My Great Grandfather, Thomas Frank Benson, was an engineer in the R.A.F. during WWII, he was stationed all around the UK and then in 1944 he was told to go to India. It was at this time he wrote a diary and took a vast amount of photos, showing every day life in India from the end of 1944 to the start of 1946. In a time where travelling around the world was extremely difficult and very uncommon, he got the chance to see and experience a country completely alien to 40s Britain and this book uncovers the experiences and emotions he had.

1. L E T T E R S F R O M K AY
D i a r y o f T h o m a s F B e n s o n
1 9 4 4 - 1 9 4 6

2. C O N T E N T S
december
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
JANUARY
THE SILVER CROSS
1
5
19
33
43
55
69
81
93
107
119
139
145
157
167
Away From Home
New Year
Jodhpur To Lahore
Russians
The End
Death of Hitler
Hotter & Hotter
Karachi
Japanese Surrender
The Atomic Bomb
Demob?
Hospital
Christmas
New Year Anniversary
By T F Benson

3. My Great Grandfather, Thomas Frank
Benson, was an engineer in the R.A.F.
during WWII, he was stationed all around
the UK and then in 1944 he was told to
go to India. It was at this time he wrote a
diary and took a vast amount of photos,
showing every day life in India from
the end of 1944 to the start of 1946.
In a time where travelling around the
world was extremely difficult and very
uncommon, he got the chance to see and
experience a country completely alien
to 40s Britain and this book uncovers
the experiences and emotions he had.
L E T T E R S F R O M K AY
D i a r y o f T h o m a s F B e n s o n

4. They had two children, David and Maureen.Thomas met Kathleen Sivier at a dance and they then went on to get married in 1934.

5. He was then recruited by the R.A.F. when the war began, where he was an Engineer.He had a job as a Linotype Operator, working for The Daily Mail.

6. AWAY FROM HOME2DECEMBER
D E C E M B E R
A w a y Fr o m H o m e
1

7. This Diary opens after my diary about 3 months away from home,
2 of which I have spent here in India, the other month on a boat on
the way over. I made a separate of that month’s journey.
Sent parcel of things home to Kay, handbag, wallet, football, bracelet,
pyjama material, Indian money. Pray they get home O.K.
New years night, met Kay 11
years ago at a dance, happy
memories tonight.
To 31st dec 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
28
29
30 31
43DECEMBER AWAY FROM HOME

8. NEW YEAR6JANUARY
J A N U A R Y
N e w Ye a r
5

9. 8 New YearJANUARY7 New YearJANUARY

10. To 7th Jan 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
4
5
6 7
Went to hospital and was examined by the surgeon, an Indian one,
he said “No appendicitis” but I had to have a blood test etc. On
getting back I was admitted to station sick quarters with Malaria.
Had fever and sickness.
What a life.
10
First day in hospital, pretty bad.
From 1st Jan 1945
WEDTUESMON
1
2
3
Went to M.O’s with pinches and pains in stomach. He suspects
appendicitis so have to go to hospital tomorrow. Feeling pretty grim
and off my food.
Went to hospital and was examined by the surgeon, an Indian one,
he said “No appendicitis” but I had to have a blood test etc. On
getting back I was admitted to station sick quarters with Malaria.
9

11. Managed to write a letter but it looked so bad I tore it up – might
make Kay think I am really ill as my hand shakes as I write and it
might disturb her. Go out today for two days then back again.
My head is cleared today thank heaven and I have eaten. Have had
plenty of time to think and have nearly finished my story “The
Silver Cross”.
In between sleeping and
writing my story, I remember
it is my birthday today. 30
years of age and still in the
mob, in India and blimey!
I’m in hospital again. Indeed,
as I said before, “what a life”.
To 14th Jan 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
11
12
13 14
12
The treatment given to me seems to be sending me deaf. All I do is
sleep. The food in here is grand but I am on a light diet and don’t
want it anyway.
Deaf as a post – can’t even hear myself speak – what a change
(quiet). Still feeling pretty rotten but have learnt that they got hold of
it in time and I shall be over the worse.
Only a slight attack, thank heaven, for most of the chaps in here are
really terribly ill, poor devils.
From 8th Jan 1945
WEDTUESMON
8
9
10
11

12. Jack and Charlie have been visiting me while I have been here.
Doctor said I could go this afternoon and get away to Mount Abu
tomorrow for 10 days sick leave. Whoopee!
Got all ready and caught the 7:30pm train for Mawa Junction where
I changed at 12pm. I have treated like a Lord since leaving camp not
having to carry even my overcoat.
14
Arrived by car from Abu
station to the camp at 9am.
Went into a buffet and the
on to breakfast.
This is a lovely spot: 5800ft
up Mount Abu. The native
village is a very interesting
one. Things are a little
cheaper here.
To 21st Jan 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
18
19
20 21
Feeling much better now. I found that when I went out of hospital
on Thursday and Friday I couldn’t do as much as I wanted to do.
Was glad to get to bed. Anyhow I am eating well again now.
The M.O P.O Wright is a very nice chap, he was with a civilian today,
teaching him about his bedside manner. I am almost finished in my
story. I have had a lovely long letter from Kay today. Air Mail it was
nice to hear from her this way.
13
Thought I was going out today but my blood slides are still positive so
have to stay in until Friday. Got up and arranged a game of Monopoly
with three other chaps – boy we has some fun.
From 15th Jan 1945
WEDTUESMON
15
16
17

13. Went to Dilwara Temples. What a sight. I have never seen such
carving in marble like there was there. Bought some photos to keep
of this wondrous sight. Had to go in bare foot as the ground is holy
and you must not wear any leather, even your watchstrap must be
removed.
Today we went for a 20-mile hike to ‘Gora Giro’ the highest peak in
the range. The view from the summit was worth the climb, hundreds
of miles of the Sindh desert can be seen, a marvellous place.
16
Time is going fast but I am
having a nice time. Dance
tonight, many white Anglo-
Indians there. Good dancers.
Went to the village and fed
the apes which come down
from their trees and eat nuts
out of your hand.
To 28th Jan 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
25
26
27 28
Went to village in morning. Ordered a white shirt and shorts to be
made for me. Also bought some sweets for Kay and a couple of
bedspreads. Had a game of tennis in the afternoon. The air here is
fresh and exhilarating.
Have managed to borrow a typewriter to type out my story in
the evenings. Have learnt the keyboard for this purpose. Went to
tombola in the evening and won 7 chips.
15
Went to the village again and bought a pair of shoes made for me
in brown suede leather. Also bought a photo album. Spotted some
hairgrips so got some to send home for Kay.
From 22nd Jan 1945
WEDTUESMON
22
23
24

14. The “Whimpey” has taken off. Had to put “Bofors” on to take
engines out. This is a change from airframes. Find the time is
going quickly.
Getting settles down nicely again now. Must take my story to send
away to get it checked, also a parcel to make up and send home,
which I posted today.
18
Went to Maharatma’s party
at his palace, what a party!
Chicken, turkey, bacon, ham,
salad, eggs, fish, soup, trifle,
fruit, ice cream, whisky,
beer, rum, cocktails, punch,
minerals, dance, tombola
and a film show which I saw
from 1.30am to 4am.
To 4TH FEB 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
1
2
3 4
Returned to Jodhpur after an uneventful journey from Abu. Met a
chap on the train who had been 11 years in Shanghai, very interesting
fellow. Tasted Indian food for the first time – offered by Indian
officers travelling with me – boy it is hot it burns your throat up.
Found 12 letters waiting for me, plenty of writing in front of me
now. There are still no signs of returning to Lahore.
17
Started working on another “Whimpey”, weather getting warmer.
Went to Dehli House for a tad and wrote some more letters.
From 29th Jan 1945
WEDTUESMON
29
30
31

15. 20 JODHPUR TO LAHOREFEBRUARY
F E B R U A R Y
J o d h p u r T o L a h o r e
19

16. 22 JODHPUR TO LAHOREFEBRUARY21 JODHPUR TO LAHOREFEBRUARY

17. The food here is awful, all we do is spend money on canteen food,
which is very dear here. Went to get my story but found out it had
been posted to a senior officer, whom I have to see tomorrow.
Can’t send my story home as I have to get it censored, such a pain.
Want Kay to read it, it could cheer her up.
24
Camp cinema opened, very
good show! Makes a lot of
difference on camp.
Went to have a drink in the
camp hall. Had an enjoyable
evening and a nice rest from
the heat of the day.
To 11th FEB 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
8
9
10 11
Started new job, taking engines out of Bofors, quite a change to
airframe work. It is a crime to see to see how much material is
wasted on this camp. Just heard Russians are 35 miles from Berlin.
Sent letters this morning and some more this afternoon, wrote one
in Deoli House after eating eggs, toast, chips, tomatoes, trifle and
milk. News is still good, Americans retaken Manila.
23
Took my story for sensor, will collect it tomorrow. Fed up with
this camp.
From 5th feb 1945
WEDTUESMON
5
6
7

18. Only 25 of us returning thank goodness I am picked as one and
both Jack and Charlie are coming too. Went to Jodhpur town (?)
for a last look round. What a depressing it is, filth everywhere with
the illiteracy, which goes with it. Sent my razor for repair. Finished
work today, went to camp pictures in the evening. Had some food in
the Deoli House and a dance – quite good and the girls there were
English too.
26
Spent the day packing and
getting ready to go, as we leave
soon. Went to Jodpur station
and left on train at 11.30,
played cards until 12pm.
To 18th FEB 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
15
16
17 18
It is getting rather hot these day, we work in shorts and nothing else.
I am getting brown and feeling well, thanks to the food we buy;
certainly no thanks are due to the camp grub. Many chaps have tried to
complain and get it altered but the answer is always the same. Rumours
going round that we are going back to Lahore, hope this is true.
25
We are going back to Lahore on Saturday or Sunday – good. Oh are
we pleased. Jack and Charlie say they don’t mind either way, but they
will when they get back.
From 12th feb 1945
WEDTUESMON
12
13
14

19. It already seems like I have been back here for weeks and I am glad.
I like the new work it makes it interesting to be on something new.
Wrote a letter to Kay. Have sent my story to her.
Pay day. Received two letters. One is a beauty from Kay, which really
hit home. They are fairly happy at home it seems, as it was full of
laughs. I’m still very busy on Hurricane for Burma front. Stayed in
this evening to write to Kay.
28
Busy today, took story to
education officer for sensor.
Will get it home via Kay.
Left it with him, stayed in
and had a read.
Went to church in the
morning, read in afternoon,
went to the pictures in
evening. No sleep at night
was horrible. Boy what a row,
drums and singing all night.
To 25th FEB 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
22
23
24 25
On train with journey nearly finished. I notice I had made a mistake
in this diary. We left on Saturday at 11am, stopped and changed at
Dehli on Sunday night. Went to visit the town but only for 1½ hour,
lovely canteen there with swimming pool etc. Arrived at camp today
at 4pm.
27
Started work in my old hangar with Jack. We are on major repairs on
Hurricanes. I am on the undercarriage – boy is it in a mess but never
fear, I’ll soon fix that.
From 19th feb 1945
WEDTUESMON
19
20
21

