| Places | |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | AWM2019.605.2 |
| Collection type | Private Record |
| Record type | Collection |
| Measurement | Extent: .5 cm; Wallet/s: 1 |
| Object type | Letter |
| Maker |
Bell, Henry Scott |
| Place made | North Africa: Libya |
| Date made | 1941 |
| Access | Open |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
Bell, Henry Scott (Craftsman, b.1919 - d.2006)
Description
Collection relating to the Second World War service of NX1467 Craftsman Henry Scott Bell, 2/2 Australian Infantry Battalion, Second Australian Imperial Force, Libya, 1941.
Wallet 1 of 1 – Consists of one letter and associated envelope from Craftsman Bell to his friend, Mr Arthur John Meany, dated 4 February 1941. In his letter, Craftsman Bell mentions writing the letter with captured Italian materials, dust storms, prisoners of war, his impressions of Tobruk, an early air raid, and his desire to be at home. He also responds to news from his hometown.
History / Summary
Craftsman Henry Scott Bell enlisted to the Second Australian Imperial Force on 13 October 1939. He served with 2/2 Australian Infantry Battalion in Palestine, Egypt, and Libya, including battles at Bardia and Tobruk. In late 1942, he was serving in New Guinea, but was evacuated to Australia due to illness. Craftsman Bell then served with various units and workshops in Queensland and New South Wales in 1943 and 1944, but continued to struggle with illnesses. He re-joined the 2/2 Australian Infantry Battalion in New Guinea in December 1944, and was discharged on 10 October 1945.