WWII veterans Ron Carruthers and Noel Faddy turned 100-years-old in 2025, with their centenaries recently celebrated by the Coffs Harbour RSL sub-Branch.
The party on 20 December coincided with the sub-Branch’s end of year function at the C.ex Club.
At the special birthday table sat two men who have been members of the sub-Branch longer than many in the room have been alive.
Ron enlisted in the Australian Army on 27 August 1943, and was operationally deployed to New Guinea.
He was discharged in 1946 at the rank of Corporal.
Noel enlisted in the RAAF on 14 January 1944, and was employed as a Flight Mechanic.
He was discharged on 15 February 1946, at the rank of Leading Aircraftman.
During the luncheon, the men were presented with certificates, and a birthday cake featuring edible images of them in their respective WWII-era uniforms, along with a WWII Remembrance Medallion.
Outside, the summer sun shone on Coffs Harbour, while inside, history sat quietly at that table.
For a moment, the years peeled away, and they were just two old veterans sharing a day that was warm, bright, and full of life.
Both have lived through remarkable times and lifestyle changes since Australia’s involvement in the Second
World War, including the many subsequent conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Two men with a lifetime of service, friendship, and memories – still turning up, still belonging.
By Garry HESKETT
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