Eventually we arrived on 13th October 1945 at San Francisco and a great welcome. We were taken by ferry to an island in the Bay, Angel Island. This had been used as an Italian POW camp. What a difference from a Japanese Camp! Spacious dormitories with even a soft drink dispenser in each room. The food was excellent and served by Italian POWs. Sports fields and flower gardens abounded.
Diary pages from this date
Bridge again. Was vaccinated.
Lovely day.
30 cigs 1 box vestas & shaving cream issued.
Much cooler pm.
Entered Gulf of Suez 8.30pm. R & W light 7 secs. int.
Posted letter to Marj.
REPATRIATION NOTICE NO. 18.
UNITED KINGDOM
It is expected that H.M.S. “Empire Lagan” will be leaving the Colony for the United Kingdom on Wednesday next, 17th October.
There will be accommodation for a few women and children and up to fifty men.
Those listed for early repatriation to the United Kingdom should stand by in readiness.
Lists for those for embarkation will be published on Monday evening, 15th October.
REPATRIATION OFFICE
13th October, 1945.
Published on p.4 of the SCMP for 15 Oct 1945.