19 Facts About Hector Waller

Hector Waller's career spanned almost thirty years, including service in both world wars.

Hector Waller was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and Bar, and twice mentioned in despatches, for his achievements in the Mediterranean.

Hector Waller assumed command of HMAS Perth in October 1941, taking part in the Battle of the Java Sea shortly before his final action in Sunda Strait.

Hector Waller received a third mention in despatches posthumously, and in 2011 came under formal consideration for the award of the Victoria Cross for his performance as Perths captain.

Hec Waller was named in honour of General Hector MacDonald, hero of the Boer War, and a forebear called Laws who was an admiral and a contemporary of Viscount Nelson.

Hector Waller gained recognition as a rugby player and became cadet captain.

In February 1919, Hector Waller was assigned to the light cruiser HMAS Melbourne, and two months later returned to Australia.

Hector Waller finished at the top of the advanced course and, in May 1926, took charge of the Signals and Wireless-Telegraphy School at Flinders Naval Depot in Westernport, Victoria.

Hector Waller was promoted to lieutenant commander in March 1929.

Hector Waller continued in this role upon transferring to Australias sister ship, HMAS Canberra, in May 1931.

Hector Waller was promoted to commander in June 1934 and the following month became executive officer of the RANC.

In November 1937, Hector Waller was given his first command at sea, the RN destroyer HMS Brazen.

Hector Waller's ship handling was criticised early on, but was reported by his superiors as having "improved greatly".

Hector Waller was mentioned in despatches twice during 1941: in July for his army cooperation role with the Inshore Squadron off the Libyan coast, and in November for his service during the Greek campaign.

Hector Waller was reportedly "tired" and "quite a sick man" at this time but nonetheless prepared Perth for action quickly.

Low on ammunition, Waller made the decision to withdraw, accompanied by the heavy cruiser USS Houston under the command of Captain Albert H Rooks.

Hector Waller's action contravened the orders of his Dutch superior, Admiral Conrad Helfrich, to "continue action whatever the cost, and till the bitter end", but the Australian was convinced that further engagement would mean pointless sacrifice.

Hector Waller was officially listed as missing, presumed killed, and was survived by his wife and sons.

Hector Waller is commemorated by Waller Crescent and Waller Place in the Canberra suburb of Campbell.