RAA Liaison Letter – 2025 / 2026 Edition 54 mentor to many who served with him. His outstanding career is highlighted on the RAAHC web site www.artilleryhistory.org The 2025 and inaugural recipient of the Don Donkin, MBE Soldier’s Soldier Award was Gunner Joshua Hurd from 109th Battery. “Gunner Hurd’s performance this year [2025] has been outstanding. He displays a very high standard of both trade and military skills and applies them consistently to produce excellent results. His performance as the Second in Command of an M777A2 Howitzer was above that expected of a senior soldier. He assumed the position without hesitation, relished the extra responsibility and provided excellent support to the Detachment Commander. During all Exercises this year GNR Hurd has led by example which in turn motivated his detachment in demanding environments. His attitude has provided an excellent example to the other soldiers on the gunline, and he is often looked to for guidance from the junior members of the Battery. In the Barracks environment Gunner Hurd volunteered for extra work at every opportunity, this enabled 109 Battery to support numerous Regimental and Brigade tasks, he managed this with his own responsibilities and at times to the detriment of his personal time. In short Gunner Hurd is held in high regard not only within 109 Battery but also the entire Regiment. Gunner Hurd is extremely deserving of this accolade.” The 4th Field Regiment (South Vietnam) Old Boys plan on maintaining this award into the future and all members appreciate these links with the current 4th Regiment. Army Museum Puckapunyal Update Natalie Bittner, Artillery Curator, Army Museum Puckapunyal aahu.amp@defence.gov.au As of May 2026, The Army Museum Puckapunyal has been open to Defence community members for five months, and open to the general public (via appointment) for almost two months. Since opening to the public on 14th March 2026, we have welcomed over 1500 visitors to the Museum. We have welcomed a new Museum Manager to the Army Museum Puckapunyal in 2026. Major David Rigby has extensive experience within the Royal Australian Armoured Corps. He brings a refreshing experience to the Museum team and is already making welcome and exciting changes to day to day operations. The collection of the Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery has a new home at the Army Museum Puckapunyal. We’ve been pleased to welcome IETs from the School of Artillery to the Museum to provide valuable assistance in curatorial tasks including cleaning, cataloguing and other light duties under supervision. Our respected Artillery volunteer ensures that all IETs receive a personalised tour of the facility, and all staff have been delighted in the calibre of the trainees so far. Joeys and Cubs from the 1st Puckapunyal Scout Troop visit the Army Museum Puckapunyal. Having spent the past twelve months concentrating on the exhibition design and development, we are happy to be able to shift priorities and focus on moving the Artillery
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjE4NTMz