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The War Ends
Mr. Billson discusses how work in the mine suddenly ended, signaling Japanese capitulation, and how the guards were all gone the following day.
Crude Medicine
Mr. Billson describes two incidents where he received crude medical treatment. One was having a gash above his eye doused in alcohol and stitched without freezing, and the other was an aching tooth that was packed with cotton and soaked with carbolic acid.
Measures of Japanese Successes
Mr. Billson describes how the POW’s treatment by the guards generally mirrored Japan's successes and setbacks in the war.
I was put on a drill.
Mr. Billson describes his duties in the coal mine as a drill operator, the extraction procedure, and the potential risks of working in the mine.
Japanese Hierarchy Of Discipline
Mr. Billson describes the Japanese habit of slapping prisoners as a disciplinary measure, but explains that it is merely an extension of the Japanese military culture.
No Place To Hide
Mr. Billson describes feeling threatened by the Japanese no matter where he was on the island. He recalls feeling particularly vulnerable at Stanley Fort.
Taking A Life
Mr. Billson discusses the fact that despite overwhelming odds, he found that shooting a man for the first time was “hard to take”. After that, however, he didn't care.
I Had Never Handled A Bren Gun
Mr. Billson describes being placed in charge of a Bren gun, a weapon he had never handled. His unit is sent to protect a pillbox at Tai Tam Gap without being issued any ammunition. When the ammo arrives, it isn't Bren cartridges, it is hand grenades. Eventually a few cartridges arrive.
The Bosnian Girl and Her New Dress!
Mr. Bojalil shares a story as how he unknowingly fulfilled a young girl’s happiness by providing for a new dress
Entering the Unknown
Mr. Wadman describes the devastation his unit witnessed upon arrival and the appreciation the civilian people had for the UN presence.
Road Move to Sarajevo
Mr. Wadman describes his unit’s road move into the besieged city of Sarajevo and his first impressions as they travelled towards the city.
Adjustment Back to Civilian Life
Mr. Wadman explains the difficulties faced when returning home from a mission and the effect it has on themselves and their family.
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