In Memory of David William (Digger) Barrett
David Barrett was born in February 1922 and died on July 22, 2012. He was a Prisoner of War of the Japanese for three and a half years but lead a glorious life, enjoying each and every day—even those as a POW. These were black days of course but it was there that he learned to look upon each new day as another opportunity—to steal more food, to help a fellow prisoner or to take surreptitious revenge on their captors.
David never forgot this and towards the end of his life he mustered all his energy to make his actions of each day count towards the betterment of his fellow Ex-POWs or their widows as he fought for reparations. They got nothing from the Japanese, despite help from sections of the Japanese population and the United Nations, but were finally rewarded in some measure in 2001 through the Australian Government.
His last ambition was to write his life’s story. I was privileged to help him in this effort and David had his book, Digger’s Story—Surviving the Japanese POW camps was just the beginning, published and in his hand just a few days before he passed away.
David will be remembered for his enthusiasm and determination to live life to the fullest as well as his inclination to say exactly what was on his mind—regardless of the company.
Farewell dear friend.
Brian K Robertson
Comments
Before my husband died, we had planned on taking a trip to Australia. when David found out, he wrote and invited us to be his guest and the use of his car. He was quite a gentleman and I miss our e-mail chats.
Carol Mastheny
Thank you for your comment about David. He was quite a character and I thoroughly enjoyed his company for the 4 years it took us to write the book. I am sorry I missed your comments when you posted them. I should have got back to you then. I hope were able to see the latest two interviews (4 and 5) that are now on the site.
Cheers
Brian Robertson.
NX47892 Pte Lionel Victor (Vic) Kearns AAMC 10 Aust Gen Hosp born Carrington NSW 21 Jan 1920 was like many captured with the fall of Singapore. Vic spent the remainder of his services as a POW, was in Changi from February 42 until August 43 and then sent with "L" Force to the railway in Thailand
If only I had have found this site earlier and had the chance to chat with David.
RIP diggers!
Ray Wooster, ex ARA , RAAMC
Woolgoolga NSW
I am sorry to have missed the opportunity to meet David.
What courage these men had.
Lest We Forget.
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