Lieutenant Desmond Campion War Diary
1942-1945
PRIVATE
Lieut. D.F. CAMPION G.H.Q
1942
TUES. 24TH FEB.
G.H.Q. left LEMBANG at 4 am. Said Cheerio to A.B. whom had been with for 2½ yrs. Returned to bed till 9 am. “Andy” and self moved down to BANDOENG for lunch in Standard 9 (1934) purchased from Cohen for 1 guilder. Commenced work at new office.
SUN 1ST MAR.
Japs invade JAVA. Report of paratroops 10 miles away. False report.
WED 4TH MAR.
Dobbin walked into office at 2:30 pm and casually informed us Japs 12 miles away. At 6 pm heard move was coming shortly. Commenced packing dumped small amount of kit.
THUR 5TH MAR.
Left BANDOENG at 4 am. Long journey into mountains to tea plantation at SANTOSA. Arrived 1 pm and fed. Talk by General giving outline of situation & intention. Going to make a break in event of capitulation. Did he mean it?
FRI 6TH MAR.
Had to move again today. Left SANTOSA at 10 am and retraced our steps towards BANDOENG. On way to TJIKAJANG. Passed within 15 miles BANDOENG & could see column of smoke rising also puffs of A.A. Raid on town not ‘drome.1 arrived Tjikajang 2:30 pm. All best beds taken. But got one in lounge, or rather place to fit blanket.
1 This is a guess: he uses this abbreviation for ‘aerodrome’ elsewhere.
SAT 7TH MAR.
Waiting for something to happen. Are we going to win this war or not? Much talking around but very little done in my opinion. Trip with “Andy” to Aussie H.Q. after dinner.
SUN 8TH MAR.
Learnt we were to move again and did so at 10 am. New H.Q. at tea factory tucked away on mountain side. Seems best place yet. Learn that JAVA has capitulated. Looks as if we are in the “bag”. What are we going to do. Destroyed nearly all personal kit and army kit. Expecting to make getaway with Graham & Co. into mountains. Only retain enough kit to fill pack. Should arms & M.T. be destroyed? “Andy” told me all unit commanders to see General at old H.Q. at TJIKAJANG at 1800 hrs. Graham fixed up with party and we joined up with Williams of NAAFI. At 1400 left for G.H.Q. having said cheerio to pals. Journey of 10 to 15 miles. Road crowded with lorries going in opposite direction towards coast, in hopes of boats. We also had hopes of getting away. Andy went to General’s interview & was told of surrender, arms & M.T. etc. to be kept for handing over. General was going to stay & be prisoner and advised all to do same, after what he said at SANTOSA. Discussed several plans for escape which way to go etc. I wanted to go for coast. Andy said we should go towards the NORTH coast and I think his plan might have been best as things turned out. Did not consider so at time as speak no Dutch or Malay and could get no information as to Jap positions could not or would not Dobbin give us it. If latter, take poor view.
In the interim met Pace & M-Campbell of A & SH who had come out of Malaya and Sumatra. Finally decided to make for coast & left G.H.Q. at 9 pm. Discovered ditched lorry full of rations & added to our stock. Had to stop after 15 miles as road blocked by convoy. Slept night in car.
MON 9TH MAR.
Woke at 6 am & moved off at 8 am behind convoy. At 11 am convoy halted and D.G.M.C. & Pace caught us up. Decided to go down to beach for a swim. Other car punctured and returned for spare for them. No wheel & they had gone when we returned. Arrived at PEMEUNGPEUK at 1 pm. Found drone with Kittyhawk but too badly smashed to repair. Learnt that Blenheim had left at dawn for Australia & afterward heard they made it. Two spare seats in plane & so assume if General had not been so damn silly on calling G.H.Q. meeting we also should have made it. Rumour in afternoon that boats coming in that night. Went for swim. Arranged with some R.A.F. to signal S.O.S. all night. Spent night in car.
TUES 10TH MAR.
No boat last night, and expected Japs to arrive, but had decided to stay put. Numberless rumours. Most fantastic one from R.A.F. officer saying Aussie cruiser coming. Went swimming. Spent night again in car.
WED 11TH MAR.
Met Frank Knight R.A.F. F/O along with ACI2 and two Aussies, “Dutch” and “Allan”. They had trekked 50 miles down beach complete with native bearers & proposed to make TJILIJAP. Decided to go along with them. Took up quarters in hut on signal point. Col Russel [sic] came with news of terms live on tea plantations etc. Also said rumours that Rommel had capitulated & Russia big advance. Asked chaps to return. We decided to remain.
2 This is most likely ACI but could be AG or ACL
THURS 12TH MAR – 16TH MAR.
“Andy” went to G.H.Q. on Thurs and we got established as “official picket” for rounding up troops. Brought stacks of rations. Usual life. On 16th heard that sub came in night before. Rumour. Rec’d orders to return to G.H.Q. Kept 2 hr watch on end of pier in heavy storm.
TUES 17TH MAR.
Returned to G.H.Q. after week full of incidents. I.E. Andy’s phone call BANDOENG & cursing3 JAP. Arrived G.H.Q. 2:30 pm4 expecting to commence march to BATAVIA. Orders changed.
THURS 19TH MAR.
Left for TJIBATOE at 11:30 am and arrived at 2:30 pm. Billeted out in house of railway official. Left car having 2500 miles.
FRI 20TH – FRI 27TH MAR.
Nice comfortable existence waiting for train. Duncan went to BANDOENG MON as General’s
A.D.C. Several walks in mountains. Concert arranged by Glasgow. Japs present. General not seen after Tuesday.
FRI 27TH MAR.
Left for BATAVIA at 6:30 am. 4th class carriage. Counted like sheep. Long & tiring journey. Bridge over ravine blown up between SOEKIBOEMI & BUITENZORG. Arrived TANJONG PRIOK at 9 pm. Walked around 2 ½ hrs. Then 2 ½ miles to coolie lines which had been wired5 for us. Gate changed behind us at 1 am, approx. Threw blanket on floor & self on top.
SAT 28TH MAR.
Accomodated [sic] in filthy coolie houses, bugs, cockroaches, etc. in abundance. No water, light, very little food. Allowed to get kit, water rations, etc. about mid-day. Big cleanup in process.
SUN. 29TH MAR – SAT 4TH APRIL.
Camp organization settling down. Parties going out to work in docks.
SUN 5TH APRIL (EASTER).
Went to church service. Dedication of little shed covering altar.
3 This was the transcriber’s guess. I can not make out the word – Nick Campion
4 This looks like the abbreviation he uses for ‘and’ – Nick Campion
5 The transcriber wasn’t sure about this but it looks like ‘wired’ to me – Nick Campion
SAT 11TH APRIL.
Central cookhouse starting and all rations called in. This camp handed in enormous number of tinned rations which we might as well have e
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about R again in mo
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SAT 18TH APRIL
Concert in camp arranged by Glasgow, followed by community singing. Good effort.
SUN 19TH APRIL
Church service at 10 am.
MON 20TH APRIL
Working party at docks. Loading hemp & tapioca flour on to barges, 1 hr on 2 hrs off. Sentries very helpful in buying fruit, etc. Returned with good amount for “5 Aces”.
TUES 21ST APRIL
No 2 camp has a “star gazer” who forecast certain events on voyage out, which later came true. Was given 7 days CB for “rumourmongering”.7 Has now given date of our release from here as May 14th! Have not mentioned before but car ran 2500 miles over very bad country, no attention and towards end on 100 octane aviation spirit, ¾ ordinary, ¼. Went like 2 yr old.
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Heard that all Jap admin staff here except Malay interpreter is to be changed on 25th Apr. Glad to get rid of Blackshirt. “FIVE ACES” consist of “Andy”, Glasgow, Campbell, Day & self. Get quite a few extras milk, sugar, fruit, etc. and a bottle of whiskey thro’ buying organization. Main diet now consists of rice. Specirain9 menu as follows.
Breakfast 9 am. Rice & sugar or jam. Tea Dinner 1 pm. Rice & stew of vegs.
Supper 6 pm “ & “ Tea Sometimes bread or pastry as well.
6 It appears to me that the text removed was on the following page (see FN 8) because the text there is more coherent.
7 This was deliberately written as one word
8 This appears to be the text which was intentionally cut
9 This is the transcriber’s guess. I think it may be ‘specimen’ – Nick Campion
WED 22ND APRIL.
Maj. Johnston brought rumour into camp which he had heard from JAP sentry to the effect that we are to be moved to JAPAN in few days time, presumably when this staff goes on 25th inst. Discussed going over “The Garden Wall” in that event. Rumour later cancelled by Maj. Johnston. Maybe Turner translated wrongly from JAP in first place.
