Robert Kenneth PALMER

Robert was an original member of the unit, embarking aboard “S.S. ZEALANDIA” on 8 Dec 1941 for Timor as a Corporal in No 3 Section, “A” Platoon.

The Embarkation Roll has him embarking at “Betano” for Australia aboard the “KURU” as a Lance Sergeant on 19 Nov 1942 but his service papers state he was commissioned Lieutenant on 4 Jul 1942.

Transferred as an Instructor to 1st Australian Commando Training Squadron on 25 Jul 1943 and embarked for New Guinea aboard "CANBERRA" on 24 Oct 1943 and re-joined the unit on 26 Nov 1943 as a Lieutenant and took over Adjutant duties in Headquarters Group. He returned to Australia with them aboard “TAROONA” on 3 Sept 1944.

After leave and reorganization, he embarked for New Britain aboard “TAROONA” on 9 Apr 1945 with the unit as a Lieutenant, Adjutant, Headquarters Group.

He returned to Australia on 16 Dec 1945 and was discharged on 18 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".