Anderson, Margaret Irene - Australian Women Biographical entry Born: 11 December 1915 Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Margaret Anderson enlisted in the Australian Army Nursing Service at Dandenong (Vic.) on 19 September 1941. On 12 February 1942, three days before the fall of Singapore, the freighter, Empire Star sailed from Singapore Harbour. The ship which normally had an allocation of space for 20 passengers was carrying over 2100 people. While on route to Batavia the ship came under enemy fire and received three direct hits. During one of the raids two of the Australian nursing staff on board, Sisters Margaret Anderson and Vera Torney, came on deck to attend to the wounded. They protected their patients by covering them with their bodies. Staff Nurse Margaret Anderson was awarded the George Medal on 22 September 1942 for her bravery when the ship was attacked by enemy aircraft. Staff Nurse Vera Torney was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (Military). On 4 June 1946 Lieutenant Margaret Anderson was discharged from the Australian Army Nursing Service.
Lieutenant Margaret Irene Anderson GM VX63845 Service - Australian Army Date of birth - 11 December 1915 Place of birth - Melbourne Vic Date of enlistment - 19 September 1941 Locality of enlistment - Malvern Vic Place of enlistment - Dandenong Vic Next of kin - Anderson Charles Date of discharge - 4 June 1946 Posting at discharge - AANS WW2 honours and gallantry - George Medal And heres a painting ...... AWM Collection Record: ART22211 - Sister Margaret Anderson
