As Australians gather today to honour veterans for Remembrance Day, the Government has announced the late Private Richard Norden will be awarded a Victoria Cross for Australia for his gallantry during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral in Vietnam in 1968.
The Victoria Cross for Australia is the highest military honour that can be awarded in the Australian honours system. Private Norden has been recognised for the most conspicuous acts of gallantry in action in the presence of the enemy.
On 14 May 1968, Private Norden’s platoon came under heavy fire during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral. Using his initiative and demonstrating a depth of care for his mates, Private Norden rescued a wounded soldier and recovered the body of another, with little cover and under intense enemy fire.
His actions also secured the enemy position and avoided the potential for further casualties of platoon members.
“Private Norden personified the ANZAC spirit – disregarding his own safety to put his mates first,” said Minister for Veterans Affairs, Matt Keogh.
“I want to acknowledge and thank the veteran community for your advocacy for the appropriate recognition of Private Norden.
“I’m so glad that especially today we can acknowledge Private Norden’s gallant actions with the Victoria Cross for Australia.”
Private Norden’s service to his country continued when he returned to Australia and became an Australian Capital Territory police officer. He died at the young age of 24 following a traffic accident while he was on duty.
The Governor-General’s Office will work with Private Norden’s family to finalise plans for the investiture ceremony.
