A chance find in a Melbourne op shop has turned into a powerful story of remembrance, community and long-overdue recognition, as a set of World War II medals is set to be returned to the family of a South Australian airman.
The seven medals, including the prestigious Distinguished Flying Medal, once belonged to Warrant Officer Kenneth Peters, who grew up in Millicent and later lived in Edwardstown, Adelaide. Decades after they mysteriously disappeared, their rediscovery has sparked a determined effort to ensure they find their way back to his loved ones.
Peters served as a tail gunner during the war, flying dangerous missions over Berlin and even shooting down enemy aircraft – acts that RSL members say speak to extraordinary courage and sacrifice.
When the medals surfaced about a year ago, Unley RSL president Pieter Haverhoek took it upon himself to track down any surviving relatives.
“It just embodies what Anzac Day is about,” he told 7News.
What followed was a true community effort. With Peters and his wife, Nelly Jean, having no children, the search was far from simple. But locals rallied, combing through archives, reaching out to historians and even involving Air Force cadets, who honoured Peters by creating an award in his name.
Eventually, the breakthrough came: a grand-niece was located through ancestry records.
“Uncle Ken is remembered fondly in their family,” Haverhoek said. “She had no idea how the medals ended up in Melbourne because he was an Adelaide resident.”
Peters, who is buried at West Terrace Cemetery alongside his wife, will now be honoured in a deeply meaningful way. The medals will be formally returned to his family on Anzac Day – a tribute that ensures his service is not only remembered, but celebrated.
“I’d like to think he’s going to be with us on Anzac Day,” Haverhoek said.
“Thanks mate – and look what we’ve done for you. We remember you. Lest we forget.”
Images: 7News
