JOHN (Jack) Kerry and William (Harry) Cruger have received their 75th year of World War II medallion and certificates at a recent South West Rocks RSL sub-branch meeting.
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Presented by Federal Member for Cowper, Pat Conaghan, the two sub-branch members join fellow veterans Tommy Tyne and Bob Fryer, who have already received their World War II medallions and certificates, in being recognised for their service.
"All service personnel deserve to be acknowledged for their commitment to keeping Australia safe," Pat said.
Harry joined the Merchant Navy as a deck boy on SS Karuah when he was just 14 years and six months, sailing between Sydney and Newcastle.
He sailed from Sydney in a convoy with SS Katoomba, SS Canberra and Australian troops for Townsville on May 31, 1942, on the afternoon the Japanese Submarines entered Sydney Harbour.
In 1943 Harry joined US Army Small Ships at 10 Walsh Bay. He was transported by troop train to Townsville and joined MV Bloemfontein sailing to Milne Bay.
He served as Able Seaman on SS Liki carrying Army supplies to Goodenough, Woodlark and Kiriwina Islands, also Langmack Bay, Cape Cretan, Oro Bay then to Sydney.
Harry was discharged on March 14, 1944, and has been awarded both the USA and Imperial Australian campaign medals in recognition of his service.
Jack Kerry enlisted in the Army in 1944, serving until 1946. He served in the Pacific at Moriati, Ambon and New Britain.
Jack is also a member of the RSL and Day Care.
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