Codrington, Arthur John (NX2274, Corporal, 2/2nd Battalion)

Biographical manuscript titled 'My Life as a Soldier' detailing the service of NX2274 Cpl. Arthur John Codrington MID in the Second World War. Describes signals training in camp at Julis, Palestine in 1940, the Battle of Bardia, passage to Greece and the effect of war on Greek civilians. Recounts encounter with a German tank at Tempe Gorge on 18th April, 1941 including actions of Arthur Hiddens for which he received the Military Medal. Details escape with Australian and New Zealand soldiers from Greece to Palestine, via Turkey. Describes passage across the Aegean Sea by boat via Skiathos, Skopelos and Skiros Islands; including encounters with helpful Greek locals. Describes fair treatment by Turkish soldiers and mentions the Turkish Parliament's decision to allow the group to leave Turkey. Briefly describes departure from Turkey, passage to Port Said, Egypt on an oil tanker and return to camp at Julis. Recounts service in Syria, Colombo, the Atherton tablelands and New Guinea from late 1941 to July 1945; including on the Kokoda trail and the Aitape-Wewak campaign.