Rick Wilson (O'Connor, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

) ( ): I rise today to commemorate the life of World War II veteran and long-term resident of Albany, former British Royal Navy Signalman James Harness. Just over two months ago, I joined Mr Harness and his family at the National Anzac Centre, where he was a recipient of the Chevalier class Legion of Honour medal from the French government, for his gallantry during the D-Day landing.

Mr Harness had recently celebrated his 91st birthday, and was the centre of attention, surrounded by his loving family, many of whom had travelled great distances to be with him for this proud occasion. As Jim sat with the vista of Albany's King George Sound before him, I am sure he reflected on the contrasting view when he stood alongside his captain, surveying the carnage on Juno Beach, Normandy, on 6 June 1944.

The 18-year-old signalman was part of the first assault wave that morning and came under heavy fire on the beach. He was very lucky to survive. His vessel later carried supplies to the troops and he remained in Normandy until October 1944. Mr Harness served in the Far East Fleet until Japan surrendered, and his prestigious naval career included time in Sumatra, Malta, Hong Kong, Korea, Malaya, Hawaii and the West Indies.

In 1966 Mr Harness, his wife, Valerie, and their young family moved to Albany, where he worked at the Albany Woollen Mills and Cooperative Bulk Handling until his retirement in 1983. He lived out his twilight years in Albany, and passed away earlier this week. I salute a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather— (Time expired)

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