Life-size statue of Tasmanian hero Edward ‘Teddy’ Sheean VC unveiled at Latrobe

More than 80 years after he made the ultimate sacrifice, Edward ‘Teddy’ Sheean’s has been honoured with a statue.

A life-size statue commemorating Tasmanian Victoria Cross recipient Edward ’Teddy’ Sheean has been unveiled at Latrobe on Monday. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

A life-size statue commemorating Tasmanian Victoria Cross recipient Edward “Teddy” Sheean has been unveiled at Latrobe on Monday.

Hundreds paid tribute to Sheean’s legacy at the Remembrance Day ceremony, recognising the service and sacrifice the young Tasmanian made aboard the HMAS Armidale on December 1, 1942, when he strapped himself to the sinking corvette’s anti-aircraft gun to protect fellow sailors before he was killed.

A life-size statue commemorating Tasmanian Victoria Cross recipient Edward ’Teddy’ Sheean has been unveiled at Latrobe on Monday. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

Chief of navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO delivered a keynote speech at the service, also announcing that the Australian navy Cadets Training Ship Mersey will now be known as Training Ship Sheean.

“Ordinary Seaman Edward ‘Teddy’ Sheean, VC, was the youngest member of Ship’s Company and his actions were among the most conspicuous, and gallant we have seen in our navy,” Vice Admiral Hammond said.

“Having served on HMAS Sheean, I know the great honour and pride that comes with serving on a vessel that holds the Sheean name and legacy.”

The honour included the reveal of a new badge and life ring recognising the connection between the future Training Ship Sheean and Ordinary Seaman Sheean, and his award of the Victoria Cross for Australia.

The training ship will now also share a name with Collins class submarine HMAS Sheean.

Commanding Officer of Training Ship Sheean, Lieutenant David Evison, said it was a great honour for the cadet unit to carry the name of the only navy Victorian Cross recipient.

“Navy Cadets have a close relationship with the Latrobe RSL, which is in proximity to Lower Barrington where Teddy Sheean was born, so it is a natural fit for us to honour his legacy,” Lieutenant Evison said.