The Australian War Memorial Collection. Test site
German model 1895 ammunition pouch. The pouch is of blocked leather construction with metal dividers creating three sections. The pouch holds a total of 45 rounds of 7.92mm cartridges in clips. Original black finish still evident. Included with pouch are 51 spent 7.92mm cartridges in 11 clips with projectiles replaced, together with a spare empty clip.
This German ammunition pouch and cartridges were collected near Morlancourt by 1689 Sergeant Walter Ernest 'Wally' Brown while serving with 20 Battalion during the First World War.
Brown was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions during fighting near Passchendaele, Belgium between 5-10 October 1917.
The following year he was awarded the Victoria Cross for capturing 13 German troops, including an officer, single handedly, near Vaire Wood following the Battle of Hamel. He returned to Australia in December 1919 and was discharged on 15 February 1920.
On 21 June 1940 he re-enlisted (NX35492) in the Second AIF. With 2/15 Field Regiment he moved to Malaya in August 1941 and was in Singapore when it fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. Brown was last seen in the hours prior to the Allied capitulation disappearing toward the enemy lines saying 'No surrender for me.' His body was never recovered.
His name is commemorated on the Singapore Memorial, 22 kilometres north of the city of Singapore.
Brown leather rectangular voided entrenching tool (spade) carrier. Impressed on rear lower 'LIEBHART & THEIMER MUNCHEN'. Impressed on front upper '11' and 'TDI'. This German entrenching tool carrier
German water bottle made from pressed steel with the halves soldered together. Water bottle has hot-dipped tin outer which is painted grey-green. Cork stopper connected to neck of bottle by twine. Mak
Khaki rubberised cotton carrier bag for French model M2 gas mask. Bag has cotton shoulder strap that has become detached on the left hand side. This French model M2 gas mask carrier bag was collecte
Small pair folding scissors. Pressed handles are hinged at base of blades, which are serrated on the cutting edges. Impressed on upper blade above grub screw hinge with 'FRANCE' and star flash motif.
Soldier's pay book, serial number 29169, with darl brown glazed linen cover. Additional number 79817 written in blue on first page. Period covers 23 October 1915 - 6 November 1918. Owner's pay details
One litre capacity French model 1877 water bottle. Pressed steel, halves soldered together. Water bottle has hot-dipped tin outer showing signs of rubbing wear. Large neck has cork stopper; smaller ne
