John Patrick KENNEALLY

John (Paddy) was a member of the First Reinforcements that arrive at Dili, Timor, aboard M.V. “KOOLAMA”, on 22 Jan 1942, prior to the Japanese landing. He joined the unit as a Private. After the campaign on Timor, he embarked with the unit, for Australia aboard the Royal Dutch destroyer “Tjerk Hides” on 16 Dec 1942. 

After leave and reorganization, he embarked with the unit for New Guinea aboard S.S. “DUNTROON” on 17 Jun 1943 as a Trooper in No 4 Section, “B” Troop. He was wounded in action near Faita but remained on duty on 27 Aug 1943, Head and leg. John returned to Australia with them aboard “TAROONA” on 3 Sept 1944.

After further leave and reorganization, he embarked for New Britain aboard “TAROONA” on 9 Apr 1945 with the unit as a Trooper in No 4 Section, “B” Troop. He was appointed paid Lance Corporal on 16 Mar 1945 and promoted to Acting Corporal on 21 Jun 1945, rank of Corporal confirmed on 8 Aug 1945.

John returned to Australia on 8 Jan 1946 and was discharged on 29 Jan 1946.

He was entitled to the 1939-45 Star, Pacific Star, War Medal and Australian Service Medal 1939-45, pictured below. He is now also entitled to the Australian Service Medal 1945-75 with a clasp "S.W.Pacific".