In an exclusive Sky News Australia Sunday night special, Chief News Anchor Kieran Gilbert provides an insight into the extraordinary life of Teddy Sheean, the Tasmanian World War II hero who was this week awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross.
Australia’s highest military honour for acts of bravery in wartime, the Victoria Cross is awarded to those who, in the presence of the enemy, display extreme gallantry, devotion to duty, valour and self-sacrifice.
Seaman Teddy Sheean died on 1 December 1942 during an attack by Japanese aircraft which sank HMAS Armidale in the Arafura Sea.
After the order to abandon ship, then 18-year old Teddy Sheean stayed at his post, firing as the ship sank, saving the lives of 49 crewmates.
Finally, after an almost 80-year fight to see his valour recognised, Edward “Teddy” Sheean takes his place as the 101st Australian to be awarded a Victoria Cross, the nation’s greatest tribute to the bravest of the brave.
As we mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, the Sky News special will look at Teddy Sheean’s early life and feature interviews with the leaders of the campaign who were instrumental in seeing him finally awarded the VC.
Tomorrow (Saturday) 10am AEST, Sky News will have live coverage of the commemorative service marking the 75th Anniversary of the end of World War II.
Commemorative Service: 75th Anniversary of the End of World War II Saturday from 10:00am AEST
Teddy Sheean VC: A Hero At Last Sunday Night Special Event at 8:30pm AEST
Sky News on Foxtel, channel 103 & 600 (Note: This special will not be available to Sky News on WIN viewers)
