Gus Newson - Australia Legend

In May of 1941, the Australian and New Zealand troops defending Greece from the Nazi onslaught were evacuated to Crete . . .

The ANZACs put on brave show in their attempt to stop the Nazi invasion of Greece, alas to no avail. The island of Crete sits just off the coast of North Africa ready to serve the supply lines of the army controlling it. It's strategic importance in the coming battles in the North African deserts was well known by both sides. The Nazis threw everything they had into a massive airborne invasion of the island. In a chilling repeat of his disastrous decisions made 26 years earlier at Gallipoli, Churchill ordered the ANZACS to stay and fight against all odds.

One of those Australians left behind by Churchill to fight to the death was Lance's Great Uncle, a young 23 year old Sydney man Raymond "Gus" Newson. The record shows that Gus and his mates fought an onslaught of Nazi paratroopers just near Suda Bay. Gus was mortally wounded by a Nazi bullet, and died a few days later in a Nazi prison camp.

Gus Newson and those like him should never ever be forgotten. To this end, there is a "challenge" to our young people to make the journey and pay respects to these young men who died a long way from their homes and their loved ones.

Take the challenge. Keep the flame alive. Lest We Forget.