FRI 24TH APRIL.
More questions asked of prisoners by Japs. Twenty-five, which cover everything. Orders by Col. Brigden to answer them, except when we consider answers might reveal too much. In that case answer as think fit. Maj. Whiting took over O.C., G.H.Q. from “Andy”. Issued a lot of orders, of which Duncan has copy. Inspected officers bunks. All our corner told off. New Jap authorities arrived. Commandant speaks English & has had “Western” education. “Blackshirt’s” successor at cookhouse also has some English. Sentries seem to be a better type than others were.
SUN 26TH APRIL
No church service. All “dressed up” and out on parade for inspection by new camp commandant at 10:15. Further reports that new Japs are very good. They spent a lot of time buying goods for the working parties out today. Colonel Brigden told us that he wished to see the “Five Aces” at 10 am on Monday.
MON 27TH APRIL.
Saw the colonel as instructed. Had expected a minor lecture but instead he told us he had heard we were trying to escape. All started laughing and told him nothing was further from our minds.
TUES. 28TH APRIL.
Reports of more Jap troops arriving here. They are very young, mere boys and some crying, unable to carry pack.
WED. 29TH APRIL.
Further reports of new Jap troops being in bad fettle as regards equipment. Japs state troops being sent from Japan owing to lack of food. Also, that Turkey has entered war on side of the Allies. Money can be handed to R.A.S.C. by private individuals if they wish. Refund after war, in the meantime to be used for purchase of food.
FRI. MAY 1ST.
Reports of conditions of prisoners in Batavia. Accommodated [sic] in the 2 jails – Col Dobbin in charge of one.
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d indeed – 4 people been
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Seven Dutch specialists but no drugs or apparatus. Two operations for appendix been performed without any anesthetic. All patients, no matter how ill, have to sit up and bow to Jap M.O. None of the prisoners in jails are allowed to go out, apparently no working parties . All above information came via Maj Johnston who has been in hospital. Apparently we are the best of
P.O.W. camps. Glasgow put on another concert last night – which was very good. Now have small stage which is floodlight. Orders from Japs that we have to learn to give drill orders in Japanese by May 6th.
SAT MAY 2ND
First death in Camp Hospital, from dysentery. Attacks on flies must be redoubled.
Rumour from “reliable source”?! that Java will be in British hands in three days. Deceased had very impressive funeral, last post. Jap officers attended. Great shortage of medical stores in camp.
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MON MAY 4TH
Church service yesterday, orderly officer today. W.O. McBride came back from Batavia hospital yesterday. His version is that there are some medical stores and treatment is fairly good. See Maj. Johnston’s rumour of May first.
SUN MAY 10TH
Church service today. Nothing much happened during week. Not walked much owing to poisoned leg & foot. Heard “star gazers” rumour reaffirmed to the effect we leave here between May 17th & 23rd. Change for better. Two more people from this camp have died in Batavia hospital. Japs having A.A. shoot on beach close to this camp today – 3 – Bofors & heavy pompoms? First fifty of Javanese solders left camp today. Presumed for release?
FRI. MAY 15TH.
Four more deaths from dysentery during last 14 days. Celebrated birthday yesterday with Five Aces & bottle of whisky [sic]! Big changes taken place in camp. American, Australian & Dutch troops all move to Batavia and British troops have come here. Move took place yesterday.
G.H.Q. have come & are in No 7 camp. Saw Graham, Dobbin, etc. Col Russell as usual running everything his own way. Assisted him in small way yesterday & this morning. Some from bicycle camp & some from jail. Those in jail have apparently been fairly comfortable. Confirmed rumour that R.A.F. personnel escaped from jail but were caught & shot: apparently General Sitwell has been interrogated by Jap political police & had a rough time. Been chained etc?
6 It appears to me that the text removed was on the following page (see FN 8) because the text there is more coherent.
7 This was deliberately written as one word
8 This appears to be the text which was intentionally cut
9 This is the transcriber’s guess. I think it may be ‘specimen’ – Nick Campion
Startling rumour that Japs have lost 45,000 men in attempting to evacuate New Guinea. Can be more or less discounted I think. We now have eleven Cols in this area so there may be some fun.
MON 18TH MAY
Col. Russell seemed to stir up some trouble. Nips cannot get new figures right. We were all called up at 0100 hrs Friday to be counted. They were 14 up. At present they are 1 down. Out on dock party yesterday. No work till 1 pm. Fair amount of buying. Rumour about N. Guinea discounted.
WED 20TH MAY.
One more death 2 days ago. Dock party yesterday got ample whiskey & beer. Col. Russell is trying to stop profiteering inside the camp, on cigarettes etc. Present prices inside the camp are approx as follows with guilder at 2/8 Sterling
Cigarettes f112 for 20 (Mascot Davos etc)
Whiskey f15 a bottle
Condensed Milk f1–25 per tin
Sugar 25 ct13 for ½ lb approx
Small loaf 50 cts
Small packet of five cakes 20 cts
As opposed to this I purchase 1000 Double Ace for 25 glds off Jap guard on Sunday. Also Jap guard came down outside wire last night selling at same price. Have just heard that Cols go on roll call parade in No 7 Camp or did this am.
MON 25TH MAY
Diary seems to have been somewhat neglected the last few days. Took party from No. 8 camp to docks on Friday. Unloading petrol back at 1 pm – no buying. Lots of face slapping occurred on Thursdays party. Did O. Officer on Sat 23rd. Two more deaths yesterday. Star-gazers story of us leaving here between 14 & 23 has proved false, most now wait for native legend which means about June 16th. Col. Dobbin said the other day that he thought we should be very unlucky to be still here in September.
THURS. 28TH MAY.
Total number of deaths now ten. Japs seem to have quitted Unie Kampong – more or less. No invasion barges left – all workshop installations removed – one boat left in here which is loading scrap iron. Report of troops leaving. Concert last night in No. 7 camp. Lecture on Mayfair 1234 by Lt. Dant followed. Chips told us this morning that his party is “off”.
12 I assume this is ‘florin’. Nick Campion
13 I assume this is ‘cent’. Nick Campion
FRI. 29TH MAY.
Drakeford, 2/Lt. S.S.V.F. died at mid-day yesterday. Had been ill last fortnight with dysentery from which he had more or less recovered, & cause of death was heart failure. Six of us acted as bearers at funeral 5:30 pm same day. Internment in European Section T.P. cemetery.
SAT 30TH MAY
Strong rumour that General, A.V.M. and two other senior officers left for Japan with convoy 2 days ago. Information is fairly reliable. Star-gazer out of action & are now waiting to see what happens at end of 100 days or June 16th, when earthquakes, tidal waves and what not are supposed to occur. Dysentery is reported be on the increase in this area. Have poisoned leg again.
TUES 2ND JUNE
5 Aces have managed to purchase fair amount of stuff lately through “Taffy” and hope to get some medical supplies also.Purchase of table tennis, cricket gear, etc, recently will help to make life more interesting. Leg getting on O.K.
SAT 6TH JUNE
Five Aces club split t wo days ago. Self, Day & Andy now buying from Taffy & Co. Have now been attached to No 13 Camp for all duties. Ian Graham is O.C. Big meal tonight of pork chops, spuds, peas.
TUES 9TH JUNE.
O.O for No 13 camp yesterday. Light now to remain on till 11 pm. Chips has been out on two recces. No startling developments.
SAT. 13TH JUNE.
O.O. yesterday. Andy on new purchasing racket.
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…for eggs, fruit, sugar etc. No. 7 Camp have got their teeth into profiteering now. Kit of a man who died in No. 13 Camp has been auctioned for £51, to be sent to dependents. Concerts now weekly, alternating between Nos 1 & 7. Number of deaths decreasing somewhat – only one since Drakeford’s up to today when one occurred from malaria.
THURS 18TH JUNE.
On course this week of military law up to company commanders standard. Surprise search of camp this morning. Many kits turned out. Own kit not searched.
14 The text removed appears to have been that on the next page.
SUNDAY 21ST JUNE
Law course finished yesterday. O.O. for No. 13 yesterday. First showing of “Merchant of Venice” in No. 8 Camp. Japs will not allow it to be held on the “green”. They were very annoyed yesterday by Kings Birthday parade held last Sunday without their permission.
TUES. 22ND JUNE.15
Hear that “star-gazer” is laying 6 to 1 on Java being bombed by tomorrow. He has also put down in writing that we shall be free by Aug 2nd.
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MON. 29TH JUNE
Church service yesterday. Padre very “het up” about language used in camp especially use of “F ” which he actually used in pulpit. New church to be dedicated Sunday week he hopes. Camp shop has now started where sundry articles can be bought cheaply. Japs wanted all officers to sign oath to obey all commands given whilst prisoners of war. Senior officers sent back refusal to sign anything and we are now awaiting reply from them. Malaria is slightly on the increase. About 6 G.H.Q. officers have been down with “Dingie” recently.
