As Anzac Day approaches, Vietnam veteran David Gilroy is taking time to reflect on his service and the sacrifices made by his fellow soldiers. The 78-year-old Geelong resident served in the Australian Army during the Vietnam War, a conflict that left an indelible mark on his life.
A Call to Service
Gilroy enlisted in 1966, driven by a sense of duty and a desire to serve his country. He was deployed to Vietnam in 1967, where he served as a signaller with the 1st Australian Task Force. His role involved maintaining communications in the field, a critical task that often put him in harm's way.
“I was just a young bloke, and I wanted to do my bit,” Gilroy said. “I didn’t really understand the full implications of what I was getting into, but I knew it was important.”
Memories of War
Gilroy recalls the intense heat, the constant threat of ambush, and the camaraderie among the troops. He speaks of the bonds formed in the face of adversity, bonds that have lasted a lifetime. “You rely on each other for everything,” he said. “Those friendships are something you never forget.”
He also remembers the lighter moments, like sharing a beer with mates after a long patrol or receiving letters from home. “It’s those small things that kept you going,” he said.
The Cost of Conflict
Gilroy is acutely aware of the cost of war. He lost several friends in Vietnam, and the psychological scars remain. “You never really get over it,” he said. “You learn to live with it, but the memories are always there.”
He believes it is crucial to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. “Anzac Day is a time to honour them, to say thank you for what they did,” he said.
Life After Service
After returning from Vietnam, Gilroy struggled to adjust to civilian life. He faced the same challenges as many veterans, including finding employment and dealing with the trauma of war. He eventually found work in the telecommunications industry and settled in Geelong, where he has lived for more than 40 years.
“It took a while to find my feet,” he said. “But I had a good support network, and that made all the difference.”
A Message for the Younger Generation
Gilroy hopes that younger Australians will take the time to understand the significance of Anzac Day. “It’s not just a day off,” he said. “It’s a day to remember the sacrifices that have been made for our freedom.”
He encourages people to attend dawn services and to listen to the stories of veterans. “We won’t be around forever,” he said. “It’s important that their stories are passed on.”
As Anzac Day 2025 approaches, Gilroy will be marching in the Geelong parade, proud to wear his medals and represent his fellow veterans. “I march for those who can’t,” he said. “For the mates I left behind.”
His story is a reminder of the courage and resilience of those who served, and the enduring importance of remembrance.
