Edwin Gene “Ted” Harris of Boorga was killed in Papua New Guinea in March 1944 while serving in the 57/60 Australian Infantry Battalion.
It is believed that Harris told the army that he was of Indian descent in order to enlist in February 1943.
Born in 1917, Harris was 27 years old when he was killed by sniper fire just outside of Port Moresby.
He was buried in Lae, Papua New Guinea.
Museum society president Paul Mathers said Harris’ medals and photographs were brought in by a relative.
“He’s the only Aboriginal WWII veteran from the area to come to light so far,” he said. “We’d be very happy to hear about more servicemen, but he’s the only one we currently know about.”
Harris was reportedly a keen horseman and jockey, as well as an Australian Rules footballer, bike rider and golfer.
Born in Cobar, he attended Tabbita and Monia Gap Public Schools.
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