BALRANALD’S connection to the Gallipoli campaign has been immortalised on an Australia Post stamp released this week.
The stamp honours Australia’s first Victoria Cross (VC) recipient of World War I, Lance Corporal (LCPL) Albert Jacka VC, and is one of five in a series commemorating the Anzac Centenary to be distributed nation-wide.
LCPL Jacka is the relative of Balranald’s Colin Jacka and the family travelled to Melbourne last week for the unveiling of the stamps.
Great-great nephew Paul Jacka has followed in the footsteps of his decorated relative.
Serving with the army for 21 years, he said the heroic stories of his ancestor in receiving the highest honour bestowed for acts of valour had stayed with him during his time in the armed forces.
“Albert’s selfless act of bravery on the battlefield helped save many lives, and although the battle was ultimately unsuccessful, we owe so much to soldiers like Albert and the thousands who fought and died,” Paul said.
For more on this story, grab a copy of Wednesday’s Guardian (April 15).
