Tom Derrick

Thomas Currie ‘Diver’ Derrick: A Soldier’s Journey

Imagine a young man, Thomas Currie ‘Diver’ Derrick, born into poverty in Medindie, South Australia, on March 20, 1914. His life was marked by hardship and determination from the very start.

The Early Years

At just 14 years old, Diver left school to work in a bakery, later moving to a fruit farm where he honed his skills. In 1939, he married Beryl, and their union marked the beginning of a new chapter.

The Call to Arms

In 1941, Diver enlisted in the Second Australian Imperial Force, setting off on a journey that would test his courage and leadership. His first major battle was the siege of Tobruk, where he acquired an Italian machine gun and led fighting patrols against Axis forces.

A Promising Future

Diver was promoted to corporal after a notable counter-attack and praised for his leadership and bravery. He discovered a German spy and reported him, leading to the arrest of several enemy soldiers. His actions earned him a commendation and eventually the Distinguished Conduct Medal.

The Battle of El Alamein

During the First Battle of El Alamein, Diver led an attack against machine gun posts and captured over 100 prisoners. The members of his platoon believed he would be awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions.

A Promising Officer

After being promoted to sergeant, Diver led a reconnaissance mission that identified German machine gun positions. This information was crucial for the upcoming Second Battle of El Alamein. During this battle, he jumped onto an Allied gun carrier and attacked three machine gun posts while standing in it.

The Siege of Sattelberg

On 24 November, Diver led his platoon in an attack on a Japanese post, destroying it with grenades and fighting off heavy machine gun and grenade fire. His actions during the final assault on Sattelberg earned him the Victoria Cross for ‘most conspicuous courage, outstanding leadership, and devotion to duty.’

A Hero’s Return

After the war, Diver was commissioned as a lieutenant and returned to his battalion. He played a key role in capturing Freda Hill on Tarakan Island but died from complications of his wounds on 24 May 1945.

A Lasting Legacy

Diver‘s death was widely mourned, and he is remembered as the best-known Australian soldier of the Second World War. Historians and military leaders praised his leadership abilities and personal bravery in battle.

Thomas Currie ‘Diver’ Derrick’s story is a testament to the courage and sacrifice of Australian soldiers during World War II. His legacy lives on, reminding us of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Remember Diver‘s journey from a young man born into poverty to one of Australia’s most celebrated heroes. His story is a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice that define our nation’s history.