Philip shared an insightful account of the bravery, sacrifice and often unexpected roles played by OWs and MLC Elsternwick alumni who served their country during World War II - shining a light on their enduring legacy more than 80 years on.
Darcy Curtis (OW1963) and Peter Le Get (OW1950)
Prof. Geoffrey Blainey (OW1947) and Bryan Kenneally, past staff
Peter Harrison (OW1969) and Philip Powell (OW1973)
Peter Milford (OW1971), Frank Benjamin (OW1958) and Kate Evans (OW1998)
Philip’s presentation included captivating stories from notable figures such as Generals George Vasey (OW1907) and Edward Milford (OW1908) and teachers Jack Kroger and Louis ‘Narse’ Lesser (OW1929). Sadly, he also provided details of the deaths of some 152 OWs - from heroes killed in action to regrettable accidents which occurred during training.
Following Japan’s entry into the war in 1942, former MLC Elsternwick students began enlisting in the women’s branches of the military and the Australian Women’s Land Army. Among the 19 women identified are Sgt Judith Overend, Sgt Betty Lorna Ward and staff member, Dr Ruth Blatt.
Philip played a pivotal role in researching and supporting many of the activities commemorating OWs who served in World War I. He is currently finalising a new book, set to be released later this year, which unveils the results of his latest research into the lives and service of the so-called ‘great band of brothers’ – OWs who served with distinction in World War II.
The stories shared really struck a chord with our audience. The Sapere Aude Bequest Society, the Wesley College Foundation and the OWCA would like to publicly acknowledge Philip’s extraordinary contribution to the preservation of the College’s history and to uncovering stories of courage, sacrifice and resilience of our brave OWs and MLC Elsternwick alumni.
