News

Hollywood receives portrait of Victoria Cross recipient, George Howell

Sep 05, 2017

Hollywood Private Hospital (Hollywood) was recently honoured to receive a portrait of former World War I soldier and Victoria Cross recipient, George Julian Howell.

Hollywood Private Hospital (Hollywood) was recently honoured to receive a portrait of former World War I soldier and Victoria Cross recipient, George Julian Howell.

The framed print was given to the hospital by George Howell’s great great grandaughter, Courtney Cummins, who painted it whilst she was in year 12 for her grandfather’s birthday.

Hollywood Chief Executive Officer, Peter Mott, said "It was very special to welcome Courtney and members of her family to Hollywood. In addition to receiving this generous donation, we had the opportunity to learn more about George Howell’s incredible life."

"We’re very appreciative of the portrait and will proudly display it in the George Howell ward for patients, visitors and employees to enjoy."

To recognise Hollywood’s history as a former military and repatriation hospital, all wards and some procedural units are named after servicemen who were awarded the Victoria Cross or George Cross Medals of Honour and who either resided at the time of enlistment, died, or were buried in Western Australia.

George Julian ‘Snowy’ Howell was born in Sydney in 1893. For his war efforts he was awarded the Military Medal and later the Victoria Cross for ‘gallantry, fearlessness and initiative’.

In 1953, George moved to Western Australia to live with this daughter, Norma. He went on to march at every ANZAC Day parade for 29 years. After his death he was given a funeral with full military honours.

Holllywood’s George Howell ward was named after the Victoria Cross recipient in February 2016, following the completion of the hospital’s Anne Leach wing.