For anyone under 21, just wanting to join the fight against the Axis powers in World War II wasn t enough - someone had to vouch for you.
The National Archive of Australia released a trove of references written for hopeful enlistees about 70 years ago, before their interviews to join the RAAF.
They tell a story of young men and women from big cities, small towns, and all kinds of industries keen to down tools and join the war effort.
Adelaide-based Guinea Airways Limited seemed unwilling to talk up Mr Ellens abilities in this reference (pictured, courtesy National Archives of Australia)
Beaurepaires manager felt it important to point out that Gordon Cuthbertson had the guts to fight in defence of his country in their reference to the RAAF (pictured, courtesy National Archives of Australia)