World War II veteran, Jim Grebert, reached a special milestone on Sunday 12 February, celebrating his 100th birthday.
Jim, one of the newest, and the oldest member of the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch, celebrated the special day over lunch at the Sandgate Post Office Hotel with a gathering of his family and friends.
Following the personal celebration, RSL Queensland’s Brisbane North District geared up to ensure Jim, a deserving and humble veteran, was honoured with fitting celebrations in Canberra.
A week after his birthday Jim was be flown to Canberra to attend a celebratory event where RSL Australia presented his 100thYear Certificate, followed by a visit to the Australian War Memorial.
RSL Brisbane North District President Merv Brown OAM congratulated Jim and said the Distict and his local Sub Branch had welcomed the opportunity to celebrate the veteran’s impressive milestone in-keeping with the League’s ethos of care, commemoration and camaraderie.
“We look forward to seeing Jim recognised for his unwavering commitment to his country and community at the Australian War Memorial’s Last Post Ceremony,” Mr Brown said before the trip.
“It is appropriate that the Jim’s long life and selfless service is acknowledged in the nation’s capital at the memorial which includes, in its Roll of Honour, the names of those who Jim fought alongside during World War II.
”Jim will travel with his granddaughter and a small contingent from the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch, including the Sub Branch’s President Colonel Paddy Evans. While he has been a devout member of the RSL periodically since World War II, Jim joined the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch following his move from the Gold Coast, and has since become an active member, finding mateship and support. For Jim, the secret to living a long life is to “keep breathing and enjoy the odd beer”.
In saying that, Jim has always remained fit and healthy and to this day takes a daily walk. He also credits his longevity to growing up with good clean air in Millaa Millaa on the Atherton Tablelands, healthy eating and hard-work
