I Was Only Doing My Job By Ross Manuel

1 April 1942 – While serving as a pilot with No. 405 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force, Flight Sergeant Moheddeen Abdull Ghias Howsan and his crew took part in a daring night raid over Nazi-occupied France. A skilled and determined aviator, Howsan was a proud Australian descended from Afghan and Indian immigrants—one of many Muslim ANZACs who answered the call to serve.During the mission, their Wellington bomber was struck by enemy fire and engulfed in flames. As the aircraft fell towards the town of Marly-le-Roi, Howsan fought to maintain control, steering away from homes, a school, and a church. His sacrifice saved the town, but he and his crew paid the ultimate price.To donate in the Soldier on March On Campaign clickhereIntro and Outro byPaul YudinSupport the PodcastBuy the Podcast a Ko-Fi:https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcastSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJFor Show Notes, transcripts, and photos, check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website athttps://www.thedocnetwork.net/.Access to the Discord Server: https://discord.gg/XR3tRznAGMFind the Podcast onFacebook,Twitter,Instagram,Mastodon,YouTube.

14-MAY-1943: While serving as a Nurse aboard the 2/3rd Australian Hospital Ship Centaur as part of the Australian Army Nursing Service, Sister Ellen Savage survived the sinking of the Hospital ship at the hands of the Japanese submarine I-177 and in doing so became a symbol of resilience and compassion as she was the sole nursing survivor. In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life and service of Sister Ellen Savage, from her early years in Quirindi to her heroic actions during the Second World War. As the sole surviving nurse of the Centaur tragedy, Ellen's courage, dedication to her fellow survivors, and enduring contributions to nursing made her a true beacon of strength. This is the story of a woman who faced the horrors of war with unmatched bravery and left a lasting legacy for future generations. Intro and Outro by Paul Yudin Support the Podcast Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ For Show Notes, transcripts, and photos, check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at https://www.thedocnetwork.net/. Access to the Discord Server: https://discord.gg/XR3tRznAGM Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon, YouTube.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of war, suffering, and the experiences of prisoners of war, which may be distressing for some listeners. 20-MARCH-1945. While serving as a Gunner in the 2/15 Field Regiment, Gunner Albert Niel Cleary became a tragic symbol of the suffering endured by Australian prisoners of war during the Second World War. Captured and forced to march in the harrowing Sandakan Death March, Cleary's life ended in unimaginable hardship, alongside the 1,700 other Australian prisoners who perished during this brutal ordeal. Intro and Outro by Paul Yudin Support the Podcast Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ For Show Notes, transcripts, and photos, check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at https://www.thedocnetwork.net/. Access to the Discord Server: https://discord.gg/XR3tRznAGM Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon, YouTube.

15-JULY-1944. While serving as a pilot in the Royal Air Force's Path Finder Force. Acting Squadron Leader Herbert Frank Slade, Commander of Lancaster Bomber N Nuts, en route to a raid on Hamburg, was struck by anti-aircraft fire, was able to recover the aircraft sufficiently to continue the attack, drop his bombs and return home with 48 square foot piece of the port wing missing and with limited controls, managed to bring the plane in for a "successful" landing. this was his 59th operational flight over enemy territory. In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Squadron Leader Herbert Frank Slade, from his early days as a young migrant in Australia to his post-war life in Boorowa, where he became a respected community figure. With firsthand accounts from those who remember his presence, This episode uncovers the remarkable yet humble legacy of a man who, both in the air and on the ground, was defined by his unwavering sense of duty. Huge thanks to Helen McGrath of the Boorowa Historical Society, Shane Casey Senior Curator and Dr Lachlan Grant Senior Historian at the Australian War Memorial for their assistance in this episode. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube

30-AUGUST-1942. While serving as a soldier in the 2/14th Australian Imperial Force as part of the Second Australian Imperial Force, Private Claude Herbert Roberts served from the sands of Egypt and Palestine to the mountainous slopes of Kokoda. This episode was requested by his great-niece Christine and was made possible thanks to recently discovered letters sent home during the war. If there is someone that you think needs to have their story told, drop the podcast an email at podcast@thedocnetwork.net Thanks to Seth for purchasing the brand-new Armoured Emu Brigade Unit Patch. Get yours now at Our Ko-Fi Shop --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube

