Today, Friday 25 April, is ANZAC Day. It is a national day of remembrance that goes beyond the anniversary of the landing at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli in 1915.
It is the day of which we remember all Australians who served and died in war and on operational service past and present.
To commemorate ANZAC Day, Richard Pedler, Product Owner - Core Network Refresh, Service Delivery, shares his experience of serving in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for 15 years.
Could you briefly share your experience in the Australian Defence Force?
I enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in 1991 at age 16 as an Apprentice Radio Technician. I discharged the first time in the year 2000 and reenlisted again in 2007, until I was medically discharged in 2012.
In total, I served for almost 15 years, predominantly attached to 1 Combat Communications Squadron (1CCS). I spent a significant amount of time on deployment, both locally and overseas, with one wartime deployment to the Middle East.
What makes ANZAC Day particularly meaningful to you?
My family has strong ties to the military. My brother and 3 of my grandparents also served, so it's a time to reflect not just on my experiences but theirs as well.
Reflecting on your years of service, are there any special memories or experiences you would like to share?
It's hard to narrow it down, to be honest. Military service can be very challenging, but the friendships you develop are like no other due to the shared experiences. - Richard Pedler, Product Owner - Core Network Refresh, Service Delivery
One event I am proud to have been part of was the ADF response to the 1998 severe flooding event in Katherine in the Northern Territory. This was one of the worst natural disasters to hit the region and it was a privilege to serve the community.
Most of your memories blur into one over time and the only constant is not being home as a result, you miss many of the memories most people would have in a normal life such as children growing up and family events. Its actually quite strange trying to adapt back into life as a civilian when you are used to such a fast paced life.
Are there any traditions or rituals you follow on ANZAC Day that hold special significance for you?
I make time to reach out to my former unit mates, speak to my brother and just take the time to reflect on my service.
What would you like people to know about your experience as a veteran?
Without a doubt, my military service has made me the person I am today. Joining at age 16 meant my journey to adulthood was shaped by discipline and a 'get it done' approach.
In 2009, I was awarded a Tri-Service Silver Commendation for my efforts in establishing communication networks in the Middle East area of operations.
How has your service supported your career at eHealth NSW?
Expanding on my comment regarding a 'get it done' approach, I think this has supported my career, particularly when it comes to my experience with critical networks. There is a well known military saying; 'train like you intend to fight', I participated in multiple large scale military exercises including Kangaroo, Talisman Sabre and Pitch Black. These experiences instilled the value of teamwork in achieving organisational goals.
How eHealth NSW support our workforce
NSW, we are proud of our rich and diverse workforce. We currently have 12 staff members who have served as a full-time member of the ADF or as an ADF reservist (2024 People Matter Employee Survey).
To further support them, they can access up to 6.5 working days’ of special ADF leave in any period of 12 months. We also provide fully-funded Veteran Health Checks to all former-serving ADF members.