SAT 4TH JULY
Col. Lane is still refusing to sign any oath & his latest refusal went to Pretoria H.Q. yesterday. Incident occurred yesterday when working party was returning from Batavia; a Dutch girl who returned a wave of greeting to a British soldier was knocked off her cycle, face slapped & put in
T.P. police station. Soldier was put in Guard Room here. Rumour that Bandoeng was bombed yesterday – supposed to have come from Jap naval officer. Sudden death in No. 6 Camp 2 days ago. Nips did not allow “Post Mortem” so cause just had to go down as heart failure.
SUN. 5TH JULY.
“Fall in” went at 4 pm yesterday. When we got on parade Col. told us Camp Commanders had been more or less forced to sign oath and we should have to also. Col. Lane who came down also advised us to sign. Just after that the Nip commandant arrived interpreters etc. accompanied by half a dozen sentries. The interpreter read out the declaration and showed us letters from General Sitwell and the A.V.M. stating other senior officers had signed. The result was that we all signed the oath on the spot. They did 1, 2 & 3 yesterday. Smith of No. 3 refused to sign without putting reservations about rights as P.O.W. etc. and was knocked about a bit & put in Guard Room as result. Rest of the camps will sign today. Letters written by General & A.V.M. were in their own handwriting. This also proves they did not leave Java. I feel somehow that I should not have signed, but did not see what we could do after the attitude of the senior officers of this camp. Wonder why the Nips are so insistent about it. Probably General & A.V.M. were knocked about until they wrote those letters. Later. Apparently everyone in No. 7 Camp has signed the oath.
15 22 June 1942 was a Monday
16 It appears that this was the text that was intentionally removed.
WED. 8TH JULY.
An order has been published by Col. Lane to effect that the Japanese commandant gave his word to him and Lt. Col. Crafter that the signing of the order by us did not affect our allegiance to our King & Country whilst P.O.W. I presume the matter is now closed all have signed. A Jap official is supposed to be inspecting the camp this morning.
FRI. 10TH JULY
Out on working party yesterday. Wiring round cocoanut plantation being continued presume they are going make dump there.
WED 15TH JULY
Two more deaths the day before yesterday. Lot of people have a type of flu at present.
FRI. 14TH JULY.
Out with R.E. fatigue on hospital this morning. New hospital does not seem to making as much progress as it might.
We have now been in here nearly 4 months, suppose we have a bit of time to do yet, but I do wish an offensive would hurry up & start. Sometimes I feel we may be in here for an age. The most fantastic rumours go round at times about what is going to happen. On the other hand there are plenty of people who have been prisoners for 2 ½ yrs in Germany, probably under worse conditions than ours. Last letter I had from home was written last November (8 months ago) wonder17 what has been going on since then. Had about 3 cables at the beginning of the year that is Jan & Feb. Japs have allowed considerable extra number of people to go to Batavia hospital. Rice ration has been a bit short lately.
SAT. 25TH JULY
On working party yesterday. Went out to the seaplane base on an invasion barge. Nips are demolishing Dutch earthworks and having a general clean up. Seaplanes and the two hangers [sic] which were demolished by the Dutch appear to be untouched as yet. We had another good concert on Wednesday—talent is getting a bit short now. Have decided that careful budgeting will see the three of us as far as the end of 1942, what will happen then remains to be seen. Maybe we shall be free by then
SUN 26TH JULY
Dedication of Church took place this morning. Bit parade present. Star Gazer had said service would be disturbed by noise of friendly aircraft. Needless to say, he was wrong.
17 The words ‘last November (8 months ago) wonder’ are not clear on the facsimile due to copying error.
WED. 29TH JULY
A bit of trouble seems to be going on between us & the natives. Soldiers who have been buying through the wire have had their money snatched away without getting the goods. On the other hand cases have occurred of natives being beaten up and the goods taken from them. Case of each has happened this morning. Andy is down with malaria again—is having long course of treatment this time, which entails staying in bed a fortnight. One or two people seem to think the Japs will pay us when they know there is no more money left in the camp. It seems that there is still quite a bit left, by the amount of stuff that comes in. R.A.P.C. have got their accs straightened out a bit & have signed statement saying I drew 150 guiden and also what my movements were in this country.
SAT. 1ST AUGUST
Bank Holiday week-end but it will not make much difference to us. Went on working party with 20 men yesterday. Nip soldier gave me a bottle of whisky [sic] & they gave out 2 more to men. Jap soldiers are apparently going to be billeted in the godowns. Rumour has it at present that we are going to be shipped away from here shortly.
MON 3RD AUG.
Current rumour was given to Col. Ross Thompson at docks by Jap officer. It is to the effect that we are going to be sent to Portuguese E. Africa (Lorenzo Marques) about the 12—14th AUG. Name of neutral ship to take us has been given. Undoubtedly most of this is untrue although in my opinion it may possibly mean a move of some sort certainly not to Africa though
WED 5TH AUG
Japanese issued first air raid instruction yesterday & we had a short black out last night. This is the most hopeful sign we have seen for a long time. I hope we get a raid over here some time, it would cheer us up a lot. There is very little to be cheerful about these days, although I suppose things might be a good deal worse. There was a plane over about 4 am on Monday. Wonder what it was. One or two cases of tonsillitis are breaking out in the area.
THURS 6TH AUG.
There was an air raid alert at 0015 to 0030 this morning but may have been a practice.
MON 10TH AUG.
Working party on Saturday. Clearing up amm18 dumps just on other side of creek from here. A high Jap officer inspected the camp this morning and Austin was fussing around like an old woman as usual. Jap did not come to this camp anyway.
WED 12TH AUG.
Current rumours about move very shortly still fairly strong. I wish they would not keep starting really, as they tend, if one is not careful, to [be]come the main factor in life. It is difficult to retain a sense of proper proportions in an existence like this. Petty jealousies and spites also loom very largely at times, and I wonder how we shall finish up if we are in here for a long time. It is now over 5 months since the capitulation and we have spent 4 ½ in this camp. It is all very disheartening, but I am still in fairly good health, for which I really am thankful. We often talk over past times and what might have happened had we left here. Might have been much worse off for all we know.
MON. 14TH AUG.
Out on working party at oil depot in Priok on Saturday. Americans were also out there. Had long talk with one of their officers from Bicycle Camp. Things there are much the same as usual. A new camp to hold approx 2000 (supposed to be British) has been completed 1519 S.W. of Batavia. Only attap huts and in rather a bad position. Yanks had been told it was going to be occupied by 15/8, so does not seem as if it is going to be us who move there. Also had talk with Aussie P/O. Some Aussie prisoners were brought up from Timor a fortnight ago. They say there are still about 300 Aussies in the interior of Timor, who get supplies dropped by parachute, are in radio communication with Darwin. Japs are having a big A.R.P. practice till the 19th. Sirens going at all hours of the day.
TUES 25TH AUG
Last week has been very quiet. I have had a spot of stomach trouble and was off duty for a few days. All rumours about move have died down. Food has been pretty bad.
FRI. 28TH AUG.
Japs had us out for a count from 11:30 pm—1 am this morning. All figures correct first time strangely enough. Three people from No. 3 Camp were caught down in T.P. by native police whilst going out from “Mac-Mac”. No news as to what has happened to them yet. They may get knocked about a bit but doubt if much worse will happen. There have been 3 deaths in the last 4 days. Two from malaria and one cerebro-spinal fever. The malaria menace is somewhat grave at present.
TUES. 1ST SEPTEMBER
And so we get into yet another month. It will be six months since the capitulation next Sunday. No. 3 Camp have been paying for the 2 blokes being out. Race as O.C. and O.O. of that day are having 15 days solitary rest of camp on 5 days fatigues. On dock party yesterday. Remained at Nip H.Q. all day.
18 Presumably ammunition
19 Is this miles or kilometres?
THURS. 3RD SEPT.
A notice has appeared on the board from the Jap commander of prisoners in Java which states that everything is now established and the commander (Maj. Gen.) hopes to meet us soon. Also states that we must obey all orders given to us so that the honour of our countries is not impaired. It is written in a queer sort of English. About 3 months ago the Jap corporal i/c cookhouse got about 4000 tins of milk from the docks, which was to be used for hospital cases to[o] ill for any other food. The store has been periodically raided since then in spite of several efforts to stop it. One raid the tiles were taken from the roof and the milk removed that way. Two days ago about 500 tins were pinched and of course a search was made and a good deal recovered. One of the culprits has been caught I believe.
