A Hussey-Smith Family Heirloom

A Hussey-Smith Family Heirloom

This piece of Japanese parachute silk, complete with blood stains, sat in a silver cigarette case for many years before being passed down and framed.

It was presented to Sargent Albert Edward Hussey-Smith AIF during his station at Rabaul, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea between October 1945 and February 1946.

It speaks volumes for the character of the man and the love for his wife.

Albert Edward Hussey-Smith was known for his passionate belief that “all men are created equal”, and, although he knew of the atrocities committed by his enemies, his kind treatment of Japanese POWs must have earned him great respect, for he was presented with this item as a thank you gift.

A Hussey-Smith Family HeirloomThe English inscription on the item,

Specially drawed to my dear Don Hussy:

I have no words to express my gratefulness during I worked at your unit in Rabaul, New Britain,

Sincerely Yours,

T. Kojinmar

InterpreterJapanese Navy H.Q.

Supports the view that the item was definitely presented as a gesture of goodwill and thankfulness.

A Hussey-Smith Family HeirloomThe portrait drawn by T. Kojinmar is a reproduction from the small black and white photograph that Albert Edward carried in his wallet. A portrait of his wife.

A Hussey-Smith Family HeirloomAlthough T. Kojinmar stated that he had “no words to express his gratefulness” he must have meant no “English” words, for the Japanese inscription, unknown to the recipient, has recently been translated as follows,

Early in the evening,I sit alone and stare abstractly at theMoonlite southern beachWith nothing to call to mindBut a fleeting vision of your beauty

MaruyamaSenior Master SargentJapanese Imperial Navy

A Hussey-Smith Family Heirloom

A piece of Japanese parachute silk, decorated by a POW capturing the time in a soldiers life, when he sits, alone. Removing a small, crumpled photograph from his wallet. His heart filled with love, and longing.