Echoing Albert Facey, as stated in his book published in 1981 – I too have enjoyed a Fortunate Life. In so doing I was able to satisfy every little boys dream by being a soldier, policeman and a fireman. Lucky enough to still be enjoying good health (for an old dude!) I have been the event coordinator for the FSPB Coral and Balmoral Commemoration on behalf of the Vietnam Veterans Federation of South Australia (VVFSA) for the last six years. The event – held annually on the Friday closest to 13 May – attracts good crowds and keeps me busy for the early part of each year. Of interest, the Catafalque Party at last May’s Commemoration Service was provided by 16 Regt RAA and all four Gunners as well as the Bombardier Commander were born after I had Commanded the Regiment. I think I need to lie down now! So that is my story in a nutshell. I now look forward to reading what other Regimental “Old Boys” have been up to. Merry Christmas and good health to all. Keep happy. Cheers”. John Derbyshire. 107 Fd Bty (Vietnam 70-71) The latest RAA Liaison Letter is now available on the Australian Artillery Association website. I also have a hard copy if anyone would like me to forward it to them. Perhaps after reading, you could forward it on to a mate. Some figures from the DVA Report The DVA 2024–25 report highlights the scale and diversity of Australia’s veteran community: There are over 355,000 DVA clients nationwide, including more than 130,000 aged under 60, representing a growing number of contemporary veterans from deployments such as East Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan, and peacekeeping operations.
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