DVA – ANZAC PORTAL

Graham John Edwards AM was born on 18 July 1946 in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.

After school, Graham worked for 5 years as a railway fireman. Inspired by a sense of adventure and the others in his family who had served, he joined the Australian Army in 1968.

In 1970, Graham deployed to South Vietnam. He served as a machine gunner with an assault pioneer platoon of the 7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR). The unit’s role was to seek out and destroy the enemy, while preventing enemy access to the civilian population. The work was demanding and very dangerous.

Graham was warned that the biggest danger would be landmines. In May 1970, while out on patrol, his life changed dramatically when he stepped on a ‘jumping jack’ mine. He remembered the excruciating pain that came over him as he waited for his mates to clear a path for his rescue. Back home, his wife Noelene received the bad news in a short telegram.

Graham was flown home 3 weeks after both legs were amputated. He was embraced by his loved ones but went through an emotional and confronting time. He recalled his homecoming as being somewhat underwhelming.

Disappointment and anger intensified when he felt the rehabilitation he was offered was inadequate, incompetent and humiliating. He felt he was considered a problem and that the Army wanted to push him and others like him out of the services to become somebody else’s problem.

Graham did not let his disability get the better of him. He met every challenge head on. He educated himself and, driven by veterans’ welfare, moved into public affairs and politics.

In 1983, he was elected to the Western Australian Legislative Council. After 14 years in state parliament, he was elected to the federal House of Representatives in the West Australian seat of Cowan in 1998.

In 2005, Graham recalled a visit to the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Canberra:

It was a humbling yet balancing experience particularly when you know that but for the Grace of God and a bit of luck your name could well be up there with the others who lost their lives in that unfortunate war.

[Graham Edwards, quoted in the Fifty Australians exhibition, Australian War Memorial, 19 August to 23 October 2005]

In later life, Graham was a member of the Australian Republican Movement, maintaining a strong and active involvement in defence, disability services and veterans’ issues.

In 2012, Graham was made a Member of the Order of Australia for ‘service to the Parliaments of Australia and Western Australia, to veterans through advocacy and support roles, and to people with a disability’.

PART 1

PART 2

https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/graham-edwards-australian-army-land-mines-part-2

On 24 October 2024, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, International Development and the Pacific, introduced Defence’s Net Zero Strategy. This emissions reduction plan offers a pathway toward achieving net zero by 2050 while supporting Defence’s shift to clean energy. It is intended to align with whole-of-Government action on emissions, helping Defence balance sustainability with operational readiness and capability.

However, Defence requires constant, reliable power sources, and the strategy of transitioning to renewable energy may pose risks if reliability is compromised. Defence operations, by nature, depend on uninterrupted and immediate power availability to maintain preparedness and effectiveness. Consequently, an approach relying heavily on variable renewable sources could inadvertently reduce Defence’s capability and resilience.

The Net Zero Strategy identifies four main strategic aims:

• Accelerate emissions reductions using secure, reliable renewable electricity.
• Transition to low-emissions fuel alternatives.
• Enhance energy efficiency and explore carbon sequestration on the Estate to cut emissions and costs.
• Establish a unified, integrated approach to achieving net zero, supported by enabling functions and resources.

In tandem, the Defence Future Energy Strategy outlines Defence’s plan for a measured shift to low-emissions fuels, electrification, and new clean energy technologies. These efforts aim to bolster energy independence and build sovereign supply chains, yet it remains essential to ensure they do not compromise Defence’s unique operational demands for consistency and reliability.

Carolyn Heward, James Cook University

Many women who serve in the military face an unfortunate cycle: they often feel compelled to suppress their femininity to fit into a traditionally male-dominated culture, only to struggle with recognition as veterans once they leave. This dynamic has profound impacts on their mental health and overall sense of identity.

Our research reveals that ex-servicewomen face a “double burden”: while serving, they often feel pressured to conform to a “warrior identity,” one that prioritizes toughness and stoicism over other qualities, like empathy. In many cases, women feel they need to “play a character,” adapting their behaviour and appearance to blend in, which sometimes involves downplaying their achievements to avoid standing out among male peers. Over time, this suppression of identity can lead to significant stress and anxiety, adding to the mental health challenges these women already face.

This internal struggle is compounded when they transition to civilian life. Societal perceptions of veterans still lean heavily male, which leads to female veterans often feeling invisible. For instance, women veterans recount instances of having their medals questioned, a stark reminder that their service is sometimes unacknowledged or misunderstood. This lack of recognition can deepen the psychological impact of military service, leaving some women feeling excluded from veteran support communities.

Recent findings from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide highlight the severity of this issue, noting that ex-servicewomen are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to civilian women. Additionally, rates of anxiety and PTSD are significantly higher among female veterans than their male counterparts. The data underscores the need for the military to evolve its cultural expectations, especially as the Australian Defence Force faces a recruitment shortage and is actively seeking more women recruits.

The solution is twofold: within the military, leadership must create an environment that values diverse expressions of strength beyond the traditional “warrior” stereotype. Success in military service doesn’t solely depend on toughness—it requires skills like team building, adaptability, and judgment. By recognizing and valuing these qualities, the military can become more inclusive and effective.

