Gorton John Gray (Gorton John Grey)

(p. 1911)
Born September 9, 1911 in Melbourne. He was educated in Australia and at Oxford University. During the Second World War fighter pilot and served. In 1949 he was elected to the Senate from the Liberal Party. He has held several ministerial posts in the governments of Menzies, R. and G. Holt.
After the death of Prime Minister G. Holt became the leader of the coalition of Liberal and Agrarian parties and the Prime Minister. Since taking office Jan. 10, 1968, pursued a course to expand the social security system. Holt will continue its policy to strengthen the close ties with Washington. His support for the U.S. in the Vietnam War caused resentment in society, and the failure of the Liberals in national elections in 1969 led to the eventual resignation as leader of the Liberal Party, 10 March 1971.

Gorton became defense minister in the cabinet of his successor, William McMahon. Upon his retirement, left the ranks of the Liberal Party. He was elevated to the dignity of knighthood in 1977.