Francis (Frank) was an original member of the unit, embarking aboard “S.S. ZEALANDIA” on 8 Dec 1941 for Timor as the Platoon Sergeant, Signals Platoon, Headquarters Group.
He was Mentioned in Despatches, for Gallant and Distinguished Service, London Gazette, 25 May 1943 and in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, No 119-3 Jun 1943. These are the two Gazettes for the Timor Campaign.
After the campaign on Timor, he embarked with the unit, for Australia aboard the Royal Dutch destroyer “Tjerk Hiddes” on 16 Dec 1942.
He was commissioned Lieutenant on 24 Dec 1942 and transferred as an Instructor to 1st Australian Commando Training Squadron on 7 Jul 1943 and then to Officer Cadet Training Unit on 16 Aug 1943.
He embarked for New Guinea aboard “Canberra” on 31 Dec 1943 and re-joined the unit on 4 Jan 1944.
Frank transferred to 2/7th Commando Squadron on 7 Apr 1944 and embarked for Australia aboard “TAROONA” on 22 Apr 1944.
He was discharged on 6 May 1945.
He was entitled to the 1939-45 Star, Pacific Star, War Medal and Australian Service Medal 1939-45, pictured below.
Frank was awarded a Civilian Member of the Order of the British Empire (M.B.E.) London Gazette 4 Jun 1976 for services to ex-servicemen.
Edited by Peter Epps
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