FRI. 4TH SEPT.
An egg racket started a short time ago, eggs at 7 cts each and Col. Russell made an order forbidding purchase at more than NAAFI 4 cts., but he has had to cancel the order as Col Dobbin has bought at 7 cts. It is all very amusing.
MON 7TH SEPT.
Out on working party Saturday. Japs are wiring off a new dump near the original grove. Work very easy, about 2 hrs all day. Japs had big inspection on at their H.Q. in the docks. We have had no rumours of late, since the “star gazer” resigned I suppose.
FRI 11TH SEPT SUN 13TH SEPT.
Some more stores were stolen from the cookhouse on Thurs night and the Nip corporal i/c was fairly raving. We organized our own camp searches as Nips said there would be reprisals if stores not returned. No reprisals were taken in spite of failure to find. They will take severe measures in future though. Apparently we are now going to be paid. This was given out at Guard Room at 2115 last night. Whether it is for working parties only and what amounts are at present a matter of rumour. Still a few cents per day will be a great help. I was on working party yesterday. We unloaded a few bombs from railway trucks on to lorries in the morning. After dinner all the party was hurried back to camp. General assumption was we were being sent back because a convoy had come in. At any rate, 2 cruisers & 2 destroyers arrived in the morning and transports rumoured. No. 7 & 8 camps are to have breakfast at 6 am tomorrow & they have no working parties out today. Got an idea there is going to be a big search. Chess is becoming very popular in the area, several camps have chess ladders and a lot of people are learning.
MON. 14TH SEPT.
Five hundred people left the camp at 8:30 am. Orders came round yesterday afternoon for them to move. Party was from Nos 7 & 8. 22 Capts & Subs from 7 & 5 from 8. Cols. Russell & King have also gone. The Jap commandant gave them a talk yesterday saying the must obey orders – look after their health etc. Some say they are going on a ship but most probable destination seems to be Bandoeng. Working party was out at 0500 hrs. There is also a faint possibility that they may come back.
TUES. 15TH SEPT.
We got word through yesterday afternoon that the party who left were on a ship, presumably for a 3 day voyage and also that there were 1000 Jap troops on board as well as some Aussies from Batavia. As the size of the ship was only 4000 tons they must be pretty well crowded. The way we got this news was a good idea on somebody’s part. I believe we are all going to get a T.A.B. innoculation [sic] shortly.
WED. 16TH SEPT.
We are now going to be paid at the following rates. Officers 25 ct, Wo & Sgts. 15 cts. R.&F. 10 cts. per working day. Orderly officers also get paid. At that I shall get 50 cts per week approx. Various other people, cookhouse, medicals, sanitation, etc also get paid. Some at the rate of one day in three and others every other day. It started W.E.F. Sept 1st. It seems to me that the system will lead to a lot of unrest in one way and another. Payments will be made every 10 days and there is bags of “bumf”20 to be filled in. There have been big Jap troop movements in this area recently. Seems that a lot are leaving the island. There are several ships in at present. Maybe this is the story we heard 6 weeks ago that the Jap army was evacuating the island and the marines taking control.
SAT. 19TH SEPT.
On working party at gun site near the camp yesterday. Saw two ships arrive in harbor from N.W. during morning. Had talk with English speaking Jap ex Tokio University and who had number of English & American friends prior to war.
MON. 21ST SEPT.
All our guards were changed yesterday and we also have a new commandant. The new sentries, which come from Japan, I believe, are very keen at present and patrol up and down the wire very frequently. Still, I suppose they will soon get tired of it, and follow the same course as the old ones and come down about once a day. Two Dutch children came down to the wire yesterday and pushed a big roll of tobacco through. A convoy of seven merchantmen escorted by one destroyer sailed yesterday evening. I saw another ship of 5-6000 tons crammed with troops leave
K.P.M. dock this morning. The Nips seem to be having big moves at present.
18 Presumably ammunition
19 Is this miles or kilometres?
20 I.e., slang for tedious paperwork
FRI. 25TH SEPT. (AT SEA)
It is now 48 hrs since we left Java.
MON 28TH SEPT
We are now in the P.O.W. area of CHANGI, Singapore with 17,000 others. Have been too busy to fill in diary during the past week which has been very crowded. Last Monday night at the No 1 Camp concert we heard a rumour that we were due to move the following day. Tuesday morning lists of officers & men of 1 & 2 camps came from Jap Guard room. All Kremlin21 in corner was included except Taffy & Andy who have been left behind. We all paraded outside G. Room at 10 am and I was attached to squad of 25 men from No. 2 Camp. At 1 pm we were dismissed with orders to parade again with all kit at 5:30. Afternoon was very busy getting packed and after meal and final round of farewells we duly paraded. At 6:45 we marched down to docks and spent night in K.P.M. godown. At 8:30 am Wednesday we were taken off in invasion barges to a 10,000 to[n] merchantman the S.S. “Nagara Maru” and sailed at noon. The voyage was far better than I expected. I was quartered in the foreward hold which was very cramped for sleeping. However we were allowed on deck all day and I managed to sleep above, also. There were a number of Jap troops on board. The food was a very good rice and spicy stew, far better than
T.P. Tea was obtainable all day. At 2 pm Friday we sighted Singapore, Cathay Buildings the first landmark seen.
THURS OCT. 1ST
We took a long course round by St. Johns Island to come in, and it was 6 pm before we passed in between Blakan [sic] Mati and in to Empire Dock. About an hour later we left the ship. All baggage was brought out by lorry. At 9:15 pm the rest of the party commenced the march out here a total of 16 miles. About 6 am I got in a billet in British Bn lines and was quartered in their mess. Next day (Saturday) was very busy finding kit and my section was living somewhere else. We also met Col Russell who came on the first Java party and now the 2 parties function as one. Have seen Capt Barrett22 who runs the “Information” Bureau and went up and had a look through roll of Beds and Herts. See Tom Wells was killed. Have heard a lot about what happened in Singapore after capitulation. The camp here at Changi contains 14,000 while a further 20,000 or so have been taken to work down in Singapore. Others are in Burma, Bangkok, Saigon, & a party left a long time ago for Japan. Food here is much better. Have met a lot of people who I knew here before. About 500 women & kids are in Changi prison. Which brings us up to date. Col Russell had an inspection of the troops this morning. All the Java people are moving on the first second or third. Much speculation as to our destination. Some say Lerencua [sic] Marques. I think Japan myself. Capt Skey has just told me we are having a medical at 1430 tomorrow.
21 It is not clear what this is. It could be Kreml in – two separate words.
22 Could be Barnett
SUN. OCT. 4TH.
We had our medical inspection on Artillery Sq. day before yesterday, which seems to indicate a sea voyage of at least one week. The guards from Java were there also. Opinion seems to be for Rangoon or Saigon rather than Japan. Saw “Franky” yesterday for about an hour and “Bunny” Austin on Friday. On our march down to Artillery Sq. several people were hauled out of the ranks for not saluting the Sikh police. A number of the Indians have gone over to the Japs but mostly remain loyal. We have written post-cards home of 24 words which is something, and we are supposed to be getting Red Cross parcels.
FRI. OCT. 9TH
I am writing this in the fore-hold of a 6000 ton ship. It is a bit dark and very hot. We left Changi yesterday at 12:30 pm and went down to Keppel by lorry. Got on board S.S. Nichi Maru by 3 pm. Much more crowded than on last trip; otherwise much the same. We rec’d an issue of Red Cross stores in Changi – 2 tins M.&V. 4 tins Bully – 1 tin fish-sugar and 65 fags. No-one seems very sure of our destination but I think it is Kuching or Miri, probably latter.
THURS. OCT. 15TH
Now in 2/15 Punjab barrack in Kuching. Came in about 1630 on 13th, marched 2 ½ miles in tropical storm. Transshipped on morning of 13th to small river boat and came up to wharf at Kuching. Saw Rajah’s place on way up. The guards here are ordinary soldiers and some of these “boys” (like T.P. replacements) who appear to be very nervous and are obviously under instruction. The commandant seems OK and read us out a speech. After this the troops were dismissed and the Jap admin officers were introduced to all the officers in the Bn. The assistant commandant is a very “nice” chap and expressed the desire of them all to be our friends in spite of the P.O.W. question. There are also interned here the white civilians of Sarawak and some Sisters of Mercy who are French, Portuguese, Chinese etc. The Japs have given us 2 days to settle down. All personnel have been reformed back into reg’ts and I am at present without a job, just waiting for one now. Lot of trouble yesterday re handing in of tins of R. Cross supplies. Three Sgts up for C.O. for flatly refusing to return same. Roll call took 50 mins this morning and 1 hr last night. Food a bit haphazard just at present.