7-SEPTEMBER-1901. While serving with the Bushveldt Carbineers, a British Irregular Mounted Unit, during the Second Anglo-Boer War, Lt Harry Harbord Morant, better known as "Breaker Morant" allegedly ordered the execution of eight Boer Prisoners of War, along with several Dutch civilians, and a German Missionary. For this act, Breaker Morant is one of the first British Subjects, charged, tried and convicted for War Crimes. And while he claimed to be following orders, at what point does just doing your job constitute unlawful killings of non-combatants? From Duty to Dishonour is a backer-exclusive podcast that tells the story of those service personnel who didn't live up to the societal expectations of what an Australian Service person represents, but their story still deserves to be told. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast

16-DECEMBER-1943. While serving as part of the 2nd Mountain Battery of the 2nd Australian Imperial Force, Lance Bombardier Leslie James Greenwood, a professional soldier within the Permanent Military Force, served from before the Second World War in Garrison Artillery postings before serving as part of Wren Force in Nauru. His first offensive deployment was part of a Specialised Mountainous Artillery Battery trained and equipped to bring fire support to Allied personnel high in the mountains of New Guinea. Thanks to Karen, Linda, Mitch and Paul for purchasing the brand new Armoured Emu Brigade Unit Patch. Get yours now at Our Ko-Fi Shop --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube

6-JUNE-1944. While serving as part of the Royal Australian Naval Volunteer Reserve assigned to the Royal Navy, Sub Lieutenant Richard "Dick" Michael Pirrie, gave up a promising VFL career with the Hawthorn VFL Team to serve in the Second World War attached to the Royal Navy. Initially serving on escort duty on Destroyers escorting convoys to Russia and Malta. Upon receiving his commission as a Sub-Lieutenant he transferred to landing craft and served as the commander of a Landing Craft Support (Medium) vessel which served as a floating observation platform for naval and army artillery spotters. This episode was made possible due to support from History Guild. ' This Autumn I Was Only Doing My Job; An Australian Military History Podcast has Partnered with History Guild to bring you a series of episodes dedicated to telling the life service and legacy of five Australians, of the tens of thousands who served in the Mediterranean during the Second World War, playing a vital role in the theatre. History Guild has created this project so more people can discover the stories of service and sacrifice of the Australians who fought there, and Honor them by visiting these battlefields. The History Guild website, historyguild.org, has guides to help people visit and understand battlefields in Crete, Greece and Malta.' --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

15-JUNE-1942. While serving as a Fighter Pilot in 126 Squadron Royal Air Force during the Second World War. Pilot Officer Adrian Phillip Goldsmith received the Distinguished Flying Medal for shooting down six Axis planes over Malta, this was followed up with the Distinguished Flying Cross a month later and in doing so became the second highest fighter ace in the RAAF This episode was made possible due to support from History Guild. ' This Autumn I Was Only Doing My Job; An Australian Military History Podcast has Partnered with History Guild to bring you a series of episodes dedicated to telling the life service and legacy of five Australians, of the tens of thousands who served in the Mediterranean during the Second World War, playing a vital role in the theatre. History Guild has created this project so more people can discover the stories of service and sacrifice of the Australians who fought there, and Honor them by visiting these battlefields. The History Guild website, historyguild.org, has guides to help people visit and understand battlefields in Crete, Greece and Malta.' --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

20-JUNE-1940. While serving as an Orderly in the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade during the Second World War. Sergeant Henry Armstrong Lacey Snr received the British Empire Medal for exemplary service and dedication to his duties, which is understandable, as he wasn't a 35-year-old fresh soldier, but a 53-year-old veteran of both the Second Anglo-Boer War and the First World War. in a military career that spanned three two continents and the length and breadth of Australia's involvement in the conflicts of the early 20th Century, in particular Gallipoli, the Western Front, North Africa and the disastrous campaign in Greece before becoming a Prisoner of War. In this episode we show the experiences of enlisted soldiers in captivity, in particular those that had been captured during the failed rearguard operation in Greece. This episode was made possible due to support from History Guild. ' This Autumn I Was Only Doing My Job; An Australian Military History Podcast has Partnered with History Guild to bring you a series of episodes dedicated to telling the life service and legacy of five Australians, of the tens of thousands who served in the Mediterranean during the Second World War, playing a vital role in the theatre. History Guild has created this project so more people can discover the stories of service and sacrifice of the Australians who fought there, and Honor them by visiting these battlefields. The History Guild website, historyguild.org, has guides to help people visit and understand battlefields in Crete, Greece and Malta.' --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

