Local Gosnells resident and WW2 veteran Ruth Harris celebrated her 100th birthday last week, marking a century filled with blessings and accomplishments.
Ruth, who was born in Witham in Essex, England, joined the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) in February 1945. Before enlisting, she worked as a ledger clerk for Harris Scarfe and Sandovers.
During her time in the WAAAF, Ruth served as an aircraftwoman and general clerk, fulfilling duties for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in Perth and Melbourne.
Reflecting on her service, Ruth said, “The best thing about serving was learning the importance of obeying those in authority.”
After being discharged from the WAAAF in October 1946, Ruth married her late husband Rodney Harris, a leading aircraftman in the RAAF, that same year.
The couple, who met while Ruth was living in Mount Lawley, went on to raise three children and enjoyed becoming proud grandparents to a large, close-knit family.
Outside of raising her family, Ruth continued to enjoy many artistic hobbies such as making French flowers, millinery, dressmaking, calligraphy, art, card making, reading and decoupage.
When asked about the secret to her longevity said she put it down to leading a fulfilling life.
“Trust in God always, and live a wholesome life,” she said.
Federal MP for Burt and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh, praised Ruth for her remarkable life, stating,
“Ruth is an inspiration for her service, longevity, and vitality,” he said.
“It was wonderful to meet Ruth with the Minister for Aged Care last year, and it is even more special to celebrate her 100th birthday as her local MP and Veterans’ Affairs Minister.”
