Victory In Europe Day Is A Special Occasion In The Odd Bods Calendar

Wing Commander Mike Oram presents the address.

 VE Day is a special day in the Odd Bods calendar and 8th May 2024 was no exception.

In 1957 the Odd Bods conducted the first VE Day service at the Shrine. In later years the RSL took over the service, but when the RSL withdrew in 2019, the Friends of the Odd Bods eagerly took up the responsibility.

VE Day commemorates the day back in 1945 when the war was called to an end, veterans pulled down the blackout curtains, and dared to dream of getting back home to loved ones. It is another opportunity for us to commemorate their contribution to our way of life.

A commemoration service was held today in the Inner Sanctum of the Melbourne Shrine at 11:00am. FOTOBAI members attended with Secretary Peter Randell reading The Ode, and Wing Commander Mike Oram presenting the address.

Thanks to Bruce Waxman and Sue Bennett for sending in our photographs.

Peter Randell presents The Ode.

The wreath in place in the Sanctum

 

Bruce Waxman lays the wreath.

Videos from ANZAC Day 2024

 

We have plenty of photos from ANZAC Day but videos add an extra dimension. Above is the coverage of the Odd Bods from the official ABC TV broadcast. 

What a fine looking bunch!

And below is a video taken near the Arts Centre.

Odd Bods Reunion ANZAC Day 2024

The reunion after todays march was held at Amora Hotel Richmond, the same place as last year, but in a  relaxed convivial environment in the main lounge. 

It was a great occasion with plenty of old hands catching up, some new faces joining in, and the usual rich discussion around veterans and events of WW2. We talked about aircraft technology, the dangers of being an air-gunner in the front or rear turret, and we examined log books and old photos. 

We had serious discussions, lighthearted discussions, and covered a broad range of subjects. Hopefully the following photos will give readers a feel for what was a lovely conclusion to a successful ANZAC Day.

Odd Bods ANZAC March 2024

 

Another ANZAC Day rolls around and the general consensus seems to be that this was a good one. The weather was kind, the march pretty much ontime, a good attendance by veterans families, and a strong contingent of Wesley students, all added up to a worthy and respectful acknowledgement of our veterans and the amazing contribution they have made to Australia.

Here is a selection of photographs from the march, and we will quickly follow up with photos from the reunion, and other items of interest from this important day. 

A big thank you to all who participated.

Award Winning Essay About ANZAC Spirit

 

The following has been judged the best essay about the Spirit of ANZAC by a student of Wesley College, Glen Waverley Campus in 2024. The student, Pranavi Dhame, received the George V. Smith Award from Friends of the Odd Bods, and the Smith family at a Commemoration Service at Wesley. Pranavi received a Certificate of Appreciation, and a $500 online book voucher.

The ANZAC Spirit

Pranavi Dhame Year 9

Before 25^th April 1915, the acronym “ANZAC” held no meaning, and represented nobody. By the end of the First World War, it was a term encompassing hundreds of thousands of soldiers, and bringing with it an undying legacy of bravery, patriotism, and selflessness: what is known today as the ANZAC Spirit. This was described by historian Charles Bean as “reckless valour in a good cause, for enterprise, resourcefulness, fidelity, comradeship and endurance that will never defeat.” This was the unwavering belief that filled the hearts of many with courage and the faith that inspired over 400,000 Australian men to enlist during World War 1. Today, ANZAC day is strongly linked with the Gallipoli Campaign of WW1, as well as soldiers whose actions significantly influenced the ANZAC spirit.

One of these heroes was VC recipientCaptain Albert Jacka, who performed several feats of military bravery. The first of these was during the Gallipoli campaign, where he recaptured a section of military trench with two others despite being heavily outnumbered. Intelligently, he orchestrated a bomb throwing distraction while quickly firing at the enemy, forcing them to retreat.While this was only a small victory, the impact of Jacka’s actions rippled through the exhausted, demoralised ranks like a wave. Many soldiers were given a reason to keep fighting; a reason to keep going; despite being trapped in an overwhelming cycle of pain, fatigue, and fear. The ranks were motivated, bound together by a newfound willingness to sacrifice and a grim discipline to see the conflict through. The work of one man was the inspiration of thousands: extending past Gallipoli to home shores as well.

