Leonard Christian Williamson photograph album, 1940-1950

State Library of Queensland holds an extensive collection of published and unpublished resources relating to the Second World War including this photograph album donated by the descendants of Leonard Christian Williamson (1909-1950).

Leonard Williamson (1909-1950) was born in Rockhampton to Charles Williamson and Ellen Mitchell. He completed his compulsory military cadet training between 1924 and 1927 and was employed as a tailor before enlisting with the Australian Army in 1940 (service no: Q184603). 

He was first assigned to 11th Australian Field Ambulance, and promoted to Sergeant, later attached to 112 Australian General Hospital (AGH) between March & May 1941, and then returned to 11th Field Ambulance, serving in Townsville, and Yeppoon. In 1942 he was transferred to operations in Warwick and promoted to Staff Sergeant.

Leonard married Hazel Amy Rowton (1919-1996) in March 1944, in Brisbane - Hazel had served with the AAMWS from November 1942 to July 1944. In March 1945 Leonard was reallotted to HQ NG Details Dept Lae, and departed for New Guinea in July 1945 just weeks after the birth of their son Johnathon.

Leonard was briefly assigned to 13/14th Australian Field Ambulance before being detached to serve with 43 Landing Craft Company AATWC (AIF), from June to December 1945. The Company supported and supplied amphibious assault operations, and remained in the area after the war for accommodation, stores, supplies and movement of prisoners of war.

Veronika Farley - Original Materials Librarian, State Library of Queensland