In Memoriam: Arthur Leggett OAM, Western Australia's Last World War II Prisoner of War

Born: September 8, 1918 – Died: April 6, 2025
Australian Imperial Force, 2/11th Battalion, 6th Division

Arthur Leggett OAM was a beacon of resilience, service, and quiet heroism—a World War II veteran whose life spanned a century of triumphs and trials. As Western Australia's oldest and last surviving Army prisoner of war, he endured unimaginable hardships on distant battlefields, only to return home and dedicate eight decades to honoring his comrades, supporting veterans, and educating generations on the true cost of freedom. A true gentleman, warrior, and torchbearer, Arthur's spirit of generosity, humor, and unyielding optimism touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on his adopted state of Western Australia.

Early Life: From Sydney Roots to Western Australian Service (1918–1939)
Born on September 8, 1918, in Sydney, New South Wales, Arthur Leslie Leggett grew up in a world on the brink of global conflict. As a young man drawn to the call of duty, he relocated to Western Australia, where he enlisted in the militia in 1936 as part of the newly formed Cameron Highlanders of Western Australia.

This early commitment to service foreshadowed the extraordinary path ahead, as Arthur embraced the rugged camaraderie of military life in the lead-up to World War II. His roots in Australia’s vast landscapes instilled in him a deep sense of mateship and determination that would sustain him through the darkest days.

Military Service: Battles, Captivity, and Unbreakable Spirit (1939–1945)
With the outbreak of war, Arthur joined the 2/11th Battalion, 6th Division of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF)—the first such unit raised in Western Australia. He deployed to North Africa, where in January 1941, he fought in the Battle of Bardia, the inaugural engagement of Australian troops in World War II. The victory came at a fierce cost, but Arthur's resolve held firm.

By May 1941, his battalion was rushed to the island of Crete to bolster defenses against an imminent invasion. The German Airborne Division's assault on May 20 overwhelmed the Allies, leading to a chaotic retreat and fierce hand-to-hand fighting. Arthur was captured during the Battle of Crete, enduring three grueling years as a prisoner of war in German camps. Subjected to forced labor, malnutrition, and the constant threat of despair, he witnessed the unyielding suffering of his fellow captives. Yet, Arthur's humor and optimism became lifelines; he later recalled sharing stories and songs to lift spirits, embodying the unbreakable Aussie digger spirit that refused to be extinguished.

Liberated in 1945 as Allied forces advanced, Arthur returned to Australia a changed man, forever marked by his experiences but determined to rebuild and remember.

Post-War Life: A Legacy of Service, Adventure, and Education (1945–2025)
Reunited with his wartime sweetheart, Eileen, whom he had met before deployment, Arthur married her upon his return; she crossed the world from England to join him in Perth. Together, they raised a family, including two daughters, six grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Arthur threw himself into civilian life with the same vigor he brought to the battlefield. A champion in Western Australia's masters running circuit, he crossed the Nullarbor Plain on a motorbike in his 70s—a testament to his adventurous soul—and penned his autobiography in his 80s, capturing his life's vivid tapestry.


But Arthur's true calling lay in service to his mates. For 29 years, he served as President of the Ex-Prisoners of War Association of Western Australia, advocating tirelessly for veterans' welfare, organizing commemorations, and ensuring the stories of POWs were never forgotten. He became a sought-after speaker in schools, sharing poignant tales of war's realities with wide-eyed children, fostering a legacy of remembrance and gratitude. His efforts earned him the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to veterans and the community.

Arthur's recognitions extended beyond formal awards to his profound community impact, including authoring the autobiography Don’t Cry for Me (published in his 80s) and serving as a published bush poet. These honours collectively celebrate a life of resilience, from the front lines to classrooms, ensuring the sacrifices of WWII POWs are remembered.

Even in his later years, Arthur's energy shone: joking about outliving his pacemaker (which nearly happened, as its battery was due for replacement the week after his passing) and delighting visitors with his wit.

In October 2024, on his 106th birthday, Governor Chris Dawson visited to present Arthur with his Certificate of Service from the Australian Defence Force, a moment of profound recognition. Arthur's wisdom and generosity made him a beloved figure across generations, a living bridge between Australia's wartime past and its peaceful present.

A State's Farewell: State Funeral and Enduring Legacy (2025)
Arthur Leggett passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, at the remarkable age of 106, leaving behind a grieving nation but an immortal legacy. Western Australia honored him with a historic State Funeral on May 10, 2025, at St George's Cathedral in Perth—a procession that halted the city as thousands lined the streets to pay tribute.

The ceremony featured a flypast by Royal Australian Air Force Hawk aircraft and a bearer party from the 13th Brigade, including Regimental Sergeant Majors who had known him well. Dignitaries, including Governor Christopher Dawson, Premier Roger Cook, and Chief of Army Lieutenant General Stuart, gathered with family and veterans to celebrate a life of sacrifice and service.

Arthur's story lives on through the Ex-Prisoners of War Association, school libraries named in his honor (such as the Arthur Leggett OAM Library at Mount Lawley Senior High School, dedicated in 2018), and the hearts of those he inspired. He reminds us that true heroism is not just in the heat of battle, but in the quiet dedication to carry its lessons forward.