Defence Housing Australia (DHA) is searching for the descendants of seven recipients of the Victoria Cross (VC) medal from the Battle of Lone Pine in 1915.
The seven soldiers: Alexander Stewart Burton, William Dunstan, Frederick Harold Tubb, John Hamilton, Alfred Shout, Leonard Keysor and William Symons – will all be honoured in DHA’s residential development Crimson Hill, in Lindfield NSW.
“DHA exists to provide housing for Defence members and their families,” DHA Managing Director Peter Howman said. “Because of this, we believe that our development should honour Australia’s military heritage.”
Crimson Hill, which is named after the colour of the VC ribbon, will welcome its first Defence families in 2015 – the same year as the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Lone Pine.
“We thought it appropriate that these brave soldiers be honoured through the development,” Mr Howman said. “Crimson Hill will include five precincts, a sports oval and a community centre named after each of the seven VC recipients.”
DHA are now looking to involve the descendants of these men and are asking for the public’s help in finding them.
“DHA doesn’t just build houses, we build communities,” Mr Howman said. “The community that will become Crimson Hill is one built on a rich history of valour and honour. It is one that needs to be shared with the families of these brave diggers, I ask for your help in helping us recognise these brave men.”
If you are a descendant of one of the seven soldiers, or you have some information you would like to share please email communications@dha.gov.au
For interview opportunities, photos and more information:
Kate McKay, National Manager PR and Advertising
0421 040 098 kate.mckay@dha.gov.au