Private George C. Whittington
Australian Army, 2/10th Infantry Battalion

Background
George Charles Whittington was born October 18, 1919 in Kilcoy, Queensland in Australia. Nicknamed "Dick". On September 27, 1941 at Nundah enlisted in the Australian Army with serial number QX23902. Assigned to 2/10th Infantry Battalion and deployed in New Guinea.

Wartime History
On December 24, 1942 during the Battle at Buna Airfield wounded in his eyes. On December 25, 1942 guided by Papuan Raphael Oimbari and holding a walking stick the pair walked barefoot on a track towards a field hospital at Dobodura. While walking, LIFE Magazine photographer George Silk photographed them. This iconic photograph came to symbolize the Papuan Campaign in New Guinea. Afterwards, he recovered from his wounds and returned to duty.

On February 12, 1943 died of scrub typhus at Port Moresby at age 23.

Memorials
Whittington is buried at Bomana War Cemetery at A1. B. 22. He is also listed on the roll of honor in Brisbane.

Relatives
Connie Whittington (wife).

References
WW2 Nominal Roll - George Charles Whittington, QX23902
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AWM "Private George C. "Dick" Whittington being helped along a track through the kunai grass towards a field hospital at Dobodura." 014028
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FindAGrave - Private George Charles Whittington (photo, grave photo)

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