Watch face belonging to Joseph Davis
Object numberM2013/022
TitleWatch face belonging to Joseph Davis
DescriptionThis is the remaining face of a watch given to Joseph Davis (Joseph Davidovitz) by the staff at Kriesler Radio, around the time he enlisted in the 2nd Australian Imperial Air Force, May 1940. Most likely, it represents a gift to an employee before his deployment in service to his country.
Joseph served in the 2nd AIF as a Gunner in the 18 Tank Battery (T/A Bty) and was posted to Horn Island, Queensland sometime between August 1941 and March 1942. Following the declaration of the Pacific War, the Island became a significant allied northern outpost, playing a strategic role in the air war against Japanese forces. Whist technically an air base, army ground forces were installed and utilised in the protection of personnel, infrastructure and aircraft.
Between March 1942 and June 1943, there were eight significant air raid attacks on Horn Island. Whilst positioned on the airstrip and manning the 2-pdr guns against incoming enemy aircraft, David perished from the impact of a 500 pound bomb. He was relieving a fellow Gunner who had temporarily left the Island for medical treatment.
Joseph served in the 2nd AIF as a Gunner in the 18 Tank Battery (T/A Bty) and was posted to Horn Island, Queensland sometime between August 1941 and March 1942. Following the declaration of the Pacific War, the Island became a significant allied northern outpost, playing a strategic role in the air war against Japanese forces. Whist technically an air base, army ground forces were installed and utilised in the protection of personnel, infrastructure and aircraft.
Between March 1942 and June 1943, there were eight significant air raid attacks on Horn Island. Whilst positioned on the airstrip and manning the 2-pdr guns against incoming enemy aircraft, David perished from the impact of a 500 pound bomb. He was relieving a fellow Gunner who had temporarily left the Island for medical treatment.
Production date 1940-01 - 1940-12
Production periodWWII
Subjectsoldiers, war effort
Object namewatches
Dimensions
- width: 30.00 mm
length: 35.00 mm
depth: 5.00 mm
Language
- English
Credit lineSydney Jewish Museum Collection, Donated by Richard Davis