In the broader community, we must expand our understanding of who veterans are. For the many women who serve, acknowledgement of their service both during and after their careers is essential—not just for validation, but to mitigate the mental health impacts of identity suppression and social invisibility. Recognizing the full spectrum of service members’ identities is a necessary step toward honouring their contributions and improving their well-being post-service.

Washington Post

On November 12, President-elect Donald Trump announced his choice of Florida Congressman Michael Waltz as his national security advisor. Waltz, a retired Army Green Beret, brings both extensive military experience and a nuanced approach to foreign policy.

As a combat-decorated Green Beret, Waltz continues to serve as a colonel in the U.S. Army National Guard and previously served as a policy advisor at both the White House and the Pentagon. He is the first Green Beret to be elected to Congress. A graduate with honours from the Virginia Military Institute as a Distinguished Military Graduate, Waltz has served over 26 years in the Army. After his commissioning as an Army lieutenant, he completed Ranger School and was selected as a Green Beret. His service includes multiple tours in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa, earning him four Bronze Stars, two of which were awarded for valour.

Waltz has consistently supported Ukraine, though his views on U.S. involvement have evolved. In 2022, he advocated for increased military aid to Ukraine, emphasizing that most Republicans supported efforts to prevent Russian advances into NATO-aligned countries like the Baltics, Poland, and Finland. However, by October 2024, Waltz urged a reassessment of America’s commitment to Ukraine, citing the need to prioritize resources for the Pacific region.

Waltz is also a strong critic of China, aligning with Trump and his allies on prioritizing countering China’s influence over addressing issues with Russia.

By Gage Skidmore

Peter Brian Hegseth (born June 6, 1980) is an American television presenter, author, and Army National Guard officer, recently nominated as the next Secretary of Defence in Donald Trump’s second administration. Since joining Fox News as a political commentator in 2014, Hegseth became well-known for his role as co-host of Fox & Friends Weekend from 2017 to 2024. Before his career in broadcasting, Hegseth served as executive director of both Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America, advocating for conservative veterans’ issues.

Political Influence and Trump Alliance

Hegseth has been active in conservative and Republican politics since his time as a student at Princeton University, where he was an outspoken advocate for conservative values. During the 2016 election, he became a vocal supporter and advisor to Donald Trump, leveraging his media presence to rally support. He reportedly influenced Trump’s decision to pardon three American soldiers convicted of actions against non-combatants in Iraq. Additionally, he defended the treatment of detainees at Guantanamo Bay, where he had served as a platoon leader.

Early in Trump’s first administration, Hegseth was considered for the role of Secretary of Veterans Affairs, though the position ultimately went to David Shulkin. In November 2024, with Trump’s return to the presidency, Hegseth was named as his intended nominee for Secretary of Defence.

Early Life and Education

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Hegseth grew up in Forest Lake, Minnesota, where he attended Forest Lake Area High School, graduating as valedictorian in 1999. He played both football and basketball before moving on to Princeton University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Politics in 2003. At Princeton, he was active in conservative journalism with the Princeton Tory and played basketball under coach John Thompson III, competing in the NCAA tournament in 2001. Later, in 2013, he completed a Master of Public Policy (MPP) at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Military Service

Upon graduating from Princeton in 2003, Hegseth joined Bear Stearns as an equity capital markets analyst while concurrently serving as an infantry officer in the Minnesota National Guard. His military career began with deployment to Guantanamo Bay in 2004, where he served as an infantry platoon leader and received the Army Commendation Medal. Following this, Hegseth volunteered for combat duty in Iraq, where he served in both Baghdad and Samarra, earning several commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and a second Army Commendation Medal.

In 2012, Hegseth returned to active duty as a captain, deploying to Afghanistan, where he served as a senior counterinsurgency instructor at the Counterinsurgency Training Centre in Kabul. By 2016, he had attained the rank of Major in the Army Individual Ready Reserve. In 2021, Hegseth volunteered to be among the National Guard troops protecting the inauguration of President Joe Biden; however, he was dismissed from the assignment due to allegations of associations with militia groups and “extremist views,” a claim he refuted, citing his Jerusalem Cross tattoo as the misunderstood reason for his removal.

Continued Influence

As Secretary of Defence nominee, Hegseth’s alignment with Trump’s policies and his military and media experience underscores his continued influence within the conservative and veteran communities.

ED: From my inbox

Australia’s defence landscape is in a state of pressing demand for increased investment. As global tensions rise and the need for national security intensifies, there is a growing consensus that the current defence spending falls short of what’s required. Ensuring our national security and the readiness of our forces demands more robust funding, as well as strategic allocation toward modern and essential equipment.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) requires significant upgrades to maintain its effectiveness and address both current and emerging threats. Increasing defence spending would provide the necessary resources to equip our personnel with the latest technology and strengthen our defence capabilities.

For Australia to remain prepared, responsive, and resilient, we must commit to long-term defence investment that not only addresses immediate needs but also anticipates future challenges. Enhancing defence spending is not just a safeguard for today but a critical investment in Australia’s stability and sovereignty tomorrow.

