Description: (Australian Polar Explorer, Ornithologist, Pilot, Soldier, Geographer and Photographer)
Hubert Wilkins was a highly accomplished Australian explorer, ornithologist, pilot, soldier, geographer, and photographer. He received the Military Cross for his outstanding leadership during the Battle of the Hindenburg Line, making him the sole Australian photographer from any war to be honored with a combat medal. Wilkins conducted a groundbreaking submarine expedition beneath the North Pole, showcasing the potential for submarines to operate under the polar ice cap. His pioneering work set the stage for future successful missions in polar exploration. In 1959, the US Navy paid tribute to Wilkins by transporting his ashes to the North Pole aboard the USS Skate.