AustraliaReginald James Chard OAM, Australia's last surviving Kokoda campaign veteran, has passed away at the age of 102. RSL Australia confirmed his death 'peacefully' and expressed deep sorrow over losing a living connection to the soldiers who fought during World War II. Chard enlisted in the Australian Army in 1942 at 18, served in Papua New Guinea, endured multiple illnesses including malaria and scrub typhus, and participated in intense battles such as those at Sanananda. Upon returning home, he married Betty and dedicated his later years to preserving the Kokoda campaign's legacy through the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway. He became a respected figure among veterans and community members, offering guidance to younger generations. His life spanned from a baker apprenticeship in Sydney to frontline combat, embodying resilience and service.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of Reginald Chard's life and contributions without overtly partisan language. While it mentions political figures like Education Minister Jason Clare and Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek, their tributes are presented neutrally, focusing on Chard's role
