Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

CHRISTOPHER (CHRIS) THOMAS WALSH
B. 2 May 2024 - D. 8 May 1968
R.A.N. SN R/24771
Christopher was born on 2nd of May 1924 at Moorina, Tasmania. He was the youngest of five children born to Joseph and Alice (nee Grubb) Walsh.
Alice passed away shortly after the birth when Chris was approximately 3 weeks old. Father Joe was a miner at Moorina, Tasmania, a very small mining town.
Chris had 3 brothers and 1 sister, ranging in ages from 2 to 9 years old. After Alice’s death the 5 children were placed in the guardianship of Joe’s mother and 3 spinster sisters, they resided in Newstead, Launceston until they became adults. The house they resided in was called “Messines” which was the legacy of their Uncle, Lieutenant Richard Edward Walsh of 44th Battalion, Joe’s brother, who was killed in action at the “Battle of Messines” in WW1 on 8 June 1917. Richard had insurance policies of which his Mother was the sole beneficiary enabling her to purchase a home. Richard would be pleased his legacy provided a home for his niece and 4 nephews.
Chris and his brothers were educated at St Patrick’s College Launceston, Tasmania and his sister, from an early age went to live with her Aunt and cousins in Stanley, Tasmania, later relocating to Launceston.
Chris enlisted in the R.A.N. on 16 June 1941 in Melbourne at 17 years of age, undertaking his basic training at H.M.A.S. Cerberus. His service number was R24771.
Chris was described as being 5’8” tall, light brown hair, blue eyes, fresh complexion and his religion listed as Roman Catholic
Chris was discharged on 1 May 1959 when he completed his contract, his rank was Petty Officer. He enrolled in Royal Australian Fleet Reserve for five years from 2 May 1959.
His 3 brothers served in the Army in WW2.
Chris married Nora Gray in Melbourne on 18 July 1948 and they had 3 daughters.
Sadly, Chris died on 8 May 1968 at age 44 due to heart disease which has been passed down in the Walsh family from his grandfather. His immediate family and siblings were devastated with the loss. Serving 18 years in the Navy but only home with his family for approximately 9 years.
He received the following medals:
• Star Medal 1939-1945
• Pacific Star
• War Medal – 1939-1945
• Australian Service Medal – 1939-1945
• Royal Naval Long Service and Good Conduct