The Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) was raised and maintained in its early years by the RSL and ...

The Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) was raised and maintained in its early years by the RSL and later handed over to Army control. It comprised men from every part of Australia and every walk of civilian life - volunteers unfit for combat in the regular forces, over the age limit or in reserved occupations. VDC members are shown marching with rifles over their shoulders, training before the issue of uniforms. Second row, closest to camera is probably N303646 Edward (Eddie) McAlpine, who was born in Callendar, Scotland and served in the Black Watch in the First World War. He was badly gassed and became a prisoner of war (POW). After migrating to Australia he joined the Volunteer Defence Corps in the Second World War.