IN March 1951, the Australian government introduced national service for all young men. They were designated to serve in the army, navy and air force for 176 days in a continuous or in a combination of full or part-time training.
The full-time training introduced by birthday ballot in 1965, was to be of two years’ compulsory training or two years in a military prison.
Some trained and went home, but many trained and went overseas to conflicts in Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam.
Many of these men did not return, paying the ultimate sacrifice during the period from 1951 to 1972 when conscription was part of the government’s policy.
Fifty-three years ago, it was agreed to adopt February 14 each year as National Servicemen’s Day, as it was on February 14, 1973, that the last national serviceman was discharged.
On this date each year, Australians recognise the thousands of young Australian men who were called up to train for the defence of their country and principles of freedom for which it stands.
To those veterans we say: “Thank you for your service”.
Merry Pedergnana
Broken Hill National Servicemen’s Club