23-April-1941. While serving as Matron of the 2/5th Australian General Hospital during the Second World War. Matron Kathleen Annie Louise Best was the youngest Matron in the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the disastrous campaign in Greece and her decision to stay behind when the chance of capture was great. In this episode, we focus on the nursing involvement of the Australian Imperial Force during Operation Lusture, the Failed Rearguard Operation to Defend Greece from German Invasion. This episode was made possible due to support from History Guild. 'This Autumn I Was Only Doing My Job; An Australian Military History Podcast has Partnered with History Guild to bring you a series of episodes dedicated to telling the life service and legacy of four Australians, of the tens of thousands who served in the Mediterranean during the Second World War, playing a vital role in the theatre. History Guild has created this project so more people can discover the stories of service and sacrifice of the Australians who fought there, and Honor them by visiting these battlefields. The History Guild website, historyguild.org, has guides to help people visit and understand battlefields in Crete, Greece and Malta.' --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

30-April-1941. While serving as a Company Commander within the 2/1st Australian Infantry Battalion, Captain William Holmes Travers participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before becoming a Prisoner of War following the failure at Crete. In this episode, we focus on the first involvement of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War, the Capture of Bardia during Operation Compass and Operation Lusture, the Failed Rearguard Operation to Defend Greece from German Invasion. This episode was made possible due to support from History Guild. 'This Autumn I Was Only Doing My Job; An Australian Military History Podcast has Partnered with History Guild to bring you a series of episodes dedicated to telling the life service and legacy of four Australians, of the tens of thousands who served in the Mediterranean during the Second World War, playing a vital role in the theatre. History Guild has created this project so more people can discover the stories of service and sacrifice of the Australians who fought there, and Honor them by visiting these battlefields. The History Guild website, historyguild.org, has guides to help people visit and understand battlefields in Crete, Greece and Malta.' --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

3-JANUARY-1941. While serving as a Platoon Lieutenant within the 2/1st Australian Infantry Battalion, Captain William Holmes Travers participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before becoming a Prisoner of War following the failure at Crete. In this episode, we focus on the first involvement of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War, the Capture of Bardia during Operation Compass and Operation Lusture, the Failed Rearguard Operation to Defend Greece from German Invasion. This episode was made possible due to support from History Guild. 'This Autumn I Was Only Doing My Job; An Australian Military History Podcast has Partnered with History Guild to bring you a series of episodes dedicated to telling the life service and legacy of four Australians, of the tens of thousands who served in the Mediterranean during the Second World War, playing a vital role in the theatre. History Guild has created this project so more people can discover the stories of service and sacrifice of the Australians who fought there, and Honor them by visiting these battlefields. The History Guild website, historyguild.org, has guides to help people visit and understand battlefields in Crete, Greece and Malta.' --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

In this episode of "From Duty to Dishonour," we delve into the compelling story of Private Percy George Stafford, an Australian soldier who served in the First World War. As we explore Stafford's life, we confront the challenging question: what happens when someone falls short of society's expectations of a soldier? Join us as we look into the service of a man who allegedly spent no time in the front line, despite volunteering for service in 1916. From Duty to Dishonour is a backer-exclusive podcast that tells the story of those service personnel who didn't live up to the societal expectations of what an Australian Service person represents, but their story still deserves to be told. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

4-AUGUST-1914/4-SEPTEMBER-1939. While serving as a Naval Reservist, Midshipman Richard Stanley Veale ordered the first shot fired by British Forces in the First World War. Twenty years later while in command of the same shore battery that fired the first shot in the First World War, Commander Richard Stanley Veale would order the first Australian shot fired in anger during the Second World War. Explore the remarkable life and service of Commander Richard Stanley Veale. From his early days as a naval cadet to his significant contributions during the First World War and Second World War, Commander Veale's journey is one of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his country. Join us as we delve into the naval pioneer's story, from ordering the only two shots in Fort Nepean's history to his enduring civic contributions. A true all-rounder, Commander Veale's legacy is a testament to a life well-lived and dedicated to Australian society. Special thanks to Doug Veale for sharing this remarkable family history. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

