Edward ‘Jack’ Carroll OAM was born 100 years ago in Geelong, Victoria. Jack is a Second World War veteran.
Jack was 18 years of age and a market gardener when he enlisted for war service in the Militia (CMF) on 12 December 1941. He transferred to the 2nd Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in November 1942. Jack was posted to 3 Platoon, 5th Australian Army Troops Company, Royal Australian Engineers and saw service in New Guinea at Milne Bay and at Lae, and then on the island of Bougainville.
In late August 1945, Jack was posted to Singapore and served there until November that year. While in Singapore, Jack helped to bring Australian prisoners of war home. This experience had a profound effect on him and was a catalyst for his ongoing service to veterans during the rest of his life.
Jack was a corporal when he discharged from the AIF in September 1946. The best thing about serving in the Army, according to Jack, was ‘defending our great country and returning home afterwards’. He advises younger serving personnel to be ‘proud of your service to others and to Australia’.
After the war, Jack returned to work as a market gardener. He also continued to give service to veterans through the RSL and other bodies. In 2003, in recognition of this service, Jack was awarded life membership of the RSL and the Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
In 1948, Jack married Florence and they had three children. Sadly, Florence passed away in 2001.
When he was younger, Jack enjoyed playing tennis. These days, he likes the activities at the aged care facility as he enjoys being amongst others.
Jack credits his long life to hard work, helping others, his faith, and ‘being kind to my fellow man’.
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