William Corey Condolence

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr William Corey (Bill), who fought with the 2/43rd Battalion during the Second World War. He survived the Siege of Tobruk in Libya, the Battle of El Alamein and campaigns in Papua New Guinea and Borneo.

I had the great pleasure to meet Bill, who was a well-known resident of Adelaide, on several occasions and was impressed by his good humour and generosity in sharing his experiences as a Rat of Tobruk so that future generations might learn from them.

Bill lived an exceptional life. His actions as a young man, just 22 years of age when he enlisted in the 2nd AIF, contributed to the safety of our nation and to the freedoms we hold so dear, and we owe him and all who serve in our Armed Forces a great debt of gratitude for their service.

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Mr Corey and to all who knew him at this sad time. May he rest in peace.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Perth veteran Mr John ‘JJ’ Wade on his recent passing. Mr Wade also served at El Alamein with the 2/28th battalion and was afterwards posted to Papua New Guinea.

I honour their service.