20. On taking my story back to sensor he cut more out and I didn’t get a
chance to substitute for it, which means he has spoilt it. Anyway it is
finally on its way home at last.
Still busy on majors on Hurricanes, nothing very much happened
today. In the evening I went to the pictures (again) with Jack, Paddy
and Charlie.
30
Demob number put in my pay
book (28). Saw cup final, our
unit won it, biggest silver cup
I’ve ever seen, 3ft high.
Church in the morning was a
nice service. Had a read and
game of snooker in afternoon,
pictures in the evening and
supper in the canteen later on.
To 4th MAR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
1
2
3 4
Received 11-page letter from Sybil. Very nice letter also received letter
from Kit. Stayed in to reply to them after seeing cup semi-final. Made
enquiries about male voice choir. Stayed up writing letters until 12 as
the boys were still keeping their row up.
Went to an officer about my story but he was out so must wait another
day. Visited sickbay to see if vaccination looked ok. Wrote to Kit and
then went to last house pictures, had to pay R2 to get in.
29
Managed to finally get my story back. Stayed in to rectify the parts he
cut out and get it ready for post. Had a letter from Kay dated 16th.
Had a lovely hot bath in camp – amazing luxury this. Stayed in and
wrote to Kay.
From 26th feb 1945
WEDTUESMON
26
27
28

21. 32 RUSSIANSMARCH
M A R C H
R u s s i a n s
31

22. 34 RUSSIANSMARCH33 RUSSIANSMARCH

23. Blighty leave starting on this camp, 3 men going every month – giving
too much away aren’t they. Went to flicks in evening. Felling awfully
blue, miss Kay terribly lately – can’t talk myself out of it anyhow.
36
Busy on Hurricane, I finished
early, then stayed in and
wrote a letter to Kay although
I was disappointed at not
hearing from her today.
Went to church in the
morning. In khaki all day
– getting very hot. Had a
rest in the afternoon, went
to flicks in the evening, no
letter from Kay.
To 11th MAR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
8
9
10 11
Received a letter from Kay about David’s future school. So many
facts are needed for this decision but thank heaven I can trust her
solid judgement and common sense. Stayed in the answer her letter
and get other mail away. Heard that the Jerry’s bombing again.
Still very busy on the Hurricane, shifting to another hangar
temporarily, Sgt Humphreys in same hangar. Went to flicks again
in evening to watch “Panama Hattie” – deadly film. Went to bed
thinking how much I miss Kay. How I love her!!
35
Nothing much happened today, it is still very cold at night. Went to
flicks in the evening. Sgt Lt Manston told us he is leaving now to go
“on the boat” – wonder when I will be able to say that. What a day
that will be.
From 5th MAR 1945
WEDTUESMON
5
6
7

24. Finishing kite in the open, very hot, ended up stripping off. Stayed in
to write diary and a letter. News is good, allies all ready for last push.
Russians ready to go for Berlin, wont be long now before finish.
Churchill in today’s paper said the war should soon be over – hope
he’s right. Had a letter from Sybil saying Paddy had not returned
from leave when posted overseas again. Wrote letters in the evening.
38
Getting hot now, worked
outside today with only
shorts on, nice cool breeze
blowing. No mail today, no
news of Kay since Tuesday.
Could not go to church as
it poured with rain and had
a thunderstorm. Went to
flicks in evening. News still
good, rest of boys back from
Jodhpur.
To 18th MAR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
15
16
17 18
So hot that I changed into shorts in afternoon, visited a few shops
again – some really lovely furs there, wish I had enough cash to
send Kay one. No letter from Kay since last Monday. Charlie’s wife
received her parcel, no word of Kay having got hers.
Received letter from Kay, my fears that something had happened
at home were well forgotten. Kay has been ill but says she is better
thank god. Stayed in and answered her letter in which she says she
received her parcel and was very pleased with it.
37
Still busy on the Hurricane – about finished – working on a kite for
the first time - it’s almost brand new. Went to pictures in evening.
The weather is hotter now – 85 degrees and am in khaki. Couldn’t
sleep due to heat.
From 12th MAR 1945
WEDTUESMON
12
13
14

25. Hurricane finished – worked late again watching test flight. Came
clean and pilot’s report was “perfect”. Had board today for LAC
fitter, 2¾ hours. Feel confident I passed hope so anyway. Received
letter from Sybil - her pal posted it (Peggy). Went to flicks in
evening, swarm of hornets came in – everyone went out pretty quick
– I’ll say.
Back in hangar, working on American Harvards, nice plane to work
on. Had a letter from Sybil, who is going on leave. Went to pictures
in evening and getting very hot these days.
40
Nothing much to report
today, no mail, decided to go
to Hill Party.
Very hot indeed, went to
church in shorts and white
shirt. Had a lovely letter
from Kay with photo of
children - very good.
To 25th MAR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
22
23
24 25
Still outside but a gale blew today making it cold, warmer in afternoon.
Had some wonderful letters from David and Maureen. None from
Kay – maybe I will hear from her tomorrow but I heard she is well
which is everything. Staying in to write and study for LAC board.
Working overtime on Hurricanes, 30 to get out by the end of the
month, wanted in the front. Received lovely letter from Kay in which
she says she has received my story and likes it. Went to an astral
show, was quite good, came back at 10.30 and was very tired.
39
Still working overtime, stayed in afterwards to write to Kay. Hardest
days work since being in India. Today kite will fly, or hopefully
tomorrow, then on to smack the Japs – one thing that kite will stand
up to everything expected of it.
From 19th MAR 1945
WEDTUESMON
19
20
21

26. On crash tender all day with temperature at 99 degrees in the shade
– really getting warm now – you can feel the sun burning you if you
get out in it. Kay sent letter-containing results of sending off my
story – no luck. Replied to her and wrote to Edgar, asking him if he
can help me.
This morning’s paper was a treat for sore eyes. German troops on
western front have retreated. Our boys and the Americans have
linked up and are only approximately 200 miles from Berlin. Joe has
started offensive to get to Berlin – only 35 miles to go. Temperature
today was 100 degrees in the shade.
42
There was news today of
blackout on western front.
Then went to “Bert” to a
dance and tombola, received
letter from Kay – very nice.
Had an enjoyable evening.
I feel that this is the month that
will see the end of Nazism and
German domination, still very
little news. Went to church and
communion. Wrote letters in
billet, a few spots of rain today.
To 1st APR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
29
30
31 1
On fire piquet this week so am confined to camp. Bicycle blew a tire
– must take it back. The heat plays havoc with tyres here; the weather
is getting to that pitch of heat when you sweat all day, at the least
exertion. It’s so cruel at work and tires you unbelievably.
On crash tender today out on aerodrome, no shade, boy it is getting
hot, 96 degrees in the shade. Managed to get out to the pictures in
the evening to watch “Chip off the Old Block”, very good laugh.
War doing well – our boys are over the Rhine in several places.
41
Monty starting the last offensive and it is going fine. Don’t think
my forecast for middle-April, as the end of the war will be far off.
Received a letter from Sid’s wife.
From 26th mar 1945
WEDTUESMON
26
27
28

27. 44 THE ENDAPRIL
A P R I L
T h e E n d
43

28. 46 THE ENDAPRIL45 THE ENDAPRIL

29. News today says allied spearheads are 137 miles from Berlin and will
link with Russian troops in a week. Went to tailors today for fitting
of khaki suit.
On guard tonight with a chap who met me at Blackpool 1 ½ years
ago, quite an interesting guy. Talking over old things and friends.
It rained today, as I have never seen it before in all my life, a
thunderstorm started and it rained all night long. Turned colder.
48
Was very busy in hangar
today, packed up at 4.45pm.
Got my new suit from tailor
after coming from pictures.
Went to church and
communion, and then wrote
letter to Sybil. Went to Bert
Club for first time as a new
member, very nice company,
very select. Had a nice time.
To 8th APR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
5
6
7 8
Day off went shopping to send another parcel home: bought vests
for Maureen, hats for David, undies for Kay and a few ornaments.
Still no new information of Monty’s movements, but the American’s
are pushing on. Went to the pictures in town on my own, feel a lot
brighter for getting out a bit.
Red army is getting near Vienna capital of Austria. Holland is being
freed too as the Germans try to get out. Cities are slowly being taken
back thank heaven. Just didn’t feel like writing tonight so went to
pictures although it wasn’t a good programme.
47
Still very busy on Harvards, D6s came in for mod – plenty of work
– chaps had to work all night on them, as the were wanted urgently.
Went to Bert to a dance, those Indian girls got my goat boy! Do they
love themselves!!
From 2nd apr 1945
WEDTUESMON
2
3
4

30. Tonight I went to Lahore Gymkhana and I have never seen anything
like it. What lovely dresses and such a cosmopolitan crowd.
Moved into new billet and it’s very nice. Received lovely letter from
Kay today, which brightened me up a lot. Went for swim with the
boys in the pool. Stayed in and answered Kay’s letter and met a
fellow who lives in the next road to me at home, a small world eh!!
50
News through that President
Roosevelt died yesterday.
Went to flicks in the evening.
Went to church and had a
swim later with Charlie, very
refreshing. Rested in the
afternoon as weather very
hot and depressing.
To 15th APR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
12
13
14 15
Very hard day today, was only Jack and I on kite going well though.
Stayed in this evening! No papers today, so news is scarce. Weather
has turned a little warmer and the mosquitos are about.
S.R.Os today proved that I have at last got my L.A.C with 82-99 – so
that’s that. Went for a swim in the evening – very nice. Stayed in for a
rest in the evening, as I was very tired. Allies are closing in on Jerry.
49
The boys are 6 ½ miles from Berlin, everything seems to be doing
fine. Our Harvard flew perfectly today.
From 9th apr 1945
WEDTUESMON
9
10
11

