THE National Servicemen’s Association of Australia (NSAA) is urging the 80,000 former servicemen who have not applied for their service medals, to do so, ahead of the dedication of the National Servicemen’s Memorial in Canberra next year.
More than 300,000 men were called up to serve in the Army, Navy or Air Force between 1951 and 1972.
Of these, 212 died on active service in Vietnam and Borneo and more than 1500 were wounded.
All those who served are eligible for the Anniversary of National Service 1951-1972 and Australian Defence medals.
NSAA state secretary and Butler resident Brian Prangnell said everyone who had completed their national service had served their country and deserved recognition.
“To all these fellows who say ‘I didn’t do anything, I didn’t go overseas, it wasn’t much’, my comment to them is, think of your grandchildren, because those medals will be passed down and will mean something to them,” he said.
“To all those who haven’t applied, forget this ‘I didn’t do anything’; you did, it was part of your life, you served your country and your country has said you are entitled to these medals.”
Mr Prangnell said the families of former national servicemen who have passed away can also apply for the medals posthumously.
North Metropolitan MLC Michael Mischin said the men had made a significant contribution to Australia’s development.
“I urge anyone who was a ‘Nasho’ but has not yet claimed a medal to contact the National Servicemen’s Association, which will assist them to claim what is rightfully theirs,” he said.
Application forms for the medals are available by calling 9562 1502.