Another commemorated man was Private Leonard Keysor, another Victoria Cross recipient whose determination and devotion helped defend an important trench during the Battle of Lone Pine. Previously in the battle, Keysor was wounded twice, requiring medical attention. However, he vehemently refused to leave for treatment; instead helping Private James Tallon throw bombs at the enemy. Despite suffering through tremendous agony and weakness, Keysor continued to hurl bombs for a reported 50 hours, getting wounded again in the process. While still recovering from injuries, he once again returned to the bomb-throwing line the following day, continuing until the situation was relieved. This selfless act of commitment strengthened the resolve of the ANZACs as they drew motivation from their comrade. His dedication proved how deep his loyalties lied and displayed his willingness to bear his own suffering and fight for his country. Keysor served as a nationalistic example; a hero that any young man could aspire to be on the battlefield.

The examples set by these extraordinary acts led to the enlistment of thousands of ANZACs, all determined to honour their countries and return as heroes. However, nearly two thirds of the men that left never came back. Thousands were left to die slow, painful deaths on the battlefield. Many others died quickly, their lives seeming to end as soon as they had begun. The lucky few returned home, irreparably scarred as the rattling of gunfire rang in their ears and the sparks of grenades flashed behind their eyes. No number of medals could undo their suffering, and no amount of praise would erase the horrible memories. The sacrifice made by each of the ANZACs was to lay down the foundation for their country’s future, piece by piece, soldier by soldier. Their lives were violently cut short to ensure that we have a future beyond hurt and conflict. They suffered horrific conditions and painful wounds to ensure that we don’t endure the same.These sacrifices were made with the hope that future generations would live in safety and freedom; the hope that the ANZAC spirit would be passed from one generation to the next. It is like a flaming torch: fuelled eternally by the hopes, passions, and courage of millions of people.

Odd Bod George V. Smith Remembered At Wesley College ANZAC Commemoration

Friends of the Odd Bods Association, along with association founder George V. Smith's family, contribute to an annual award for the best  essay about the ANZAC Spirit by a Wesley student.

This takes place at Wesley's ANZAC Commemoration service which was held today (24/4/2024) at the Glen Waverly Campus. Students from all levels attended the service, and helped contribute to the very special and respectful atmosphere that the school has become famous for.

George Smith's Grandson, Andrew Smith, presented the award to Pranavi Dharme, a year 9 student who receives a certificate of appreciation from FOTOBAI along with a $500 online book voucher.

Our lead photo shows various members of staff, and special guests, including the Mayor of Waverley, students and Friends Greg Smith, Bruce Waxman, and Gary Elliott.

Guardian of Veterans Graves Has A Welcome Successor

 

Sam guards over veterans graves at Selby Cemetary

Sam, the Veterans Grave Guardian at Selby Cemetary, U.K., has featured in a number of articles on this website. Sam would visit the cemetary with his owner to lay flowers at war veterans graves, including the graves of Odd Bods. 

In December 2022 Sam received the Royal Air Force Long Service and Good Conduct medal at Selby Abbey. Sadly he passed away a few months later, and was laid to rest amongst the war graves. But, there is good news!

Teddy takes on Sam's legacy.

Meet 2 year old Teddy, who will carry on Sam's service in honouring our veterans. A big thank you to Darren Mark Walker who recently updated us on developments at Selby.

We remember the contribution of our war veterans in many ways and this story adds a unique and worthy perspective.

  

ANZAC Day, Wesley College Commemoration Service, VE Day

Email To Members - 2/4/2024

Dear Friends,

A busy time for our association is just around the corner including the long-held tradition of getting together on ANZAC Day. Here is the diary.

 

Wednesday 24th April - Wesley College (Glen Waverley campus) ANZAC Commemoration Ceremony including presentation of the George V. Smith Award for the best student essay about the spirit of ANZAC. The service will take place at 11.40am in the Prest Quad (outdoors) with morning tea being served before the service at 11.00am in the Alexander Room in the Senior School. In the case of inclement weather, the service will be moved indoors to the sports stadium. All members are welcome. Please let us know if you wish to attend.

 

Thursday 25th April - ANZAC March and Reunion. Marchers are asked to form up at 9:45 am on Flinders St East (North side) - see map attached. ETA at the Melbourne Shrine will be around 11:20.

