South Australian Police (SAPOL) have launched a search for the family members of a World War II veteran, following the discovery of a significant military medal in an Adelaide storage facility. The medal, belonging to a man named William Stirling Craddock, is believed to have been unlawfully obtained before it was found in a storage unit in Panorama.

William Stirling Craddock, born in North Stirling in 1887, enlisted in the Australian Army in 1942 at the age of 55, while residing in Solomontown, Port Pirie, where he worked as a greaser. His service led him to the 6th (SA) Battalion Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC), a part-time military force formed to defend Australia during World War II. The VDC, initially focused on guerrilla warfare training, evolved its role to include anti-aircraft and coastal artillery operations as the war progressed.

After the conclusion of World War II, Craddock was discharged from the army in 1945. Tragically, he passed away in 1964 at the age of 77, closely followed by his wife, Fanny Craddock, just a month later. The couple had been married for over fifty years, having tied the knot in 1910 in the Flinders Ranges.

The search for Craddock’s family aims to reunite them with this historical artifact and honor his service to the country. Anyone with information that could assist in locating Craddock’s relatives is encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers. This endeavor not only seeks to return a piece of history to its rightful place but also to commemorate the sacrifices made by individuals like William Stirling Craddock during times of conflict.

The story of William Stirling Craddock serves as a poignant reminder of the countless individuals who selflessly served their country during World War II. Through efforts like SAPOL’s search for his family, we can ensure that their contributions are remembered and respected for generations to come.