"Each of those medals represent the sacrifices he made and obviously the danger that comes with military service"

Hendrik Brouwer was employed in the Royal Dutch Navy from 1937 to 1947. He served during the Second World War and received several awards. After his grandfather's death, Kevin Brouwer, who worked in the Royal Australian Navy for 13 years, wondered what these medals meant, and whether the set was complete.

The Medals Of Hendrik Brouwer, presented to his grandson Petty Officer Kevin Robert Hendrik Brouwer, in May 2023 Credit: Kevin Brouwer

By chance, he came into contact with Lieutenant Colonel Peter Burgerhout, the Dutch Defence Attaché in Australia. Thanks to his help, Hendrik Brouwer posthumously received a new complete set of service medals. Kevin had the honour of receiving it, on behalf of his late grandfather.

This interview is in English.

Portrait photo of Hendrik Brouwer, taken in Pitt St, Sydney, in 1943 Credit: Kevin Brouwer

HrMs Tromp returning to Sydney, to undergo repairs to extensive battle damage, sustained during the Battle of the Badung Strait, in 1942 Credit: Kevin Brouwer