The Malayan Emergency through a Wing Commander’s eyes

Today, we commemorate Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Day. 

We acknowledge all who served during the Malayan Emergency (1948-1960) and the Indonesian Confrontation (1962-1966). 

Wing Commander Hugh Moore DFC led the Royal Australian Air Force’s No. 1 Bombing Squadron during the Malayan Emergency, with Australia providing air and infantry forces, as well as artillery and engineering support in response to communist attacks in Malaya.

Moore often wrote to his wife Lorrel during the Emergency, recounting the fine work of his squadron.

‘Night trips this month have exceeded those of any month since the squadron has been in Malaya,’ he wrote. 

‘Seems to be achieving something too, as we have been credited by General Boume with having caused sixteen surrenders in one area in the last couple of weeks.’ 

For his service in Malaya, Moore was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for improving night bombing techniques and for the high standards he set as commander. 

His insights and candid correspondence with his wife are part of the Private Records Collection at the Australian War Memorial. Alongside their collection of letters sits a small white envelope with photographs of Lincoln Bombers, some of the aircraft in flight and another on the tarmac at Tengah Air Base, Singapore.

Today, we remember all who served during the Malayan Emergency and the Indonesian Confrontation and honour the 61 Australians who died in the service of our nation. 

Lest we forget.