Our Wartime Heroes: firsthand stories from men and women who were there

Fred was a gunner in WWI in Belgium. He vividly describes what it was like to face the constant noise and bombardment on the battlefield. After the war, Fred continued his fine teaching career. Narration Sharon Kennedy. Written and voiced by Chris Handley.

Captain Bob Allsop was part of the British Merchant Navy during WWII. He'd already been toughened up by the English education system. He dodged death in some of the most dangerous convoys of the war and narrowly avoided capture by the Japanese when transporting Australians to Singapore. He greatly admired the Australians whom he met on board.

During WWII, Lancaster bomber Kim Roberts flew as part of the D Day invasion. He crashed in France, The family had never given up hope of finding his body. Then, 50 years on, his brother Newton received a phone call. He tells the story. Narration Sharon Kennedy.

Ian was just a 13 you old lad when WWII began. He had the job of delivering bad news to Bunbury families.

During WWII, adventurous young Marjorie was determined to join the Women's Land Army despite her parents refusal.. So she ran away from home. The uniform made her laugh, but the work was serious. Narration Sharon Kennedy.

In 1939, Dennis signed up for the famed Australia 10th Light Horse, He explains what caused the horses to stampede through the middle of the Bunbury town.

Harry was among the first to land on Gallipoli in WWI, He was an acclaimed sniper and, also, in demand for his broad shoulders. The Gallipoli campaign was the foundation of the ANZAC legend. Listen to his letters home which detail the conditions on the peninsula.