Friday, 5 September 2008

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, announced today that the recently established Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal will inquire into recognition for service with the United States (US) Army Small Ships Section during World War II.

"“The conduct of this inquiry fulfils an election commitment to review this long standing recognition issue from World War II as a matter of priority," said Dr Kelly.  

The US Army Small Ships Section was established during 1942 to move ships and supplies in the South West Pacific during World War II. Australians who served with the US Small Ships are eligible for US awards but have sought Imperial recognition for their service.  

Dr Kelly said that a call for submissions will be released shortly in the national press. The Tribunal will also contact organisations and individuals with an interest in the issue.

"Many people have written to me concerning eligibility issues associated with recognition for service with the US Army Small Ships Section during World War II and I would encourage them to now take advantage of this opportunity to make a submission," Dr Kelly said. 

The Tribunal can be contacted at:

Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal
Locked Bag 7765
CANBERRA BUSINESS CENTRE ACT 2610 

Or via email to DHA.Tribunal@defence.gov.au

Further Information:  

Download the Terms of Reference (PDF 12KB)

Media contacts:

Mark Sjolander (Dr Mike Kelly): 02 6277 4840 or 0407 102 220
Defence Media Liaison: 02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664