23 April 2025
ANZAC Day presents a wonderful opportunity to recognise Cecil Ireland, a resident at Regis Burnside who played a significant role in World War II.
At a young age, Cecil left school to help support his family and began working in a modest clerical role at A. Simpson & Son Ltd, an early metal manufacturer. When World War II broke out, Simpson’s status as a protected industry kept him from being drafted immediately.
However, as the war intensified, Cecil took the opportunity to join the CMF training at the Largs North Drill Hall, where he was introduced to morse code. Eager to contribute to the war effort and broaden his horizons, he enlisted in the 2nd AIF Signals in 1942.
In the final year of the war, Cecil was stationed on Morotai, an island in the Celebes Group in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). Though the war ended, logistics kept Cecil stranded on the island, delaying his planned wedding to Kath, which was set for Christmas 1945. The delay didn’t diminish their joy, as they were soon married and enjoyed 70 years together until Kath’s passing a decade ago.
After the war, Cecil resumed his work at Simpson’s and furthered his education by earning an accounting qualification through night-school at the SA School of Mines and Industry. Over the next few decades, he worked in various accounting roles at Simpson’s and Simpson-Pope before retiring as Head of Internal Audit after 43 years of service.
Today, at 103, Cecil’s remarkable legacy continues to shine. Recently, high-ranking members of the military took an interest in his story, and on 28 March, held a special recognition event to present Cecil with two prestigious awards: the Head of Corps Challenge Coin, representing the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, and a Centenary Challenge Coin marking 100 years since the establishment of the Corps.
These honours were given in recognition of Cecil’s invaluable service to Australia, the Australian Defence Force, and the Australian Army, as well as to celebrate the centenary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals.
Along with the award, a special letter from HRH Anne, Princess Royal was read, and we had the privilege of being the first to hear it, as it was written for the upcoming National ANZAC Day service.
During the ceremony, Cecil was also recognised as the oldest surviving World War II signals officer in Australia, while one of the youngest current signals officers was present, adding a special touch to the event. The award presentation was attended by a small gathering of officers from the Royal Australian Signals Association, Regis employees and Cecil’s family.
At Regis, we are proud to support our veterans and their families. We recognise the valuable contributions they have made to our society and the sacrifices they have made to protect our way of life.
