Garth O’Connell
“I believe that the century-old spirit of ANZAC is a modern manifestation of the traditional First Nations spirit of protecting country: a spirit, tradition, and sense of duty that has existed for millennia. Our service in the Australian Defence Force has seen the continuity of this, probably, the world’s longest cultural tradition of serving country.” […]…
Frank Lampard OAM
“Like most Veterans, I answered the call when it was made, and I have no regrets for doing so.” – Frank Lampard OAM Frank Lampard OAM Ngarrindjeri and Kaurna ClansPrivateRoyal Australian Army Medical CorpsAustralian Army Medals Medal of the Order of AustraliaAustralian Defence MedalAnniversary of National Service 1951-1972 Medal “My Recruit Training was done at […]…
Ezra Anu (deceased)
“As I tell my children, ‘Go and find your destiny’.” – Ezra Anu Ezra Anu Torres Strait Islander (Saibai Island)SergeantRoyal Regiment of Australian ArtilleryAustralian Army Medals Australian Service Medal with clasp SE AsiaDefence Force Service Medal with 1st claspAustralian Defence Medal “My parents are from Saibai Island in the Torres Strait, and I was the […]…
Edwin James Mi Mi
“Have been proud of my time in the Army and my achievements and being Aboriginal has shown that we are following in our Ancestors’ footsteps to continue a great tradition of Indigenous Service Personnel.” “DUTY FIRST.” – Edwin James Mi Mi Edwin James Mi Mi Wakka Wakka Warrant Officer Class Two Royal Australian Infantry Corps […]…
Don Bowie
“Very honoured; proud to have served both my country and my people, as a way to show respect for the contributions of First Nations people. Members of my family (Grandfather and Uncles) served during World War 2 in the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion. My Brother Phillip Bowie and Sister Pamela Tapim (nee Bowie) have […]…
Di Ryder OAM
“If each and everyone of us can contribute to the community, we can make the most of our opportunities and come together, not just as Aboriginal People, but as a whole community, as part of the Reconciliation process.” – Di Ryder OAM Di Ryder OAM Whadjuk and Yued Noongar and Yamatji Elder Staff Sergeant Women’s […]…
Desmond Mayo
“We formed a bond, there was no racism in Charlie company, we were a brotherhood and we looked after each other as we had to. We were comrades and mates.” – Desmond Mayo Desmond Mayo Muran, Wardaman and Wavehill peopleLance Corporal3rd and 4th Battalions, Royal Australian RegimentRoyal Australian Infantry CorpsAustralian Army Medals Australian Active Service […]…
Dean Duncan
“Always be proud of your own achievements but remain humble and supportive so others can achieve their aspirations as well.” – Dean Duncan Dean Duncan Kamilaroi man from Moree, NSWPrivate8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian RegimentRoyal Australian Infantry CorpsAustralian Army Medals Australian Service Medal with clasp SE AsiaAustralian Sports Medal (Services to Indigenous school sport)Australian Defence Medal2019 […]…
Colin Watego OAM
“Never let the fear of failure prevent you from succeeding.” – Colin Watego OAM Colin Watego OAM Bundjalung (Northern Rivers of New South Wales),Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Islander ManWarrant Officer Class One (retired)Corps Regimental Sergeant MajorRoyal Regiment of Australian ArtilleryAustralian ArmyPast Senior Indigenous Recruitment OfficerPast Senior Indigenous Culture OfficerAustralian Defence Force Medals Medal […]…
Clive Lewis Dubois (deceased)
“My father and other relatives had served and I decided I wished to do the same. I proudly wear both my own and my father’s medals on ANZAC day.” – Clive Lewis Dubois Clive Lewis Dubois Staff Sergeant 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment Royal Australian Infantry Corps Australian Army Medals Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75 […]…