Clive Matheson doesn’t consider himself a hero.
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The 97-year-old is a former wireless operator/air gunner with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and served during World War II.
Clive enlisted in the air force in the early 1940s as a leading aircraftsman.
He completed a course in Canada and graduated as a sergeant.
After six months, he became a wireless operator/air gunner.
"I would take messages and send messages from the aircraft,” Mr Matheson said.
He served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) with No. 620 Squadron and was present for D Day and Operation Market Garden in Western Europe.
"We used to tow gliders and drop food and personnel to the (resistance),” Mr Matheson said.
"The Germans were already in this place.”
Mr Matheson had four years of service in Canada and Great Britain and was discharged on his return to Australia.
All these years later, his memories are recorded in a folder of photos and letters.
They recall happy times like afternoon teas with American host families, picturesque Canadian landscapes and letters from his pen pal Molly.
"It made life over there very merry,” Mr Matheson said.
The folder also boasts photos that depict the height of the war, such as soldiers in uniform, action shots of gliders being dropped out of aeroplanes and the navigation area of a Sterling aircraft.
Born and raised in Urana in the NSW Riverina region, Mr Matheson lived in places such as Orange and worked in a hardware and grocery store.
He settled in Harrington a few years ago but now calls Taree’s Storm Village home.
"I get on well with everyone here,” he said.
Clive said he doesn’t let his age slow him down and will be present at today’s Anzac Day service in Taree.
“It’s very sentimental,” Mr Matheson said.
If you’re out at the RSL club today, expect to see Mr Matheson enjoying a beer.
"I'll have anything as long as its cold," he smiled.