Colin McInnes: Memories from Vietnam

“I was born in Newcastle in 1949. My father had served in World War II, and growing up, I often thought about what he had been through. His service made a strong impression on me and played a big part in why I later joined the Army myself.

When I was young, I worked as a telegram boy. I spent my days riding around on a bike, delivering messages. It was hard work, but it gave me responsibility early on and taught me discipline, lessons that helped me later in the Army.

In 1963, I joined the Citizens Military Force, and a few years later, in 1967, I enlisted in the Regular Army. I first trained as a rifleman but later transferred into the Armoured Corps and joined the 1st Armoured Regiment. In 1970, I was deployed to Vietnam as an infantry man from 7th Battalion.

Vietnam was a completely different world. I served with Centurion tanks, working closely with the infantry. Conditions were harsh, and every day carried risks. Mateship was everything as it kept us going.

One day, my mate and I unknowingly found ourselves in the middle of a minefield. We froze, realising the danger we were in. The only reason we survived was because it had rained heavily the night before, softening the ground so the mines didn’t detonate under our weight. Standing there, knowing how close we’d come to losing our lives, was terrifying. But strangely, in that very moment, I was given some of the best news of my life – I was going to be a father. That message from home lifted my spirits in a way nothing else could. To experience the fear of death and, at the same time, the joy of new life waiting for me back home is something I will never forget.

Another memory that still weighs heavily on me happened when I was injured in the jungle while on duty. I was on top of an armoured personnel carrier in the jungle when I was thrown off and injured. I was pulled out and sent back, and another soldier was sent in as my replacement. Not long after, he was shot in the neck and killed. I later had to go to the morgue and identify him. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done. To this day, I sometimes think it should have been me instead. That’s something that never leaves you.

I came back to Australia in 1971 and carried on with Army life for a time before moving on to civilian life. But Vietnam never really leaves you. The friendships, the hardships, and the losses, they all remain part of who I am. I was discharged in 1973 and applied through DVA and eventually received a TPI in the early 2000’s.

For the past 17 years, my wife and I have lived at RSL LifeCare. It’s been a good home for us. We go on bus trips every Tuesday, enjoy the activities, and are part of a close community. Living here has given us a lot of support and a sense of belonging.

On Vietnam War Veterans’ Day, I think of the mates I served with, especially the ones who didn’t come home. War leaves its mark on you, but it also makes you value peace more than anything else. I believe we should always do what we can to avoid war.”