31. By orders today it has been requested that the first 20 groups of the
demob plan to volunteer for further service – what a hope. Still this
means they are getting out when war finishes anyway.
Received letters from Kay and children, also had one from Sybil.
Paddy O’Laughlin is ill at home so has not deserted after all. Our kite
is getting near completed now and should be ready for test shortly.
News very good but can’t find out too much.
52
Last day of winter hours, had
half a day off, was very hot.
Went to Bert in the evening.
Went to church in the
morning, had a sleep in the
afternoon as it was very hot.
Cooled down in evening and
I wrote some letters.
To 22nd APR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
19
20
21 22
No papers in camp on Mondays so only heard news second hand
that the Russians are 25 miles from Berlin. No letters today. Not very
hot today as it rained last night. Stayed in this evening and read up
on English grammar, had a lazy night.
Yes Russians nearing the city of Berlin – still no sign of German
surrender but thousands of prisons being taken every day. R.A.F
bombing night and day, Berlin must be a shambles by now.
51
The weather is now getting really warm again. Rumour says we may
start summer hour’s next week – 6.30am – 1.30pm. Went to Bert in
the evening, was a nice cool night, enjoyed the break.
From 16th apr 1945
WEDTUESMON
16
17
18

32. Link up with Russians in Berlin – Germans cut in half. News very good
all round, may finish at any time now. No further mail from home – if
only they knew how much mail means – suppose Kay’s busy.
Kite ready for spraying but no one could get spray working – I took
it to pieces and got it going nicely so as a reward I got the damn job
to do the spraying – got it in my hair, clothes and lungs – felt rough.
Still received no mail, what a life. Good job news is good.
54
Unconditional surrender
offered to Britain and U.S. only
– reply send that it will only be
accepted to all the allies.
Rumour has it that surrender
has been sent to all allies.
Still not heard from home –
terrible. Wrote to Kay.
To 29th APR 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
26
27
28 29
Had to get up at 5.30am to start summer hours. Awful drag but
will get used to it I suppose. Posted a letter to Kay and also one to
Sybil. Packed up work at 1.30am, slept all afternoon, laid around all
evening and tidied up.
Has my first flight in a kite and the Harvard took off nicely at
11.30am, it climbed 7000 ft. and took it well and then did aerobatics.
Everything okay except from the window locks. Went to Bert in the
evening. Heard the Russians are in Berlin with 16 suburbs taken. It
can’t be long now. Getting some parcels sent off.
53
Went up again on the second test, boy did he fling it about in
aerobatics; loops, rolls, dives and turns and kite is flying okay.
Russians reached Berlin’s centre – fighting in underground railway.
Jerry can’t last long now.
From 23st apr 1945
WEDTUESMON
23
24
25

33. 56 DEATH OF HITLERMAY
M AY
D e a t h o f H i t l e r
55

34. 58 DEATH OF HITLERMAY57 DEATH OF HITLERMAY

35. Heard today that I am on first hill party, which goes next Monday.
Just right time, as it is getting really hot here. Went to pictures with
Jack in the evening and wrote to Kay, letting her know the news.
German forces in the north have surrendered.
German southern forces surrendered, which only leaves the Russian
front, Norway and the submarine fleet. Peace likely to be any time now.
60
No official news of
surrender yet. Went to Bert,
had a good time and talked
of Kay and family, they were
very interested.
Wrote to Kay, went to sing
in Lahore church choir.
Afterwards we went to
someone’s house for a cup
of tea and some music. First
civilian home I have been
in over here. No wallpaper,
much different to Blighty.
To 6th MAY 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
3
4
5 6
Still no news from Kay, today makes it 10 days since I heard, hope
everything is okay at home, very worried. No papers today and have
not heard anything. Too hot to walk to the canteen – temperature is
110 degrees. Wrote four letters but oh what an effort. Rumour of
surrender denied.
Italian and German forces have today surrendered to the allies due
to pressure of Partisans. This looks like the start of surrender all
round. Russians have taken Berlin, only isolated resistance now there.
59
Germans report that Hitler is dead. Died a natural death – oh yeh!
Believe that when we have proof of it from an allied source. Reckon
he skipped it.
From 30th APR 1945
WEDTUESMON
30
1
2

36. Celebrations were almost non-existent up here, had one bottle of
beer each. Wrote to Kay yesterday and again today. All I can think
about is her and the children and how they are feeling with peace at
home at last. Lets hope we will soon get some mail to hear the news.
No mail today but must soon get some now. Poured with rain – how
lovely and fresh afterwards. Played a game of football – was I stiff;
first game for years. We drew – no goals. Dance in camp, very nice
homely spirit just like a camp dance back in Blighty.
62
Played second round of
football league, another
draw. Received 4 letters, 2
from Kay, 13 & 17 days old.
Stayed in and wrote 4 letters.
Can’t find out where the
nearest church is – think it
is in Murree so can’t go this
week. Wrote more letters,
received more letters from
Kay and Kit, then went for
an 8-mile walk in the evening.
To 13th MAY 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
10
11
12 13
Got packed and ready to move off on hill party. Left at 2pm, arrived
at the station and unloaded, only to have to load up again as it was
the wrong station. Finally got away at 4pm. Journey was bad, food
was bad, slept on the train after finishing game of ‘Solo’ with Jack,
Harry and a Canadian.
We arrived at Rawalpindi at 7am, where breakfast was waiting. News
came through to us from a Sgt that unconditional surrender had
been signed. Is it true? We started our ride up the hills about 7.45
in lorries. What a ride – twisting and turning, climbing and climbing
with a skew drop on one side.
61
Climbed to Jhika Gali and then dropped to camp Jopa. First night
was awful as billet was bug-ridden. Had to get out in the night to
make up the bed on the floor as I was bitten to pieces, a bad start.
Cleared wooden charpoys out today, then lounged around in camp.
VE day officially announced by Churchill today, whoopee – the folks
at home have peace at last.
From 7th MAY 1945
WEDTUESMON
7
8
9

37. Not a very nice day – cloudy. Read in afternoon, no mail again today:
I don’t know what has happened but I am getting fed up of forever
writing and only getting a few every few weeks in return. I shall pack
up writing if this delay is because people aren’t writing.
Went for walk and did some hill climbing to the point overlooking
Jhika Gali. Weather very overcast and we were in a cloud all day.
Went to football match at Murree – R.A.F v Army, R.A.F won 3-2.
Went to the pictures in the evening to see “Song of Russia” – was
very good. Walked back in lovely evening moonlight. No letters
today.
64
First horse-ride, rode for 3
hours to pinnacle point – a
lovely view. Cantered, trotted
and galloped but didn’t like
the gallop – not bad.
Still no news from home
or anyone in Blighty, which
means I have had one
letter in almost a month.
Something’s happened with
our mail. Am I fed up?
To 20th MAY 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
17
18
19 20
Had a Peace Dinner tonight, it was very nice and a lovely iced cake.
Following this was a ‘barbeque’. Two pigs roasted on open fire,
carved and eaten with rolls, plenty of beer and a singsong into the
early hours of the morning. A nice celebration must get letter from
Kay answered.
Played another game of football, walked 7 miles in the morning,
then walked to Murree in the evening and back, where we went to
the flicks. Really tired out on returning and slept like a log. No mail
today but wrote to Kit.
63
We are getting longer than 3 weeks as we are not returning until
the 30th. Played football in the morning and afternoon and went
to Victory dance in the evening. Wrote to Kay, Mother and Uncle.
Victory dance very good – had plenty of dances, packed up at 12.
No mail today for me – what’s happened?
From 14th MAY 1945
WEDTUESMON
14
15
16

38. No mail, wrote to Rolls about my razor. Went for a walk in the
morning, had a read in the afternoon and to the camp dance in the
evening – this was better than others was there were 24 girls there.
Had plenty of dances but didn’t feel very happy – no mail makes me
feel depressed.
New batch of WAAFs arrived on camp, quite nice girls, but with no
news from Kay, I don’t feel the will to chatter with everyone. Been
told today that if the newly elected government is not a conservative
one – Churchill will resign. Reaction at home is that they need to
feed starving people. Wrote to Kay.
66
Still no mail, boy isn’t it
awful not to have news from
home. Went to Sandy’s home
for food in evening.
Rained in morning but went
to church in Murree, nice
church – choir etc. Walked
to Murree to flicks in the
evening and had food in
Jhika Gali. Wrote to Kay.
To 27th MAY 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
24
25
26 27
Went for a walk in the morning to Sandy’s home in Jhika Gali. Had
our photos taken last week, came out well. No mail today again.
Stayed in until 3pm then went to a dance in the camp – not bad. In
the evening Pop, Frank and I talked of London and turned it into
quiz questions – very enjoyable.
Poured with rain so sat and wrote letters in the morning – don’t
know why as I still haven’t heard from anyone. Went for walk in
afternoon and to Sandy’s home in evening. There is talk of a general
election in Blighty sometime in July.
65
Still no news from England, wrote to Sybil – something had gone
haywire with the mail, as I have only had one letter in a month. Makes
me feel terrible without mail. Went to Murree for a walk and flicks.
From 21st MAY 1945
WEDTUESMON
21
22
23

39. Went for a walk in the morning, went to get my pay at 2.30. Wrote
another letter to Kay and feel much better having had mail from her.
News of demob not so good – looks as if I will be in for another 9
months yet.
Rose at 7.30 and got away on hike toward Kohlu by 8.30. Walked
15 miles and then waited for transport, lovely scenery all the way.
Visited the bridge over Jhelum river – very fast flowing, approx
30mph. We went over two frontiers: Punjab – N.W. Frontier and
Kasmir - N.W. Frontier. Went to Murree in the evening, rode horse
back. Lovely day.
68
Left lowe Jopa at 10am,
spent day at Buralghindi –
not much of a town so went
to the pictures. Train pulled
out at 8.10pm. Wrote to Kay
on the train and had a sleep.
Arrived at Lahore at 9.30am
and then went on to camp.
It is very hot here and very
noticeable after being in
Jopa. Went to Bert in the
evening. Received ten letters,
five from Kay, answered
letters in the afternoon.
To 3rd JUN 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
31
1
2 3
Walked to Sandy’s home in the morning and wrote to Kay. No mail
yet and wont get any now as we are returning on Wednesday. Went
to Murree to flicks in evening. Lovely night, the full moon lit up the
hills – lovely scene. Bus journey to Murree an experience - stopped
by police, as bus was dangerous.
Wrote letters to Sybil, David and Maureen, then went to see Bobby
Hines Ensa show. Best show I have seen in the R.A.F. Have given up
hopes of mail until I return.
67
Went for walk in the morning, lovely surprise on returning – three
letters. Had two from Kay and one from Mother and Uncle. Replied
to Kay in afternoon – long letter. Went to camp dance in evening –
not bad, lovely night when we came out. Outside fire – what a night.
From 28th MAY 1945
WEDTUESMON
28
29
30

