Harold Francis NEWTON

Harold (Harry) was an original member of the unit, embarking aboard “S.S. ZEALANDIA” on 8 Dec 1941 for Timor as a Private in No 6 Section, “B” Platoon.

Late Jul 1942 it was decided to form a small detachment, called “H” Force, comprising of 2 Officers and 10 other ranks, to serve as far right-flank protection for the unit. Harry was selected for this assignment.

After the campaign on Timor, he embarked with the unit, for Australia aboard the Royal Dutch destroyer “Tjerk Hiddes” 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 Transport Section, Headquarters Group. As the unit had no transport, the Transport Sect was used as another Troop.

Harry 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.

He was promoted Acting Corporal and transferred to Australian Army Pay Corps on 28 Aug 1945 but stayed with the unit as Pay Clerk.

Confirmed Corporal 3 Dec 1945 and Sergeant 19 Dec 1945.

Embarked for Australia on 14 Mar 1946 and was discharged on 3 Dec 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".