Arabic version: بيل غرايدن، 105 سنوات، يُذكر كبطل حرب ونائب برلماني طويل الأمد

Bill Grayden, a decorated World War II veteran and Western Australia’s longest-serving Member of Parliament, has died at the age of 105. Born in Perth in 1920, Grayden is celebrated for his extraordinary life and contributions to both military and political spheres. According to ABC News, he is remembered as “a knockabout sort of a guy”, “a doer, not a talker” and a “great West Australian.”

Grayden enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1940, lying about his age to serve in World War II. He experienced significant events during the war, including a near-fatal incident on the Kokoda Trail where he was mistakenly reported dead. After his military service, he began a career in politics, being elected to the state seat of Middle Swan in 1947 before moving to federal politics.

His political career spanned over four decades, during which he served in both state and federal parliaments. Grayden was notably involved in advocating for Indigenous Australians, chairing a committee in 1956 that investigated the conditions of First Nations people. His efforts were pivotal in the success of the 1967 Referendum on Aboriginal citizenship.

Grayden’s family, which includes ten children, 36 grandchildren, and 50 great-grandchildren, released a statement highlighting his role as an exceptional role model. WA Governor Chris Dawson acknowledged Grayden’s legacy of public service, stating that he lived a life dedicated to his community and country, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of service.