How a pocket book saved the life of Private John Croft at Gallipoli

A souvenir of the war was received this week by Mr. Frank Catt, of Bulli, from Private John Croft of Woonona. It consisted of the young fellow’s pocket-book, with a sharp-nose bullet embedded in it. A few weeks ago Private Croft was reported wounded, and from this practical message it can be seen how narrowly he missed fatal injury. The message of death passed through his forearm and would have enter his body but for striking the book at an angle. He has sent an earnest request that the sacred trophy be preserved.

– The Globe and Sunday Times War Pictorial Saturday 19 June 1915.

John Hector Croft

(Private, b.1891 – d.1916)

3rd Australian Infantry Battalion

Middle East: Ottoman Empire, Turkey, Dardanelles, Gallipoli

A number of items are in the Australian War Memorial archives collection relating to the First World War service of 2343 Private John Hector Croft (pictured)…