Lot 3717

Description

RAN ID disc, (28mm) in nickel for 'E.N.Wade. C.M./5650/C.O.E.' and on reverse 'HMAS/Una'; Ex-Naval Mens Association, lapel badge (KC) in enamel and gilt, by Stokes & Sons, Melb, reverse numbered 926. Fine - very fine. (2)

HMAS Una was a Royal Australian Navy sloop that began its life as the German motor launch Komet, a ship captured by an infantry detachment of the AN&MEF on 9 October 1914 and then sailed to Sydney as a prize. She was put into service with the RAN being used as a Patrol and General Purpose Vessel to patrol New Guinea, New Britain, New Hebrides and Malayan waters. After World War I, Una was decommissioned and taken to Port Phillip Bay, renamed Akuna, and used as a pilot vessel and finally broken up in Melbourne in 1955.

5650 Eric Norman Wade, Cook's Mate, born 10Aug1892 at Summer Hill, NSW; joined RAN 25May1916 for war + 6 months; served on HMAS Una 21Dec1916 - 13Dec1918.