40. 70 HOTTER & HOTTERJUNE
J U N E
H o t t e r & H o t t e r
69

41. 72 HOTTER & HOTTERJUNE71 HOTTER & HOTTERJUNE

42. A scorpion spider got into the billet today – most chaps got out but
we found it and killed it. While I was on leave a silver krait snake was
found in our billet and killed. They are only small but have a fatal
bite. One of the beauties of India – oh yeh!
Received a letter from Mother and Uncle today – they are fine thank
heaven. Marie started a business in Fleet – what a shock! Noticed I
have a little ‘prickly heat’ – very irritating – suppose I must put up
with this additional curve on India, my god what a country.
74
Pop heard today about his
repat so left me in charge of
the gang – looks as if I will
get it for some time. Went to
Bert with the Mudians, very
nice people.
Went to choir in morning
– very hot. No damned air
to breathe it seems. Slightly
cooler in evening so went
to climb, but was too hot to
do much climbing. Pop was
there and very happy about
going home.
To 10th JUN 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
7
8
9 10
Oh boy how hot it is – 110 degrees today. Started work at 6.30am –
quite a drag having to get up so early. Started on another Harvard.
Received three letters, one from Sybil who has been to hospital.
Stayed in to write letters in the evening, received a nice letter from
David and another from Maureen. Kay and the children are fine. I
feel tired after today’s heat and slept for 6 hours in the afternoon.
Wrote some more mail, which is coming in nicely now. Another from
Alan – very pitiful letter telling me in confidence that he is dying
slowly but surely and would do away with himself if it weren’t for
Gemma. Wish I could help. Went to choir but no one turned up so
went for a drink.
73
110.8 degrees today – well it never stops climbing – every day I say
“it won’t get much hotter”. Have been having a massage for my hair
but it doesn’t seem to be getting any thicker – no wonder with this
damned heat. One of the chaps caught a parrot today and caged it.
There are plenty flying around.
From 4th JUN 1945
WEDTUESMON
4
5
6

43. Boy oh boy this heat is getting to me – 116 degrees today – just
didn’t know what to do to keep cool – in fact we couldn’t. Drank
quarts of liquid only to sweat it straight out again. Made a terrible
effort and finished Kay’s letter. Received one from Sid and Derek
who are both having a wizard time.
Still very hot, over 116 degrees – too hot to do much but rot.
Even this makes you sweat and very weak. Went to see a play in
the evening called “Lifetime” – very good. Intended to write in
afternoon but just couldn’t get the energy to concentrate. Hope the
folks at home understand.
76
No mail today. Getting on
with some work now. Went
to Matherson’s for dinner –
home themed – first English
food since leaving home –
lovely. Went to Bert after and
finally got in at 3.30am.
Went to choir in the
morning, slept in afternoon
and then when to a Waltz
competition in the evening
at Bert. Got as far as the last
five couples, didn’t have a
bad partner – Jess Mendes.
Wrote to Kay.
To 17th JUN 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
14
15
16 17
Started another weeks work in charge of the gang. Don’t like giving
orders but the boys don’t have to be ordered about, just asked.
Didn’t go out far, just for a stroll to put some photos in for prints.
Temperature climbing 113 degrees today: what I wouldn’t give for a
nice London shower and an armchair.
Went to work feeling cheesed off. The boys whom I am in charge
of are working well with me – we all get on fine, but 114 degrees in
the shade doesn’t help your spirits. I went to choir practice and was
singing until 9pm. Came back and got to bed but was lying awake for
hours thinking of Kay.
75
Received two letters from Kay today. Poor kid – she is fed up with
this terrible separation. Started to write a cheery letter to try and help
her but as there is no news giving us much hope am afraid it wont
help much. Had a chat with an educated Indian about India – very
enlightening.
From 11th JUN 1945
WEDTUESMON
11
12
13

44. Reported to orderly room to find out if I am going to Karachi on
Friday or Monday. Saw Pop Hurman and he tells me he is to leave
for the boat on Saturday instead on Tuesday. I got cleared and went
and got Kay new shoes from ‘Muchi’ – he has made a nice job of
them. Stayed in and wrote to Kay about posting.
Went to orderly room and was told I am not going until Monday.
Everyone says it is a nice station in a nice climate – I wonder! Went
out with Pop and Frank for Pop to say goodbye to the Mundes and
Mathesons. Said goodbye to Pop, was 12.30am when we got back!
Wrote to Kay.
78
Bought stamps for David
and an autograph album for
Maureen, those with towels
and shoes made a good
parcel. Sent it today! Went to
Bert in evening.
Went to Bert for the last
time, said goodbye to
everyone but had to promise
to write to Mathesons
and Mundes. Had a
lovely evening, drank and
danced, was nice to get this
acknowledgement.
To 24th JUN 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
21
22
23 24
Kite coming on nicely – hope to have it finished by end of the
month. It has at last become cooler after terrific thunderstorm and
torrential rain for the last 14 hours. Went to baths in the evening and
started to learn front crawl. Like learning to swim all over again.
Wrote some more letters today. It is still cooler – round about the
100 degrees mark. Went to Bert Club meeting until late. Wrote to
Kay until 1.30am in the morning, as it was too sticky to sleep until
really tired. Answered two letters from her.
77
Room orderly today so had a nice rest. Went to Matheson’s in
evening. A very quiet but homely time and it was wizard fun. When
to boys came in from work they told me I am going to be posted to
Karachi. Thought they were pulling my leg but they weren’t.
From 18th JUN 1945
WEDTUESMON
18
19
20

45. Got up and went to breakfast, the meals seem very good. Got
arrived chit finished and I went to Western Assembly Section, which
is a section on its own about 2 miles out of the main camp under
canvas. Wrote to Kay – bless her, it is much cooler here.
Started work in hangar on Mustangs. Building them up straight from
factory. Also got to work on one kite per day so there is no time to
waste. Very tired after first day, had work at 8.30am – 12.30pm and
1.30 – 5.30pm. Stayed in to get tent etc. organised to write some
letters. Hope it won’t be long before we go home.
80
Half day today so went
with a party to Manora –
a lagoon on the Arabian
Sea coast. What a lovely
cool time we had. Went to
Karachi in the evening.
Full day today, started to get
some furniture organised for
tent. Wrote to Sybil, had no
mail from home.
To 1st JUL 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
28
29
30 1
Said goodbye to boys in hangar, left Lahore station at 5pm. Stopped at
“Montgomery” for four course dinner but after that things were grim.
The journey across Sindh desert was very bad. Tucked in at 11.30pm.
Woke up with sand all over the place – dust inches thick on
everything, never been so filthy in my life. Bribed a guard to open a
first class compartment to have a shower – a godsend. Lost a wonky
tooth, but had a good laugh as Jack lost his too. Arrived at Karachi at
10am, then got transport to P.R. Centre. Stayed the night in a tent.
79
Went round with arrival chit today but couldn’t finish so stayed
another night in tent in tent in P.R.C – no writing kit so couldn’t
write to Kay. Went to camp cinema – very nice place. I think I will
like the camp.
From 25th JUN 1945
WEDTUESMON
25
26
27

46. 82 KARACHIjuly
J U L Y
K a r a c h i
81

47. 84 karachijuly83 karachijuly

48. Read a report that Mustangs are doing there stuff on the
Japanese – which makes you feel good to think one of your
planes may be helping to finish them off. It’s hard work but I
don’t mind. Went to flicks in main camp in the evening, a very
good cinema. The weather is still 85 degrees but the prickly
heat is worse than Lahore – don’t know why.
Still very busy at work with Jack as my partner – a very good
worker, we get on well. Played cricket in the evening after a
shower and later on rain almost stopped play. No more mail
yet from Kay but got one from Sybil – she is in Ireland now –
poor kid, she’s fed up. Wrote to try and cheer her up.
86
Half day so had another
trip to Manora. Spent some
time on a boat where fish
eat out of your hand while
they’re still in the water –
thousands of them!
Played cricket after work,
was a good game. Wrote
to the Mundians and am
finally catching up with
my mail.
To 8th JUL 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
5
6
7 8
I like the work – a real job to help the war. “A kite a day sends
the Japs away”. I was asked to play cricket in a section team
tonight and had my first game in India and thoroughly enjoyed
it. Wrote letters afterwards. The canteen here is not too good
unfortunately.
Blasted prickly heat is coming out worse here, irrespective of
it being cooler – can’t understand it at all. Played cricket in the
evening and wrote to Kay in answer to her first letter posted
on June 23rd. My mail is gone all haywire again.
85
Half day so went to Karachi to have a look round. It is a nice
town with four cinemas there. We got a hitchhike and went to
the pictures to see “Song to Remember” and a very nice film it
was. They have horse gharries in this town. Went to dance later
and met Heather’s cousin, what a coincidence. People here are
quite friendly.
From 2nd JUL 1945
WEDTUESMON
2
3
4

49. Waiting for new shipment of kites to arrive so worked has fallen off.
My prickly heat is a little better after using powder from M.O. Stayed
in to write letters. Received one from Kay at last – direct in 5 days.
She says others have most probably gone astray, they will turn up
later I suppose. David had an oral test – hope he passed.
Nothing much to report today, work is rather slack while waiting
for more kites, so organised our phase which Jack and I are on.
Arranged for leave on August 10th to Manora – a rest camp. Stayed
in in evening and wrote to Sybil. She is very fed up with where she is.
88
Had a nice swim then went
to town to pictures after
having a look around the
shops, plenty of American
women in town so it was
worth going.
Can’t get to church here – no
church near and we have
to work a full day. Some
Mustangs have arrived at
Karachi docks so we are
to collect them tomorrow.
Played cricket in the evening,
scored 12 and caught 2 out.
To 15th JUL 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
12
13
14 15
Working on the last kite on the assembly line. Expecting a new batch
any time now. Played another game of cricket – won by 1 wicket and
9 runs. Went back and finished table that I’m making for tent – not
a bad job either. Still no more mail from home – what could have
happened? Today was voting day – received my voting papers.
Work is almost finished until fresh consignment of kites comes
in, helped Reg with some hydraulic snags. Went to Ensa show in
evening called “Ensa Pie” – quite good show, a real treat to see some
English girls acting. Wrote to Kay. Have not had any mail from home
other than three letters – one from Kay.
87
Went into main camp in morning to get prickly heat powder for
myself, as I just couldn’t stand the irritation any longer – my whole
body is covered. Went to Karachi and took Ben and Reg over to the
Karachi newspaper office – set some news on lino for tomorrow’s
paper. The lino – ops wages here are 150R per month, not really sure
how much that is. Went to pictures later on.
From 9th JUL 1945
WEDTUESMON
9
10
11

