NAM.2021-06-16-1-1

Bound manuscript diary of Col. Eugene St John Birnie covering his time in India, Far East and Middle East; and provides detailed commentary and impressions of his experiences and commanding officers during his service in World War Two. Written as a memoir between July 1942 and July 1943, covering the period 1939-1943. (64pp + 1 drawing) Subjects include: the build-up to war and the fall of France, serving as private secretary to Field Marshal Sir Archibald Wavell, campaigns in Egypt, Abyssinia, Greece and Crete, service as a staff officer to Field Marshal Sir Claude Auchinleck, service under Field Marshal Wavell and General Sir Alan Hartley in India and Java, a visit to India by Chang Kai Shek, the Japanese threat in the Far East and the state of British defences, Indian politics and proposals for the future constitution of India, British negotiations on the future of India, relief convoys sent to Malta, the surrender of Singapore, and the character and disposition of Field Marshal Wavell. In addition, includes content related to family and personal life throughout. Associated with World War Two (1949-1945).

World War Two (1939-1945), World War Two, Middle East (1940-1945), World War Two, Far East (1941-1945)