Jack Ross (Australian soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jack Ross
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|---|---|
| Birth name | John Campbell Ross |
| Born | 11 March 1899 Maryborough, Victoria |
| Died | 3 June 2009 (aged 110 years, 84 days) Bendigo, Victoria |
| Allegiance |  Australia |
| Service/ |
Australian Imperial Force Volunteer Defence Corps |
| Years of service | 1918 1943–1945 |
| Rank | Corporal |
| Unit | Wireless operator |
| Battles/wars | World War I< |
| Awards | Centenary Medal |
| Other work | Victorian Railways |
John Campbell Ross (born 11 March 1899 – died 3 June 2009) was a very special Australian. When he passed away, he was the oldest living person in Australia. He was also the very last Australian soldier who had joined up during World War I. After his time in the military, John worked for the Victorian Railways until he retired in 1964.
A Long Life and Military Service
John Campbell Ross was born in a town called Maryborough, Victoria. He joined the army in January 1918, during World War I. He was a wireless operator in the First Australian Imperial Force, which was Australia's main fighting force. Even though he joined during the war, he never left Australia or fought in battles overseas.
Later, John served again during World War II. This time, he was a corporal in the Volunteer Defence Corps. This group helped protect Australia at home during the war.
Special Awards and Recognition
John Ross received several important awards during his long life. On 11 November 1998, he was given the 80th Anniversary Armistice Medal. This medal marked 80 years since World War I ended. He also received the Centenary Medal. This award was for his contributions to Australian society over 100 years since Australia became a federation.
John became the last Australian soldier from the World War I period after another veteran, William Evan Allan, passed away in 2005. At 108 years old, John became Australia's oldest man in 2007. Later, he was confirmed as the oldest living person in all of Australia. When he turned 110, he even received a special letter from the Prime Minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd.
His Final Years
John Campbell Ross lived to be 110 years and 84 days old. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on 3 June 2009. He was at the Golden Oaks Nursing Home in Bendigo, Victoria.
See also
