Australian Comforts Fund - Fund raising pin

Datec 1940

Object number00044568

NameLapel pin

MediumMetal

DimensionsOverall: 20 x 10 mm

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis oval lapel pin featuring a six-pointed red star on a blue background was sold as a fundraising campaign for the Australian Comforts Fund (ACF). The ACF raised money to produce parcels for Australian servicemen in the field, as well as clothing, meal provisions and accommodation for men on leave. The duty of the volunteer-run organisation was to provide care and relief to all fit and well members of the Australian Forces during World Wars I and II.HistoryThe Australian Comforts Fund was established during World War I to provide comforts to Australian troops serving overseas. Their motto was to 'Keep the Fit Man Fit'. The volunteers produced hampers filled with items such as knitted socks, soap, clothes, razors and cigarettes, items that were not issued in standard military provisions but provided some comfort to the men. Following the end of hostilities in 1918 the ACF was discontinued. During World War II on 9 January 1940, the Australian Comforts Fund was reestablished, based on its World War I predecessor. It raised money for comfort parcels for Australian service personnel in the field, as well as providing clothing, meals and accommodation for service personnel on leave. The ACF was a Commonwealth-wide voluntary organisation accredited to the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Military Forces and the Royal Australian Air Force and charged with the duty of caring for all fit and well members of the Australian Forces. It is estimated that the predominantly female-run organisation knitted approximately three million pairs of socks during the conflict. The ACF officially closed on 27 June 1946. SignificanceThis pin is representative of the work of the Australian Comforts Fund during World War II. Through the sale of pins such as this the ACF raised money for hampers which were given to Australian personnel serving overseas.