4 Field Regiment (SVN) 'Old Boys' Sep 25 Newsletter

Awarding the RVCM to this cohort is a matter of equity, fairness, and justice. The campaign is strongly supported by the Vietnamese community in Australia, a former Governor-General, four former Prime Ministers, MPs and Senators across the political divide, other ex-service organisations, and RSL NSW members across the state, as demonstrated by the motion passed at the Annual General Meeting last year. The only thing preventing progress is bureaucratic rigidity and a lack of political will. After 50 years, that inertia is a source of ongoing harm. Many of these men are now in their 70s and 80s. Some have died still waiting. Others, seriously unwell, have given up their appeals. In many cases, families have stepped in to continue the fight on their behalf. They are not asking for medals to display. They are seeking dignity, closure and recognition of the burden they've carried quietly for decades. RSL NSW is not arguing for the eligibility criteria to be changed. This campaign is about applying the criteria fairly. The former Republic's own directive stated that eligibility for the RVCM will be determined by the Australian Government. That power to determine includes the powers of discretion and to interpret eligibility in unanticipated cases. The Government has exercised its discretion before in determining eligibility for the RVCM, and at least one other Republic of Vietnam medal. RSL NSW has written to the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader, urging them to work together to find a solution to this long-standing injustice. We have also sought to raise public awareness about this member-led campaign and the importance of respect and recognition to a veteran's wellbeing, which was emphasised by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. When recognition is denied, the consequences are felt within families and across generations. It also sends the wrong message to those currently serving. This Vietnam Veterans Day, here's how you can make a difference: Speak up: Raise awareness and discuss the campaign within your community. Contact your local MP: Urge them to support awarding the RVCM to these veterans. Spread the word: Share this email to amplify our message. "Denying recognition due to bureaucratic rigidity is unjust and damaging. These men did not get to choose how long they served. They did their duty. They served in a war zone under harrowing conditions. They brought home the same scars as their comrades. They have earned our respect."? - Isaac Ohlin, General Manager Policy and Services, RSL NSW If you are able, please attend a Vietnam Veterans' Day service to commemorate our Vietnam Veterans, including our National Servicemen. Services are taking place in communities across the state and at The Cenotaph in Martin Place, Sydney at 11am on Monday 18 August. Yours faithfully, Jeff O’Brien, RSL NSW State Secretary. Ponderisms (courtesy of an old 101 Battery Association Newsletter) * If my body is ever found on a jogging trail, just know that i was murdered somewhere else and dumped there. * Respect your elders. they graduated from school without the internet. * I’ve decided I’m not old, I’m 45 -- plus shipping and handling. * We have enough gun control. what we need is idiot control. * Behind every angry woman stands a man who has absolutely no idea what he did wrong.