News
Achievements of World War II veteran recognised
Oct 12, 2017
Hollywood Private Hospital recently recognised the achievements of World War II veteran, champion runner and former employee, John Gilmour
Hollywood Private Hospital recently recognised the achievements of World War II veteran, champion runner and former employee, John Gilmour.
Mr Gilmour, who worked at Hollywood from 1946 to 1979 as a gardener, was welcomed to the hospital for a morning tea hosted by Hollywood Chief Executive Officer, Peter Mott, and attended by members of the Executive, administrative and clinical teams.
Commenting on the event, Mr Mott said, "It was very special to spend this time with John at Hollywood and hear many fascinating stories about his war service, the hospital and his sporting career. John is one of Australia’s living legends and an inspiration to us all."
Born in Scotland in May 1919, Mr Gilmour migrated to the south west of Western Australia with his family in 1923, and became one of the best long distance runners in the State.
His running career was interrupted when he joined the 2/4th Machine Gun Battalion which arrived in Singapore in January 1942 and within days was engaged in the battle for Singapore Island. During his time in Changi Prison, Mr Gilmour suffered permanent damage in both eyes due to severe lack of essential vitamins.
In 1946, despite partial blindness and having been home for less than 12 months, he won the West Australian 10 Mile Road Racing Championship, one of many wins in his distinguished athletic career. In 1978, Mr Gilmour was awarded an Order of Australia for his services to sport.
Mr Gilmour presented Mr Mott with a copy of his book, ‘All in My Stride’, and a collection of photos for Hollywood’s archives.