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Recognising our World War II diggers


Stan Gorrell pictured with hands on hips (second from right) at the opening of the Bourke Branch of the Bank of NSW in 1936. Inset – Stanley William Gorrell. Photos supplied

As part of the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II in 1945, Bourke library is paying tribute to local servicemen and servicewomen.

This week the gallant life of Stanley William Gorrell is featured.

Stan Gorrell was born in 1896 and signed his formal enlistment form for active service in 1917 at 21 years of age. Stan was quickly assigned to the 31st reinforcement of the Australian Light Horse Regiment, which was fighting in Palestine, following the evacuation from Gallipoli.

Before and after his years of service in the war, Stan worked for the Bank of New South Wales.

In 1936, Stan was posted by the Bank of New South Wales to re-open their Bourke branch, located opposite The Post Office Hotel. Stan turned the branch profitable in four years and was manager in Bourke for 30 years.

Read more in the printed edition of The Western Herald. Call (02) 6872 2333 today and receive The Western Herald in your letterbox next week!

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