One of Australia's oldest soldiers has finally been recognised for his service - 66 years late and on his 101st birthday.

John 'Cop' Hingley was recognised during an historic ceremony in Mossman in far north Queensland yesterday.

Mr Hingley, who turned 101 on Sunday - finally received his war medals - 66 years after serving at Bougainville from 1943 to 1945.

He was at home in Mossman on occupational leave, helping to run the family's sugar cane farm when the war ended.

"I phoned the local Army command, asking what I should do and was told that as sugar harvesting was an essential industry, I should stay at home," Mr Hingley said.

And so, he was never "de-mobilised" with his unit, and as a result, never given the medals he deserved.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Mossman Cenotaph - an hour's drive north of Cairns - to watch Mr Hingley finally receive his war medals.

He received four medals, including the Australian Service Medal, the Defence Medal, the Pacific Star and the War Medals 1939-1945.

They were presented to him by the Army's most senior soldier - Regimental Sergeant Major David Ashley - who flew up from Canberra for the event.

"I have no speech, because this is coming from the heart," RSM Ashley said.

"Certainly there is only one person on the face of the planet today who is getting four medals, 66 years late, who is also turning 101 and that's a fact.

"In those days we had about half a million soldiers wearing uniforms and they all had to be de-mobilised as quickly as possible.

"I'm just glad we can make it up today."

Mr Hingley said he was thrilled to receive the medals.

"I never went to an Anzac Day, because I didn't have my medals," he said.

"If I happen to be around next Anzac Day, I'll wear them with pride."

Mr Hingley - a former publican - attributes his longevity to not drinking alcohol, and not smoking.

But he does have one vice.

"Sugar, I love sugar," he said.

"Most people have one or two teaspoons in their tea, I have at least three, the more the better."