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Men from Newcastle: The World Wars of Ted and George Murray

Stories of service in the Australian Air Force, 1942-52.This book is the story of a father and son from Newcastle, New South Wales. Edward Norman ‘Ted’ Murray and his son, George Arthur Murray, both elected to serve in Australia’s Air Force.Ted served in the Air Force during World War II from 1942-45. The context of his service was the switch in priority from the Empire Air Training Scheme to working with the United States to win the war in the Pacific. He joined in search of adventure. He trained diligently to become a Flight Engineer and served in the Northern Territory, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria during the War. Due to his age and family situation he did not leave Australia. But Ted did get the adventure he sought. He took advantage of every opportunity to fly -Tiger Moth,Hudson,CatalinaandB-17- and although a long way from the front-line, he saw a number of those around him die in service and experienced danger himself.George Murray was Called-up for National Service in 1952 during the Korean War, which was a conflict within the broader Cold War. The context of his service was the regional contest with Communism. George was seeking employment and six months full-time service with the Citizen Air Force suited him fine. But like his father, when the opportunity for adventure presented, he was keen to participate. Unfortunately, the chance to serve in either Malta or Korea was denied. George saw the transition from propeller aircraft to jet aircraft, but his service was indicative of the frustrating experience of ‘Nashos’ in the first National Service scheme. George completed his National Service obligation serving in Newcastle with the Citizen Military Force.Both men had their needs fulfilled through their service. Their stories are of ordinary working-class Australians who in times of conflict have committed to serve and tell of service life in Australia in support of those on the front-line.The Foreword for this book was written by Collin D. Murray, Allan's younger brother.Read more

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