Short, Merton Nelson (Private, b.1920 - d.1945)

Collection relating to the Second World War service of NX26580 Private Merton Nelson Short, 2/18th and 2/19th Infantry Battalions. Collection consists of original letters and cards written by Private Short to his parents and sister (Wilsie), during his military training in Australia and his subsequent service in Malaya during 1941; as well as photocopies of letters and cards written to his friend, Mary Owen, over the same period. The originals of these photocopies can be found at PR01101. Many of the letters are decorated with comical illustrations, and describe his training; duties; impressions of the local people in Malaya and Singapore including their life and customs and relations with the Australians; British civilians and soldiers; tourist activities and hospitalisation. Short's letters also describe his reactions to the Japanese invasion of Malaya, aerial activity and the effectiveness of defences.

Also included in the collections are drawings, photographs, and a self published book titled: 'Death in Borneo, 1945: The story of Merton and Rupert' by Wilsie Short. The book contains information on both Private Merton Nelson Short and Lieutenant Rupert Llandels Waldron Nelson, 2/33 Battalion.

Private Short was taken prisoner of war following the fall of Singapore, and died of illness in Sandakan POW camp on 13 July 1945. Lieutenant Nelson was killed in action at Balikpapan on 07 July 1945.