E. E. Dunlop (1907–1993)

During WWII, POWs in Thailand/Burma suffered years of starvation and brutal treatment by the Japanese while building a railway from BamPong in Thailand to Moulmein in Burma. Keeping a diary of events was a difficult task, not only due to the lack of writing materials but because of the threat of death should it be discovered. Keeping a radio also meted the same punishment. As a doctor and commanding officer Weary Dunlop did both these things. It is from the secret diaries kept by him, and other brave soldiers that we are able to understand the everyday horror of life on the "Line". and many were used to provide proof at War Crimes trials. Weary's diary is particularly extensive, keeping daily entries for almost 2 years "because the army required it". His improvements in camp and hospital hygiene, and introduction of specialised "diets" was ultimately responsible for less POWs succumbing to their impossible conditions.… (mer)