The Australian War Memorial Collection. Test site
1939-45 Star. Impressed reverse with recipient's details.
This 1939-45 Star was awarded posthumously to Flight Lieutenant William Ellis 'Bill' Newton, who was born in St Kilda Melbourne on 8 June 1919. The son of Charles Ellis and Minnie (nee Miller) Newton, he was educated at the Melbourne Church of England Grammar School.
Newton enlisted in the RAAF on 5 February 1940 as an air cadet. In June of that year he qualified as a pilot and was commissioned a pilot officer, then promoted on 28 December to flying officer. By early April 1942 he was a flight lieutenant and the following month was given an operational posting with 22 Squadron flying the new Boston bomber. On a bombing mission over the Japanese held Salamaua Isthmus in New Guinea, on 18 March 1943, his plane was downed by anti-aircraft fire and he was taken prisoner. After interrogation, he was executed by the Japanese on 29 March. For his 'many examples of conspicuous bravery in New Guinea' on this and previous sorties over enemy held territory he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Newton is buried in the Lae War Cemetery. His medal group came into the Memorial's National Collection in January 1966.
Victoria Cross. Engraved reverse suspender with recipient's details; reverse cross with date of the royal assent to the award. This Victoria Cross was awarded to Flight Lieutenant William Ellis ‘Bil
Pacific Star. Impressed reverse with recipient's details. This Pacific Star was awarded posthumously to Flight Lieutenant William Ellis 'Bill' Newton, who was born in St Kilda Melbourne on 8 June 19
British War Medal 1939-45. Impressed around edge with recipient's details. This British War Medal 1939-45 was awarded posthumously to Flight Lieutenant William Ellis 'Bill' Newton, who was born in S
Australia Service Medal. Impressed around edge with recipient's details. This Australia Service Medal was awarded posthumously to Flight Lieutenant William Ellis 'Bill' Newton, who was born in St Ki
Victoria Cross. Engraved reverse suspender with recipient's details; reverse cross with date of the royal assent to the award. This Victoria Cross was awarded to Flight Lieutenant William Ellis ‘Bil
1939-45 Star. Impressed reverse with recipient's details. Awarded to 416460 Flight Lieutenant Gordon David Le Messurier Seddon. He was born in Medindie, South Australia, on 3 November 1915. He enlis
1939-45 Star. Late issue, engraved reverse with recipient's details. 401657 Flight Sergeant Cecil Salisbury Norman was born in Adelaide in 1916 and enlisted in the RAAF on 28 March 1941. He served a