50. Getting new kites in hangar for building. We will start the assembly
line tomorrow – have our stage nicely organised to obviate any
unnecessary looking for tools etc. Went to pictures on my own again
in evening. Everyone talks of the new demob. A rumour is going
around that orderly room has received instructions for 25 by Xmas.
Started work on new Mustangs and there are now more men in our
phase. Received a letter from Kay saying David is going to John
Rushden Grammar School – out of 3200 entrants for scholarship
there were only 300 vacancies and yet David passed and got in – boy
am I proud of him. Stayed in in evening and replied to Kay’s letter.
90
Works going well, the kites
are moving up the line
nicely. Went to Sundepit in
the afternoon and pictures
in evening.
Can’t get to church on this
camp for we are too busy – I
simply can’t push the work
on to my pals – that’s not
Christianity! But Sunday
seems strange without
church service somehow.
To 22th JUL 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
19
20
21 22
Today we went to Karachi docks to bring back new Mustangs from
America. On way through Karachi a tail wheel burst and blocked
the street while I changed the wheel – officer congratulated me on
the fastest tail-wheel change he had ever seen “three minutes” he
said. I didn’t notice, but I felt pleased that something I had done was
noticed. Wrote to Kay in evening, replied to 2 letters.
Went to docks this morning and brought 5 more Mustangs back.
The Yanks were there to take some so we went through Karachi with
them – a convoy of 22 kites cleared the streets, un-liked by locals.
Played practice game of cricket in the evening and hurt my foot –
nothing serious, I survived and scored 22 runs.
89
Been told release groups 6-18 are off in September – official news.
Half day today so after towing another 5 kites from the docks, I had
a nice rest and wrote to Kay again. Went to pictures on camp later in
evening. Have come out in blisters – heaven knows what caused that
but will wait a day or so to see if they go away – very sore.
From 16th JUL 1945
WEDTUESMON
16
17
18

51. Pay day today thank heaven. New cinema on Western assembly – the
lads, who have made a good job of it, built it. Very busy at work but
don’t mind a bit as it is nice to read in the papers that Mustangs are
doing such good work and that our kites are helping to finish off the
Japs. Letter from Harold, tells me he is release group 20.
Results of general election out today, what a surprise – a sweeping
majority for Labour – the folks didn’t let us down after all as we first
thought they would. Churchill resigned and Attlee and Bevin went to
Berlin for talks instead – good luck to them. Peace terms offered by
Japs. Played cricket.
92
Snag on the 18th Mustang
(wheels and brakes), U.S.
renewed them go them out
and away. Stayed in and
wrote letters, then went to
flicks in the evening.
More kites at docks to be
towed to camp, we prepared
towing gear. Received a letter
from Kay from 21st – a
delay somewhere and Jack’s
still waiting to go.
To 29th JUL 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
26
27
28 29
Corporal tried to tell me I didn’t know what I was doing so I very
calmly gave him my tools to finish the job and had to go and obtain
a new rubber brake when I got back from having a smoke, which he
had broken – he was really maddening but has since been very nice:
guess he will leave me to do my job now. Played cricket.
Boy, what a day, pouring hard, and tent under water – rather the floor
is – have to wear gumboots to move to and from my charpoy – what
rain. Wrote to Kay.
91
It rained heavily but cleared up later on so Jack, Ed and I went to
Karachi and sent food parcels off. The other two went to flicks but
I back to camp being broke after sending that parcel, had an early
night. Met Jack Burton – was I surprised? He has a baby girl now.
From 23rd JUL 1945
WEDTUESMON
23
24
25

52. 94 japanese surrenderaugust
A U G U S T
Ja p a n e s e S u r r e n d e r
93

53. 96 japanese surrenderaugust95 japanese surrenderaugust

54. Very busy hangar, they were waiting for me this morning to put a
mag right on the brakes of third in line – no one knew what it was
but I’d had it before. Had a lovely letter from Kay today –just in time
for I am or was getting really bored. Spent evening on duty writing a
reply to it.
Chap reported sick to me last night – wanted to know what to do, as
it was 12.30pm. I noticed he looked all hot and cold so suspecting
Malaria, phoned for ambulance – doctor said “nice work” and
whipped him straight to hospital. Blimey what a blooming duty this
is – ruddy male nurse now.
98
Boys have another half day
while we have to look after
kites. Made another picture
frame in hangar to pass the
time. Reg had to work over
time on kite, helped him get
it finished.
This is the last day of this
cussed fire piquet – thank
heaven. It was fairly quiet; got
a good night sleep but boy oh
boy is it the worst time I have
spent in the R.A.F.
To 5th AUG 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
2
3
4 5
Today I start on fire piquet. Jack’s posting orders came through and
he leaves at 3.30am by plane. Up nearly all night giving early calls.
More Mustangs are ready from the docks – boy, are we busy. Doing
this fire piquet so I am confined to camp for a week – looks like it’s
going to be a bind.
Orders came through to stand by for panic posting, waited till 12pm
but it never came – looks like something is getting ready to go – could
it be the defeat of Japan – the Americans are certainly softening them
up anyway. London docks taken over by army – Dockers are still on
strike – the buggers – they should try being out here!
97
Well here’s to another month. This duty is darn fatiguing, on duty
24 hours a day for 7 days. You just can’t do it on the food here, it’s
a dead loss; even the canteen is deadly, I can barely eat most of the
stuff they serve.
From 30th JUL 1945
WEDTUESMON
30
31
1

55. The allies dropped another atomic bomb on Japan, Russia invade
Japan’s most northerly island and get further into Manchuria. If
Japan doesn’t give in they will be smashed to smithereens. We aren’t
easing up anyway; another two Mustangs went on their way today.
Finished kite before I head off for leave tomorrow. In tent while
packing and swatting flies when someone came with news that war
is finished. Couldn’t believe it but wireless says Japan has offered
surrender to Potsdam convention, providing the Mikado is left at the
head of Japan – the allies are discussing their reply. Why give them
any condition???
100
Arrived at Manora leave
camp, very healthy spot by
Arabian Sea. The Blue Devil
fish prevent us from going
in. It’s all very quiet.
Allies have accepted
Japan’s offer subject to the
Mikado taking orders from
allied supreme command.
Everyone is awaiting Japan’s
reply to this. Nothing has
come through and it is now
11.30. Wrote to Kay. It
will all be over tomorrow I
should think.
To 12th AUG 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
9
10
11 12
Today’s papers give me one of the biggest shocks of the war. Even
though it may end the war in Japan, which is wonderful – it is also
ghastly. The nuclear bomb, which releases the forces of atoms, only
5lb in weight yet equal to 20,000 tonnes of TNT. My god – what has
man discovered now? Dropped one bomb on Japanese army station:
results not known.
Results of atomic bomb believed to be that one bomb had wiped
out 60% of a Japanese city – devastation of about 7 square miles.
Ultimatum sent to Japan to surrender or to be smashed for all time.
News in now that the Germans nearly got to this secret bomb first –
thank god it has gone into the right hands.
99
Russia declares war on Japan and invades Manchuria getting in 6
miles already. What with the atomic bomb and now this, well Japs
better turn it in. This new bomb is gigantic in its devastation.
From 6th AUG 1945
WEDTUESMON
6
7
8

56. Spent the day doing nothing on camp – how absolutely dull. Had to
buy our own supper as cookhouse was busy – a shameful show. Went
to the pool for a swim – no mail from Kay, expect it has got held up
again. Played tennis in the evening – beginning to feel a lot better for
this rest.
Went into town at 1pm for lunch. Booked bed in Y.M.C.A. then went
to new club and joined. The Contact Club is a very comfortable
place. Bathe lounge, radiogram, and a reading & writing room. Went
to a dance at Y.M.C.A. in the evening – a V.J. dance until 1am. Met
three airmen just arrived in India on Ferry command – talked of
England and home.
102
Took them shopping in the
morning, they were glad
of someone who knew
the ropes. Ray promised to
phone Kay and take some tea
etc. home for her. Received
letter from Kay when Reg
came back from town.
Wrote nice long letter to
Kay and sent her a Birthday
verse. News says that 32
groups will be out by Xmas,
which means I should be
away by early November.
To 19th AUG 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
16
17
18 19
Still waiting for Japan’s reply – no news of it all day. We went into
Karachi in case peace was declared. Had a good feed at Allies Club
and went to the pictures. Bought some hankies and made some
enquiries about a bag for Kay, will have to get one made. Wrote a
letter for Alf and went for a run along the beach in the morning.
Awoke early so went for a stroll along the beach. Still no news of
Japs surrender officially but report from Switzerland Radio reckons
that the Japs have accepted our terms. This is the end of the war –
we are only waiting now for the official announcement. Stayed in
after playing tennis and had a quiet game of chess.
101
Got up early again and went to R.C. Church which is a very neat
one on this camp, it was filled by Indians, mainly the R.I.N. Went to
Karachi later for the day. PEACE officially declared in evening. V.J.
day tomorrow, holidays Thursday and Friday, will soon be home now.
No mail from Kay.
From 13th AUG 1945
WEDTUESMON
13
14
15

57. Today is Coconut day in India: lots of celebrations going. The
papers are full of atomic bomb possibilities. Opposition Winston
Churchill praised the Labour party’s foreign policy, which is a good
one. Demob is to be reviewed and a statement will be issued soon. A
chap who is E21 has had his medical.
Went out in Ganda boat fishing for the day with a rod and line.
Caught 27 fish between four of us, had them fried on bread with
cheese and peaches to follow. Went to Sandspit afterwards for a
swim, got back to camp at 6pm in time to pack ready to go back
tomorrow, a very nice last day.
104
Leave finished – tent was in
such a state that we spent all
day putting it back in shape
again. Boy were we tired
and did I sleep? Had a letter
from Kay.
Wrote letters to Kay and Kit.
Went to flicks in the evening.
America is stopping leave
without telling anyone about
it. Bad policy, this is almost
like a stab in the back for
Britain.
To 26th AUG 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
23
24
25 26
Went for a walk along the beach again in the morning. This camp is a
dead loss though – even tennis is off now as chaps have lost the only
three balls. Have just realised that this is August – yet I have sent
Birthday wishes to Kay thinking is was September. Dear me – what a
fool the climate must be affecting me or something. The sooner I’m
home the better.
Rather dull morning so stayed in and wrote letters. Two of the
boys came in from camp with the mail. A nice letter from Kay also
received one from Mum and Sybil. Stayed in and answered letters
after showing our pals the beach and how many crabs and turtles
there are over there. There are Japs still fighting in Burma, refusing
to accept surrender.
103
Went to town to the club and had a good comfortable time – what
a treat to sit in a real nice armchair – the food was typically English
too. Played the radiogram all afternoon and then went to the Allies
for dinner and on to the pictures.
From 20th AUG 1945
WEDTUESMON
20
21
22

