Following the recent focus on World War One history during the centenary of that conflict between 2014 and 2018, we are now encouraged to learn more about our Second World War history as the 75th anniversary of the end of the war on 15 August approaches.

Second World War service records of the one million Australians who served are available online and this anniversary is an ideal opportunity to capture the stories and ensure they live on.

There are some well-known stories from this era, such as the sacrifice made by Dimboola’s Matron Paschke (above) in Malaya and Singapore in 1941 and 1942, and Teddy Sheean’s actions which led to the recommendation earlier this week to award him a Victoria Cross 78 years after his death.

Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster MP, said that we have a rich Second World War history which ranges from the personal contribution of veterans, widows, and their family members, to the local places such as the Air Force base at Nhill.

“Each story is unique and is just as important as the next. As a community, we have a job to do –to ensure these stories live on and that we never forgot the role of all Australians who served overseas or on the home front in the Second World War,” Dr Webster said.

“I encourage each of us to start by looking into our own family’s military service history, and from there, extend our research to the Second World War more broadly and learn more about the six years that forever changed Australia’s history.”

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said as we approach the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War on 15 August, it is a chance for all Australians to learn more about their family’s military history.

Our nation played a significant role in the largest global conflict of the 20th century, from the deserts of North Africa and the Middle East to the Jungles of South East Asia and the Pacific and on the home front, with may from the Wimmera playing their part.

“All that Australians need to do is ‘Just Ask’ the question – whether that is about a family member who served, or just wanting to learn more about the war,” Mr Chester said.

“The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has brought together all of its nominal rolls, including the Second World War nominal roll, into one website to make it easier to search and find information on those Australians who served in this war.

“The National Archives of Australia is also working to digitise all of its Second World War service records and the Australian War Memorial also has a wide range of useful information just a click away.

“DVA’s Anzac Portal also has a range of historical, educational resources free for download – showcasing the war from an Australian point of view.”

You can start researchnig on the the DVA website, the National Archives of Australia website, and Australian War Memorial website.