Kenneth Rawie Drew

Born: 2nd December 1921, Wallaroo, South Australia.
Died: Presumably - 1st July, 1942 - Montevideo Maru

Occupation: 1940-1942. 2/22nd Battalion, Bandsman and stretcher bearer.
1936-1940. Dispatch clerk, Kodak Australia, Richmond, Vic.

Kenneth Drew's Story

Ken was the second of five sons of Major Richard and Mrs Hilda Drew, Salvation Army officers. Ken was a devout Christian. When aged 17 he became a member of the Salvation Army Melbourne Territorial Staff Band.  On 15th July 1940 he enlisted to be a member of the 2/22nd Band, in company with five other Staff bandsmen.

From comments made over the years by those who knew him, it is clear that Ken made a great impression upon them for his integrity, industry, enthusiasm and generosity. Of note, his employers provided his father (who served as a Red Shield Officer in Milne Bay and later in Japan) with a 16mm movie camera and colour film for the duration of the war.

Before enlisting Ken was a keen cricketer and Australian Rules footballer. According to reports of those who survived, he enjoyed participating in these sports whilst in Rabaul, as well as in the activities of the 2/22nd Band. He developed a close relationship with a number of Rabaul families.

Ken had a great future before him but it was taken from him. He left behind parents who carried their loss very heavily – even though they were grateful that their other two sons returned safely. His two younger brothers felt the loss of Ken deeply having known him as a generous and loving brother and having waited impatiently for three years for his return. But he served as a great example for them to follow and gave them an awareness of how fortunate they were to marry, to enjoy their sport and their work, and to have children and grandchildren – joys denied to him.

They have been concerned that his sacrifice, and that of others on the Montevideo Maru, should not be forgotten. They were key movers in the erection of the memorial at Ballarat.

Photos

	Ken Drew and Family Ken is back right.
	Ken Drew
	Ken Drew
	Ken Drew with Kay Bailie Kay Bailie was the daughter of a local plantation owner whose home Ken often visited.
	Initial enlistment of 2/22nd Battalion band members. Click on the image for a larger view.

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