Memories of Service 1 - James Easton

Web (Full Length) – 2015

At the age of 97, former Australian soldier James Easton recounts his experiences as a prisoner of the Japanese during World War II in this episode of Memories of Service. Captured at the fall of Singapore, Jim spent more than three years in captivity, including 12 months working on the infamous Burma Railway. He unflinchingly recalls illness, brutality and 16-hour working days. Suffering from dysentery and dengue fever, Easton lost about 30 kilograms in his time as a prisoner of war. More than 8000 Australians died in Japanese prison camps.

He said ‘we’ve been bombed.’ I said 'by who?' He said ‘by the Japs.’ I said 'what’ll I do?' He said ‘Well they might send paratroopers down.’ I said 'well I’ve got three bullets, what’ll I do when they’re gone?' And he said ‘use your bloody bayonet.'
– James Easton