Raff Ciccone (Victoria, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to acknowledge and honour the life of John Torpey, a respected Vietnam veteran and a much-loved member of the Hawthorn RSL sub-branch in Victoria. I had the privilege of attending the Hawthorn RSL's Remembrance Sunday service, the final ceremony John took part in before, sadly, he passed away that night, 9 November.

Born in 1945, John was called for national service in 1966, which became known as 'winning the lottery', and was assigned to the Royal Australian Artillery as a field artillery surveyor. He trained at Puckapunyal, at the School of Artillery at North Head, and in the 4th Field Regiment at Wacol before deploying to Vietnam in 1967. There, he spent 139 days on operations, serving as a battery surveyor—work that reflected the precision, the reliability and the typical soldier's steadfastness he carried throughout his entire life. He completed his service in 1968, at the rank of gunner.

John's honours included the Australian Active Service Medal, the Vietnam Medal, the Australian Defence Medal and the Anniversary of National Service 1951-1972 Medal. He and his wife Sandra were ever-present—warm, humble and generous with their time, particularly to younger veterans. His commitment extended beyond the RSL, contributing to preserving local history through his published works, A History of Kew RSL and Boroondara's Private Schools 1851-1951. His duty is done, and he now stands down with honour. John's commitment ran deep, and it was felt by all who were so lucky to call him a mate. To Sandra, the family and the RSL community, I extend my heartfelt condolences. Vale, John. Lest we forget.