Reginald James Chard OAM, one of Australia’s final living links to the soldiers who fought along the Kokoda Track during the Second World War, has died at the age of 102
Australia’s last surviving veteran of the Kokoda campaign, Reginald James Chard OAM, has died aged 102.
RSL Australia announced his death on Friday, saying it was with “heavy hearts” that the nation farewelled one of its last direct links to the Australians who fought along the Kokoda Track during the Second World War.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Reg’s family, friends and all the lives he touched throughout his incredible life,” the organisation said.
Enlisted at Just 18
Chard enlisted in the Australian Army at the age of 18 and was sent to Papua New Guinea, where Australian troops fought to prevent Japanese forces from advancing towards Port Moresby.
He marched through the mountains of New Guinea and helped force Japanese troops back along the Kokoda Track.
Chard survived malaria at Eora Creek and later endured fierce fighting at Sanananda, one of the most difficult and costly battles of the New Guinea campaign.
The Kokoda campaign became one of the defining chapters of Australia’s wartime history, remembered for the courage, endurance and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in extraordinarily harsh conditions.
A Life After the War
After returning to Australia, Chard built a life with his wife, Betty.
In his later years, he dedicated himself to preserving the memory of the Kokoda campaign and honouring the soldiers who did not return home.
He became closely associated with the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway, where he was described as an irreplaceable presence.
Through commemorations, public appearances and conversations with younger generations, Chard helped ensure that the experiences of Kokoda veterans would not be forgotten.
Preserving the Kokoda Legacy
RSL Australia said Chard devoted much of his later life to remembering the service and sacrifice of his fellow soldiers.
His death marks the loss of the last surviving Australian veteran known to have served in the Kokoda campaign.
“Rest easy, Reg. Your courage lives on in every step along that track,” the organisation said.
“Lest we forget.”
Source: ABC News