DVA – ANZAC Portal

Stuart Smith was a young child when his father was killed in action in South Vietnam, and it was some years before the sense of loss began to sink in. For his mother, Janice, who had to raise 2 sons on her own, the connection to her husband remained strong.

Bernard Lyle ‘Bernie’ Smith was born on 2 September 1939 in Snowtown, South Australia.

Bernie’s family had a history of military service so, not surprisingly, he grew up wanting to join the Army. His father had served as a radio operator in the Australian Army during World War II, his grandfather served in the Second South African (Boer) War, and 3 of his great-uncles served with the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during World War I.

A talented musician from a young age, Bernie applied to join the Australian Army as a ‘Band Boy’ but was unsuccessful. It wasn’t until November 1958, when he was 19, that Bernie enlisted in the regular army. After basic infantry training, he deployed to Malaya from 1959 to 1961.

Not long after his return to Australia, he married Janice Leonora Bain and they had 2 children, Stuart and Edward.

Still in the Army, Bernie was promoted to corporal in 1965 and trained the first intake of the 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR), readying it for deployment to Vietnam. Bernie and his battalion arrived in Vietnam in May 1966.

The soldiers of 5RAR worked tirelessly to exert control over Nui Dat, an area dominated by the Viet Cong. Bernie was selected to join the reconnaissance platoon, scouting for the enemy before the battalion moved in and conducting ambushes. Bernie’s work was extremely dangerous.

In 1967, 5RAR finished its tour of duty and Bernard returned home to his family. Promoted to sergeant, he worked as an instructor to train platoon commanders.

Two years later, 5RAR deployed to Vietnam again.

In March 1969, during a reconnaissance operation, Bernie was part of a rescue mission in a minefield. When an M16 landmine was detonated, 7 soldiers were wounded and 3 died. Bernie was killed instantly. He was 29 years old; his sons were only 5 and 1.

Janice recalled the heart-wrenching moment the police came to her door. She knew instantly what it meant. Ever since the war, Janice has attended every reunion of her husband’s battalion.

For Stuart, the 1987 Welcome Home Parade in Sydney was particularly special. In his father’s honour, he carried a plaque and flag, walking at the front of the parade. It was an emotionally moving day, where he met many of his father’s comrades and heard new stories about the man he’d called ‘Dad’.

The Australian Army is quickly advancing its deployment of the latest Abrams M1A2 main battle tanks, with the first group of soldiers now trained in operations and maintenance at Puckapunyal. This initiative is part of a larger effort to modernize Australia’s armoured capabilities, with a total fleet of 75 tanks planned, 46 of which have already been delivered from the United States.

According to Major General Richard Vagg, Head of Land Capability, the upgraded M1A2 tanks offer enhanced lethality, protection, mobility, and communication systems. “These new main battle tanks are integral to our combined arms strategy,” he said. “They will allow our land forces to secure critical positions and support long-range operations as part of a unified defence force. No other battlefield asset can match this combination of protection, precise firepower, and cross-terrain mobility, which maximizes our soldiers’ mission success and their safe return home. We are thankful for the invaluable support from the United States through the Foreign Military Sales program, reflecting the depth of our alliance.”

Major General Jason Blain, Head of Land Systems, highlighted that the Army will leverage existing infrastructure to support these new tanks while also investing in Australian industry for maintenance and servicing. “The Abrams M1A2s will require extensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities, which we plan to establish in key locations,” Blain stated. The main support hubs will be positioned near operational bases, including Puckapunyal and Bandiana in Victoria, and Townsville in Queensland.

By the end of the year, 14 Abrams M1A2 tanks will be delivered to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Townsville, with field training scheduled to start in early 2025. This new armoured fleet marks a major step forward in equipping the Australian Army with cutting-edge technology to support national and allied defence objectives.

US Defence -SE Pacific

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has outlined a structured, three-phase strategy for the retirement of its Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter fleet, scheduled to be phased out by 2027-2028. The Tiger, a two-seater attack helicopter, has been in service with the ADF since 2004, providing critical reconnaissance and attack capabilities.

During a recent Senate Estimates meeting, held on November 6, questions were raised regarding the Tiger’s flight-hour performance and its current operational condition. Despite the scheduled drawdown, flight records indicate that the Tigers have performed above projected flying hours for the 2023-2024 period. The ADF has also acknowledged challenges, including spare parts shortages, which may necessitate “cannibalisation” strategies to maintain airworthiness of the fleet through its remaining years.

To address these challenges, ADF leadership confirmed that a three-stage plan is in place to ensure a smooth transition from the Tiger to the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. The first phase focuses on maintaining Tiger operations until 2027 to bridge capabilities and facilitate a seamless transition. The second phase acknowledges logistical pressures, including parts shortages, akin to issues experienced with the retired MRH-90 Taipan helicopters. Finally, the third phase involves stabilisation efforts to keep the fleet operational until it is fully withdrawn from service.

The viability of the Tiger helicopters has garnered interest internationally, including from Ukraine, which had previously requested access to the retired MRH-90 Taipan fleet. The ADF is assessing options to ensure the Tigers remain a viable asset should they become available for potential future transfer to Ukraine.