Royal Australian Naval Reserve button
Date1950s
Object number00001351
NameButton
MediumBrass
DimensionsOverall: 22 x 22 mm
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from John Hodge
DescriptionA standard issue button for the Royal Australian Naval Reserve, once belonging to Lieutenant Commander John Hodge.
HistoryIn the early decades of Australia, each state had its own colonial navy. The NSW Naval Brigade was formed in 1863. The Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Naval Reserve grew from the combining of these state forces in 1911.
The earliest Naval Reservists were described as: "the watch dog of the Australian coast. Though their work involved endless hours of duty maintaining precautions against dangers that never materialised, it should not be forgotten that they served willingly and cheerfully wherever their duty called them". (Australian Reserve Forces Day Council).
SignificanceThe Royal Australian Naval reserve has a long history, dating back to 1868. The Reserve played integral roles in Australia's involvment in the various wars, beginning with the Boxer Rebellion in China in 1900. 
