A Century of Bravery Rewarded: How a Perth WWII Hero Finally Received His Overdue Medals on His 100th Birthday! Discover the Heartwarming Story
- Replies 6
As the sun rose over Perth's southern suburbs, a very special celebration was underway at a local aged care facility. Arthur Jones, a man whose life story is woven into the fabric of Australia's history, was surrounded by love and admiration as he marked a milestone few of us dare to dream of: his 100th birthday. But this was no ordinary centenary celebration. On this day, Arthur was to receive a long-overdue recognition for his service during World War II – his service medals, a tangible acknowledgement of his bravery and sacrifice.
Arthur's journey to this moment was as remarkable as the man himself. Born and raised in Gingin, he was just a teenager when the world was plunged into the chaos of war. At 18, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and was soon thrust into the thick of action in Darwin, which had been devastated by Japanese bombings. As a coxswain on a high-speed rescue boat, Arthur's days were filled with peril and purpose, rescuing downed airmen from treacherous waters.
Yet, like many of his generation, when the war ended, Arthur was told to put those harrowing experiences behind him, to not speak of the war. This silence was not just a societal expectation but also a personal battle, as Arthur grappled with the invisible scars of war, what we now recognise as PTSD. His step-daughter, Joan Jaques, recalls the long journey it took for Arthur to open up about his nightmares and seek help.
Despite these challenges, Arthur's post-war life was one of vitality and accomplishment. He married, raised a family, and channelled his resilience into building a successful business, Perth Monumental Works, which stands today as a testament to his hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. His love for sports, gardening, and especially dancing with his beloved wife, Joyce, whom he reconnected with after half a century apart, filled his years with joy and movement.
Arthur's secret to longevity, as he shared with a twinkle in his eye, was having a 'good wife'. Joyce, now 101, has been the cornerstone of his well-being. Their love story is one for the ages, rekindled after decades and celebrated on the dance floor, where they waltzed into each other's hearts once again.
It was Arthur's son, Paul, who, inspired by a growing interest in his father's wartime service, set in motion the events that led to Arthur receiving his medals. Understanding the importance of recognition, Paul wanted his father to have the opportunity to wear his own medals proudly, just as Arthur had once worn his father's.
Watch Arthur Jones' full interview here:
Source: ABC News Australia/YouTube
The presentation of the medals was a poignant moment, not just for Arthur but for all who gathered to honour him. It was a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many and the enduring strength of those who served. As Arthur responded to the heartfelt tributes with his characteristic determination, stating he had 'no intentions of turning up his toes anytime soon,' it was clear that his spirit remains as indomitable as ever.
Arthur's story is a powerful reminder to us all at the Seniors Discount Club that the past is never truly behind us. It shapes who we are and can bring unexpected gifts, even as we reach the later chapters of our lives. As we reflect on Arthur's century of bravery, let us also remember to honour the stories and sacrifices within our own families and communities.
We invite you to share your thoughts and any similar stories of late recognition or rediscovered history in your own families. Let's celebrate the resilience and contributions of our older Australians together. Arthur Jones's story is not just one of survival but of a life richly lived, and at 100 years old, he's still adding chapters.
Arthur's journey to this moment was as remarkable as the man himself. Born and raised in Gingin, he was just a teenager when the world was plunged into the chaos of war. At 18, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and was soon thrust into the thick of action in Darwin, which had been devastated by Japanese bombings. As a coxswain on a high-speed rescue boat, Arthur's days were filled with peril and purpose, rescuing downed airmen from treacherous waters.
Yet, like many of his generation, when the war ended, Arthur was told to put those harrowing experiences behind him, to not speak of the war. This silence was not just a societal expectation but also a personal battle, as Arthur grappled with the invisible scars of war, what we now recognise as PTSD. His step-daughter, Joan Jaques, recalls the long journey it took for Arthur to open up about his nightmares and seek help.
Arthur Jones with his family during his 100th birthday. Image Credit: YouTube/ABC News Australia
Despite these challenges, Arthur's post-war life was one of vitality and accomplishment. He married, raised a family, and channelled his resilience into building a successful business, Perth Monumental Works, which stands today as a testament to his hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. His love for sports, gardening, and especially dancing with his beloved wife, Joyce, whom he reconnected with after half a century apart, filled his years with joy and movement.
Arthur's secret to longevity, as he shared with a twinkle in his eye, was having a 'good wife'. Joyce, now 101, has been the cornerstone of his well-being. Their love story is one for the ages, rekindled after decades and celebrated on the dance floor, where they waltzed into each other's hearts once again.
It was Arthur's son, Paul, who, inspired by a growing interest in his father's wartime service, set in motion the events that led to Arthur receiving his medals. Understanding the importance of recognition, Paul wanted his father to have the opportunity to wear his own medals proudly, just as Arthur had once worn his father's.
Watch Arthur Jones' full interview here:
Source: ABC News Australia/YouTube
The presentation of the medals was a poignant moment, not just for Arthur but for all who gathered to honour him. It was a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many and the enduring strength of those who served. As Arthur responded to the heartfelt tributes with his characteristic determination, stating he had 'no intentions of turning up his toes anytime soon,' it was clear that his spirit remains as indomitable as ever.
Arthur's story is a powerful reminder to us all at the Seniors Discount Club that the past is never truly behind us. It shapes who we are and can bring unexpected gifts, even as we reach the later chapters of our lives. As we reflect on Arthur's century of bravery, let us also remember to honour the stories and sacrifices within our own families and communities.
.png){kind=icon}
