William enlisted on 21 May 1941 and was an original member of the unit, embarking aboard “ZEALANDIA” on 8 Dec 1941 for Timor as a Private in No 2 Sect, “A” Platoon. He is believed to be one of the defenders of the Dili Airstrip when the Japanese first landed.
After the campaign on Timor, he embarked with the unit, for Australia aboard the Royal Dutch destroyer “Tjerk Hiddes” on 16 Dec 1942.
After medical treatment, he embarked for New Guinea as a Trooper aboard "KATOOMBA" on 22 Nov 1943 and re-joined the 2/2nd in No 10 Sect, Headquarters Group, he 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 Sect, “B” Troop. He transferred to 4th Survey battery on 29 Nov 1945 and returned to Australia aboard "KATOOMBA" on 16 Dec 1945.
He was discharged on 21 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
Edited by Peter Epps
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