Summary

First Field Dressing associated with Norman Henry 'Harry' James, a Flight Lieutenant with the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II, service no. A419592.

This kit contained two waterproof bandages to dress wounds sustained in the field (i.e. during battle. Air crews were also issued with kits specifically designed for the treatment of burns (see HT 33925).

Part of a large trunk full of items relating to Harry's military service.

Norman Henry 'Harry' James joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in September 1942 and became an air crew member. In January 1943 he was sent to Canada under the Empire Air Training Scheme (EATS) - also known as the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Under the EATS he was stationed in both Alberta and Saskatchewan (which both border Montana). He was later assigned to the Royal Air Force (RAF, Great Britain) and was last stationed at an air base in Ballykelly, Ireland. Following the war he closed the contents in his trunk and hid it under his house, where it remained unopened for the rest of his life. It is an extraordinary insight into the experience of a member of a World War II air crew. His wife, Mrs Mary James, is the donor.

According to an inscription on the front, this kit was made by Johnson & Johnson Pty Ltd of Sydney in October 1942. Johnson & Johnson Pty. Ltd. is a health care company that was founded by three brothers in 1886. The company first came to Australia in 1906 and continue to produce medical supplies across the country.

Physical Description

Unopened square package covered in khaki containing two bandages. The front of the package identifies it as a 'First Field Dressing' along with a list of contents and instructions for use. The package has been sealed by a single stitch on one side.

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