58. Officer was under misapprehension that we had not been in the
cookhouse and having a parade resulted in a meeting. He promised
to investigate the food situation, this improved the last meal – lets
hope it has done good, riot or no riot. News reached us that the
government has stated only 23G will be out by Xmas but I think this
is only the official mind being careful.
Working on stripping Hurricanes and Spitfires to salvage. The drome
looks deserted – very little activity in comparison to what it has been.
Played cricket yesterday and tonight, we won 144 to 86, bowled for a
change. Went to cinema in evening and had a community sing – very
enjoyable. No mail from Kay today.
106
Had a letter from Kay
continuing bad news that
Uncle has had an argument
with Mother through Marie’s
usual interference. If only
I were home to see that
wicked troublemaker, she
would have a different man
to deal with now.
Sent parcels of food home
and ordered Kay’s bag.
Stayed in after church on
Sunday morning and wrote
letters all day long. Went to
concert in evening.
To 2nd SEP 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
30
31
1 2
Still no news of demob, but then I can see that they wont give
anything definite until after Japan’s surrender is signed on Thursday.
Played cricket in evening and finished up in camp cinema. Was
recommended for A.I.D. inspector with opportunity of promotion
to corp. But because of demob why would I do it.
Started working on uncasing Harvards, been inside all day – rather
warm. No mail from home. Went to main camp and played cricket:
also saw Jack Burton from W.F. We had a chat about old times. Food
on camp today was terrible; I can see some trouble coming soon
over it.
105
The boys went to dinner tonight but had tea only. Parade was called
later and we read the riot act and the C.O. got the Welfare Officer
down. I spoke up for the lads.
From 27th AUG 1945
WEDTUESMON
27
28
29

59. 108 THE ATOMIC BOMBSEPTEMBER
S E P T E M B E R
T h e A t o m i c B o m b
107

60. 110 THE ATOMIC BOMBseptember109 THE ATOMIC BOMBseptember

61. Lots of talk today on last night’s news, we may now tell in letters
the location of this camp. Went to canteen and wrote letters. Found
a frog in the tent – we put him outside but he keeps coming back
again. Also had a “praying mantus” – a lovely specimen about 3
inches long. Heard news in the evening that aircraft carriers are
taking Australian forces home - 3000 each.
No mail today, very little work to do. Got the outstanding Mustangs
into line for last building – most of them need Indian colbars put on.
Visited Welfare Officer and received forms to put in for a house with
Croydon Borough Council with Service men receiving preference.
112
First peacetime Saturday off,
went shopping in Karachi.
Obtained Kay’s shopping
bag, which I had made for
her, very nice indeed. Then
bought a tennis racket to
take home. Very satisfied.
Sent food parcel.
Went to church in the
morning, in the afternoon
and evening we went to
Karachi to take photos in
Frere Hall gardens. Had a
feed in Café Grand – lovely.
Came back to camp early
and went to the pictures.
To 9th SEP 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
6
7
8 9
Allies say news will shortly be out on demob. The allies entered
Japan without trouble today and signed surrender terms. Now we
may here soon on demob – now that the Japs have been invaded
without trouble, the government have no fear of sudden demand for
extra men.
Today is the anniversary of being posted overseas. Starting new
hours tomorrow, half a day off on Wednesdays with Saturday and
Sunday off. Need to go to main camp and sort out a hydraulic snag
on a Mustang. Changed a jack and so made it okay. Went to pictures
in camp, not bad.
111
Wrote in the canteen and while writing we heard the new minister
for Labour give some information on demob. 5,000,000 men needed
for volunteering so there is no fear of unemployment. Transport is
the trouble but the government is going to assess the situation and
report again on it at the end of the month. 150,000 prisoners of war
are the first preference to go home – good show.
From 3rd SEP 1945
WEDTUESMON
3
4
5

62. 12 months today since I left Kay. 12 months without a kiss or a
wife’s kind word – god how much longer do I have to stand this
awful waiting. Letters, letters only letters. Went to pictures in the
evening as I felt a bit cheesed off but news came later that Isaacs
spoke on the radio to T.U.C. saying the same as before but adding
that definitely demob would increase.
Very little work needs doing, so stayed in camp and played chess.
Went to the pictures in the evening in main camp. Censorship was
taken off early this week but today it has gone on again – what
organisation. Don’t know what they’re doing.
114
Went to town today, had
a feed of steak, eggs and
tomatoes and went to flicks.
Battle of Britain parade on
camp, looked good.
Went to Sandspit for a swim
– very nice. Came back and
had a game of chess in the
tent. No further demob
news yet.
To 16th SEP 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
13
14
15 16
Made a picture frame during the day – no work – only need to
take a kite to main camp. Played tennis in evening to keep us fit –
feeling pretty good – but have had no mail. News came out that
240,000 Japs have been killed through the atomic bomb out of a
250,000 population.
Censorship lifted – wizard. Wrote a nice letter to Kay with all the
latest news in it. Still waiting for news of demob. Chaps are getting
impatient but I say have faith this government will see us right.
Played tennis in the evening.
113
Half day today, wrote letters as I received a letter today – from Alan,
Kit, Sybil and Charlie. In the afternoon Reg and I played tennis,
then had a shower and went to the pictures in camp. “V.J. Peace
Celebrations” on the news: what a time they had in London.
From 10th SEP 1945
WEDTUESMON
10
11
12

63. Finished court and had a game in hangar – taught Bill, Ben and Reg
the game – they picked it up well. Had a lovely letter from Kay and
answered it straight away. I am worried about Mother – everything
seems to have gone wrong for her and Uncle because of Marie –
what can I do?
We have started a new line in the hangar and are working on our
court. I started with Reg on wheels and brakes. Went to a football
match in Karachi is the evening; professional team played a Sindh
eleven. The pros were Curtis (Arsenal), Morney (Celtic), Rothwell
(Southport) and others – good football. Sindh lost 3-1.
116
Had to go into work today
as a full working day but
we were surprised with a
half-day off at lunchtime.
Went into town to do some
shopping for Kay’s parcel
and also sent food.
Went to Sandspit for the day,
had a lovely day but it was
very hot and clammy – a treat
to be in the water. Wrote
letter in the evening as we
were already back by 5pm.
To 23rd SEP 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
20
21
22 23
David had received news that his posting to A.I.S. had come
through. Played tennis in the evening and went to the flicks as usual
– “Sunday Dinner For A Soldier” very good.
Got permission to start a badminton club on camp and to mark
out a court in the hangar. Had another snag to fix – not much work
needed doing. Group 22 is to be officially released by 1st October.
Will I get out by Xmas – 6 groups to go??
115
Worked out court in hangar as we had half a day off. Played last game
of cricket – caught one out and carried my bat through from 7th
wicket. Stayed down main camp and went to the pictures there after to
have some food. No news from home or any of demob either.
From 17th SEP 1945
WEDTUESMON
17
18
19

64. Finished another kite in hangar and got the Xmas parcel away.
Received and answered a letter from Kay, a lovely letter that cheered
me up no end. Went to pictures in the evening and saw “Desert
Victory” – a good historical film indeed.
12 months since I left Blackpool for overseas. Played badminton in
hangar in the evening and wrote two letters afterwards. I feel awful
tonight, missing Kay terribly these days. Am trying to keep my spirits
up but D.R.O. says 24s only by Xmas – from Air Ministry.
118
Lots of discussion on the
new demob news, but I am
staying open-minded until I
head Isaacs’ speech.
Day off so went to Sandspit
and had a nice day in the sea.
No further mail from home,
wrote letters when I returned.
To 30th SEP 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
27
28
29 30
It was the anniversary of me joining the R.A.F five years today, five
years of poor food. I am losing weight badly; having to buy food
outside to try and keep healthy, food is terrible in this camp. A
terrific thunderstorm came in the night – thought tent was coming
down and a lot of water came in.
Reg had to go off sick with terrific pains in his stomach – Dysentery
suspected. Nearly finished working on the wheels and will finish
hydraulics tomorrow. Received letter from Uncle explaining trouble
over Marie, she has got £400 out of Mother somehow; and the thing
she has been doing to part Mother and Uncle – don’t know what to
do except to try for leave.
117
Kay’s birthday today, another that I shall be away from her, thank
god this will be the last. Made up a parcel to send home for Xmas.
Oh how I have thought about how wonderful it would be if I could
be home to see it arrive. So far we have no news officially.
From 24th SEP 1945
WEDTUESMON
24
25
26

65. 120 demob?OCTOBER
O C T O B E R
D e m o b ?
119

66. 122 DEMOB?OCTOBER121 DEMOB?OCTOBER

67. Anyway I am going to listen to Isaacs himself tonight. Have just
returned from listening to wireless; 45s out of Navy, 32s out of
Army and 28s out of R.A.F out by next June. This is terrible news,
another 8 months out here. Poor Kay – I can’t help but think of her.
It appears that Isaacs has pleased the majority of servicemen. The
service chaps are saying they are demanding more men than they
need to, to stay here. There is now no hope for I am going back in 8
months and I have all that waiting to do again. How am I supposed
to write this to Kay? I’ll try my best.
124
We had a pep talk today
from the C.O. It appears
they want 80 Spitfires a
month now to replace
American aircrafts, which is
being done, to knock down
our debt with them.
With this news we just
haven’t got the heart for the
job. All I can think of is Kay
and how she must be feeling
about it.
To 7th OCT 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
4
5
6 7
Another month finished and still no definite news on getting out.
Had a lovely letter from Kay but she tells me David is ill and on top
of this bad news, she says he is to have glasses. I answered the letter
in evening after a game of badminton. Sent some photos home.
We are now on the last of the Mustangs – only four more to do.
After this we don’t know what we will be on. Went to canteen to
hear news that Isaacs is to speak tomorrow evening at 20.15 G.M.T.
but as we wont be awake for that as it will be about 2.30am I.S.T.
they are to broadcast his speech again on Thursday at 13.15. I.S.T.
123
We should soon know our fate, lets hope the government do
something for the lads this time – at least to give us some sort of
knowledge on what is happening re demob. On coming back from
town I was told that a preview of Isaacs’ speech had been broadcast
saying 3 million will be back by June but that depends on the
different services.
From 1st OCT 1945
WEDTUESMON
1
2
3