SAT. OCT. 14TH
Camp organization now settling down. Have been attached to D. Coy. R.A.S.C. for administration. On working party leveling up Nip parade ground yesterday. Nips say they are going to call for 500 men per day from 21st. General is going to inspect on 19th.
MON OCT. 19TH
Am temporarily in charge of a hut and am also Coy messing officer. A Japanese Maj-Gen came round and inspected the camp this morning. Nips are apparently satisfied with what has transpired to date.
FRI. 23RD OCT.
We have now started to provide working parties of 500 per day for Nips. One officer per 100 men. They march to the station and are taken out 7 miles to the aerodrome for levelling the ground. It means roll call is taken at 6 am and I have to go to hut at that hour each morning. The weather is very wet just now although not actually in the rainy season. Find it “very” cold at night – thick blanket required on top. The food is improving, but rice is still a bit short. First two deaths of the camp occurred last night. One from dysentery and the other from B1 vitamin deficiency disease. We have an Aussie Major & Captain in the camp who were sent down from Sandakan for Court Martial by the Nips as supposed to have assisted people to escape. Both were acquitted.
SUN. 25TH OCT.
We are having our first short church services this morning. I was on working party yesterday. Walking round all day in 3 – 4 inches of mud and water. The train we go out in is an old shunting engine and about 8 goods wagons. Got covered with soot from the engine, but at least it did not rain on the way home. Bought three tins of fruit from little shop at railway junction. Japs leave us well alone to get on with the work ourselves. Major Suga had a look round the camp this morning.
FRI. 30TH OCT.
We have had two more deaths this week. The hospital has been extended by another hut which allows “not so bad” cases to go in as well. Weather is very bad just now, rained all day yesterday. Gave evidence for prosecution at court-martial case on Wednesday. The Japs beat up the internees, for no apparent reason the day before yesterday. One fellow had teeth smashed in etc. The garden round the camp are now being cultivated and planted with – beans – chillis – tomatoes etc. which should soon bear fruit.
NOV. 1ST SUN.
Went to church this am. The C. of E. service taken by Bishop Hollis of Labuan & Sarawak. He is a bit doddering and his sermons are a bit above the troops. It is 2 yrs ago yesterday to the day since I left home. Wonder how long it will be before I return. Major Suga has told Col. Russell we are to be paid early this week. Officers getting saleries [sic] and men, pay for working parties apparently. Our rice ration has been put up by 10%. Another death yesterday making a total of 5 to date.
TUES. 10TH NOV.
One more death last week. Probably would not have happened if Nips had allowed patient to go to hospital in Kuching in time. We got $415 for working pay last week but no officers pay has turned up yet. Whole camp has been in quarantine during past week owing to dysentery. Got a lot of copies of the “Syonan Times” yesterday dated Oct. 3 to 18th mostly. Some of the reports are as follows. 900 of 1800 British P.O.W. saved after the sinking of the “Lisbon Maru” by a
U.S. sub in East China Sea. Various cases of maltreatment of Nip internees by the British. Solomons may be evacuated by U.S. Prosperity returning to Sumatra. In all copies there seems to be some emphasis on how prosperity is returning to Malaya under the New Order. In Singapore the New World and Great World23 are opening up again. The Jap Consul General in Singapore was put in Changi Jail.
WED. 11TH NOV.
We observed “Armistice” day by a parade and two minutes of silence at 11 am. Apparently there are going to be no more working parties until the dysentery is cleared up so we shall a bit short of cash. Major Suga told Col. Russell yesterday morning that he gave orders several days ago for officers to be paid, so maybe something will now turn up. The medical & cookhouse staff have all been innoculated [sic] recently.
SAT. 14TH NOV.
Two more deaths yesterday. One here and the other Lt. James in Kuching. I went to the funeral. All prisoners are buried in a corner of the cemetery down in Kuching. I arrived down there at 2:30 pm and we waited until 5:15 pm before the coffins arrived. There are always 4 or 5 baskets of fruit sent by the Japs as it is a custom of theirs. After the funeral the fruit is given to the poor in the normal way but now it is given to the gravediggers and bearers. Major Suga always attends. He is going to Singapore soon.
THURS 19TH NOV.
One more death from dyseWoreldntery this week. Our pay is still “on the way”? There have been several cases of Beri-beri, owing to a lack of vitamins I suppose. Officers mess is starting up on Saturday, we have been out chopping down trees to get wood for our own little cookhouse.
SUN 22ND NOV.
Big surprise today – we have at last been paid, wef. 16/8/42. Nip paymaster has not yet worked out August so we got 3 months back pay. Rates for Lieut are $85 – less $60 a month for food and lodging and $10 for savings to be paid after the war when we go home – net monthly issue $15. Todays rates were $255 less $210. Now have in my wallet 45 so feel very rich. Of the monthly
$15 there will be further deductions for Batman – officers mess – troop messing etc. The method of signing was by thumbprint.
23 This word unclear on facsimile
THURS. 26TH NOV.
I have had 2 injections against cholera recently. On a working party yesterday and had a very nice cup of coffee with one of the Dutch who live out there. A plane crashed when landing today and one a fortnight ago. Still much discussion about rates we are going to subscribe to hospital.
THURS. DEC. 3RD
Suga came back from Singapore yesterday. He was told there that cannot have any Red + stores.
THURS DEC. 17TH
I now have Beri-beri and am supposed to rest as much as possible. Also have disturbed vision and am not allowed to read very much. That is enough regarding my infirmities. Our rates of subscription to the fund were fixed by the C.O. and is $2 for Lt. we have received another $7.50 – pay for 16–31 August. Work parties are going on as usual. All the old soldiers seem to have left this district now and only the “Boys” are left. The W.P. the other day were beaten up pretty badly. Five women and four men have just come into the internees camp having just given themselves up after living up country for nearly a year. Shows the futility of trying to escape from here. We have had two more deaths
FRI. DEC 18TH
Feel I might make some mention now of chaps who I have been most friendly with at T.P. and here. First of all there is Andy who we left behind. Capt. A.A. Duncan A & S.H. I met him in Singapore when I was a Sgt. Not very efficient but very good-hearted in those days. Became really friendly after commissioning and we stayed behind together in Java. Prison life has got him down rather and soured him against everyone in general.
SAT. DEC. 19TH
“Four more shopping days to Christmas” is the cry we should have been hearing in the normal way. Wonder when we shall hear it again. To continue with yesterday’s. Allan Dant was Sime Darby’s manager in Sarawak before the war. He talks the devil of a lot, but is extremely clever and one of the best hearted people I know. Steve Day is an Australian who was living in Java. A bit on the noisy side, but living with English for 9 months has toned his accent down a bit. He, like Allan is very big hearted. John Knowles is the in the Indian Army, an ex W.O. with twenty odd years service in and his mind seems to run along fixed lines.24 I am not sure that I like him25 as well as the other two. We four have “mucked in” together since we came here.
SUN. DEC. 27TH
Well, Christmas over for another year. We managed to make it a bit different. The Japs played fairly well and gave us a half day on 24th and all day 25th holiday and they allowed light on till 2 am on 24th and 11 pm 25th. The day passed off well with coy whist-drives – dart’s matches – cricket match and what have you. Short morning service at 10 am. The main question of food not too bad. 50 chickens helped and Kachang Hijan made quite a good evening meal for the troops. The usual custom of senior N.C.O.s serving the men was followed. The officers mess did fairly well. Japs sent us down 9 chickens saw we had a feast. Also managed to get some bottles of a sort of ginger wine, slightly alcoholic. The small concert party we have here put on a very good Christmas show, trifle crude perhaps, but went down well with all. I trust we shall all be in very different circumstances next year.
All in the camp have had an injection against dysentery. The Japs have had an inspection of sick to make certain they were all genuine cases as working parties are now down to about 270 per day. There has been a short news paragraph in Syonan Times regarding General Percival. It states he is living in a prison camp in Japan and that British and American generals have to be kept apart as they fight when they get together.
24 ‘and his mind seems to run along fixed lines’ is unclear on the facsimile
25 ‘that I like him’ is unclear on the facsimile
1943
FRI. 1ST JAN.
Well, 1942 has gone forever and I pray I may never see one like it again. Of all the black years 1942 was the very blackest. No doubt we have all learnt a lesson of some sort, if somewhat bitter. We stayed up till 12 to wish each other a “Happy New Year” and “A Happier One for 1944”. Now we are looking forward into 1943 with the hope that before it goes we shall be free, or at any rate our freedom will be in sight. I wonder if 1943 will see the end of the war in Europe. Am afraid we cannot hope for much out here until that has finished. I do not think Japan can hold out many months against the allies then. We have now been prisoners for 10 months.
