LOXTON’S Howard Hendrick was among four local World War II veterans presented with medallions recently to commemorate the war’s 75th anniversary.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin presented Mr Hendrick with the medallion at the Loxton RSL branch meeting on Tuesday, October 13.
Mr Hendrick, who served in the Royal Australian Air Force between April, 1942, to January, 1946, said he felt grateful to be recognised.
“It was a great honour to receive the medallion but it was sad it came so late in life, because heaps of other ex-servicemen in Loxton missed out as they’re no longer with us,” he said.
“I feel deeply for the other ex-servicemen… because they were extremely deserving.
“If I had died years ago, I wouldn’t have received it either.”
Mr Hendrick flew Lancaster Bombers during his service and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the legion of honour from the French Government five years ago.
“That was very special,” Mr Hendrick said.
Mr Pasin said Barker has a rich World War II history.
“Barker is proud to be the home to veterans from Australia’s greatest generation, like Mr Hendrick, who served our nation with distinction,” he said.
“We owe a great debt to these remarkable Australians for the free and prosperous nation we live in today.”
Mr Pasin encouraged all surviving veterans, or families of living veterans, to apply to receive a medallion and certificate as a special thank you.
For more information on how to apply, contact Tony Pasin via email (Tony.Pasin.MP@aph.gov.au) or phone 8724 7730.