One of the last surviving ANZACs of the Battle of Crete, Arthur Leggett, dies at 106

One of the last surviving ANZAC veterans who fought in the Battle of Crete, Arthur Leggett OAM, has passed away at the age of 106.

A widely respected figure in Perth, Western Australia, Mr Leggett was a passionate advocate for veterans and remained the active President of the Ex-Prisoner of War Association of WA until his death.

Mr Leggett was WA’s oldest surviving Second World War army prisoner of war.

Mr Leggett served in the Second World War, fighting in Libya and in the battles of Bardia and Tobruk before being captured during the Battle of Crete at the age of 22. He endured over four years in a prisoner of war camp and was forced to labour for 12-hour days in coal mines in Poland.

A familiar and moving presence at ANZAC Day events, Mr Leggett made a lasting impression at the 2022 Fremantle Dockers Len Hall Game, where, aged 103, he read the Ode of Remembrance to a silent Optus Stadium crowd.

Ray Galliott, secretary of the Ex-Prisoners of War Association WA, paid tribute to his unwavering service.

“Arthur Leggett always said that his duty as an ex-Army soldier was to ensure that the memory of his former colleagues was never forgotten and that the most effective way to do so was to educate the younger Australians of what earlier generations did to ensure we enjoy the freedom and safety of a secure country,” Mr Galliott said.

“As President of the Ex-Prisoners of War Association, Arthur worked tirelessly with this mission and is well known for his dedication. A good man to the end.”

Mr Leggett’s connection to Crete and the Cretan community was also deeply cherished. Tony Tsoudalakis, former President of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, also paid tribute to Mr Leggett’s legacy.

“I had the joy and honour of knowing him since 1999, and in 2011, as President of the Pancretan Association of Melbourne, I accompanied him on a tour of Athens and Crete for the 70th Anniversary of the Battle,” Mr Tsourdalakis said.

“Eternal be his memory, and may the earth that covers him be light. We will always remember him with deep love and respect.”