Yesterday Launceston's Garry Ivory took his uncle's case to the inquiry into unresolved recognition for past acts of naval and military gallantry and valour.

The tribunal, considering 13 Australians for the country's highest military honour, convened at the Country Club Tasmania.

Former army brigadier Andrew Nikolic and Braddon MHR Sid Sidebottom joined Mr Ivory to speak in favour of Mr Sheean.

Former Tasmanian Senator Guy Barnett added his support to Mr Sheean's case and also that of Launceston Ordinary Seaman Francis ``Dick'' Emms - who died after defending a Japanese air attack.

Mr Sheean, 18, was aboard the HMAS Armidale on December 1, 1942 when it came under attack by nine Japanese bombers and four torpedo planes.

As the ship sunk a possibly wounded Mr Sheean strapped himself to a machine gun, began firing at the enemy and, critically, drew the Japanese gunfire away from his mates in the water.

According to shipmate Ordinary Seaman R.M. Caro ``. . . he went back to his gun, strapped himself in, and brought down a Jap plane, still firing as he disappeared beneath the waves''.

Mr Sheean's actions were suppressed by the Defence Department eight days after his death `` to impose a complete publicity ban upon HMAS Armidale's story.''

At the time, unlike awards for Australian army and airforce personnel, recognition of navy sailors was decided by the British admiralty in London.

Supporters of Mr Sheean's case said that a report sent to London recommending him for an award, compiled quickly after the incident, was underwhelming and did not include statements from the Armidale's survivors.

Mr Sheean is the only non-commissioned officer to have an Australian naval vessel - a submarine - named after him.

A decision from the tribunal could take up to a year.