Dare, James Nankivell (Private, b.1909 - d.1942)

Collection relating to the Second World War service of NX35628 Private James Nankivell Dare, 2/19 Australian Infantry Battalion, Second Australian Imperial Force, Malaya, 1941-1942.

Wallet 1 of 1 – Consists of three letters from Private James Nankivell Dare to his parents, Mr James Dare and Mrs Avis Dare, dated between 17 August 1941 and 10 January 1942, and one typed transcript of the letters. These letters were written while Private Dare was serving with 2/19 Australian Infantry Battalion in Malaya. In his letters, Private Dare writes about searching for a lost patrol in the jungle, driving long distances while on duty, transporting officers, a lack of mail, mosquitos, organising rations for patrols, preparing to retreat from the Japanese, and returning early from leave. He also makes enquiries and responds to news from home.

Private James Nankivell Dare enlisted to the Second Australian Imperial Force on 24 June 1940. After a period of training, he embarked for overseas service on in February 1941. Private Dare served with 2/19 Australian Infantry Battalion in Malaya. On 22 January 1942, as 2/19 Australian Infantry Battalion was withdrawing from the rapidly approaching Japanese forces, Private Dare became missing. He was later presumed to have been killed. Private Dare is commemorated at Singapore Memorial, Singapore.