Though siblings may squabble, the bond they share often proves unbreakable, as shown in the inspiring story of Bill and Beryl.

A Tragic Loss
In 1942, tragedy struck when the SS Iron Crown was torpedoed by Japanese forces about 100 kilometers off the southern coast of Victoria, Australia. Among the 39 lives lost was 64-year-old Frank Stewart.

Becoming Orphans
Frank’s death left his children, Bill and Beryl, as orphans; their mother had passed away several years earlier. Already living in an orphanage while their father served in the merchant navy, they faced an uncertain future.

Heartbreaking Separation
After their father’s passing, Bill and Beryl were separated. Bill was sent to the Boys’ Home in Adelaide, while Beryl was adopted by another family. Adoption policies at the time discouraged contact with biological family, so when they said goodbye, it was with little hope of reuniting. Bill shared, “The two of us put our arms around each other and cried our eyes out. I was told to leave the room, and I never saw Beryl again.”

Decades of Searching
Beryl never stopped searching for Bill, even as years passed. “I started thinking perhaps he’s dead,” she said, “but in my mind, I always thought one day we would find one another.”

An Unexpected Connection
Eighty years later, a memorial event was held after the SS Iron Crown’s location was discovered. Bill met a distant relative, Kylie Watson, who immediately took on the search to find Beryl. Her efforts paid off when an ad she placed in the newspaper caught Beryl’s attention. Ecstatic, Beryl quickly reached out, discovering her long-lost brother was still alive.

An Emotional Reunion
Bill and Beryl reconnected by phone and eventually met face-to-face, holding each other in a long embrace that spoke to the pain and joy of their reunion. Their story of perseverance and the enduring bond between siblings has touched hearts around the world.

Watch the video below to witness their heartfelt reunion after 80 long years.