A Solemn Promise

Almost two years ago, at Phil Laycock’s funeral, I made a promise to his three young sons. I gave each of them, and their mum, a poppy from the Australian War Memorial, a small token to help remember their father, who lost his life in the MRH crash in the Whitsundays.

I told them that one day, a monument would stand in honour of their dad, and all the men and women who have lost their lives in training accidents while serving in our Defence Force.

Today, I’m proud to share that this promise is moving closer to reality.

This week, I met with Alison McLaren, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, to discuss our proposal to build a national monument on Anzac Parade in Canberra, dedicated to ADF personnel who have died in training.

I want to thank DVA for organising this meeting and for their willingness to explore how they can support this project, including financially. This is just the beginning, the first step, but it is a significant one.

Please share this message to help spread the word about the efforts underway to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice while training to serve our country. If you’d like to support the project, you can donate through our website. Every $30 membership goes directly toward making this monument a reality. We are a volunteer-run organisation, with no salaries or luxury travel, your contribution goes exactly where it’s needed.

This project is for the entire ex-service community. Even if you weren’t a peacekeeper, we represent all veterans and their families. So please, stand with us and show your support.

Rod Henderson
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans’ Association

9 May 2025