Laying in a bunker with his weapon drawn, Mr Edgerton was serving his country on the frontline at the age of 19. While on picket, a live grenade was thrown into his bunker as his comrades were sleeping. Mr Edgerton immediately acted and removed the grenade. For his bravery, Mr Edgerton was awarded a National Service Medal.
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Regarded as an Australian hero, Kiama resident David Edgerton received a National Service Medal for his contribution to the frontline during World War II.
In a ceremony at Blue Haven Aged Care Facility, Mr Edgerton was presented with the prestigious Medal by Kiama MP Gareth Ward.
As a soldier from 2/10 Commando Squadron, Mr Edgerton’s unit were responsible for counteracting the Japanese movement at Aitape-Weewak, New Guinea. Long-range patrols, flank protection and area defense were tasks performed by the squadron, which was raised in 1944.
Now aged 91, Mr Edgerton received the medal surrounded by his friends and family including two of his children, Dennis and Gloria.
“We are so proud to be his children,” said Ms Edgerton.
“He is such a wonderful father to the three of us and has gone through so much in his time.
“For years, dad never spoke about the war but he had a picture of the area where he served and would sometimes point to certain areas and tell us stories about it.”
At the age of 19, Ms Edgerton said her father endured the worst of conditions.
“We will never fully understand what dad went through while he was serving but what we do know is that he suffered a lot. During his time, he had diseases like malaria and when he came back he was only [53] kilos.
“Even though dad saw the worst things while he was on the front line, he was able to come back and marry our mum, have [children] and have a successful career as a police officer.”
Kiama MP Gareth Ward said Mr Edgerton’s story resonates with many members of the community.
“We have a strong veteran community in the Illawarra and Dave is one of those people who made an enormous contribution,” Mr Ward said.
“It is wonderful to share his story and recognise his sacrifice in defending the freedoms and liberties so many of us enjoy today.
“For us, it’s very important that we continue to acknowledge their contributions going forward.”
These sentiments were echoed by other members of the community, including family friend Kiama Councilor Mark Way.
“I’ve known Dave for a long time and I have the utmost respect and admiration for him. I feel truly proud to know such a fine Australian, and a man who served his country so well.”