19-MAY-1915. While serving as a soldier of the 2nd Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force during the First World War, Sergeant William Charles Bullock Beech, horrified by the tragic loss of life of his comrades on Gallipoli, took a biscuit box, signal wire and a broken mirror to invent one of the most iconic weapons of trench warfare on Gallipoli, the Periscope Rifle. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

8-AUGUST-1918. While serving as Engineers of the 8th Field Company, Australian Imperial Force, Lieutenant George Burrows, Sapper John Henry Palmer and Leslie James Strahan were attached to the 31st Australian Infantry Battalion when the Australian Corps participated in the Battle of Amiens, the start of the 100 Days Offensive. As they were deconstructing German fortifications at the old Amiens Defensive Line, they were called forward to deal with an obstacle in No Mans Land, it was the Largest War Trophy Collected by Australian forces that was brought back to Australia. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

27/28-JANUARY-1916, While serving as a soldier of the 5th Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, Private Edward Attfield did not let his diminutive stature prevent him from volunteering for overseas service. He landed at Gallipoli and despite wounds and illness served until the evacuation in December 1915. When he returned to Alexandria, he vanished, never to be seen again. His story is a murder mystery that took 100 years to solve. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

11-NOVEMBER-1993. To mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the First World War, the unidentified remains of an unknown Australian soldier, exhumed from the Adelaide Cemetery in Villers Bretonneux in France was interred within the Hall of Memory of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Australia. Today marks the 30th Anniversary of that interment. Lest We Forget. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ --- Linktree https://linktr.ee/iwodmj For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

In this episode, I sat down over two separate sessions with Melissa Ratliff of God's Favorites: A History Podcast and Ryan Day of the History Daddy YouTube channel I talk about the service and fate of Australia's first (and only) Battlecruiser HMAS Australia, Ryan talks about the feared German Battlecruiser Bismarck, and Melissa surprised everyone by not discussing the sinking of the Titanic, but of her sister ship the Oceanic. For Melissa Ratliff https://linktr.ee/MelissaFairLady For Ryan Day https://linktr.ee/HistoryDaddy --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

25-APRIL-1915, While serving as Commanding Officer of the Royal Australian Navy's second Submarine HMAS AE2, Royal Navy Officer Lieutenant Commander Henry Hugh Gordon Dacre Stoker was faced with the challenge, to traverse the Dardanelles when the last two submarines to do so were sunk. The Stage is set, the curtain is drawn, allow I Was Only Doing My Job: An Australian Military History Podcast to introduce you to the Silent ANZAC Join us for the conclusion to our involvement in Historytoks #ShipwreckSummer --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Pateron https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

14-SEPTEMBER-1914, While serving as Commanding Officer of the Royal Australian Navy's first Submarine HMAS AE1, Royal Navy officer Lieutenant Commander Thomas Fleming Besant was killed in action when AE1 disappeared during a patrol following the Australian Capture of German New Guinea. The mysterious disappearance of AE1 became a haunting chapter in naval history, that was quickly overshadowed by events in the Dardanelles eight months later to the point where the whole campaign is largely unknown. Join us for Part one of the conclusion to our involvement in Historytoks #ShipwreckSummer --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ Join our Pateron https://www.patreon.com/IWODMJ For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

9-AUGUST-1942. While serving as a Surgical Officer aboard the Royal Australian Navy Heavy Cruiser HMAS Canberra, Surgeon Lieutenant Kenneth Newman Morris MID participated in the first American counter-attack during the Pacific Campaign, the Battle of Guadalcanal and the disastrous Battle of Savo Island. In the Second World War chaos, one man apart out for his courage and resilience - Surgeon Lieutenant Kenneth Newman Morris. Morris exhibited unwavering dedication as he tended to wounded sailors amidst relentless enemy fire and blazing flames. As the ship's fate hung in the balance, Morris defied danger, his head torch illuminating the way as he saved lives and provided comfort. His actions in that fiery inferno earned him a mention in dispatches. After the battle, Morris continued to serve, training in cardiac and thoracic surgery. With his wife, Dr Fay Kinross, he pioneered advancements in heart surgery, impacting countless lives. This Episode is part of #ShipwreckSummer --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi ⁠https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast ⁠ For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server ⁠https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj⁠ Find the Podcast on Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ⁠ Twitter ⁠https://twitter.com/iwodmj⁠ Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj⁠ Mastodon ⁠https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/⁠ YouTube ⁠https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

