This is Arthur Thomas and today is his 100th birthday. Arthur was born in Unley in Adelaide, South Australia, in 1923. He is a Second World War veteran.
Arthur enlisted for war service in the Australian Army and commenced duty as part of the Militia (CMF), before later transferring to the 2nd Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in February 1943. He became a corporal and served in New Guinea, Borneo and on Ambon.
Arthur was also involved in entertaining the troops with the 50/50 USA & ‘Digger Dandies’ 7th Australian Division entertainment unit. He played guitar and accompanied Gracie Fields in hospitals, with Lou Campara on accordion.
Arthur was posted to 126 Australian General Transport Company when he discharged from the AIF in June 1946. He valued the mateship and enjoyed going home on leave. He advises younger serving members to ‘find out about all the DVA services that you are entitled to’.
While still serving, Arthur married Marjorie in February 1946. The couple went on to have five children. Sadly, one of their children has passed away. After his discharge, Arthur worked as an installation engineer. He also taught music and had his own band.
When he was younger, Arthur enjoyed extensive travel with his wife, ballroom dancing and socialising. These days, Arthur likes to play the ‘pokies’, and he and Marjorie still enjoy socialising—but not dancing—at the ballroom dancing club.
Arthur credits his long life to keeping active, exercise, and having many interests.