SAT. 2ND JAN
There was a very good concert up at the canteen yesterday, or rather the company made the concert. All the internees and the women were there and the Australians. The Japs were very good and left the whole show severely alone with the result a good time had by all. Very nice to get in some different company for a while. Some sort of row seems to be starting up about the eggs which come into the camp, someone is getting too many and another not enough or some such baloney. We now have a new mess committee. Doubt if they will do any better than the previous one.
SUN 3RD JAN
Japs were around shouting for a check roll call this morning. The corporal went barging in and upset the R.C. Mass. Account of my cash at end of December was as follows. Cash actually held:
$42.60 less 21.54 on a/e of table = 21.6 + 12.68. Owing me from Coy = $33.42. Credit in mess
8.40 & on table 2.64.
TUES 5TH JAN.
Working parties have changed now. Instead of going to the ‘drome they go down to Kuching, clearing ground by the river. Think it will be all right for buying in due course. A Sgt was caught over in the internees camp last night so expect there will be some repercussions. The silly fool went over before it was dark.
SUN. 10TH JAN
The last few days have been very quiet and dull. We have had a tremendous rainfall—yesterday and last night almost without ceasing. Food also very poor—2 days no meat issue only some small fish. Rice ration down and fat for cooking very short. Russell is not quite the chap I used think. There have been several little incidents which make me think he is no better than the rest. Glad to say that today has been finer & brighter as far as food is concerned. Have read Monty Campbell’s diary of his trek in the Malayan jungle after being cut off by the Japs. He certainly had a very tough time of it. As it all turned out he would have been far better off in Changi now.
WED. 13TH JAN.
I think the statement that we have had 23 ½” rain in the past 24 hrs (9 am—9 am) will convince anyone there has been nothing doing outside the hut. The peak period was from 1 am – 3 am on 13th when 3 or 4 thunderstorms merged directly overhead and 4 ½” fell in the 2 hrs. The figures seem fantastic but have been measured correctly in a bottle. I have spoken to several people who know this part of the world and they all say 8 – 9” rain in the 24 hrs so probably someone had a ‘pee’ in the rainfall bottle.
MON. 25TH JAN.
Nothing much for the last ten days. It was moonlight last week and we walked around the camp until the early hours on one or two nights. A Jap Sgt from over the road got very tight one day and created quite a lot of trouble. Struck Russell in the afternoon and a number of others. In evening hit their own sentry and took the rifle from him. All egg schemes have now broken down and we can buy what we like for ourselves, so propose to have one a day while funds last. I have lost a lot more faith in Russell over the show. It seems to me the responsibility hangs mainly on his shoulders. The weather which was fine for a few days about full–moon has relapsed again.
SAT. 30TH JAN.
Went out on working party on Tuesday. First time out of camp for two months. Had a very good day as Nip in charge allowed me to walk round large area on my own. He took me in a shop and sat down and waited while I bought what I wanted, and tried out Malay. I got quite a bit of washing soap which will be very useful as issues are very small. Suga came down and had a look around and I talked with him for about 20 minutes, mainly a monologue on his part of course. Great excitement in camp the other day as letters came in for 22 OR’s. They had been sent in June. It at least shows that communications are working and our postcards may get home some time. The total number of sick in camp is now 613.
MON. FEB 1ST
Another death in Kuching this morning – a chap who should have died a month ago really but made a grand fight for it. Spurway was hauled off by the Nips on Saturday, presumably for questioning. He has lived here for 19 years, so they probably think he knows something interesting.
WED. 10TH FEB
Much of interest has happened during the last week so must go back a few days. Last Thursday was a wet day and we were all in the hut at 12 noon when the call went for all officers and were told that 100 sick were arriving from Singapore and we had to be ready to move to 3 huts, ¼ mile distant, by 5 pm. All contact with the men to cease. We have one batman for five and three cooks and fatigue men.
FRIDAY.
Eventually did not move until this day. Most of kit, beds etc had to be carried which necessitated several journeys. New camp had no light or latrines and water 100 yards away. Got a few shelves up and more or less settled in during afternoon. Still drawing rations from old camp so went on evening ration party.
SATURDAY.
Usual first day activities of new camp. Mess furniture ready for evening meal.
SUNDAY
Big parade at 8 am of all prisoners & internees, where Suga read out his little speech of condolence. Steve, Allan, and I did most of electrical writing for the mess and had a busy time climbing around the rafters as we had no ladder.
Which brings us once more up to the present. We have a certain number of fatigues to do here, but I think most people are glad we are no longer in charge of the men and they seem to be getting on OK without us. R.S.M. is now “C.O.” Bn Clerk is liaison officer, and O. Sgt is O.O. There is some speculation as to why the Nips have removed us from the men, but nobody seems to have come to a satisfactory answer yet.
FRI. 12TH FEB.
It has been very wet the last few days which makes the path to the road almost impassable. I have not yet spoken of “Barbed Wire” which plays a very large part in our present existence. Beside keeping people from getting in (and us from getting out) it is used for electrical purposes, drying lines, support for mosquito nets, cut in short pieces is a substitute for nails.
SUNDAY 21ST FEB.
Weather has cleared up a bit and we are at full moon once again. Kettlewell has produced another “Heath Robinson” rice grinder and Steve and I have taken on the job of grinding. Find it hard going at present. Were paid on Friday for Feb. The Nip pay department seems to be fairly efficient. There have now been 18 deaths since we came to Kuching. Suga has gone up to Jessleton.
FRI. MAR 5TH
Life going along fairly smoothly. A bit of daily rice grinding is certainly making me feel fitter than of late. There have been various happenings in the men’s camp. A fairly big cookhouse racket on various things developed after we left with R.Q.M.S. and senior N.C.O.s well involved. Today we heard that a Cpl was under arrest for eating hospital ration of K. Hijan. All the men’s pay and our subs and 3 watches were pinched by some bright spark yesterday. Former paymaster is just about “shedding a litter of pups” apparently. Nips have been told so no doubt culprit will get it “hot”.
MAR 6TH SAT.
No sign of missing money yet which amounts to $2000 or more. Japs have said if culprit does not confess in five days, and eventually caught, will be executed.
FRI. MAR 12TH
The stolen money is being returned in dribs and drabs, i.e. hidden in sock in lots etc. and has now all been returned with the exception of $90. A number of internees have arrived today from Jessleton.
WED. MAR. 17TH
Farmer and Weiring cam down yesterday for the first time. From what we hear from all and sundry R.S.M. is not running the camp as well as he might but I suppose he has a very difficult job to perform. Only a small amount of money and the three watches are now missing and I do not suppose they will ever be returned. According to stories, a lot of prisoners of all nationalities have passed through Changi on their way to Bangkok and Formosa. Apparently a road is being constructed somewhere through Kra from East to West.
SUN. MAR. 21ST
We have had our pay for March this morning. Last night there was a concert on the square attended by internees and Ps.o.W. Turns were given by artists from all camps. The women’s choir was very good. They turned out very smartly and a little bit of paint and did it make a difference. The kiddies went on and sang a couple of nursery rhymes. The best turn of the evening was a seven act revue by the men’s camp. The whole show lasted 2 hrs. Nips arranged the seating very “cunningly”. On our return at 9:15 we had a bottle of arrack and one of Ginger Wine to warm the cockles of hearts. John Knowles distinguished himself at dinner afterwards by giving a shrill whistle which was followed by a deathly silence! Wonder we did not get thrown out.
MON. MAR. 22ND
When Suga went to Jessleton he took an exercise book with short messages from people who wished to communicate and it has come back with replies. In addition to rice grinding do potato scrubbing in cookhouse on occasions. Moon is up again, full last night, so do not often go to bed before 12 m’night. We saw both the “Great Bear” and the “Southern Cross” two nights ago. Not many places in the world where one can do that.
TUES. MAR. 23RD
Saw seven “Fighters” come in from the North this morning. Have also seen a dentist, from the internees camp. Require two stoppings and hope they may get done sometime. A number of people have been troubled with scabies of recent weeks. We should be in the dry season now, but still get a fair amount of rain, but not as much as formerly. Nips have been creating again about our poor saluting.
THURS. MARS. 25TH
Major Suga is back and came down yesterday morning. Six arrests have been made in the men’s camp over the stolen money. Understand that five have confessed their guilt. Got up at 7:30 am today to help make netball pitch. Now have “entertainments” every Wednesday in mess. Horse race and “whist drives” with refreshment.
TUES. MAR 30TH
Edwards is our P.M.C. for the next quarter, think he will a better job of it than Gardner who was nearly “thrown out” three weeks ago. Turtle eggs made their appearance for the first time last night. Rats are still very troublesome. Rumours which we have had about Javanese going materialized today when we saw them wearing Nip hats and shirts. Supposed to be going on Police work – many say they don’t want to go. Got some odd bits of furniture etc from their huts.
