Three veterans from Moree have been recognised for their military service during a special presentation ahead of Anzac Day.
Federal Nationals Member for Parkes Mark Coulton presented Certificates of Appreciation to the family of Charles Leonard Johnston, Hugh Alfred Johnston, and Eric George Johnston.
“Certificates of Appreciation are just one way that the Australian Government expresses its gratitude to those who have given so much in protecting our country’s interests and helping to restore and maintain peace around the world,” Mr Coulton said.
“We are grateful for the dedication and sacrifice demonstrated by our veterans’ service to Australia, and it’s important to recognise this.
“It’s an honour to be able to present these certificates today, acknowledging the service of Charles, Hugh, and Eric.
“Charles Leonard Johnston served in Tobruk, El Alamein and Crete as a Sapper in the 3 Anti-Tank Regiment during World War II, from 1940 to 1945. He was awarded the Africa Star 1939 to 1945, the 8th Army Bar and the Australian Service Medal 1938 to 1945 for his service.
“Charles’ younger brother Hugh Alfred Johnston also served during the Second World War. He was a Private in the 2/2 AA Workshop and fought in the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea from 1942 to 1946.
“Hugh’s son Eric George Johnston later served as a Private in the 4th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam from 1970 to 1972. He was awarded the Vietnam Medal and the Returned from Active Service Badge.
“Thank you to each of these men for their sacrifice and service. Even though they are no longer with us, it’s lovely for their families to have this memento to pass onto future generations, to remember the role they played in various conflicts.”
Kamala Wheeler was presented the certificates for her father Eric, grandfather Hugh, and great uncle Charles.
Certificates of Appreciation are available for veterans who have served overseas in Australia’s Defence Forces during the Second World War and in wars, conflicts or peacekeeping operations since, or on the home front during the Second World War.
Veterans, or family members of a deceased eligible person, are invited to apply for a certificate.
Applications can be submitted to Mr Coulton’s Moree electorate office at 69 Heber Street, Moree NSW 2400 or via email to mark.coulton.mp@aph.gov.au.
More information about Certificates of Appreciation, including the guidelines and an application form is available at www.dva.gov.au/recognition/certificate-appreciation or by contacting the Department of Veterans’ Affairs on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).
