John Verdun Newton
Australian politician / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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John Verdun Newton (12 April 1916 – 14 January 1944) was an Australian politician and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) officer. While serving with the RAAF in Europe during the Second World War, Newton was elected to the Parliament of Western Australia for the seat of Greenough at the 1943 state election, but was killed in action 55 days later.[1][3]
John Verdun Newton | |
---|---|
Member of the Western Australian Legislative Assembly for Greenough | |
In office 20 November 1943 – 14 January 1944 | |
Preceded by | William Patrick |
Succeeded by | David Brand |
Personal details | |
Born | (1916-04-12)12 April 1916[1] Dongara, Western Australia |
Died | 14 January 1944(1944-01-14) (aged 27)[1][2] Warmeloh, Germany |
Cause of death | Killed in action |
Political party | Labor Party |
Military service | |
Allegiance | Australia |
Branch/service | Royal Australian Air Force |
Years of service | 1941–1944 |
Rank | Flight Lieutenant |
Battles/wars | Second World War |
Service no. | 415270 |
While many other members of Australian parliaments (MPs) have simultaneously served in wars, Newton's tenure was unusual because he was: both preselected and elected while he was overseas;[3][4] one of only a few serving members of Australian parliaments to fly on combat operations;[n 1][5] neither sworn in, nor able to sit in parliament, and[1][6] killed in action while he was an MP.