Leane, Benjamin Bennett (Major, b.1890 - d.1917)

Collection relating to the service of Major Benjamin Bennett Leane, 48 Battalion, AIF, Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front, 1914-1917. Collection consists of one letter [typescript carbon copy] and photostat copies of personal diaries, bound into two volumes by AWM. Diaries are written in the form of letters to his wife, Phyllis, and contain detailed descriptions of his day-to-day experiences in the army, as well as personal messages to his wife. Location of original letters unknown.

Major Benjamin Bennett Leane made regular, detailed entries in his diaries, addressing each entry to his wife Phyliss. He apparently thought of his diary entries as not only a way of recording his military experience, but also as a substitute for conversations with his wife, whom he clearly adored and deeply missed. His writings are full of touching endearments and expressions of love, loneliness and homesickness. Also apparent throughout these diaries are Leane's pride in the 10th and 48th Battalions, his devotion to duty and his admiration for his older brother Brigadier General Raymond Lionel Leane. A feature of Major Leane's 1915 diary is his very detailed account of the ANZAC landing on Gallipoli. Photostat copies made by Australian War memorial. Location of originals unknown.

Biographical note: Major Benjamin Bennett Leane, 48 Battalion, AIF, killed near Bullecourt on 10 April 1917. Other biographical details concerning him are: warehouseman, of Prospect, SA, born Prospect; educated at Prospect public school; age at time of death, 27.

• Letters relating to Benjamin Bennett Leane, 1914-1927
• Photostat copy of diaries of Benjamin Bennett Leane, 1915
• Photostat copy of diaries of Benjamin Bennett Leane, 1915-1916