Narrabri’s last surviving World War II veteran, Arthur Wells, has been honoured for his service through the presentation of a commemorative medallion.

The Narrabri RSL Sub-branch presented the special medallion to Mr Wells in front of the cenotaph on Wednesday morning, with a small gathering of members present to congratulate Mr Wells on the acknowledgement.

Wee Waa World War II veteran John Collett will also receive a medallion from the sub-branch.

Addressing the gathering in front of the Maitland Street war memorial, sub-branch president Nicole Gallagher said it was an honour to recognise Mr Wells for his service to his country.

Mr Wells, previously Lance Corporal Arthur James Wells, served in the 2/1 Australian Guard Regiment. He enlisted in Paddington, Sydney, in January 1945 and was discharged on October 29, 1947.

Mr Wells served continuous fulltime service in the second Australian Imperial Force from January 22, 1945 to October 29, 1947. This was calculated at 1011 days and included active service in the Allied Occupation of Japan.

“Arthur Wells was a part of the Australian contingent that took part in the Occupation of Japan and I am honoured as the Narrabri Sub-branch president to present you a medallion on behalf of the Department of Veteran Affairs,” Ms Gallagher said.

The medallions were originally produced to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Careful consideration has taken place about how the medallions are distributed to sub-branches across the nation.

As previously reported by The Courier, Mr Wells is a well-known face at local commemorations, particularly Anzac Day. He again took part in the Anzac Day parade to the war memorial last month, as he has done for so many years.

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