68. Drafted a letter to a number of people in parliament on our
dissatisfaction of demob, which I am getting as many names
appended to as I can before posting. It states clearly and frankly and
honest criticism with definite reasons to cause them. Have not had a
letter from home yet but had one from Jack and one from Chas.
A letter arrived from Bob Hodder today – what a lad he is. Things in
newspapers are still very critical. Showed my MPs letter to the lads
– they are delighted with it and all want to sign it but I must wait for
some more facts and figures to check mine before sending it.
126
Kay’s letter arrived, poor
kid I could read between
the lines and could see how
brave she was appearing to
be for my sake. A marvellous
letter from a very lovely,
brave wife.
How she is suffering – only
she and I know. She sent
a Daily Herald with all the
news, just in time too. Played
football later on.
To 14th OCT 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
11
12
13 14
Started working on fire piquet again but saw officer and managed
to get some help so the duty is made easier for all concerned. Wrote
to Kay and managed to somehow get my true feelings on paper. I
wonder what she will do – I wouldn’t blame her if she gave up hope
but hope to god she doesn’t.
Had a good sleep last night and helped get the first Spitfire in hangar
this morning. Negotiated for us to keep on playing badminton in
there. Wrote more mail in the evening. This fire piquet isn’t quite so
bad as last time. The main talk on the camp is still demob and the
injustice of the government’s proposals as forces are concerned.
125
Had snags on a Mustang to do – will be a long job as it is a hydraulic
component. Received permission to take a team to main camp to
play a match next Wednesday. There were a few reports on the
parliamentary debates in the paper but nothing about demob yet.
From 8th OCT 1945
WEDTUESMON
8
9
10

69. Our rackets arrived today having been restrung. One of the chaps,
David, is playing in the football team tonight. He stood down in the
end due to a lack of confidence – I played instead. Wrote a letter for
a fellow who had sprained his wrist a few days ago and wanted to let
his wife know. Went to flicks later, no letters.
The weather has changed to very damp oppressive heat. The wind is
flowing from the desert making it very uncomfortable indeed. Took
the side of the tent down which made it better. The weather’s getting
very dangerous and it’s attracting the mosquitos.
128
Worked all day today and
changed hangars. My ankle is
getting better at last but must
still keep it strapped. Was
very hot today.
Was going to Sandspit but
no transport turned up so
had a day in camp. Finished
up in main camp and then
went to the pictures. Had a
letter from Kay.
To 21st OCT 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
18
19
20 21
Had a job to get up as I had sprained my right ankle but I did not
complain. A chap posted something up on the notice board saying
that chaps in the R.A.F. at home are creating a fuss about demob.
Went to pictures in camp in the evening. Saw “I’ll Walk Beside You”
– very nice singing in it. Fire piquet is finished thank heaven.
Went sick because of my ankle – had x-ray but it was okay, had it
strapped up and rested it for 24 hours. My team of learners play
badminton tomorrow at the main camp. Said I shall go along and
play to give them some support.
127
Had to report sick again with ankle but it is now okay and Doc says
I can play badminton tonight if I go easy. We had a very enjoyable
evening, although we lost but the other team had 3 months constant
practice. My partner and I won 2 sets out of 3.
From 15th OCT 1945
WEDTUESMON
15
16
17

70. Went to American camp to swim in competition but I was not
needed. Very tired when I returned but stayed up writing to Kay –
miss her.
Lots of snags today so had a very busy day. Played badminton in the
evening, Reg, whom I taught the game beat me in competition. Went
to canteen in the evening to write letters, did not receive any today
though. I am feeling very fit but must not forget it might change in
this climate. It has changed to hot winds from the Sindh.
130
Still very busy in hangar
but we had a parade in the
morning – makes me sick.
Had to work in afternoon but
went to Karachi with David
in the evening. Jack and
Charlie have now returned.
Went to Manora in the
morning. The R.C.s of
Karachi had a procession
throught the town: 10,000 of
them, black, white and mixed
– very, very nice procession.
To 28th OCT 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
25
26
27 28
Sent a letter to Kay, poor darling, she feels the same dreadful
helplessness that I do. I will send it off tomorrow. Very busy still in
the hangar but I have no heart for it.
Sent a letter to J Haire the M.P. for West Wycombe complaining
about demob. Later in the day news went round that demob had
been speeded up to 32 group by June instead of the disgusting 28. If
this is true the government have proved they will try to please but I
shall never forgive them for the stress and worry they have caused.
129
Half-day today, received a smashing letter from Kay – encouraging
beyond words, I wonder if she knows all about the current demob
news, she seems very hopeful. Went to Karachi in the afternoon and
sent two food parcels and bought vest, pants and socks to send home.
From 22nd OCT 1945
WEDTUESMON
22
23
24

71. We are told today that if we finish our kite early we can go to billet
– this applies to any day but we have too much to do anyway. Group
27 have their medical today and still no official news about the
rumour of 21s at Bombay by the 25th November.
Took a team down to main camp for badminton comp. We lost
against chaps who play immaculately but gave them a good game
and enjoyed a very friendly evening. No news of Kay, I am longing
for the time when I can get home; am fed up with MEN, MEN, and
MEN. Oh for Kay’s sweet voice.
132
Managed to get the half-day
today as we caught up on
work! Went to town for a feed
– eggs, steak, tomatoes, chips,
ice cream and tea – wizard!!!
Organised Sandspit run and
had a good day swimming
and bathing. The weather has
cooled down to 85 degrees
in the shade and drops to 70
degrees at night. We have to
have two blankets at night.
To 4th NOV 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
1
2
3 4
First line of kites came through today, we have been very busy
working on wheels and brakes but we are just about keeping up.
Played badminton in the evening and then went to flicks and wrote
to Kay. I am down to play in the football team tomorrow. No mail
today – bad weather at home is holding it up.
Heard some news today that group 21 has to be in Bombay by 25th
of next month – hope it is true for I will be away in a fortnight or
three weeks. I can hardly believe it and am determined not to rely
on it. Played a half in the football team for W.A. we drew 1-1. Had a
quiet night in canteen.
131
No mail from home today. Still busy in hangar but was a half-day
today so went on a shopping expedition for David’s watch but
couldn’t get one ordered for next Wednesday. Taking a badminton
team down to main camp on Friday.
From 29th OCT 1945
WEDTUESMON
29
30
31

72. 134 hospitalnovember
N O V E M B E R
H o s p i t a l
133

73. 136 hospitalnovember135 hospitalnovember

74. Went to hangar in the evening to loosen my arm. Went to flicks and
a kite was in trouble over the drome this evening but made a good
belly landing.
Had a row today with the A.I.D. over a servicing instruction –
proved my point and they were gentlemanly enough to apologize.
Stayed in later to write letters but arm played me up. Went to bed
early but could not sleep.
138
Managed to get our kite
finished today and had a
half-day off but did not go
out. Arm getting better but
getting headaches, which are
making me, tired.
Did not go out today, stayed
in camp to write letters.
Wrote to the children who
had sent me two lovely
letters. How they are
growing, I wont know them
when I get back. I think we
will all be very happy.
To 11th NOV 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
8
9
10 11
Had a general meeting of the badminton club this evening, they
elected me official badminton representative for Western Dispersal
and also captain on the committee. No mail today, but know that bad
weather is delaying it at home. Hope to have one tomorrow as it is
10 days since I heard from home.
News on demob came out today, no release this month. This buries
the rumour of 21s out of this camp by end of the month. Wrote
to Kay in answer to a wizard letter from her today. They feel much
better about the news of 32s out by June.
137
Received a letter from Kay again today and two letters from the
children. Went into town and bought a nice wristwatch for David
which is shock proof with heavy glass – just the job for a boy
David’s age. Kay has received her first food parcel.
From 5th NOV 1945
WEDTUESMON
5
6
7

75. Getting on with the work nicely in hangar. Another kite finished
today early so got away. Stayed in and wrote letters in evening. Heard
news again about 28s out of India by Jan 6th. They have to be in
Bombay by Dec 24th. I wonder? Anyway we will soon see.
Went to work, finished another ‘Spit’ then packed up early. Went
and watched a game of football before going to badminton
committee meeting in main camp. No more demob news, 26s leave
for Bombay tomorrow.
140
During a game of football
for our section I fell and
hurt my ankle so badly that
I was taken by ambulance to
Karachi hospital. The lads
came to see me.
This is a lovely hospital;
the nurse and sisters are
wonderful. Food is really
good, very comfortable bed.
Wrote to Kay letting her
know all the latest.
To 18th NOV 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
15
16
17 18
Took a badminton team to main camp to play but it turned into a
case of play anyone, an interesting evening was had by all. No word
from home had a letter from Kit and one from Sybil whose fiancé
has his release coming up this month.
Rumour came out today that 28s have to be out of India by Jan 6th:
dare not repeat it until some official news comes out. Stayed in to
write but committee meeting came of suggesting to invite WACI’s to
match at Western one Sunday. Got permission for this. Still haven’t
received a letter from Kay.
139
Managed to scrounge enough parts to make another Spitfire
serviceable today, spares are very short these days. Did not go into
today as I am short of cash and I must try and get some money
together to buy all the things I want to take home.
From 12th NOV 1945
WEDTUESMON
12
13
14

76. Saw the M.O. and he strapped my ankle up and said that I could go
to camp Saturday on discharge. The news on demob is that 27s are
to be home by Dec. 21s to have medical next week and to report to
orderly room by 29th of this month. Must check up on this and get
back. Wrote to Mother and Kay.
Allowed to have a walk about today so got up and went up to the
hospital roof. Wrote more letters including another to Kay. Everyone
is very nice in here – the nurses and sisters help all the time and are
lovely to look at, it’s a treat for sore eyes to see some English girls.
142
Got up early and was ready to
go by 8.30. Left the hospital
by 10 and got to camp by
11am. The chaps seemed very
pleased to see me.
Had to take it easy, as my
foot is not strong yet. The
lads are good and help all
they can. No more news of
Kay yet – perhaps tomorrow
will bring news.
To 25th NOV 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
22
23
24 25
Still in suspense, had an x-ray today but don’t know the result yet. I
don’t think it is broken or fractured though or the M.O. would have
put it in plaster. Wrote to Kay. I feel that everything will be okay
and have only slight pain occasionally. Had a lovely nights sleep –
best in India.
X-ray results came through. Wizard – no breaks or fractures but torn
tendons and badly sprained ankle. The strapping I had on at the time
saved the ankle. Wrote to Kay as soon as I heard to let her know the
good news. No fear of missing the boat now. Hope to be out in 10
days with any luck.
141
Doctor saw me today and gave me news that it would be okay
definitely. Wrote to Kay. Jack came to see me and Elsie and Doris
Walters came and gave a show in the hospital theatre. They carried
me in to see them – wizard. No more demob news yet.
From 19th NOV 1945
WEDTUESMON
19
20
21

77. Foot is getting stronger now so that I can put my full weight on it
now without having to limp. It is still strapped up. Worked out my
pay ready for going home some day. I have been played almost up
to date so wont have any corrections to come. Have to rest my foot,
can’t take advantage of it.
Received letters from Kay in reply to mine letting her know of
my accident. She certainly was nice about it – I deserved to be
told off for taking such a risk so close to going home. Bless her
but she wont have to worry about me from now on – NO MORE
FOOTBALL definitely.
144
News that 27s will soon be
going whoopee – soon be
away now.
Went to Sandspit for the day
with the lads, had a lovely
day in the sun – did the
world of good. Came back
and I wrote letters.
To 2nd DEC 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
29
30
1 2
Did not go to work as when I saw the M.O. this morning, he told me
to keep off my foot – officially giving me 21 days light duty. HAD
MY MEDICAL for release this afternoon, perfect apart from my
foot of course. That is the first step homeward anyway.
My foot is coming on nicely now, although I have to watch where I
am walking. It seems that the news I got in hospital re demob was
a duff, for the 27s are not getting cleared until next week. Lots of
repats are flying home now, wonder how long it will be before I am
on my way.
143
Started a competition for the badminton club. Couldn’t play myself of
course but have organised it. Entered two teams in the station league.
They play against one another – worse luck – on Friday. Went to
pictures in evening after writing to Kay. No mail from home today.
From 26th NOV 1945
WEDTUESMON
26
27
28

78. 146 christmasdecember
D E C E M B E R
C h r i s t m a s
145

79. 148 christmasdecember147 christmasdecember

80. News came today that 27s will have to be in Bombay by Dec 26th.
I reckon I will be here for Xmas after all. Anyway, with any luck I
should be home early next year. Stayed in and wrote Xmas mail to
folks at home. Had a letter from Maureen. Saw a football match at
main camp.
Received a letter from Kay, a real smashing letter – it bucked me up
no end. I wonder if she realises when she writes, what her letters
mean to me. Gee, I would die if she stopped writing. How impatient
I get when there is a delay in mail.
150
Work all day today, was asked
to build a servery for the
cookhouse, said I would start
it Monday.
Stayed in camp today. Free
to run on my foot – not too
much pain but still some in
places. Went to flicks in the
evening with Smudger.
To 9th DEC 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
6
7
8 9
Had a general meeting of the badminton club, a very good
attendance. I was voted into the chair as chairman. Went to watch
lads play over in the hangar earlier in evening. Received a letter from
Kay, it was a real beauty – boy oh boy can she write a smashing letter.
News of demob seems to be very scarce these days. 27s are still
here and work is STILL out for me. I am resting my foot as much as
possible. The lads are very good to me and help me all they can. No
mail from home. Went to flicks in the evening after writing home.
149
Half-day today, so trained for the badminton match against WACI
this afternoon. Was quite good but very strange. Went into Karachi
with ‘Smudger’ afterwards. Had a look round the shops for this to
take home, got a good idea of prices etc.
From 3rd DEC 1945
WEDTUESMON
3
4
5

81. Received a nice letter from Kay this morning, she is content to know
that I will be home sometime in January. Gee I was disappointed
when I realised that I would not be home for Xmas. Kay and the
children have received my Xmas parcel but aren’t opening until Xmas
day: and I once thought I would see them open it.
Worked in hangar clearing up the snags on the last few Spitfires we
are building. Wrote a few more Xmas mails in evening. Darn cold
during the night – living in tents in this weather, 60 degrees, the
lowest since I have been here.
152
Worked all day on server in
cookhouse. Gee it is getting
cold at night. Have to have
long trousers in morning
and evening.
Went to cookhouse and did
a bit more to the server.
Packed up in time to go to
Mauripur to see our station
soccer team beat them 4-0, a
really good game.
To 16th DEC 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
13
14
15 16
Started new job for Xmas, making a servery for the cookhouse. The
27s have to go by the 24th. Wizard – now maybe I will be away by the
end of the month. Stayed in in the evening and wrote Xmas cards.
Had terrible row with Sgt Gorton this morning, told him what the
lads thought of him – did he go red. The lads said afterwards that
he couldn’t get a word in and was so shaken that when he could he
didn’t. He was much nicer to everyone afterwards. Went to flicks in
the evening with the lads.
151
Had another half day on the server – it will look okay when finished.
No mail from home. Arranged another game with WACIs for the
afternoon. 10 girls turned up and we all had a good game. Stayed in
during the evening and wrote letters.
From 10th DEC 1945
WEDTUESMON
10
11
12

82. Well I thought I would be leaving Karachi at least by today and yet
here I am still here and haven’t even warned to get cleared. I don’t
think I will be away by this next month. Still working on severy – we
will be pushed to finished by Xmas. No mail today.
No mail again, but was very busy today. We were taken off servery to
do a job in hangar. They released an administrative instruction that
21s won’t be out today. Others not mentioned – this means I will
not be out in January. I am really terribly fed up with everything. It is
very cold here these days; need three blankets at night, pullovers and
long slacks in the mornings.
154
Worked all day on servery
in cookhouse. It looks very
nice now and it is almost
done. Congratulated on it by
officer. Stayed in to write in
the evening. No mail.
Worked all day on server,
until 11.30pm. Boy – was
I tired: it looks very nice
but will have to work hard
tomorrow to finish. No
mail from home, what has
happened?
To 23rd DEC 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
20
21
22 23
Received a letter from John Haire M.P. in answer to my letter of
complaint on demob from the fellows of W.D. A very nice letter
we received telling us that everything is being done to please us
all. Received a nice letter from Sybil. The demob seems to be at a
standstill these days. I shall still be in India when this diary expires.
Had to work in hangar to finish kite and then went back on
cookhouse servery. We are getting no help at all – having to do our
full work in hangar and the other in our own spare time. We are sent
for to do the smallest job – even on one occasion to lock up and
lock out.
153
Half day today but went up to cookhouse to continue working on
servery. Expected a letter from Kay today but did not receive one.
Wrote to the children and to Kay. Played badminton: found my ankle
holds up perfectly. Wrote to Doc tonight. Received a letter from
Sybil, very nice one.
From 17th DEC 1945
WEDTUESMON
17
18
19

83. Well I thought I would be leaving Karachi at least by today and yet
here I am still here and haven’t even warned to get cleared. I don’t
think I will be away by this next month. Still working on severy – we
will be pushed to finished by Xmas. No mail today.
No mail again, but was very busy today. We were taken off servery to
do a job in hangar. They released an administrative instruction that
21s won’t be out today. Others not mentioned – this means I will
not be out in January. I am really terribly fed up with everything. It is
very cold here these days; need three blankets at night, pullovers and
long slacks in the mornings.
156
Worked all day on servery
in cookhouse. It looks very
nice now and it is almost
done. Congratulated on it by
officer. Stayed in to write in
the evening. No mail.
Worked all day on server,
until 11.30pm. Boy – was
I tired: it looks very nice
but will have to work hard
tomorrow to finish. No
mail from home, what has
happened?
To 30th DEC 1945
THURSFRISAT&SUN
27
28
29 30
Received a letter from John Haire M.P. in answer to my letter of
complaint on demob from the fellows of W.D. A very nice letter
we received telling us that everything is being done to please us
all. Received a nice letter from Sybil. The demob seems to be at a
standstill these days. I shall still be in India when this diary expires.
Had to work in hangar to finish kite and then went back on
cookhouse servery. We are getting no help at all – having to do our
full work in hangar and the other in our own spare time. We are sent
for to do the smallest job – even on one occasion to lock up and
lock out.
155
Half day today but went up to cookhouse to continue working on
servery. Expected a letter from Kay today but did not receive one.
Wrote to the children and to Kay. Played badminton: found my ankle
holds up perfectly. Wrote to Doc tonight. Received a letter from
Sybil, very nice one.
From 24th DEC 1945
WEDTUESMON
24
25
26

84. 158 New year anniversaryjanuary
J A N U A R Y
N e w Ye a r A n n i v e r s a r y
157

85. Went to hangar as some rubbers had arrived from England to
complete the seven Spitfires we had left. We managed to do three
today. The Bon Voyage opened tonight for New Year’s Eve, It was
very quiet indeed compared to Christmas but there was still plenty
of drunkenness. Won’t it be lovely to get home away from this?
This is the New Year, had a good time with four pals until 1am,
and drank the health of all our friends back home. I missed Kay’s
company last night, which was our 14th anniversary of meeting and
my thoughts were often with her last night wondering if she too had
thoughts similar to mine and if she has any regrets.
160
This is the last day of this
diary. I have still had no
official news of going home
but have great hopes of
it coming this week. This
diary leaves me quite happy
in that thought: very fit and
still as madly in love with my
darling Kay as I ever was.
Good luck to 1946.
To 3rd JAN 1946
THURSFRISAT&SUN
31
1
2 3
159 New year anniversaryjanuary

86. 162
Thomas returned home later that January, he enjoyed time with Kay, his children and his
friends in the coming years and even got to meet his Grandchildren.
161

87. 164163

88. 166165

89. C H A P T ER O N E
The sun was shining with all its summer brilliance and glowing upon a group
of men gathered together on a glorious day to hear sad news from a tall,
handsome young priest dressed in the garb of a monk. Father Francis Smythe
was standing on the steps of the Abbey of St. Columbus which is situated in a
beautiful setting of Scottish scenery. Its tall trees, distant hills and green fields
were typical of the lovely isle of Iona off the Scottish coast.
It was with a heavy heart that he commenced to relate to the men gathered
around him the news that the work on the restoration of the Abbey had now
to cease. “I will not,” he said “Bore you all with the intricate details concerned
with the cessation of this wonderful work. Now that the country is at war,
building materials are needed to assist in its vital progress so it must be obvious
to you all why we cannot continue. What I wish to dwell upon is the way in
which you have all faithfully carried out the tasks allotted to you and more than
that, the wonderful way in which you have helped to make life together such
a pleasant one. It has not been easy; living, as we have had to do, away from
all the pleasures and amusements which you have been used to all your lives. I
cannot help but praise and thank you for the patience and understanding which
you have shown during your two years here. You will no doubt all be joining
the forces shortly to travel over great distances in dangers and trials to get to
grips with our enemies, which brings me to the major reason for requesting
your presence here today. I would like you to accept a small gift from me, a
silver cross, one which I hope you will carry with you wherever you go to help
inspire courage and confidence during any trial or suffering which you may
have to encounter. There is only one condition which I would like you to keep
regarding this symbol of trust in God. Do not keep it for more than twelve
months. Before this period expires I want you to pass it on to one whom you
think needs it more than yourself.”
C H A P T ER T W O
“Enemy Aircraft approaching--------------Scramble”. The tannoy calmly
announced this brief but all important message to the men sitting down
trying to snatch a few minutes rest from the constant round of furious activity
which had denies them any real sleep for the past few weeks. Unquestioningly
they obeyed its summons and were soon roaring over the south of England
aerodrome in pursuit of what had recently become an almost automatic duty,
the relentless hunting of the invading aircraft to fight and destroy them, and so
168
T H E S I LV E R C R O S S
B y T h o m a s F B e n s o n
167