Andy joined our club in 1990 and was an active golfer for many years and together with Betty, his wife of almost 64 years, took an active part in club life attending many functions and lunches. The photo was taken at his birthday lunch at the club last year when Andy turned 91. Andy was born in 1921.
On the 29th July 1941 he was posted to Malaya as a member of the 2/30th Australian Infantry Battalion - NX140812. On the 16th February 1942 he was reported missing, this being the case until 22nd August 1943 when he was reported as a guest of the Japanese at Changi Prison.
On the 15th September 1945 almost 3 1/2 years after being reported missing he was recovered from Changi, weighing just 5 stone, he then returned to Sydney disembarking on the 9th October 1945. He was with the rank of Lance Sergeant discharged from the army on the 15th December 1945. (Thank you John Cummins for this information.) Andy was one of those to whom the debt can never be repaid.
After the war Andrew rose in his chosen profession to be senior partner at Dewsburys before retiring and then later moving to Bowral. Outside of his profession Andy was active in the Legacy organisation and was a President of the Sydney branch. Each year at the club we have a well-attended Legacy Day.
Andy was an inspirational person, always interested, positive and happy. He bore goodwill towards all men including his former captors. His long life was an active one only standing down from golf a few years ago. He was the complete gentleman.
All the best
Kevin
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