Godfrey MERRITT

Godfrey (George) enlisted on 9 Apr 1941 and was an original member of the unit, embarking aboard “ZEALANDIA” on 8 Dec 1941 for Timor as a Private in No 5 Section, “B” Platoon.

After the campaign on Timor, he embarked with the unit, for Australia aboard the Royal Dutch destroyer “Tjerk Hiddes” on 16 Dec 1942.

Promoted Lance Corporal 4 Jun 1943.

After leave and reorganization, he embarked with the unit for New Guinea aboard S.S. “DUNTROON” on 17 Jun 1943 as a Lance Corporal in No 5 Section, “B” Troop, where he was Wounded in Action and remained on duty on 25 Oct 1943. He returned to Australia with the unit aboard “TAROONA” on 3 Sept 1944.

Promoted to Acting Corporal on 30 Jan 1945 and after further leave and reorganization, he embarked for New Britain aboard “TAROONA” on 9 Apr 1945 with the unit as an Acting Corporal in No 5 Section, “B” Troop. Godfrey was confirmed Corporal on 30 Apr 1945. He returned to Australia aboard "SALAMAUA" on 18 Jan 1946 and was discharged on 27 Mar 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.