We have modified our reunion arrangements this year. The Reunion will still be held at Amora Riverwalk Hotel, 649 Bridge Rd. Richmond but instead of a formal luncheon with an upfront payment, we will gather in the general lounge area for a casual drop in and catch up after the march with attendees paying for their own food & drinks. We have done the sums and believe we will all be better off with this arrangement. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.

 

Wednesday 8th May - VE Day (Victory in Europe) at Melbourne’s Shrine. We will have details of this service soon.

 

Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest articles, and please contact us with any questions about upcoming events.

 

Best Regards,

 

Greg Smith

President

Friends of the Odd Bods Association Inc. 

Incoming Mail - Cyril Arthur Polain 427258

 

Cyril Arthur Polain 427258 Pilot 466 Squadron (Front Row, Right)

"My father was an ‘Odd bod’ serving as a Halifax pilot with 466 at Driffield, towards the end of the war (1945).

I have some photos from his war service, some of which include his crew (and aircraft) if you would like some copies for your website.

My father’s name was : Cyril Arthur Polain, born in Northam WA."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Dear Peter,

You asked about any stories, however my father said very little about the war. I have picked up a few things nonetheless. Most of them are pretty hair raising but one at least is quite amusing: my mother ( a Waaf on the same station) said that my father and his crew went out to Celebrate his 21st Birthday one evening and were unexpectedly scrambled the next morning. Due to unpressurised cabins, the alcohol soon reasserted itself. Apparently the landing was a sight to behold with my father collecting the boundary fence in the landing gear..

Another highlight was apparently watching the Americans come in to land, whereas the British/commonwealth pilots formed an orderly queue and followed each other down as quickly as possible, the American pilots apparently all dived for the landing strip at once yelling at each other over the  radio. This was apparently quite fun to watch.

Nastier ones include a return from a bombing run badly shot up and losing height over the channel. By then it was daylight as they had made slow progress on one engine and they were highly visible.Their lookout spotted a group of fighters coming at them and apparently they all said their goodbyes. Fortunately the fighters turned out to be Americans and they formed up around my father’s plane and escorted them back to base. Not sure if this is the same occasion but until someone else did it in the closing days of the war, my father was the first pilot to get a Halifax back on just a Port engine( I think it was Port but could have misremembered) . I gather you had to bank / circle in the opposite direction to usual and Halifaxes were not easy to keep aloft in such circumstances.

Unfortunately my father’s original crew were all killed when they went up with a different pilot ( my father apparently grounded with an infection of some sort) .

I am unsure if the crew in the photos are they or not. Perhaps others might know who they are?

Kind regards

Polly Polain" 

New Spitfire Movie - Shamrock Spitfire

Shamrock Spitfire tells the true story of Brendan “Paddy” Finucane, one of the most celebrated fighter pilots of World War II and the youngest Wing Commander in the history of the RAF. 

One of the characters in the movie is Australian ace fighter pilot, Keith William "Bluey" Truscott DFC & Bar. "Bluey" Truscott was a well known Australian Rules footballer (Melbourne Demons) when he joined the RAAF in 1940. He became the second-highest-scoring Australian World War II ace, credited with 20 confirmed victories and 5 unconfirmed victories. 

More information on "Bluey" Truscott here - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keith_Truscott

The movie is to be released early in 2024. Click below for the trailer.

Spitfire Beer Delivery??

Our intrepid correspondent from Selby in the UK, Bryan Wilcockson, has sent us this photo of a Spitfire carrying what appears to be beer barrels under the wings.

Bryan has sensibly steered clear of validating the photo, and given the internet's ability to mislead viewers, we can understand why. However, one website presented the following explanation -

"13th June 1944: An English brewery donates a sizable amount of fresh beer for the troops fighting in Normandy and a unique delivery method is created, strapping kegs to the underwings of Spitfires being shipped to forward airfields. Flying at 12,000 feet chills the brew to perfection."

Another article referred to syphoning beer from wooden kegs into long range metal fuel tanks designed for the Spitfire, and questioning how aviation fuel tainted beer would have been received by the troops.

Whatever the reality of events towards the end of WW2 we are inspired by the idea, and there is little doubt that battle weary troops would have appreciated a cold beer under any circumstances.

