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Checker Hughes to be Honoured ANZAC Eve

La Dee-vina Comedia
La Dee-vina Comedia
in Melbourne Demons

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  • Demonland changed the title to Checker Hughes to be Honoured ANZAC Eve
 
6 minutes ago, La Dee-vina Comedia said:

Does anyone know where the nickname "Checker" came from? 

By this stage the nickname Checker was already well established, coined by a mate's little sister. Whenever Hughes visited their house, the young girl would beckon him to lift her to see their checkered pigeons by saying: "Checker? Checker?"

 

https://www.melbournefc.com.au/news/453558/checker-hughes-a-giant-of-two-clubs

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    While we're at it ...

    For the best part of four years Hughes served with the 57th battalion of the Australian Imperial Force, and displayed the kind of resourcefulness, ingenuity and compassion that would become trademarks in his coaching.

    He rose through the ranks to the position of company quartermaster sergeant, responsible for his unit's supplies.

    Hughes was exceptional in this role, with the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette stating: "(He) has always given to the Battalion his undivided efforts. He has shown great initiative in the care of his men and no matter what the conditions he had invariably personally seen that every man under his care has been properly fed and clothed. His efforts have without doubt assisted greatly towards the comfort and well being of the men of his Company. His energetic efforts to better the conditions of his men in adverse situations are worthy of the highest praise and his devotion to duty is worthy of acknowledgement."

    Hughes' dedication was rewarded, as the London Gazette noted: "HIS MAJESTY THE KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Meritorious Service Medal … in recognition of valuable services rendered with the Armies in France and Flanders (Belgium)."

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    Great to read about him and what he did for the Melbourne Football Club and for Australia.  

    I will go out on a limb and say that Christian Salem will win the first 'Checker' medal.

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