Interview with Claude Wysocki

Describes family background, emigration of his father's family to New Zealand and settlement in Marton and Dannevirke. Describes employment of his father and uncles, and his own job with 'Dannevirke Bush Advocate', newspapers in Dannevirke, news of outbreak of war, Cadets, Territorials, enlistment, training at Trentham with Rifle Brigade, final leave, sailed on 'Ulimaroa' ca 1917.

Discusses his brothers' career in the army, ports of call - Sierra Leone and Capetown. Venereal disease, prostitution in London, sick parades, food on transport, disorganisation of the army, Brocton Camp, further stories on army disorganisation, training at Brocton, training as grenade thrower.

Recalls transport to France, Second Battle of the Somme, Mailly Maillet, Valenciennes, Bapaume, effect of sniper fire, wounded by shrapnel, Le Quesnoy, recalls Armistice, shell shock, self inflicted wounds, drinking, 'nosegay' tobacco, rats, saluting, Sling Camp riot at Larkhill, relations with Chinese labour crew, morale of New Zealand troops in 1918, gambling and two-up, chaplains, return to New Zealand.

Describes return to Dannevirke, gratuity, marriage, career in newspapers post war, commercial printing, detailed views on RSA and Anzac Day parades, future of RSA, Rifle Brigade reunions.

Venue - Auckland

Interviewer(s) - Jane Tolerton

Interviewer(s) - Nicholas Boyack

Venue - Mr Wysocki's daughter's home at Murrays Bay, Auckland

Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-002793 - OHC-002795

Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 Electronic document(s) - abstract. 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration.

Physical Description: Textual file

Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 526, OHDL-000358.

Black and white photograph of Claude Wysocki, 1988

Original recordings not available for playback. Surrogate copies will be provided.

Alternative form available: Listening copies OHLC-6128 - OHLC-6130

Both printed and digital versions of the abstract are available