Guy Barnett,Minister for Veterans' Affairs
We welcome news that the Prime Minister will convene an expert panel to review the case for a posthumous Victoria Cross for Ordinary Seaman Edward 'Teddy' Sheean.
Teddy Sheean is one of Tasmania's best-known wartime servicemen. Born in Latrobe, he was just 18 when he died on board HMAS Armidale in 1942, defending his shipmates from enemy attack whilst his ship sank beneath him.
Based on evidence presented by myself, as applicant, and others at last year's hearings, the independent Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal unanimously recommended that Teddy be awarded a Victoria Cross for Australia.
I remain of the view that Teddy's extraordinary bravery deserves our country's highest honour. I look forward to reviewing the expert panel's terms of reference and again making the case for a Victoria Cross for Teddy.
