Famous Australian Soldiers

Bruce Kingsbury, VC, was an Australian soldier who served during the Second World War. He gained renown for his heroic actions at the Battle of Isurava, part of the Kokoda Track Campaign in New Guinea. Kingsbury's bravery and sacrifice, where he volunteered to counter-attack after his platoon was overrun by the Japanese, resulted in him being posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross. His selfless actions, including clearing a path through the enemy, played a crucial role in saving his battalion's headquarters.

Breaker Morant was an English horseman, bush balladist, and military officer who became known for his actions during the Second Boer War. He developed a reputation as a skilled horseman and bush poet while working in various occupations in Australian colonies. Morant enlisted in the South Australian Mounted Rifles and later received a commission as a lieutenant with the Bushveldt Carbineers in South Africa. He was court-martialled and ultimately convicted and executed for the murder of prisoners-of-war and civilians during the war.

Jacqui Lambie is an Australian politician known for founding and leading the Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN). She has served as a Senator for Tasmania, first from 2014 to 2017 and again since 2019. Lambie, an Aboriginal Tasmanian, served as a corporal in the Australian Army before entering politics. She initially joined the Palmer United Party, then became an independent senator in 2014. In 2015, she formed her own political party, the JLN. Lambie is recognized for her advocacy on issues such as foreign affairs, veterans' affairs, youth unemployment, and criticism of Islam.

Billy Sing was an Australian soldier of Chinese and English descent who served in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I. He gained fame as a skilled sniper during the Gallipoli Campaign, achieving at least 150 confirmed kills. His total kill count may have exceeded 200, with some sources suggesting it was closer to 300. Sing's military achievements led to his recognition as a highly effective sniper. Following the war, he worked in sheep farming and gold mining before passing away in Brisbane during World War II.

Allan Cuthbertson was an Australian-British actor recognized for his portrayal of stern-faced military officers in British films during the 1950s and 1960s. His professional life was marked by a successful career in the entertainment industry, where he established himself as a versatile character actor. Cuthbertson's talent and versatility allowed him to take on a wide range of roles, garnering him recognition for his ability to bring authority and gravitas to his performances, particularly in military-themed productions.

Mark Donaldson is an Australian soldier known for his bravery and heroism. He is a recipient of the Victoria Cross for Australia, the highest award in the Australian honours system. Serving as a member of the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR), Donaldson courageously exposed himself to enemy fire to protect injured troops and rescued an interpreter during the Battle of Khaz Oruzgan in Afghanistan. His selfless actions earned him national recognition and accolades, including being named the Young Australian of the Year in 2010.

Albert Jacka was an Australian war hero who received the Victoria Cross for his bravery during the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I. Following the war, he established an electrical goods importing and exporting business, Roxburgh, Jacka & Co. Pty Ltd. Jacka also ventured into local politics and was elected to the council, eventually becoming the mayor of the City of St Kilda. Despite his successes in business and politics, Jacka's health never fully recovered from his wartime injuries, and he passed away at the age of 39.

Alec Campbell had a diverse professional life following his service in the Australian Army during World War I. After being discharged, he held various roles in different fields. Campbell's work experience ranged across different sectors and industries, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges. His career trajectory reflected a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and grow in different environments.

Keith Payne is a retired Australian soldier who received the Victoria Cross (VC) for his courage during the Vietnam War. This prestigious award is the highest honor for gallantry given to British and Commonwealth armed forces members. At 90 years old, he is the sole surviving Australian recipient of the original Imperial Victoria Cross. Payne's remarkable bravery and dedication to his country have left a lasting legacy in the military community, inspiring others with his heroic actions during wartime.

Clive Robertson Caldwell was a distinguished Australian air ace in World War II, credited with shooting down 28.5 enemy aircraft in over 300 operational sorties. He flew Curtiss P-40 Tomahawks and Kittyhawks in North Africa and Supermarine Spitfires in the South West Pacific Theatre, achieving the highest score for a P-40 pilot and the highest score for an Allied pilot in North Africa. Caldwell also commanded an RAF squadron and two RAAF wings, but his military service ended in controversy due to a protest resignation and subsequent court martial for trading liquor.

Teddy Sheean served as a sailor in the Royal Australian Navy during World War II. He enlisted in the Royal Australian Naval Reserve in 1941 and received training before joining the corvette HMAS Armidale in 1942. Sheean took part in escort duties along the Australian coast and in New Guinea waters. During a mission to Betano, Timor, Armidale was attacked by Japanese aircraft. Sheean bravely defended his comrades by manning a cannon and shooting down one enemy bomber before sacrificing his life as the ship sank.

Bud Tingwell, also known as Charles 'Bud' Tingwell, was a prominent Australian actor in film, television, theatre, and radio. With a career spanning over six decades, he established himself as a veteran in the Australian film industry. Tingwell made his debut in motion pictures in 1946 and went on to feature in over 100 films and numerous TV programs in both Australia and the United Kingdom. His extensive body of work showcased his versatility and talent as an actor.