On November 11, 2025, a poignant ceremony at Kings Park in Perth will pay tribute to those who served in World War II, featuring a special group of veterans. Among them are George Franklin, aged 103, and Russell Hosken, aged 102, both of whom played significant roles during a critical time when Australia faced grave threats.
George Franklin enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in August 1940 after working as an accountant and studying at night school. His initial training took place at Pearce air base, followed by advanced training at Cunderdin flying school, where he faced a setback due to his colour blindness, which barred him from air crew duties. Instead, he contributed to the war effort by servicing heavy bombers at various bases in Western Australia’s north-west, including Noonkanbah Station.
Franklin recalled the challenges faced at these airstrips, where heavy machinery was used to prepare landing sites. “If the earth was not packed down firmly, it would be lifted up like a carpet when a plane landed,” he noted. His service took him to essential locations, including Corunna Downs, where he worked to support both RAAF and US aircraft in the fight against Japanese forces. The conditions were harsh, with many personnel living in tents and enduring extreme heat, often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit for over 100 days. Franklin completed his military service at Cape Leveque and later joined the Army band, serving until 1977.
Russell Hosken’s journey began on the family farm in Wickepin, where he worked until he was conscripted into the Army in 1942 at just 18 years old. He received his training at Northam before being assigned to the defensive guns at Oliver Hill on Rottnest Island, which protected Fremantle Port from naval attacks. Hosken vividly recalled a demonstration of the guns’ power: “It only lasted about five minutes, and they had blown the target to pieces.”
During their service, soldiers were required to remain prepared for immediate deployment, often carrying their belongings whenever they returned to the mainland. After his time on Rottnest, Hosken was involved in radar operations and later served at a base near Wodonga, where he received a pay increase for driver training. He finished his military career packing food for air drops near Cessnock, New South Wales, when the war concluded in 1945.
As Remembrance Day approaches, Franklin and Hosken reflect on the sacrifices made by their fellow servicemen and women. “Those that didn’t come back, you’ve got to take your hat off to them,” Franklin expressed, highlighting the significance of honoring their memories.
The Returned and Services League of Western Australia (RSL WA) will lead the service, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. RSL WA Chief Executive Stephen Barton stated that efforts were made to contact every known living veteran in the state, with approximately 20 veterans attending the previous commemoration. Invitations have been extended once again for this year’s Remembrance Day service, as the RSL continues to recognize these veterans as representatives of their remarkable generation.
The upcoming ceremony at Kings Park will not only honor veterans like Franklin and Hosken but also serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of those who fought to protect their country.
