Stanley Edward Whear and the commemorative envelope. 79442 Picture: SUPPLIED
By VANESSA CHIRCOP
MANY long-time Williamstown residents will know the name Stan Whear.
Born in 1917, Stan was the founding member of the Williamstown Lion’s Club, made a life member of the Williamstown Football Club and a World War II hero – he passed away in September 1982.
Late last year, Australia Post released an envelope prestige cover commemorating the centenary of the Royal Australia Navy.
To the delight of Stan’s children, the envelope featured a mini letter sent to their father, Petty Officer Writer Stan Whear.
The letter was produced by a duplicating machine aboard HMAS Shropshire, one of the allied warships in Tokyo Bay at the formal surrender ceremony of the Japanese on 2 September 1945.
The prestige cover was released as part of the Royal Australia Navy 1911-2011 stamp issue.
Stan’s daughter Camille, who still lives in Williamstown, said her father didn’t speak much about his involvement in the war.
He was awarded a Mention in Despatches but like many war veterans, he was a reluctant hero.
Stan served on the HMAS Parramatta which sank in 1941 after being hit by a single torpedo.
“Virtually everybody died,” Camille said.
“He sort of had nobody he served in the war with survive, and I think he always sort of felt bad.”
Stan also lost his brother in the war.
When he returned home, he married, had three children and became an active member of Williamstown’s community.
Camille said she sent the letter to Australia Post hoping they would consider using it.
“It was awesome for them to choose the letter,” she said.
Camille will mark Anzac Day by attending the Dawn Service at Williamstown with her family.
