During a recent study tour of the Sandakan Death March in Borneo, Malaysia, soldiers uncovered remarkable stories of bravery from Australian prisoners of war (POWs) during World War II. These accounts highlight the profound sacrifices made by individuals under extreme duress, revealing a legacy of courage and solidarity.
Private Richard Murray’s Ultimate Sacrifice
Private Richard Murray faced an unimaginable choice when he and a fellow prisoner were caught stealing rice. The Japanese captors threatened to execute thirty prisoners if the culprits did not come forward. In a moment of selflessness, Private Murray stepped forward, accepting full responsibility for the theft. He endured severe beatings and was ultimately bayoneted to death.
Corporal Sarah Kerr, a recipient of the Jonathan Church Good Soldiering Award (JCGSA), shared Murray’s story during the tour, describing him as “a true hero.” His bravery was recognized posthumously when he received the Commendation for Gallantry in 2022, underscoring the heavy price of his sacrifice.
The Courage of Others
Corporal Meghan Manuzic discussed the tale of Private Harry Longley, who enlisted at the age of 17 from Yass, New South Wales. Known for his sense of humor, Longley was also fiercely protective of his comrades. “He would sacrifice himself in different ways to make things easier for his mates,” Corporal Manuzic remarked. His actions included instigating a riot to divert guards’ attention and rescuing fellow prisoner Private Jimmy Darlington, who had been punished for striking a Japanese soldier.
Private Darlington faced severe punishment for his actions, tied to a stake in the sun. Longley’s brave intervention not only saved him but also demonstrated a deep sense of camaraderie among the POWs.
Corporal Manuzic emphasized the collective spirit of these men, noting, “What they sacrificed was their comfort and safety to make things easier for each other.” Their stories encapsulate the essence of heroism in the face of adversity.
Unraveling the Truth of War Crimes
Another poignant story emerged from Gunner Neil Cleary, who escaped but was recaptured and subjected to brutal punishment. Corporal Rebecca Ross, also a JCGSA recipient, revealed that Cleary’s ordeal included being beaten and subjected to humiliation. His experience was pivotal during war crime trials, as testimony from Private Keith Botterill helped convict several Japanese guards.
However, Ross noted controversy surrounding Botterill’s account. Historian Lynette Silver challenged his narrative, revealing that he had exaggerated aspects of his torture to ensure justice. This complexity highlights the challenges faced in seeking accountability for war crimes, particularly given the high fatality rate among survivors of the Sandakan Death March.
A Legacy of Leadership
Warrant Officer John Kinder stood out as the sole Royal Australian Air Force member to endure the death march. Appointed as camp master, he was responsible for distributing food and protecting his fellow prisoners. Despite his position, he was never criticized for his actions. Tragically, he succumbed to malnutrition and disease along the march route. Another prisoner honored him by marking his grave, a testament to his leadership and dedication.
Sergeant Nathanael Bull reflected on Kinder’s selfless service, stating, “He demonstrated true leadership, where he was in service of his men.” These narratives resonate deeply with current soldiers, as they reflect on the sacrifices of those who wore the uniform before them.
Preserving History and Honoring Sacrifice
The stories shared during the JCGSA study tour serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought and suffered during the Sandakan Death March. With a staggering 99.75 percent fatality rate among the POWs, many accounts have faded into history. However, research by Australian historians, Malaysian tour operators, and testimonies from survivors have played a crucial role in preserving these legacies.
Corporal Manuzic expressed a renewed sense of purpose after learning these stories, stating, “The uniform takes on the meaning of the best parts of all those who came before us. It’s our obligation to uphold those standards.” As contemporary servicemen and women reflect on these harrowing yet inspiring tales, they carry forward a commitment to honor the sacrifices of their predecessors.
