Spurgeon, Clarence Haddon (Air Commodore, b.1920 - d.2008)

Collection relating to the Second World War and Malayan Emergency service of 569 (O399) Air Commodore Clarence Haddon Spurgeon, 8 Squadron RAAF (Singapore, Second World War) and 1 Squadron RAAF (Singapore, Malayan Emergency), 1939-1945.

Collection consists of a typed oral history interview with "Spud" Spurgeon undertaken by Megan Kingdon for a Year 12 project. The manuscript begins by covering Spurgeon's early life including where he was born, subjects he took at school, and pre-RAAF employment. Next, Spurgeon's reasons for joining the RAAF are discussed, along with his reactions to the declaration of war, which occurred on the day that he joined. Next the conversation addresses Spurgeon's views on politics - a topic that arises regularly throughout the interview. Spurgeon, as prompted by Kingdon, also discuss the politics of what he was told about the Malayan campaign and how under-supplied they were considering the Japanese forces they were facing. Next the conversation covers the reconnaissance missions that Spurgeon was tasked with while flying Lockheed Hudsons, his being shot down by Japanese Zeroes, and then details of his capture and internment. Of his time in different Japanese POW camps, Spurgeon discusses the health issues that he and his fellow internees faced, but also spends much time discussing the camaraderie developed between himself and both Australian and British officers that were interned alongside him. Also discussed is some of the education that Spurgeon undertook while interned, from work books which are held in PR05135.

The interview concludes with Spurgeon and Kingdon discussing how his internment had impacted his life up to the present day, including how he came to regard Japanese people, the health issues suffered as a result of his prolonged period of malnutrition, and why he continued to serve in the RAAF - including why he received his Distinguished Flying Cross during the Malayan Emergency.