Dasher

Kevin ‘Dasher' Wheatley VC is one of the most extraordinary characters in Australian history. Dasher was a husband, father, champion footballer and one of the finest soldiers this country has ever produced. The story of his sacrifice is used by the ADF as a perfect example of valour and mateship to this day. Although he is one of the most famous Victoria Cross recipients of all time, his story has never been fully told. Until now.

Dasher: The Kevin Wheatley VC Story was written with firsthand accounts from Dasher's family and the men who served and fought alongside him. It tells not only the story of an unlikely lad from the mean streets of Sydney, but that of a soldier whose death devastated the ranks of three armies and changed the way Australia dealt with the overseas loss of service people forever.

Everyone who met the man has a Dasher Wheatley story of larrikin behaviour, outstanding soldiering, stunning valour, or all three.

Forwarded by Keith Payne, this book also investigates other gallantry awards Wheatley qualified for but was never given.

“The Dasher Wheatley story is one that all Australians should know and be proud of.” HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL THE HONOURABLE DAVID HURLEY AC DSC (Retd General), Governor-General of Australia

“I never met Dasher Wheatley VC, but I would have liked to share a beet with a man whose decision to stay with a dying mate cost him his life. His compelling courage, that choice, characterise the values that make Australia.” KERRRY STOKES, AC Chairman Australian War Memorial.