Cobar Shire Council is to consider a request seeking support for the awarding of a posthumous Victoria Cross to Cobar-born WWII naval hero Robert Rankin of HMAS Yarra fame.
The request has been made by a former naval colleague and survivor from HMAS Perth which was also sunk in a gallant engagement with the Japanese fleet near Java.
A River class sloop, HMAS Yarra was sunk by a Japanese cruiser squadron while escorting an Allied convoy from Java to Western Australia with the loss of Lt Cmdr Rankin and 135 crew members.
One of Australia’s new Collins class submarines was later named HMAS Rankin to honour the Yarra captain’s bravery in attempting to save the convoy.
In his report to this Thursday’s council meeting, general manager Ray Smith has recommended making the necessary inquiries of the Federal Government in recognition of the posthumous award.
“Given Cobar’s significant link with the late Lt Cmdr Robert Rankin and council’s relationship with HMAS submarine Rankin, it may be appropriate for council to at least endeavour to make inquiries as to the possibility of having Lt Cmdr Rankin recognised for his bravery during World War II.”
Άρης
United Kingdom 
Bid to honour naval hero
Australia 
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