World War Two veteran remembers fallen brothers

Anzac Day is a time Australians across the country pause to commemorate those who fought at war, but it is a particularly important day for 93-year old World War II veteran, Jack Cooper.

The Mercy Place Shepparton resident enlisted in the army in 1940 along with his three brothers, two of whom did not return home from war. During his time in the infantry, Jack fought in New Guinea for four years until 1945.

Following his time serving his country, Jack returned to Australia and began working at a fish and poultry exporter on Spencer Street Melbourne. Jack then went on to work as a law clerk.

“I have always been proud of my service for my country – I was old enough and fit enough and it was the right thing to do,” Mr Cooper said.

“Like others who served at war, I have a special connection with Anzac Day. It’s a time to honour those who I fought alongside and commemorate those who lost their lives, including my two brothers.”

Mr Cooper has been a resident at Mercy Place Shepparton for almost nine years and will proudly wear his Australian service medals at this year’s Anzac Day service at the home. He will be joined by residents, staff, family and friends gathering to commemorate the day.

Mercy Place Shepparton Lifestyle Coordinator, Nicole Raditsas said many residents see ANZAC Day as on opportunity to reflect on their past.

“We have residents who are returned servicemen and servicewomen, and others who have had friends and family serve at war,” Ms Raditsas said.

“Anzac Day gives residents an opportunity to share past stories with friends and staff, and talk about their own experiences.”

Mercy Place Shepparton will hold its Anzac Day service at 1:30pm Wednesday 26 April.

Mercy Health is a Catholic community not-for-profit provider of care, founded by the Sisters of Mercy and grounded in a 2000 year history of caring for those in need. The organisation has 22 residential aged care homes throughout Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland.