A 94 year old Gold Coast veteran of the Battle of El Alamein has travelled to Canberra to take part in special commemoration services for the 75th anniversary of the famous battle.
Federal Member for McPherson, Karen Andrews, said Rex Stoffell was just 19 when he was deployed to the Middle East to take part in the battle that was a turning point in the North African Campaign during the Second World War.
“I had the honour of speaking with Mr Stoffell to personally thank him for his service to our nation and I’m pleased he’ll receive special recognition when he’s in Canberra,” Mrs Andrews said.
““Mr Soffell will join a private reception today followed by a Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial,” Mrs Andrews said.
Rex’s deeds in the service of his country should be an inspiration to all and I encourage the whole southern Gold Coast community to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice of so many on the 75th anniversary of the Battle of El Alamein.
“The battle commemorated today was the second of three battles that occurred around El Alamein, in Egypt, between July and November 1942.
“Between July and November 1942, the Australian 9th Division suffered almost 6,000 casualties while making a crucial contribution to the Allied cause.”
“While the Allies suffered almost 6,000 casualties during the fighting, they had a decisive victory which resulted in the withdrawal of German and Italian forces from North Africa.”
“I urge everyone on the southern Gold Coast to pause and remember the service and sacrifice of Australian soldiers in North Africa during the Second World War and all Australians who serve in defence of our nation.”