This Episode marks Two years since the launch of the podcast. 1-JULY-1942. While serving as Chief Yeoman of Signals as part of the Royal Australian Navy, Chief Yeoman of Signals Stephen Lamont was selected as part of the network of observers stationed across strategic locations in Northern Australia and neighbouring territories known as the Coastwatchers. Initially stationed on Anir Island off the coast of New Britain, Lamont was in Rabaul when it fell to the Japanese. Lamont's selfless actions and dedication to his comrades stand out as he bravely chose to stay behind and care for two sick sailors, knowing the dangers that awaited him as he was captured by the Japanese and ended up being on board the MV Montevideo Maru that was sunk by the USS Sturgeon, claiming the lives of over 1000 allied Prisoners of War and civilians in what is still considered Australia's worst maritime disaster. This episode is part of Historytoks #ShipwreckSummer! --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast Feedspots Top 50 Military History Podcast list https://blog.feedspot.com/military_history_podcasts/ For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj Find the Podcast on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ Twitter https://twitter.com/iwodmj Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj Mastodon https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/ YouTube

10-December-1941. While serving as a midshipman aboard the Royal Navy Battlecruiser HMS Repulse, Midshipman Robert Ian Davies MID participated in the first major naval engagement of the Pacific Campaign. We delve into the remarkable story of Midshipman Robert Ian Davies and his role in the sinking of the British battleships HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse during the Second World War. Despite limited firsthand accounts of Davies' actions, his bravery and leadership caught the attention of his superiors, leading to his nomination for higher recognition. We explore the Valour Inquiry and the challenges faced in honouring Davies' gallantry. While the Tribunal ruled against awarding him the Victoria Cross, the testimonies of respected naval officers shed light on his courageous actions. We also reflect on the fate of the sunken ships and the unfortunate illegal salvage activities that have disturbed their resting places. Join us as we uncover the life, service, and legacy of Midshipman Robert Ian Davies, a symbol of sacrifice and resilience during a tumultuous time in history. This Episode is part of #ShipwreckSummer --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi https://ko-fi.com/iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast Feedspots Top 50 Military History Podcast list https://blog.feedspot.com/military_history_podcasts/ For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server https://discord.gg/v3Vpb9Fhsj Find the Podcast on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IWODMJ Twitter https://twitter.com/iwodmj Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iwodmj Mastodon https://mastodonbooks.net/@IWODMJ/ YouTube https://youtube.com/@iwasonlydoingmyjobpodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

20-MAY-1941. While serving as a Company Commander within the 2/11th Australian Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner, participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before making a name of himself during the Kokoda Campaign. In this episode, we focus on the Australian operations around the Japanese strongholds of Buna, Gona and Sanananda --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

16-FEBRUARY-1942. Serving as a Staff Nurse in the 2/13th Australian General Hospital, Second Australian Imperial Force, Sister Florence Casson was one of the 21 nurses executed as part of the Bangka Island Massacre at the hands of the Imperial Japanese Army. This Episode coincides with International Nurses Day 2023. To Donate to the Vivian Bullwinkel Project or the Bangka Island Scholarship Fund go here https://foundation.acn.edu.au/Foundation/Donate/The_Vivian_Bullwinkel_Project_2021.aspx For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and follow the show on Instagram and Twitter at @IWODMJ and like us on Facebook at I Was Only Doing My Job and to follow me for more history hijinks you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

20-MAY-1941. While serving as a Company Commander within the 2/11th Australian Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner, participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before making a name of himself during the Kokoda Campaign. In this episode, we focus on the Australian defensive operations along the Kokoda Trail in the Pacific. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here  For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

