VVAA ENDORSES AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR FOR 2001

Media Release - 29 January 2001

Vietnam Veterans throughout Australia are both delighted and proud that one of their number has been named as 'Australian of the year' for 2001, the National President of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, Brian McKenzie said today.

Mr McKenzie said; 'The recent announcement by the Prime Minister John Howard of the award to Lieutenant-General Peter Cosgrove AC MC should be an inspiration to all in the veteran community and the fine men and women serving in the Australian Defence Forces. His sacrifices for his country and his recent achievements in East Timor as the Commander of INTERFET have done the Australian community proud'.

LTGEN Cosgrove served as a 22 year old Infantry Platoon Commander in Vietnam where he was awarded the Military Cross for bravery while leading his platoon in an assault on an enemy position. Mr McKenzie said; 'LTGEN Cosgrove is a fine leader and this Association congratulates him on his recent award.'