Unclaimed medals

EX-NATIONAL service men 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.
There are two medals available for people who served for their country either 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 service national service schemes.
The Australian Defence Medal recognises Australian Defence Force Regular and Reserve personnel who have demonstrated their commitment and contribution to the nation by serving for an initial enlistment period or four years service, 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 the medals could be claimed by families if the servicemen had passed away.
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.