The book recounts the story of Pamela’s husband Rod, who served with the 8 Division Signals in Malaya and Singapore during World War II, including his time as a Japanese prisoner of war.
Rod spent time in Sandakan prison in British North Borneo after he was taken prisoner by the Japanese in 1942 after the fall of Singapore.
There, he joined the underground, building radio equipment from scratch before he was caught, tortured and sent to Outram Road Gaol in Singapore in 1943.
After the war, he became a neuclonics and electronics expert worldwide and had a career in the Department of Defence as a scientist, before marrying Pamela in 1974, who grew up in Echuca.
His life is said to be defined by his optimism, will to live, and self-discipline in his story of inspiration and exceptional achievements while overcoming severe hardship.
Rod was also active in Shepparton Legacy, Rushworth RSL and Jubilee Masonic Lodge Rushworth.
Soon after Pamela married Rod, she began documenting his life, compiling oral histories, interview transcripts and trial records of Rod’s time with with 8 Division Signals in Malaya, including his survival as a POW.
“As one of the few first-hand accounts of POW life in Borneo’s Sandakan Camp and the equally infamous Outram Road Gaol in Singapore, this book will be a valuable addition to the nation’s military heritage,” said Lynette Silver AM, a military historian.
To join Pamela Wells at the Numurkah Library at 2pm on Tuesday July 26, contact Goulburn Valley Libraries on 1300 374 765 or email numurkah@gvlibraries.com.au
Copies of the book will be available for purchase on the day, cash only.