Summary

Two page hand written letter and envelope written by Warrant Officer Roderick Milton Hetherington, dated 28 November 1944. This letter was sent in response to a Christmas card sent by Margaret Malval. In this letter Roderick thanks Margaret for a Christmas card, and states his anticipation for the arrival of a parcel she has also sent him. Roderick writes that he had previously received a package of magazines from Margaret, however he was unable to write because he had lost her address. Roderick tells Margaret that he has arranged for her to receive a copy the 1944 War book; 'Jungle Warfare'. He also expresses that conditions have improved in New Guinea, however acknowledges that there is still a big job ahead.

Margaret Malval emigrated to the United States of America from Melbourne, Australia in 1935. During World War II she volunteered for the American Women's Voluntary Services and sent packages to Australian soldiers through the Australian Comforts Fund, thereby entering into an exchange of correspondence with a number of Australian soldiers based in the Pacific and in Australia.

Physical Description

A two page letter, single sided, hand written with black ink on lined paper. The paper has several creases in it where it has been folded in to thirds, and then in half. Envelope addressed in black ink, handwritten. Stamped as passed by Australian Military Forces censor. Brown paper envelope with hand written address, purple stamp indicating the letter has been passed by censors and a 3d postage stamp.

Significance

This collection of letters and cards are significant as they illustrate the continuing ties felt by an emigrant to their country of birth. Margaret Malval was born and grew up in Melbourne, Victoria and moved to the United States of America to be married in 1935, where she lived for the rest of her life. Though her husband served in the United States Armed Forces, Margaret chose to send care packages to Australian soldiers through the Australian Comforts Fund, suggesting she retained strong ties to Australia.

These letters and cards were sent from Australian servicemen to Margaret, initially after receiving a care package from her which she donated through the Australian Comforts Fund. These letters and cards highlight the support of people on the home front for Australian servicemen by sending care packages through organisations like the Australian Comforts Fund, and the response of Australian Servicemen on receipt of these packages. Additionally, this collection also helps tell the stories of the frontline experience of Australian servicemen during World War II.

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