Arthur and Adeline: A true story of WW1 bravery and romance
In this presentation, which was delivered live to an on-line audience, Dennis Claridge talks about his quest to uncover the facts behind a bequest that he received - being a chest full of documents, postcards and photos. These, when pieced together, told the story of an Australian soldier from the First World War.
Arthur Cima was born the son of a Swiss confectioner, and joined the Merchant Navy as a steward. Finding himself in Australia early in WW1, he signed up, joining the 13th Australian Infantry Battalion. Promoted to corporal, he fought valiantly as part of the Anzacs at Messines Ridge and Passchendaele and won the Military Medal. He was blinded in action on 4 July 1918 when his face was destroyed by an explosive bullet.
Throughout his life Arthur seems to have accepted his fate with great dignity and forbearance. He was to fall deeply in love with one of his nurses, Adeline Guidotti, who was married with two children. She showed great devotion for Arthur, and she left her family so she could care for him. Eventually they were able to marry.
When Arthur died, he left the contents of his bungalow to a neighbour, the speaker/author, Dennis Claridge. Inside, Dennis found a chest full of documents, with over 300 postcards and many photos. Using this material, he has written this fascinating account of Arthur’s life.
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