Competent in five languages

Giuseppe Vincenzo Lembo was born in Minori (Salerno) Italy on the 25th August 1903.  At the time of his arrest on the 10th June 1940, Giuseppe was living at 32 Lupus Street, London, England and operated at Fruit and Provisions Importing Business at 8 James Street, Convent Gardens, London.

A specialist in citrus and stone fruit and supply chain management of fruit and vegetables, Giuseppe had undertaken extensive study in the field of commercial and economic sciences and attained a Doctorate in Commercial Sciences. During his internment in Australia, he offered his services within the fruits and vegetables sector and also as an interpreter as he spoke England, German, French, Italian and Spanish.

His applications for release within Australia were refused in 1942 and 1943 on the grounds that such release had not been approved by the Home Office. Camp Authorities believed him to have considerable ability and tact, a good knowledge of bookkeeping and was able to keep on good terms with all internees generally. He worked in camp administration and assumed leadership of the UK Italian internees in November 1943 on the departure of Colonel Borghi. Giuseppe was to write: During my internment I have fully collaborated with Col. Borghi trying to smooth extremist tendencies and bring about a cordial atmosphere amongst the men of this group. (NAA: A367, C65189) 

His released for employment with the Civil Aliens Corps in forestry work was approved on the 27th June 1944, but within a month he was given exemption on the grounds of a heart condition.  Giuseppe was reassigned to Eclipse Radio, Sturt Street, South Melbourne as a process worker but then found work as a clerk with Frank Mattire, Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.  On the 24th January 1947, Giuseppe was issued his Certificate of Naturalisation.

Giuseppe’s internment affected his personal and family life. A cousin, also on the Arandora Star, did not survive. While interned, both his parents passed away and as the eldest son he assumed the responsibility for his ten younger siblings living in occupied Salerno, Italy.  Before internment, Giuseppe’s plans were to wed his fiancée Olga Crosa at Christmas 1940.

Of his life in Australia, post internment, Giuseppe established a Travel and Trade Agency: G.V.Lembro Travel & Commerce Agencies.  On the 11th July 1962, Giuseppe died from a heart attack.