20-MAY-1941. While serving as a Company Commander within the 2/11th Australian Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner, participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before making a name of himself during the Kokoda Campaign. In this episode, we focus on the disastrous defence of Crete and the prelude to the Kokoda Campaign in the Pacific. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

3-JANUARY-1941. While serving as a Company Commander within the 2/11th Australian Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner, participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before making a name of himself during the Kokoda Campaign. In this episode, we focus on the rapid advance of the Australian Imperial Force across North Africa, and the disastrous Operation Lusture, or the Allied involvement in the Greece Campaign. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

3-JANUARY-1941. While serving as a Company Commander within the 2/11th Australian Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner, participated in the first major engagements of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War including the capture of Bardia, Tobruk and the disastrous campaign in Greece before making a name of himself during the Kokoda Campaign. In this episode, we focus on the first involvement of the Australian Imperial Force during the Second World War, the Capture of Bardia during Operation Compass. --- Buy the Podcast a Ko-Fi here For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Mastodon YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

Earlier this month I sat down with Melissa Ratliff from God's Favorites: A History Podcast to discuss her current project, saving the Sundowner a motor yacht formerly owned by Charles Lightoller, who was Second Officer aboard the RMS Titanic for her ill-fated maiden voyage in April, 1912. She participated in the Dunkirk evacuation as one of the Little ships of Dunkirk before falling on hard times more recently. Link to the #SaveSundowner gofundme To find Melissa on TikTok click here For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,MastodonYouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

9-JUNE-1928. While serving as a despatch rider as part of the 4th Division Signals Company during the First World War, Sergeant Charles Edward Kingsford Smith sought a greater adrenaline rush and joined the Australian Flying Corps. Later serving in the Royal Flying Corps; British Expeditionary Force, he shot down four German aircraft before he was shot down and grounded due to injury. Not to be stopped, "Smithy" after the war became an aviation pioneer and held the record for having the most aviation records including being the only person at the time to cross the Pacific Ocean from the USA to Australia in both directions and the first person to complete a cross-equator circumnavigation of the globe. IWODMJ Discord Server member AyoshiStar requested this episode and is guest director. TwentyFiveFour Coffee website For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,MastodonYouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

31-JULY-1969. While serving as a Door Gunner on an American Crewed UH-1C Iroquois Helicopter Gunship as part of the Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight Vietnam, attached to the 135th Assault Helicopter Company, US Army, Leading Aircraftman Noel Ervin Shipp was killed in action while providing gunfire to support the evacuation of troops on the ground and was observed to be continuing to fire even as the helicopter he was in plummeted to the ground For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

My Silent Hero is a project to honour and preserve the memory of those who have served Australia during times of war. Each of these servicemen and women had lives before they enlisted and, if they survived, after the war. They were, or are, humble human beings who, for a great many current Australians, are family. Yet now for many, their memory is just a name on a plaque, an initial or two and a surname. My Silent Hero will help you remember them as people and as family. For more information check out https://mysilenthero.blogspot.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

8-February-1917. While serving as a Stretcher Bearer as part of 55th Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force during the First World War. Corporal Ernest Albert "Ernie" Corey, was awarded an unprecdendent four Military Medals, the third highest award for gallantry in the British System of Awards for his tireless and continual devotion to rescuing wounded soldiers during the war on the Western Front. Despite the claim of being the Highest Decorated Australian Soldier, Corey was a timid man who took great pride in the knowledge that he received four Military Medals for saving people and never fired a shot in anger. For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

28-OCTOBER-1950, This is the conclusion of the life service and Legacy of Professional Soldier Lieutenant GeneralRobert Harold Nimmo, who served in both the First and Second World Wars in Brigade and General Staff Roles before his retirement in 1950. He would then go on to serve as the longest continuously serving Chief Military Observer in United Nations History when he took command of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) becoming the first Australian to command a UN Peacekeeping Mission and at 15 years and 2 months the longest serving UN Commander --- For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram --- Podcast Recommendation Hardtack Podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

29-SEPTEMBER-1946, This is part two of the life service and Legacy of Professional Soldier Major General Robert Harold Nimmo CBE, who at the commencement of the Second World War was a Staff Officer of the 1st Cavalry Division. An officer tasked with introducing armoured warfare into the Australian Army, Nimmo would continue to serve in staff positions at Brigade, Division, Corps and Army Levels to whom the end of the war in command of the first unit of the Australian Regular Army the 38th Infantry Brigade and command Australia's contingent to the British Commonwealth Occupation Force on a career that would span 52 years. --- For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram --- Podcast Recommendation Australian Histories Podcast Tanks in the PacificYouTube link --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

21-DECEMBER-1914, This is part one of the life service and Legacy of Professional Soldier Major Robert Harold Nimmo, who at the commencement of the First World War was an Officer Cadet at the Royal Military College Duntroon. Enlisting upon accelerated graduation he was posted to the 5th Australian Light Horse Regiment at the rank of Lieutenant and would sail to Egypt, eventually reaching Gallipoli on May 16. Possessing both front-line combat experience and administrative organisational skills, Nimmo would quickly progress through the ranks of the ANZAC Mounted Division, finishing the war as a Brigade Major in the 1st Australian Light Horse Brigade to whom the end of the war would only mean a continuation of a career that would span 52 years. --- For Show Notes, transcripts and photos check out the I Was Only Doing My Job Website at www.thedocnetwork.net. Access to the Discord Server Visit here Find the Podcast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram --- Podcast Recommendation Australian Military History Podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

7-JANUARY-1945 While Serving with No 619 Squadron Royal Air Force, Flying Officer Colin Kelvin Flockhart, was the pilot of a four-engine Avro Lancaster Heavy Bomber tasked with a raid over Munich Germany when for unknown reasons his plane disintegrated over the French countryside during poor weather. This episode is dedicated to Alison Aitken, the Queen of the Australian War Memorial, and Colin's sister, who passed away on 9-9-2022. The I Was Only Doing My Job Podcast now has a Discord Server, the link to it is in the linktree. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

27-AUGUST-1942 While Serving with No. 3 (Army Cooperation) Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, Flying Officer Peter St George Bruce Turnbull, in North Africa became one of the first Australian Fighter Aces of the Second World War, with downing eight enemy aircraft, an act that would award him the Distinguished Flying Cross. He would go on to serve in No 76 Squadron RAAF in the Pacific, serving the defence of Milne Bay from Japanese invasion. While he would be killed in action, his devotion to his duty would be an inspiration to all he flew with. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

14-JULY-1918. The 30-ton German Heavy Tank was set to participate in the Second Battle of Villers-Bretonnaeux until it drove into a shell crater outside Monument Wood, becoming stranded, three months later it would be captured by the 26th Australian Infantry Battalion in the Allied counter-attack, in an action that has captured the imaginations of the Internet Age as one of those actions where the fiction is better known than the facts. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

19-OCTOBER-1917. While serving within the Australian Remount Depot, Australian Imperial Force as a Squadron Commander, Major Andrew Barton "The Banjo" Paterson served with distinction as part of the Desert Mounted Corps during the First World War. He is also widely known as the most famous Bush Balladist of the 20th Century, having penned the iconic Waltzing Matilda. Prior to his service in the First World War, he was an official Correspondent in the Second Anglo-Boer War, the Spanish-American War and the Boxer Rebellion. While he served the duration of the war, this is one aspect of the Banjo's life that is not known. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

My Silent Hero is a project to honour and preserve the memory of those who have served Australia during times of war. Each of these servicemen and women had lives before they enlisted and, if they survived, after the war. They were, or are, humble human beings who, for a great many current Australians, are family. Yet now for many, their memory is just a name on a plaque, an initial or two and a surname. My Silent Hero will help you remember them as people and as family. For more information check out https://mysilenthero.blogspot.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

1-MARCH-1942. While serving within the Royal Australian Navy as a Signals Officer, Captain Hector Macdonald Laws Waller served with distinction aboard several warships of the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Navy during both the First World War and the Second World War. He was the commanding officer of two vessels during the Second World war, the Destroyer HMAS Stuart where he led the 'Scrap Iron Flotilla' and the Cruiser HMAS Perth. He would go down with the HMAS Perth when it was sunk during the one-sided Battle of Sunda Strait alongside 356 fellow personnel of the HMAS Perth . For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. gLceelOARTDZ0U9WY8Up --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

