Medals relating to Private Edgar “Eddie” Wright, 1939–1965

Medals relating to Private Edgar “Eddie” Wright, 1939–1965
Historical note: 

Edgar Wright volunteered for the Australian Army from Britain. He was one of those posted to 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR), to replace the men lost in the battle of Maryang San in 1951, during the Korean War.

As a signaller, Wright carried the unit’s radio. He was mentioned in despatches for his “courage and marked ability to maintain efficient communication when under fire at close quarters”. Promoted to corporal, he stayed in the army, serving in both the Malayan Emergency (1948–60) and the Indonesian Confrontation (1962–66).

Wright donated his battledress jacket and winter field jacket to the Anzac Memorial in 2001, both of which are currently on display in the Centenary Exhibition. His service medals, identifying his overall career and MID in Korea, complement these objects and will also be displayed in the new exhibition.

Eddie Wright's jackets (centre) on display at the Memorial's Centenary Exhibition

Eddie Wright's jackets (centre) on display at the Memorial's Centenary Exhibition
Eddie Wright's jackets (centre) on display at the Memorial's Centenary Exhibition
Materials: 
cotton; medals; ribbon; metal; silk
Category: 
Awards and decorations
Conflict: 
Korean War (1950-1953); Malayan Emergency (1948–60); Indonesian Confrontation (1962–66)
Production Date: 
1939-1965

On this day

On this day
2 April

1917 — Danish born PTE J JENSEN won a Victoria Cross at NOREUIL, France. ensen attacked two German positions and then further risked his life to protect German soldiers he had taken prisoner

2005 — A Sea King helicopter from HMAS KANIMBLA crashed and burst into flames at NIAS ISLAND, Indonesia. 9 of the 11 crew, who were providing medical assistance following a devastating earthquake, were killed in the crash and the 2 badly injured survivors were pulled out of the wreckage by local people