Maric (Max) Gilbert turns 100 today.
Max was born in St Kilda, Victoria on 24 April 1921.
In June 1940, Max enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (Australian Army). He trained in Trawool, Victoria and served with 2/21st Infantry Battalion in Australia before being sent to Ambon, Indonesia. He spent over three and a half years there and most of that time was as a Prisoner of War.
When the war was over, Max just wanted to return home, get married and have a family.
In his spare time he built the family home which took him two and a half years.
He returned to his pre-war job with the State Electricity Commission and worked in Stores.
He was also a community radio presenter and scout master for many years.
Max has only one word for the secret to his long life – walking.
He always led a healthy lifestyle and likes to follow an exercise routine. Max also enjoys listening to classical music.
Happy birthday Max and thank you for your service. #TYFYS#OurVeterans