  

Odd Bods Support Students at Raphael Centre, India

Friends of the Odd Bods currently support 4 students at the Raphael centre operated by the Ryder Cheshire Foundation in Dehradun, India. Raphael focusses on caring for people with leprosy, tuberculosis (TB), multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) and physical, intellectual and learning difficulties. 

We also make special donations, and just last month contributed A$1500 for the purchase of a microscope at the Ryder Cheshire TB centre in Timor-Leste, and $500 to Legacy. These charity activities continue the good work set up by Odd Bod Veterans decades ago, and are only possible thanks to the contributions of our members.

Keeping up with student progress at Raphael is an important part of the Ryder Cheshire connection and following are the latest reports on our four students.

Incoming Mail, Ryder Cheshire, Doug Parry, Lorna Fitch

Ryder Cheshire Donation - our support for Ryder Cheshire's humanitarian work is well documented, and Christmas seemed an appropriate time for a special contribution.

We asked the organisation to identify a project we might be able to donate to. Thanks to a generous donation from one of our members we were able to increase this year's contribution to A$1500. 

Ryder Cheshire advised that Klibur Domin, their humanitarian venture in Timor Leste,  was in need of a new microscope for their TB lab, and A$1500 would  meet that need.

As we write, that donation is being organised along with a A$500 donation to Legacy. 

Doug Parry - Doug's passing back in May 2023 didn't escape the notice of one of his carers. Danny has left this note on our website - 

"Not sure if I fit into the category of Friendsofoddbods.com

I helped look after Doug while he was residing at Lynden Aged Care, I always found Doug very good to sit n talk with, he was very knowledgeable n inspiring, Doug put with a lot n rarely complained, he was always a pleasure to be around,

I hope him n Mable are kicking back enjoying yourselves

Regards - Danny "

Odd Bod Ron Fitch's book, "Recollections – A Lancaster Bomber Crew 55 Years On" caught the attention of a book collector in the UK. This collector had read about Ron's book in the bibliography of another book, but couldn't track down a copy. A friend wrote to us asking if we could help. We contacted Ron's wife, Lorna Fitch, who will be remembered by members as a regular attendee at Odd Bod functions, and custodian of our Birthday Card program for many years. Lorna was able to provide a copy of Ron's book which was successfully mailed to the UK, much to the delight of the recipient.

Greg & Sue Smith recently enjoyed a visit to Lorna Fitch to collect a copy of Ron Fitch's book.

 

Vale Norman Clarence (Norm) Dobbie

 

Norm Dobbie, Life Subscription Member of the Odd Bods, and former Committee Member has passed just short of his 100th Birthday.

Norm was a Navigator in 462 Squadron RAAF, specifically Halifax III, NA-240, Z5-V. He was born in Caulfield, enlisted on 29th December 1942 in Melbourne, and discharged on 29th August 1946. 

Norm was a Committee Member of the Odd Bods from 2001-2011, and along with Jack Elliott, a key organizer of the November Luncheon, later called the “Ladies Luncheon”.

Our condolences to Gai and family.

COMMENTS:

Anonymous5 December 2023 at 13:02

Lest we Forget🦘🇦🇺

Anonymous5 December 2023 at 19:18

Rest In Peace. Lest We Forget

Anonymous6 December 2023 at 09:16

Another brave airman gone but not forgotten, rest in peace Norm.

ANZAC March 2005

Norm Dobbie - Front Left

Odd Bod Bill Akers Remembered In Local Newspaper

Odd Bod Colin (Bill) Akers was the subject of an article in the South Gippsland Sentinel-Times newspaper for Remembrance Day 2023. It is an interesting story of WW2 aviator experiences.

Click here to be taken to the newspaper online, and then scroll to Page 25 for Bill's article.

 

Maurie Smith's 100th Birthday Party

 

Odd Bod, Maurie Smith, turned 100 on 15/11/2023, and celebrated his birthday with family & friends on Sunday 19/11/2023. 

FOTOBAI committee members Bruce Waxman, Greg Smith, and Gary Elliott represented the Odd Bods and congratulated Maurie on his milestone.

Maurie asked us to pass on his best wishes to the whole Odd Bods family.

