One In A Million
#OneInAMillion
Wall of Respect
Almost one million Australians served during the Second World War, this makes each of their stories one in a million. Each memory from the largest global conflict of the 20th century is as unique as it is remarkable. In the lead up to the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, Australians are encouraged to capture and share the stories of the nation’s Second World War veterans by holding an image of a relative, taking a picture and sharing it to social media using the hashtag #OneInAMillion.
Join the Australian community in remembering this amazing generation.
Hearing their stories
Captures the compelling stories of eight Australians who served during the Second World War. Watch these animated videos to hear first-hand accounts of their war-time experiences.
Edith Edwards (née Cox)
Edith’s brother was taken prisoner of war (POW), her family feared the worst for Jimmy, but her father remained hopeful until the day he passed away.
Smoky Dawson
Australian icon, Smoky Dawson, thought he’d never see his wife, Dot, again. He shares the moment of their final goodbye as he left for war.
Sir Roden Cutler
The war was over and Australian streets were filled. Roden Cutler remembers the antics of the celebrations.
Vivian Bullwinkel
The boat she was on was attacked and sunk. Vivian and 21 nurses were able to make it to Bangka Island. They thought the Japanese would take them prisoners of war, but all except Vivian met a harrowing end.
Sir William Keys
It was in Finschhafen, New Guinea that Sir William felt the full impact of active service.
Keith Roberts
On board HMAS Australia, Keith remembers the heart-breaking moments after being attacked by the Japanese Kamikazes.
Father John Rogers
The war was over, but some were still missing. After being stopped in the street by a woman searching for her brothers, Father Rogers recalls delivering some upsetting news.
Father John Brendan Rogers - One In A Million video transcript
Harry Nesbitt
Taken out of hospital and hardly able to walk, Harry was sent to work in labour camps while he was a prisoner of war.
75 days, 75 stories
Radio stations across the country will be sharing a series of stories told by those who lived through the Second World War. These stories have also been featured daily, from 2 June up until 15 August, on Minister Chester’s and the Commemorations and War Graves Australia social media pages.
To listen to these stories, visit 75 days, 75 stories.