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Six World War II servicemen are to be recognised for their heroic actions as part of the Sparrow Force detachment


Lisa AdMs

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I read this post on the Modern Soldier Facebook page. This may of interest to you or you may be able to help. 

 
** HELP NEEDED TO TRACK DOWN NEXT-OF-KIN **
 
Six World War II servicemen are to be recognised for their heroic actions as part of the Sparrow Force detachment tasked with the defence of Timor, and the government is calling for their next-of-kin to come forward to accept the honours on their behalf.
 
Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester says the men of Sparrow Force fought valiantly to protect an air base in Timor which provided a forward operating base for Allied aircraft operating in the south west Pacific
 
The recognised servicemen are:
 
● Captain Norman Peterson MADDERN NX34934 – Distinguished Service Medal
“Captain Maddern led an attack, clearing the enemy off a ridge, following the death of the Company Commander and Second-in-Command, and showed extreme coolness and courage under heavy enemy fire.”
 
● Lieutenant Ronald George WILLIAMS TX2146 – Distinguished Service Medal
“Lieutenant Williams led his platoon in attacks alternating from one flank to the other of the enemy position, which resulted in driving them back. His leadership had a very material effect on the battle.”
 
● Corporal James Hubert ARMSTRONG TX3283 – Medal for Gallantry
“Corporal James Armstrong showed complete disregard for his own personal safety and enabled a vital position to be secured. Corporal Armstrong was also recommended for a Commendation for Gallantry following his escape from a Japanese Prisoner of War camp, subsequent recapture and execution in June 1943, when he was aged just 24 years old.”
 
● Lance Corporal Harold Arthur BAILEY NX38000 – Commendation for Distinguished Service
“Switchboard operator Lance Corporal Harold Bailey remained at his post while under heavy shelling and showed extreme efficiency, courage and devotion to duty.”
 
● Signalman Robert Henry FRAZER NX38179 – Medal for Gallantry
“Signalman Robert Frazer was a motor cycle dispatch rider who volunteered to ride to the battle in order to bring information to headquarters. He did this through heavy enemy fire and in the face of many difficulties.”
 
● Private John Kenneth POWELL TX3971 – Commendation for Gallantry
“Private John Powell was another motor cycle rider who displayed courage and devotion to duty riding through enemy patrols to deliver messages.
 
Let's help spread the word. The next-of-kin of these servicemen can register by calling 1800 333 362 or by writing to: 
honours.awards@defence.gov.au
 
We thank you all for your service and courage. Rest in peace, diggers.
 
PHOTO: A small patrol of Sparrow Force troops moving through the typically rugged and heavily wooded Timorese terrain. From left: are: CPL Sargeant; PTE J Williams; PTE C Chopping; PTE Warwick Arthur Crossing; SGT A E Smith. Source: AWM
Sent from my iPhone

 

 

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