FOTOBAI President, Greg Smith, congratulates Maurie.

COMMENTS: (Including our Facebook page) 23/11/2023

Susanne Bennett

Congratulations Maurie on reaching such a special milestone. Hope you had a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends.

Robert Jackson

You are looking fit & well Maurie, Congratulations & belated Best Wishes on your 100th.

Elaine Crowle

My dad Colin (Bill) Akers would also have been 100 this year. I didn't really think there would be many if any of his peers still alive. Dad was a rear gunner and was acknowledged in the Wonthaggi Sentinel Times for Remembrance day this year.

Marion Conacher

Wonderful milestone. Congratulations

Odd Bod Turns 100

Odd Bod, Maurie Smith, will reach the special milestone of 100 years of age on 15th November 2023.

Maurie originally enlisted in Melbourne and started his war time service at the No1 Initial Training School Somers Course # 35and it is here that he met George Smith and Frank Sheenan. From there they went to Canada for the next stage of training at the No2 Wireless Air Gunner Course #66 in Calgary.

No.2 Wireless Air Gunner Course #66, Calgary, Canada. Maurie Smith is shown in the second row from the top, 5 in from the left. Next is George Smith and then Frank Sheenan.

Post the course he was drafted to the UK and arrived at the Padgate Reception Centre near Liverpool, before moving onto Brighton. He lost contact with George and Frank when he was assigned to a different Operational Training Unit, and it was in a hanger during the crew selection process that he ran in to Weston Bate, a long time friend from his school years, with neither realising that the other had joined up. Weston had trained as a pilot in Australia whist Maurie was in Canada.

VE Day at the Melbourne Shrine 2017. From left, Jack Bell, Doug Parry, Gerald McPherson, Weston Bate (Maurie's Skipper), Maurie Smith, and Frank Sims.

Weston being the skipper, was responsible for crew selection, and going against tradition, selected Maurie first (normally the Navigator was first pick) who would then go on to assist in selecting the rest of the crew. They stayed together for the rest of the war commencing on Wellingtons before being assigned to1654 HCU (Heavy Conversion Unit) on Lancasters. Together, they flew several “diversion” flights, distributed food to the Dutch and brought back POWs from across Europe.

"... back home"

Back home after the war, Maurie can remember being involved in meetings at his parent’s house with George Smith, Frank Sheenan, and others prior to the formation of the Odd Bods.

With the assistance of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Maurie gained entry to Melbourne University where he undertook a Commerce Degree. On completion he joined Colonial Mutual where he would stay for the rest of his paid working life. Starting in the Accounts Department, he progressed into the Investment department then into a newly formed Liquid Securities Department. He went on to head up the whole Department as the Chief Investment Manager and on leaving received a gold watch for 34 years plus of service and a letter of appreciation from the Board of Directors for his dedication and a job well done.

Moving into semi-retirement Maurie went onto doing the accounts and investments for several charitable organisations, most notably the Collier Charitable Fund and the Lily and Egon Weiss Foundation.

Maurie is currently number two on the MCCs (Melbourne Cricket Club) longest serving members list, having been signed up by his father when he was born and admitted as a junior member in 1934 when he was 11 years of age. The MCC is one of Australia’s oldest sporting clubs and one of the most sought-after sporting memberships in the world.

With the Odd Bods, Maurie has participated in ANZAC Day marches, ANZAC Day reunions, Wesley College events, and VE Day ceremonies, amongst others.

Maurie with fellow veterans at the 2018 ANZAC Day Reunion.

“Homeward Bound” is a series of articles written by Maurie and published on this website. (See link under Stories of Odd Bods in left margin)

"...highly respected Odd Bod"

The contribution of Odd Bods to the Australian way of life is well documented. Maurie Smith has been an important, and highly respected participant in much of our Association’s activities.  We wish Maurie a very happy 100th birthday, and congratulate him on achieving this very special milestone.

1. Maurie with Jack Bell & Doug Parry at Wesley College.   2. Maurie with Frank Sims and Jan Dimmick at VE Day service.

:Thank you to Gary Elliott for compiling this information.

COMMENTS:

Rosemaree Matta - "Congratulations and happy 100th"

Peter Smith - "Happy Birthday Maurie one of the world's true gentlemen thanks for being you."