Long wait for decision on tribunal’s VC ruling for Teddy Sheean

Hearings into whether Tasmanian Edward “Teddy” Sheean should receive a Victoria Cross have wrapped up but it will be some time before a decision is made.

Teddy Sheean's nephews Grant Sheean and Garry Ivory are pushing for a VC to be awarded to the war hero. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

HEARINGS into whether Tasmanian Edward “Teddy” Sheean should receive a Victoria Cross have wrapped up.

The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal started hearings at the Hobart Town Hall on Monday after dismissing Sheean for a posthumous award in 2013.

While the tribunal had agreed Sheean had shown conspicuous gallantry, it ruled he had not reached the especially high standards required for the awarding of a VC.

BATTLE RESUMES FOR TEDDY’S VICTORIA CROSS HONOUR

Ordinary Seaman Edward “Teddy” Sheean.

Veterans Affairs Minister Guy Barnett applied for a review of that decision in October last year. He argued Sheean should be recognised for his actions and bravery during the sinking of HMAS Armidale.

The ship came under sustained attack from Japanese aircraft on December 1, 1942. Sheean, an 18-year-old loader on one of the ship’s three anti-aircraft guns, shot down an aircraft and stayed at his post until he was killed.

On Tuesday, Sheean’s nephews Garry Ivory and Grant Sheean, historian Tom Lewis and RSL Tasmania vice president David Webb gave evidence.

The Tribunal will deliberate and present its findings to the Federal Government with recommendations.

With an election expected in May, a decision is not expected to be made for some months.