Cutler, Arthur Roden (Lieutenant), 1916-2002, VC

Collection relating to the Second World War service of NX12378 Lieutenant Arthur Roden Cutler VC, 2/5 Field Regiment, Palestine and Australia, 1941.

Wallet 1 of 1 - Contains correspondence relating to the wounding of Arthur Roden Cutler during the Battle of Damour on 6 July 1941. In the first of four letters from Cutler to his mother, the author breaks the news of his wounding and the amputation of his leg, offering reassurance by remarking on his recovery, his impending return to Australia and prospects for the future. Subsequent letters largely concern his convalescence, the care of medical staff, news of his recommendation for an award and his approaching repatriation home. In his last letter, Cutler recalls events following his wounding in greater detail. He reveals intimate personal thoughts amid the ordeal of applying first aid and awaiting rescue, followed by his treatment at advanced dressing stations, evacuation to hospital and complications to his recovery.

The wallet also includes letters from the Red Cross Bureau for Wounded, Missing and Prisoners of War and telegrams from the Minister of the Army informing members of the Cutler family of Roden's condition from late July to early August 1941. The last item comprises a letter from NX35 Major Lorimer Fenton Dods in which the author congratulates Cutler on being awarded the Victoria Cross for actions at the Battle of Merdjayoun and the Battle of Damour.

A transcription of this collection is available (pdf file).

• Wallet 1 of 1 - Correspondence relating to the wounding of Arthur Roden Cutler at the Battle of Damour and awarding of the Victoria Cross, 1941