Military talk – Seaman Teddy Sheean VC

In August 2020 Seaman Teddy Sheean was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross for his actions in 1942 during the sinking of HMAS Armidale. While under fire, he returned to his anti-aircraft gun, foregoing a place in a life raft. He continued firing to protect his fellow seamen in the water as they were attacked by Japanese bombers. He was wounded twice but continued firing as he and his ship disappeared beneath the waves. Sheean was the first member of the Royal Australian Navy to be awarded the Victoria Cross.

Lieutenant Colonel Naida Isenberg (Retd) will discuss the sinking of the Armidale and the long campaign to recognize the bravery of Seaman Teddy Sheean VC.

Free talk. Bookings essential

Photograph caption: Photograph caption – Ordinary Seaman Edward Sheean, HMAS Armidale. Dale Marsh, 1978, oil on canvas on plywood. (Courtesy Australian War Memorial ART28160