on this rationis beyond me. Another air raid alarm.

WEDNESDAY DEC 29

Took over Camp adjts job for the period of the moves. CO & Hence 

go on the first train. A very busy day.

THURSDAY DEC 30

The first draft was entrained according to plan at about 0830 hrs.

Reville was at 0500 hrs and all baggage was searched, principally 

for tools. 279 got away, and all arrangements for the next day move 

had to be made.

FRIDAY DEC 31

The second draft got away satisfactorily. 239 men arrived from the 55

kilo as fit workers. One man Roberts escaped from the train and 

took to the jungle. The deaths at the 55 totalled 351 and amputations about

100, 50 of whom died and are included in the 351 above.

SATURDAY JAN 1, 1944.

New Years day and a holiday. Our ration is still only raddish

and rice, and with my sore tongue I can eat only a little raddish

with the rice. Mass at 1000 hrs and offered for my dear wife and 

family. Another draft got away today under Major Kiernan and had

to crowd into 7 ½ trucks. The Jap officer was annoyed when I expressed

disapproval of this crowding of 45-50 men in one truck. Many men had 

to use crutches.

SUNDAY JAN 2

Another holiday and another draft successfully pushed off.

Mass again at 1000 hrs.  An entertaining concert was held but 

by now all the Band has gone.

MONDAY JAN 3

The fifth draft moved out according to schedule. The Brig, Prk, Lt Varley

Punt and a batman arrived and have to go through with us. I worked

until about 0130 hrs after midnight and then packed.

TUESDAY JAN 4

After only 3 hours sleep I moved out with the last party. We had 

only 10 carriages for 284 POWs including 24 dying cases who travel 7 to a truck

plus 2 orderleys. We had 19 officers and batmen and 2 Japs in our truck. Took a 

meal of boiled rice and salt which we ate while we were side-

tracked at NIKI for some 4 hours. An American died and his body was

left with the POWs at NIKI for burial. Soon after dark we were issued

with another meal of rice, chips and fish. The fish could not be eaten.

WEDNESDAY JAN 5

Was able to snatch only a little sleep in cramped positions, and 

daylight found us tired and dirty. The line follows the ME KLONG

river and the scenery is very good. The river is broad and clear and the 

face of high cliffs overlooking the river, some bridges are very large

and in general the Japs have completed a very difficult undertaking

over the ^dead bodies of thousands of POWs and Asiatic forced labour. The

nature of the country is considerably different from the jungles

of Burma. The country is more open, the vegatation is drier and 

much smaller.  All bamboo is quite small compared to the Burma

bamboo. Several eagles could be seen. The only settlements are those

built by the Japs. We had no food issued but were able to 

buy a few bananas late in the afternoon. We detrained alongside 

the camp immediately after crossing a magnificient concrete 

and steel bridge guarded by AA Guns. There was the usual bunks,

we were fed and allotted to our quarters.

THURSDAY JAN 6

Spent the day settling in Camps 1, 2 and 3 and some Dutch 

and the so called BANGKOK hospital group are all here in one 

camp, nearly 3000 men and already we are crowded. The camp however

is much superior to the jungle camps. The floors are single length, the 

area is clean, equipment is much more reasonable their being 

wooden tanks to hold the pumped water, plenty of air raid trenches

containers for fire fighters, disinfectant in the latrines, wood is a supplied  by the Thais, canteen and cooked foods is already functiong

swimming parades are permitted at 1600 and 1700 hrs daily,

injections against plague, cholera and typhoid are being given, spare

ground is used for growing vegetables, a duck farm supplies

baked duck for 3 tickets, [[buppin?]] tools are more plentiful, and 

barbers are operating. I moved into permanent quarters near the orderly

room.

FRIDAY JAN 7

I have been appointed to command No.1 Camp ^(1091 in all) vice Col Ramsay

who is commanding the whole camp. Ewart is my 21C and Winny is 

my Adjt. The Brig still remains as a visitor. More Dutch were brought

in - temporarily I hope. Jap guards everywhere day and night. The

rations are much better and we are able to buy a few eggs. bananas,

sugar etc from the Canteen. The atmosphere of the camp is very

bright and we are exerting a steady pressure on the men to recover

some of their last discipling cleaner bunks, kit layout, smarter pde

ground work, saluting, etc. My pellagia is improving already. 

SATURDAY JAN 8

Much trouble in getting some hundreds of men to unload rice. I 

am having a swim every afternoon. D force workers we  met ^are still

along the line, the remainder are at Taiso. Lone British POWs of O force 

are still here in this camp, building railway memorial.  "A" force  went to 

Burma. B & C to Borneo, D to Thailand, E to Borneo, F to Thai, G to Japan (502 ,)H to Thai

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