THURS APRIL 1ST
500 Aussies & 500 English arrived today, 20 officers of each as well so we may get more in here. Over 200 Aussies temporarily in 2 huts Javanese used to occupy. Huts being built for some – doubling up in men’s camp – arrived in rain as usual. Much rumour & news. Letters supposed to have come. Changi nearly empty, food deteriorated no meat for long time. Prisoners supposed to have come through from Priok and gone up to Thailand. Prisoners in Changi have been given books & Suga told us the other day we could not have any. He also said our “walk” was be thought about. Aussies may go on to Jessleton. Malaya Command are still in Changi. 18 Div has gone up country which presumably includes Beds and Herts. Lot of Red + stores got to Changi from S. Africa.
SUN. APRIL 4TH
Yesterday the British officers of the party ex Singapore moved in here. Number 19 all told. Have all been in Changi since fall of Singapore – two majors and one colonel in party. Lots of people have had letters posted last July – hope we get some. Only 10000 to be left at Changi. We just a bit crowded in here now. Newcomers remark on bad morale of troops here. Java Bn. officers had dysentery “Jag” on on Friday and it “knocked out” a few of us – had a rotten head all day yesterday and very sore arm also. One of the new majors has disconcerting stare. Russell still in charge here. New officers have been paid full $28 monthly, same as all Changi officers so looks as if Nip are working racket here. Aussie got killed yesterday on live wire on electrical pole (which has been like it for 4 months).
THURS
Whist drive last night. Have now had our two jags – thank goodness we shan’t have any more for a bit.
SAT. APRIL 10TH
The Javanese are supposed to have left Kuching by boat. About 250 of people ex Singapore have gone up to Dahan. Maybe natives will come down in their place. Aussies have gone to Sandakan.
TUES. 13TH APRIL.
The Javanese have come down from Dahan and it looks as if the old times are back again. Have purchased 50 bananas this week. Major of Japanese H.Q. staff inspected us yesterday and we had to get on parade for him about 3:30 pm – damn nuisance. People from Changi were shocked at very low condition of the troops here.
TUES. 20TH APRIL.
Paid for April last SUN. People from Changi are now getting paid at lower rate. Moon is nearly full again, last night brightest I have even seen. There is going to be another concert for Easter. Never get any sort of privacy in this place except under net at night. Even lats have cracks in boards. Urinal very public – always dozen others in hut. Had some queer fish lately, shark yesterday, cuttlefish today, both good. What will it be tomorrow – mermaid?
SUN. 25TH APRIL. EASTER DAY.
Went to service at 7:30 in mess. Suga came down and stood for a short time. At 10 am there was the unveiling ceremony of a stone given by the Japs in memorial to those who have died here. Held in Kuching ceremony. Attended by officers, troops and internees. Suga gave a little speech in his usual style. Japs gave us a few extra rations – lights on to 11 pm. Troops working parties now every other Sunday. Internee caught in men’s camp other sentenced on three charges. Sent away for punishment.
WED. 28TH APRIL.
Don Westwood came back from Kuching today. Apparently conditions there are fairly good considering. He has on 16 lbs wt. in 14 days. Plenty of meat etc.
FRI. 30TH APRIL.
Japanese Emporer’s [sic] birthday celebrations yesterday. Were given toffee and bananas. Another concert on square from 6:30 – 9 pm. One of Malays sang a song in English. Women & kids etc as before. This morning a Maj Gen. the military governor of Borneo came to inspect the camp. Did not come down to us, but we were all on thorns. Suga turned up at concert last night wearing whites and panama hat – image of Charlie Chan. Russell had an orderly room this – one of newcomers put one of us on stupid charge which was dismissed.
FRI 7TH MAY
The number of letters which came from Singapore with last party was about 500. John Mellon only officer to get one. They were written in July and at that time people in England did not know we were prisoner.
SUN 9TH MAY.
Suga has gone to Jessleton today and taken the message book again.
SAT. 15TH MAY.
Suga came back from Jessleton after 2 days and was down here yesterday morning. He always comes down before 8 am. There are wood parties going outside the camp now. Nasty incident of Mackie being hit on the head. Rumour of ship coming in today. 24 yesterday – do not feel much older – had a cake of sorts.
SUN. 16TH MAY
Japs have been getting rather nasty of late. Jap R.S.M. told Plums26 off in Tenko parade this morning.
THURS MAY 20TH
Indians brought down from drone and pressure applied by Japs to make them join “Free Indian” army. Subedar & Havildar badly knocked about – we put in protest. Punjab officers sent for by Nips and harangued 2 hit. Two days later Nips say we can have no canteen stores for a month as reprisal. Neither can we go brass band concert tonight. This band is from Tokyo & on tour of S. Regions.
26 This is unclear. Could be Phums or Phems/
FRI. MAY 28TH
Feeling effects of short ration a bit now. More letters arrived at Nip office but not many for Java officers. A play, Lord Richard in pantry27 was put on last Wed. Stage erected in square. Very good show by all concerned.
MON. MAY 31ST
Some people had 10 letters only 2 for Java officers. How far should we stand up to the Nips after these things like Indians. Hodges has been carted off to Kuching today.
THURS. JUNE 3RD.
Col. Russell seriously ill in Kuching. He had a sceptic [sic] foot and the poison went to his heart.
FRI. JUNE 4TH
Russell had an operation on groin and may now stand a chance.
SUN. JUNE 6TH
Russell died at 3 pm yesterday. He apparently had a bad night and picked up during the morning, and then passed quite suddenly. He will be greatly missed by all. Lt Col Winster who came from Singapore is now in charge.
TUES JUNE 8TH
We have had messages of condolence from other camps. Suga made a speech at funeral saying he mourned the loss of a personal friend.
SUN. 13TH
We had a film on the square yesterday 8 – 10:15 pm. Mixed programme, main feature Malayan Campaign. Some of the men have had clothing from the ship that came in recently. Moves took place in the last three days as follows. Women to new camp on football field – fathers to women – Malays to fathers – Dutch officers to Malays.
TUES. JUNE 15TH
Internee caught with eggs 2 weeks ago. Beaten up – put in Guard Room on rice, salt and water – working 6 – 6 for 5 days. Woman hit for not taking band off head when bowing to sentry and threw it at him. Knocked down and fainted, three more took her to hospital and were hit for not bowing properly. Protest registered by internees to Nicarter who agreed sentry’s action ungentlemanly but said women in Japan obeyed their officers.
27 Pantry is a guess
THUR 24TH JUNE.
Beating up has eased off a bit. Canteen started again today. Nip commander of all camps inspected on Sunday – out on parade for him.
MON 28TH JUNE.
Several people beaten up sat night for being out after 10 pm. Perry new P.M.C. for next quarter. Canteen stores very few.
TUES. 29TH JUNE.
Lot of trouble on evening tenko. Westwood hit and fainted. Apology from Nicarter later.
MON. 5TH JULY.
“Heat” has been turned off now. No canteen stores at all – contractor in trouble with Nips. Hodges returned on Saturday, had a rough time – may have to return.
SAT 10TH JULY
No canteen for 7 weeks as contractor in trouble with Nips. Hope to resume this w.e. News of party or Dahan v.g.
SUN. 18TH JULY.
Nagai came down this morning. He was originally Suga’s adjutant and then went to Jessleton. Apparently the officers from J. are coming here at the end of this month. There are about 40 of them so we may be a bit crowded. Gardens are making good progress. Two notices have appeared re incidents at Sandakan. Two officers attempted to escape but caught same day, court martialled and given 4 years. Another officer hit a guard and was given 6 months penal servitude. Real story of this – the officer was an Aussie boxer and broke the Nips jaw (he died 2 days later). Half a dozen Nips fell on the Aussie and broke his arm. He was tied up and left for two days in the Sun. Has never had proper treatment on his arm, and has lost the use of it. Perry is doing well as P.M.C., has improved the messing a good deal. Suga came down on Wednesday am. The C.O. has decreed that all but a few officers go out on wood parties.
SUNDAY 1ST AUGUST
The diary has been neglected lately. Now do rice grinding in am and wood chopping pm so get plenty of exercise. Am learning shorthand to keep the old grey matter going. Kuching paper of 20 stated the war had now spread to Sicily. Ten days ago the water supply went off camp lately for four days and we had to dig a well. Nips supplied water for cooking and drinking. Now it is on for an hour or two per day. It is 3 weeks since we had any appreciable amount, and the supply from the mountains has given out. A short shower yesterday eve but no sign yet of a general break. Nips had a snap search last Thursday at 9 am. Took away one or two papers and a compass or two. Also my torch and batteries were confiscated. Our food is on the down grade again now. We no longer get the Kuching paper, reason being given as paper shortage.
