Statements
Arthur Leslie Leggett OAM—Tribute
Brief ministerial statement
Mr Paul Papalia (Secret Harbour—Minister for Veterans) (12:07 pm): It is with deep regret that I bring to the chamber's attention the passing of Arthur Leslie Leggett OAM, Western Australia's oldest surviving prisoner of war from the Second World War, who passed away peacefully on Sunday at the age of 106, surrounded by family. As a fellow veteran, I am deeply honoured to pay tribute to Arthur's extraordinary life. Arthur was a proud Australian, a loyal soldier, and a member of the greatest generation, who volunteered for the world's largest conflict. He defined the values of service, resilience and quiet strength. Born in Sydney on 8 September 1918, Arthur moved to Perth at age 14 and worked during the Depression to help support his family as a messenger, a boilermaker's assistant and a timekeeper. When war broke out in 1939, he enlisted in the 2nd/11th Infantry Battalion of the Second Australian Imperial Force. Although he was measured just 5 foot 3 inches—half an inch short of the minimum requirement—Arthur stood on his tiptoes during his medical, trying to qualify. Arthur was trained as a signaller and was responsible for crucial communications between companies and battalion headquarters. He served in the Middle East, fighting in Libya, Greece and Crete, enduring the punishing extremes of desert warfare and never wavering in his duties. In 1941, Arthur was captured while defending the Retimo airfield in Crete. He was marched over mountainous terrain without food or water, then transported across Europe to Stalag 7A in Germany, a prisoner of war camp overcrowded with Allied soldiers and frequently under threat from Allied bombing. One of his greatest personal hardships was learning, while imprisoned, that his father had passed away, and knowing that he could not return home.
After nearly four years in captivity, Arthur was liberated by United States forces and returned home via England and New Zealand. He was discharged from the Australian military forces on 6 December 1945. Like many of his generation, returning to civilian life came with new challenges. While working as a welder, Arthur was often overcome by wartime memories.
Arthur served with distinction as President of the Ex-Prisoners of War Association of Western Australia, dedicating his later years to honouring the legacy of his fellow POWs and advocating for veteran welfare. It is fitting that Arthur was able to be present for the Battle of Crete memorial dedication ceremony in May last year. He never missed an opportunity to pay tribute to his fellow veterans.
On behalf of the Western Australian Government, I extend our deepest condolences to Mr Leggett's family, friends and comrades. He will be sorely missed.
The Premier extended an offer of a state funeral to Arthur's family to honour his life and legacy. I am pleased that the family has accepted this offer, allowing the public the opportunity to pay their respects to a truly inspirational Western Australian.
Vale Arthur Leggett.
The Speaker: Thank you, minister. I also pass on my condolences to Sue and Maureen and the family of Arthur. Arthur was a constituent of mine and an absolutely amazing guy. I am really sorry about your loss. I also welcome Ray Galliott, who is the secretary of the Ex-Prisoners of War Association of WA, as well. It is great to have you all here. I am sorry about the circumstances.
