| Accession Number | AWM2017.1371.3 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Paint, Perspex |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Date made | c 1940 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
Sweetheart pendant: Flight Sergeant Archibald Rupert Charles Allen, RAAF
Description
Sweetheart brooch with gold painted pilot's wings set into perspex. The perspex has minor scratches and a small crack below suspension ring.
History / Summary
Archibald Rupert Charles Allen was born on 2 January 1912 at Portarlington, Victoria. He enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force on 26 August 1940 and was discharged on 12 November 1945 with the rank of Flight Sergeant. During his service Allen served in the Pacific Theatre during the Kokoda campaign in 1942, first with No 1 Mobile Works Squadron and then with 36 Squadron. While serving with the 36th, Allen organised food rations for airlifts and other supplies to the front line troops. Allen's pre-war experience as a chef helped him extensively in this role.
It is believed this pendant may have been used as a cake decoration at the wedding of Allen's brother, Flight Lieutenant Ian Percy Albert Allen in 1940.