Western Australia is set to honor its last surviving World War II prisoner of war, Arthur Leggett OAM, with a state funeral on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The ceremony will take place at St George's Cathedral in Perth, commencing at 10:30 AM, following a poignant military procession down St Georges Terrace.
Leggett, who passed away on April 6, 2025, at the remarkable age of 106, is remembered not only for his service during the war but also for his dedication to educating future generations about the sacrifices made by those who served. His daughter, Sue Meagher, expressed her pride in her father, stating, "He was a hardworking man - very gentle, very humble. It’s important for young people to understand what previous generations like my father did so they could now enjoy freedom."
The state funeral is expected to draw a significant public turnout, as many West Australians gather to pay their respects to a man who has been described as a hero. According to WA Veterans Minister Paul Papalia, this event is likely a once-in-a-generation opportunity to witness such a military state funeral. He remarked, "It’s certainly the only time we get to farewell someone of this stature from the Second World War."
The funeral procession will begin at 9:30 AM, forming up on Mount Street before proceeding down St Georges Terrace to the cathedral. A riderless horse will lead the procession, symbolizing the fallen service person, with reversed boots in the stirrups to indicate that the rider has died. This tribute is a significant element of military funerals, providing a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by service members.
As the procession moves along, the tenor bell at St George's Cathedral will toll 106 times, once for each year of Leggett's life. The public is invited to line the route along St Georges Terrace and follow behind the procession once it has passed. The ceremony will conclude with a Royal Australian Air Force flyover, adding to the ceremonial atmosphere.
Arthur Leggett was born on September 8, 1918, in Sydney and enlisted in the army in 1936. He became part of the Cameron Highlanders of Western Australia before joining the 2/11th Battalion, which was the first World War II Australian Imperial Force unit raised in WA. His military career saw him serve in various locations, including Libya, Greece, and Crete, where he was eventually captured by German forces following the Battle of Crete.
Leggett spent nearly four years as a prisoner of war, enduring the infamous Lamsdorf Death March, which took place in 1944. This grueling march covered approximately 800 kilometers, during which he and fellow prisoners faced extreme conditions, including freezing temperatures and limited rations. His resilience during this time became a testament to his character.
After the war, Leggett dedicated much of his life to raising awareness about the experiences of prisoners of war and the sacrifices made by military personnel. He served as the president of the Ex-Prisoners of War Association of WA for nearly 30 years, ensuring that the stories of those who served were not forgotten. His commitment to education extended to local schools, where he frequently shared his experiences with students.
In recognition of his contributions, Mount Lawley Senior High School named its library the Arthur Leggett OAM Library in 2018. Additionally, Leggett authored an autobiography titled "Don't Cry For Me," published in 2015, which chronicles his life up to his 88th birthday.
As the state prepares for this significant farewell, the community is encouraged to come together to honor a man who represents the bravery and resilience of a generation that faced unimaginable challenges. The event is not only a tribute to Leggett but also a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during wartime.
The funeral will take place amid several road closures in the Perth area, including St Georges Terrace, which will be closed between Mill Street and Barrack Street from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Attendees are advised to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid delays.
As the people of Western Australia gather to commemorate Arthur Leggett, the state will reflect on the legacy of a man who lived through history and dedicated his life to sharing its lessons. This state funeral is not just a farewell; it’s a celebration of a life well-lived and a reminder of the importance of remembering those who fought for freedom.