24-MAY-1966. While serving with B Company 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Regular Army, National Serviceman Private Errol Wayne Noack served as a section machine gunner during the Vietnam War. He was killed during his first military operation two weeks after arriving in-country and would go into the history books as the first Australian National Serviceman killed in Vietnam. His death would go to polarise Australian society about a war that was increasingly becoming unpopular, and his position as the first conscript killed in that war would serve as a rallying cry for those against mandatory military service. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

24-OCTOBER-1943 While Serving with M Special Unit, Special Operations Australia, 2 Australian Imperial Force, Sergeant Leonard George Siffleet was part of a multi-national team trekking through Japanese-occupied New Guinea to set up a Coastwatch position over the recently captured town of Hollandia when his team would be ambushed and captured by a party of Japanese troops and local New Guineans sympathetic to the Imperial Japanese Navy. After two weeks of interrogation, Lenoard would be executed at the hands of the Japanese in potentially the only execution of a western soldier at the hands of the Japanese to be photographed in the act. The subsequent war crimes investigations after the war would be all the surviving Japanese sailors involved to justice, though the man who delivered the killing stroke on Leonard would be killed during the closing stages of the New Guinea Campaign. Len's body would never be recovered. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

1-JANUARY 1916 While Serving with 3 Australian General Hospital Squadron Principal Matron Grace Margaret Wilson in Lemnos, Greece would coordinate the nursing care of wounded Australian Soldiers from the Gallipoli Campaign and in doing so would also fight for recognition and proper treatment of the nurses under her charge. a Professional Nurse before the Great War, she would go on to be Matron-in-Chief of the Australian Imperial Force in both the First and Second World Wars, These acts would result in him being awarded the Royal Red Cross First class and the Nightingale Medal, four Mentions in Dispatches and her appointment to the Commander of the Military Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. She would go on to pioneer Nursing Education in civilian life, particularly around Victoria. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

During the First World War, 27 men of the Australian Customs Service answered the call of King and Country. Since the early 2000s, I Was Only Doing My Job background researcher Laurie Favelle has been obsessed with finding and preserving the life service and legacies of each of these 27 men. They were, or are, humble human beings who, for a great many current Australians, are family. Yet now for many, their memory is just a name on a plaque, an initial or two and a surname.   My SIlent Hero will run alongside standard I Was Only Doing My Job Podcast episodes. For more information about the My Silent Hero Project visit The Home of My Silent Hero My SIlent Hero is copyright 2013-2022 by Laurie Favelle, Audio recording and distribution through The Docnetwork Productions. to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

16-OCTOBER-1942 While Serving with No. 452 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, Squadron Leader Keith William "Bluey" Truscott in Europe would lead an attack on an evacuating Kreigsmarine Fleet and successfully damaged a German Destroyer. A famous athlete, before the war he played VFL for the Melbourne Demons, and deciding to forgo a successful sporting career decided to fly for King and Country, and in doing so became one of Australia's highest ranked Fighter Aces with 15/16 confirmed enemy aircraft shot down. These acts would result in him being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross twice. He would go on to serve in No 76 Squadron RAAF in the Pacific, serving the defence of Milne Bay from Japanese invasion, where he would replace Squadron Leader Peter Turnbull as Commanding Officer after his death. Peter Turnbull's life service and sacrifice was episode 12 of season one Sadly like his predecessor he would also be killed in a flying accident while in training with the US Navy. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message

23-OCTOBER-1915. While serving as a trooper in the 5th Australian Light Horse Regiment, Australian Imperial Force, Chinese-Australian Trooper William Edward "Billy" Sing DCM has been picked to take the solitary role as being a sniper on Gallipoli where he has a unique record of between 150 and 300 confirmed Ottoman kills during the eight-month campaign. Even with that legacy he also grew up in a time where his heritage was met with prejudice and racism. For show notes, photos and transcripts visit www.thedocnetwork.net and visit our linktree for our socials https://linktr.ee/iwodmj to follow me for more Australian Military History Content you can follow me on TikTok/Instagram/Twitter @docwinters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/iwasonlydoingmyjob/message