Arch Flanagan

Arch Flanagan, 91, is a retired school teacher. In 1943, as a sergeant in the Australian Army, he was forced to labor on the infamous Burma Railway upon which it is said, that one man died for every sleeper laid. As one of Weary Dunlop’s Thousand, Arch experienced the horrors of forced labour under the cruel and arbitrary command of the Japanese Imperial Army. There have been many books written on this subject but this one includes a fascinating commentary by Martin Flanagan, who outlines his own struggles to come to terms with his father’s experiences. The two voices create a unique and engaging memoir.

In the 50 years since, Arch has written four separate pieces reflecting on the experience – two short stories, a memoir and an obituary for his commanding officer, Sir Edward “Weary” Dunlop.

Archie Flanagan passed away on the 23rd April 2013 aged 98. He was a fine writer and a true gentleman.