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4 mins read 18 August 2026“My name is John Hill. I’m a resident at RSL ANZAC Village in Narrabeen and a member of the War Vets RSL sub-Branch. As we mark Vietnam Veterans’ Day, I’ve spent some time reflecting on my journey, from national service and Vietnam to the life I live today.
I was born in Sydney in 1947. Before I joined the Army, I was working as an apprentice fitter and turner. Like many young men of my generation, I didn’t plan on a military career. Then, in 1968, I was called up for national service.
After basic training, I spent a few months in Western Australia before returning to Sydney. From there, I completed a five-week engines and pumps course, followed by jungle training. Not long after, I was posted to Vietnam.
I served in Vietnam from May 1969 to May 1970 as part of the Australian Army Corps of Engineers, with the 21st Engineer Support Troop. Our role was to support the troops wherever we were needed. Sometimes we were based in camp, and at one stage I spent seven weeks at a support base. Other times we’d head out to assist infantry units.
If the infantry wanted boats operating on the river, we’d go out and our job was to keep those boats running. We did patrols when required and carried out engineering and maintenance work that helped support operations.
When people ask me what Vietnam was like, I tell them that overall it was okay. The experience was good, and I don’t regret it. I learned things that I wouldn’t have learned any other way. It challenged me, taught me resilience and gave me experiences that have stayed with me for life.
I spent two years in the Army altogether, including 12 months in Vietnam. When I returned home, I was discharged because I had already decided that the Army wasn’t going to be my career.
I went back into civilian life and worked in a range of engineering and maintenance jobs. I supervised forklift operations for a period and later worked as a maintenance supervisor for a plastic recycling company. For many years, life was good. But like many Vietnam veterans, I experienced some of the long-term effects of service later in life.
I was eventually diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It became impossible for me to continue working, and I retired when I was around 58 years old. After retiring, I spent many years living in a caravan. In fact, I lived in a caravan for 19 years, travelling between places such as Wagga Wagga and Queensland. It was a different way of life, but eventually I was ready for something more settled.
Two years ago, I moved into RSL ANZAC Village at Narrabeen. It was the best move I ever made. Living here has given me friendship, routine and a real sense of community. I’ve made friends and most mornings we catch up for coffee together. Every Tuesday night, a group of us goes to a local Chinese restaurant for dinner. Those friendships mean a lot.
Another important part of my life is my assistance dog. In fact, yesterday was his eighth birthday. I waited two years to get him after applying, and he has made an enormous difference in my life. He’s a certified assistance dog and helps me manage my PTSD every day. He’s not just a companion. He’s a lifeline.
I also stay connected to the veteran community through the War Vets RSL sub-Branch in Narrabeen. While I’m just a member, it’s important to me to remain involved and connected with other veterans. I always attend Anzac Day, Vietnam Veterans’ Day and Remembrance Day services, and this Vietnam Veterans’ Day I’ll be attending a service in the chapel at the village. I’ve been asked to deliver a prayer, which is a privilege.
As I reflect on Vietnam Veterans’ Day, my thoughts aren’t just about those who served in Vietnam. They’re about all veterans, from every conflict and every generation.
My message is simple: veterans should never be forgotten.
All veterans of any conflict should be looked after and remembered. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Younger veterans face difficulties too, just as we did, and they deserve our support and understanding. Vietnam Veterans’ Day is a chance to remember the service and sacrifice of those who served, but it’s also a reminder that the impact of service can last a lifetime. Today, at 79 years of age, I feel pretty good. I have friends, I have my dog, and I have a community around me. I look forward to each day. For me, that’s something worth being grateful for.” John Hill, RSL LifeCare resident
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9 Dedicated Veteran & Family Hubs, offering free support for veterans
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