Wall of Remembrance

I look back to my two years in National Service, October 1969 to September 1971, specifically my nine months in Nui Dat, South Vietnam. On arrival by Carabou aircraft, compliments of the RAAF I got off the plane and heard "Boom". Our tent was about 100 metres from the "wire" so I found out. The 105 mm rounds from Artilliary would last every night, every 30 seconds. The sirens went and we had to hightail it to the nearest bunker - I did not yet have my rifle, that would come in the morning. Welcome to Vietnam!

It will be an honour and a privilege to represent my grandfather, George "Bob" Johnson - Service Number 1704427, at the National Commemorative Service, in the Great Hall of the Australian Parliament House on 14 February 2026, marking the 75th Anniversary of National Service. Bob was a radio operator and is second from the left with his mates sitting on an armoured car. Rumour has it he was also the Battalion boxing champion. “Their memory endures until the last person remembers.”

We pause to reflect on the 2,500* National Servicemen from across the nation who have not been fully recognised for their lawful and meritorious service. Many have passed on since coming home and their families are still waiting patiently. *Estimate provided by DVA Statistical Section.

I am their volunteer facilitator - a National Service Vietnam Veteran.

This commemoration will take place exactly 60 years after Decimal Currency Conversion Day, that also being the day I started an apprenticeship. I received the callup notice two days after my 20th birthday, but my National Service was deferred until completion of the Indenture in 1970. I was discharged before completing the original two year period, as national service was shortened to 18 months in October 1971 whilst I was serving in Vietnam; and having already served more than the year and a half, it resulted in my being RTA before the usual tour of duty of 12 months.

I attach here a column piece reflecting on my military service which began with my call up for national service.

I attach here a column piece in the Weekend Australian reflecting on my military service which began with my call up for national service.

I was recruited in the 4th Intake in 1966 to serve for 2 years. During my 3 month induction at Puckapunyal we were given training on grenade throwing and our Platoon sergeant rewarded me by positioning me at a guard post an hour's walk along the fence line to block entry to this live firing exercise. Some 5 hours later I was still on position and decided to return to the grenade field as darkness was imminent. Surprisingly the Company had returned to Quarters, my positioning having been overlooked. I returned to base and was charged for insulting a NC Officer.

I reflect on the service of this Soldier, Private ERIC FRANCIS OSBORNE, Service Number: WX 16279 A.I.F. 2/4 M.G. Bn Australian Infantry who died on 15 February 1942 Age 19. He was the Son of Henry Joseph and Edith Beatrice Osborne, of North Fremantle, Western Australia. While visiting Kranji Cemetery, I was taken aback by his age at his time of service. I reflect on the grief his family suffered. I reflect on his age, to be taken so young. I also reflect how much this generation sacrificed for the world today.

I would like to remember and honour my grandfather, Maurice Elliott's service and dedication to Australia as an Army driver who served in New Guinea during the Second World War. I also wish to honour my father, Maurice Elliott's commitment to Australia through the National Service Scheme, during which he served in Malaya and Singapore on exercises with the ANZUK forces (Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom).

The ANZAC Legend Kevin Albert Bovill who gave so much to his countries and to his communities. It's my privilege to have shared my life with you. Lest we forget.

I am a Primary School Teacher and a proud Army veteran with 15 years of service, including deployments to Afghanistan and humanitarian missions in Banda Aceh. My experiences have shaped my belief that we must honour the courage and sacrifice of our forefathers. I feel a strong responsibility to share their stories with the next generation, helping students understand the values of service, resilience, and selflessness. Through education, I aim to ensure their legacy continues.

LAC Raymond Rowe RAAF, Service Number 54120 served during World War II with 30 Squadron, 73 Wing, 6 Squadron and No 346 Radar Station in PNG, Kiriwina, Goodenough and the Admiralty Islands. In 1944 while with No.2 OTU at Mildura he met Gwen his devoted wife of 60 years, resulting in a family of 3 children Brian, Glenda, and Raymond. He was extremely proud of his service to the nation. A strong advocate of the RSL and supporter of Anzac Day commemorations. Remembered fondly with great pride and affection by his surviving children Brian and Raymond Rowe and his extended family.