Summer scholars
As the Memorial's three summer vacation scholars for 2008, we have just completed our six week research program. We have been the 63rd, 64th and 65th scholars to participate in the scheme since its establishment in 1985. Our projects were quite diverse:
- Rachel's researched the response to Cyclone Tracy by the military and the Natural Disasters Organisation, as part of the Official History of Australian Peacekeeping and Post-Cold War Operations;
- Meleah examined the relationship between Australian and American troops on the Western Front in 1918, for an exhibition to be held at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC later this year; and
- Elspeth studied working animals in conflicts from the Boer War to the present, as background to the upcoming ‘A is for Animals' temporary and travelling exhibition.
Rachel and Mel are undertaking their History Honours studies in the coming year, while Elspeth is about to commence her PhD. We have been grateful for the opportunity to gain valuable research experience, using sources both from the Memorial's collections and through other Canberra institutions. We have also appreciated the support and assistance provided by the Memorial's Military History, Research Centre and curatorial sections.
Post written by:
Rachel Imms, Australian National University
Meleah Ward, University of Adelaide
Elspeth Grant, University of Adelaide