MONDAY 16TH AUGUST
Am getting very slack on the entering of this book but will try to recapitulate a bit. Aug 5th we had another search, this time by the Jap Gestapo and they made a fair job of it. We were searched as we stood on parade and remained outside while they went through our things. Some people lost papers, compasses etc. The whole thing took about 2 ½ hrs. The Nips are much keener now and the patrol comes round the outside of the camp here at night. Have sold my watch to a Nip for ten bucks. Should like to know what it is all about. By Aug 7th the drought had eased off a bit and we were able to get plenty for washing, but no showers yet. Have had a fair drop of rain since Aug 7th. Yesterday Aug 15th was the anniversary of the opening of this P.O.W. camp. Day commenced at 0820 with a speech by Suga – said he hoped we would forget our homesickness for the day. Sports commenced with the ladies and childrens events at 0930. Nicarter and Eugeta threw themselves into the spirit of the thing wholeheartedly. These were followed by games of volley ball which were run on the K.O. system and finished about 4 pm. The final event was of course a concert from 7 pm – 10 pm in which all took part as before. The women looked very charming. Things are not too brilliant in the camp just now, old Swaine is getting a bit uppity and has had 2 people up to the C.O. Swaine seems to use a crown for the advantage of being rude to people. People live a lot on their nervous energy these days. Rations are very short and canteen very poor so do not feel quite as good I did 2 months since when was on top of the world.
SEPT. 1ST
Have now taken to entering up diary every ten days or so as I keep it away.
Sat. 21st Aug.
Skey was called to the office during the afternoon and told that 34 officers were coming from Sandakan in 4 – 5 days. We asked for more huts but were told it was doubtful which meant mess would have to go. After evasive replies we got a final answer on Tues 24th. This was that no more accomodation was available. S. people arrived on 25th a.m. We now feed in huts, food brought by batmen, bit crowded, 44 in hut now. Still it was good to hear odd bits from S. Jessleton was pretty bad, rate of deaths 4 a day at one time. Nagai was a pretty good commandant apparently. Rates of pay have now been altered and are as follows for Lt. Gross$85 made up of lodging $20 savings $40 net paid $25. Ten dollar rise is welcome. Order from Nip office yesterday says all tinned stuff to be consumed by 10/2. Considerable trade at present. Gardens now going well under Capt Green. Canteen improved but erratic. Nips left us fairly well alone of late but Vincent hit on Sunday night.
WED. SEPT 16TH
Still going along fairly quietly. Weather has broken up a bit and there has been a bit more rain of late. Gardens are making good progress. A lot of rumours in the last two days but no reason to believe same.
THURS. 7TH OCT.
Weather has now broken up considerably and it rains almost daily. Perry is in as P.M.C. for a second term – returned unopposed. About the best we could get for dealing with Whinster etc. Kettlewell now in as messing officer. About a month ago the C.O. had interview with Suga to see about canteen etc, and a week later Allan and J.P. had one with Tokeno and as a result the canteen has improved a bit. Plenty of potatoes, prawns, etc. but fruit still lacking. P.R.I. fund to men has been stopped by Suga on orders from Tokio. Allan Dant had letter from his mother in S. Africa, 2 weeks ago. Was posted in March 4328 so assume postcards from Changi got home. Allan got beaten up yesterday; I was with him but got off.
SAT. NOV. 13TH
Life going along fairly easily of late. Japs have left us more or less alone except for one or two incidents. One of our number was accused of speaking to an Aussie, whilst on a wood party and had a night in the guard room. A couple of people have been jauled out for smoking and had to stand to attention for a couple of hours. November 3rd was a Nip festival for the anniversary of an Emporer and we were allowed to have concerts in our own camps. On the 11th we had the traditional silence at 11 am. Am I becoming cynical I wonder, but I do not now see a lot of point in trying to remember something I never knew, especially when I am in the hell of a mess myself. Surprising too how one’s writing changes from time to time. Our wood parties now go out on Tues and Wednesday, there are still a fair number of sick so most people go out for two days. The gardens are producing a bit of stuff now. Shorthand going on very steadily, am starting bookkeeping very shortly. The weather has not broken up very much yet except in short periods.
1944 JAN 4TH.
And so into yet another year. I think the last can be written of as another dead loss. The wet season is passing fairly well in spite of the fact we have no books. These were called in some six weeks ago to form a central library and have not yet been returned. Chess and Monopoly are played a good deal in addition to Bridge. The ration and canteen position is very poor, only one canteen a fortnight in future. We managed to cheer up the festive season a bit. Xmas Eve we should have a concert on the square which, owing to rain, was put off for two days. Xmas Day we had a play, “The Dover Road” held in our hut. This entailed a good deal of work moving beds but was well worth it. Boxing Day morning we had a race on the square, our own that is. New Years Eve we had a “party” in artillery corner of No 2 Hut which lasted till 11:30 pm. At 12 we all went out to sign Auld Lang Syne, and then to bed.
28 1943
1944 Sept 3rd
Five yrs of war – and may it soon be finished. We are celebrating with dinner and concert on the square tonight.
For various reasons have not written in this book for the past year. Anyway it would only be a record of steadily deteriorating health, condition and food. My own strength is not what it used to be a few months ago. Our own garden produces a good deal of our own food. Rice has been cut by 5%. Have received 45 letters since May and all was well at the end of January this year.
1945
1945 September 2nd Sunday
Freedom is now very near, in fact we hope ships for our relief will arrive this week. Thank God the war is at last over and one can look forward to returning home in comfort. The past year has been pretty hellish to say the least of it and God alone knows what the troops must have suffered, what with starvation rations and working parties seven days a week. For the past year we have all been getting steadily weaker owing to the continual decrease in rations, and had the end been any later our numbers would have been considerably decimated. It is difficult to collect one’s thoughts and put them down in order coherently, so great is the relief of knowing that days of starvation (and captivity) are almost gone. The real thrill will of course be when the relieving Australian troops arrive and we are completely free to wander as and where we will. FREEDOM. What a word and one has to spend 3 ½ yrs behind barbed wire to really appreciate what that word means. Now I must try and put down some of the most important events in our lives which have taken place during the past year. Before I do I must register the fact that I am thankful to the fate or chance which has allowed me to be alive and whole at the end of a six yrs World War in which hundreds of thousands of people must have lost their lives. At the present moment I am very nearly as fit as I was when taken prisoner, except for the loss of a certain amount of weight, my lowest was 7 – 11 lbs. Yesterday I turned the scale at 8 – 11 which included a gain of 8 lbs in 7 days which shows what a little bit of good feeding can do for me. Anyway, to get back to these events
PAYMENTS RECD. FROM JAPANESE WHILST P.O.W.
| PERIOD | AMOUNT |
| SEPT. 1 – 10 | 45 |
| “10 – 20 | 1 – 0 |
| SEP – OCT – NOV | 45 – 0 |
| 16 – 31 AUG | 4 – 50 |
| DEC. 21ST | 15 – 0 |
| JAN. 22ND | 15 – 0 |
| FEB. 19TH | 15 – 0 |
| MAR. 21ST | 15 – 0 |
| APRIL 18TH | 15 – 0 |
| MAY 22ND | 15 – 0 |
| JUNE 23RD | 15 – 0 |
| JULY 22ND | 15 – 0 |
| AUG. 31ST | 25 – 0 |
| SEPT. 22ND | 25 – 0 |
| OCT. 31ST | 25 – 0 |
| NOV. 24 | 25 – 0 |
| DEC. 21 | 25 – 0 |
| JAN | 25 – 0 |
| FEB | 25 – 0 |
| MAR | 25 – 0 |
| APR | 30 – 0 |
ACCOUNTS
COMMISSIONED W.E.F. JAN 8TH 1942.
PAY LIEUT @ 13/-per diem.8/1 – 4/3
C. OFFICER @ 2/6 “ “ 8/1 – 4/3
RATION ALLCE @ 44c MALAYAN 8/1 – 4/3 }£1=8*
COLONIAL “ @ 1-50 “ 8/1 – 4/3 } *
JAVA “ @ 3.30 JAVA 8/1 – 4/3 )£ 1 *
7*
HOME & TROPICAL KIT ALLCE + CLAIM ON TROPICAL PURCHASED & LOST
HALF PAY LIEUT @ 6/6 per day 8/3
DRAWN 150 guilders 2/2/42
To draw £108 approx to 4/3
*[TEXT MISSING FROM END OF ENTRY DUE TO COPIER PLACEMT]