To view a video version of the talk, click here. 

Young Australian teacher Bruce Dowding arrived in Paris in 1938, planning only to improve his understanding of French language and culture. After the war broke out, Dowding helped exfiltrate hundreds of Allied servicemen from occupied France. He eventually paid the ultimate price and was beheaded by the Nazis just after his 29th birthday in 1943.

His story is told in the book Secret Agent, Unsung Hero, written by Bruce’s nephew, prominent Australian lawyer and former Western Australian Premier Peter Dowding and historian Ken Spillman.

This podcast was recorded live at the Secret Agent, Unsung Hero book talk at the Shrine of Remembrance. 

Music: Maturity by Solitude

Warning: This podcast contains themes that may be distressing for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects in the Galleries.

In this episode, Major David Bergman explains his role in the recovery efforts following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Major Bergman was one of only five Australian Defence Force personnel embedded with the NYPD and other units who worked in the months after the attacks. 

Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon