Enid Eccles, Margaret Burchall and Bernie Eccles with South Eastern Metropolitan MP Gordon Rich-Phillips, Tony and Val Michau, and Bob Horton are encouraging all
EX-NATIONAL servicemen are being urged to come forward to the South Eastern branch of the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia (NSAA) to collect unclaimed medals.
South Eastern Metropolitan MP Gordon Rich-Phillips says he wants to make all ex-national servicemen aware that they may have unclaimed medals.
Presently there are two medals available for those who served their country overseas or in Australia, the Anniversary of National Service Medal and the Australian Defence Medal, according to Mr Rich-Phillips. The Anniversary of National Service Medal is awarded for service in either of the two post-war national service schemes. The Australian Defence Medal recognises Australian Defence Force Regular and Reserve personnel who have demonstrated commitment and contribution to the nation by serving for an initial enlistment period or four years, whichever is the lesser.
“More than 300,000 Australians served in the two post-war national service schemes between 1951 and 1959 and 1965 and 1972, with 110, 000 being from Victoria,” he said.
“Sadly 212 young men lost their lives during these periods either in active service in Vietnam or Borneo, with 52 of these young men being from Victoria.”
Mr Rich-Phillips said if the servicemen have passed away, their families could claim the medals. In November 2006, the South-East Victorian Sub Branch of the NSAA unveiled a memorial in Buchanan Park in Berwick.
For details call the NSAA on 5995 3959 or Gordon Rich-Phillips on 9794 7667.
