Kelly, Charles Alvin (Private, b.1913 - d.1985) Accession Number: PR02043

Description

Transcript of a Second World War diary written by VX1186 Private Charles Alvin Kelly of 2/7 Infantry Battalion, covering the period 9 April 1941- 4 August 1942. Details his active service experiences in Greece and Crete, including his capture by German forces on Crete in June 1941 and subsequent escape and evacuation from the island to Egypt by submarine (HMS Torbay) in August 1941. His thoughtful and intelligent account includes criticisms of the behaviour of British units in the fighting retreats in Greece and Crete and displays an unreserved admiration for the bravery and generosity shown by Cretans who assisted his escape. The diary also covers his later service in the Middle East (Palestine and Syria) between August 1941-March 1942, when his unit transferred to Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Here, engaged in intelligence and reconnaissance duties in connection with the defence of Ceylon against a possible Japanese attack, the diary assumes a more meditative tone with revelations of the writer's interest in religious and philosophical subjects, notably his attraction to Buddhist teaching. At the same time the entries provide detailed insights into the local population and places visited. Entries between 7 July and 4 August 1942 chronicle his return voyage to Australia on board SS Athlone Castle. Appendices comprise various philosophical musings, glossary of abbreviations and copies of his war service records. Additional item: original diary written VX11861 Private Charles Alvin Kelly (in green cloth cover).

Details

Conflicts

• Second World War, 1939-1945

Places

• Crete
• Greece
• Ceylon