I am pleased to announce that Rod Henderson has been unanimously appointed by our board of directors as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans’ Association Ltd. This significant development warrants communication to all our members, veterans, their families, and the broader veteran support community.

In his capacity as CEO, Rod will be entrusted with the critical responsibility of implementing the strategic directives set forth by the board of directors. Furthermore, he will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Association and the delivery of its services, ensuring optimal functionality and efficacy.

Rod's extensive military background provides a solid foundation for this role. His service in the Australian Army commenced in 1995 at Kapooka, marking the beginning of a 22-year career characterised by diverse and challenging roles. Initially serving as a paratrooper in the infantry, Rod later transitioned to operating as a crewman on Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters. His service record includes deployments to East Timor, Papua New Guinea, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, demonstrating his global operational experience.

On the domestic front, Rod's expertise extended to counter-terrorism operations and numerous disaster recovery missions, showcasing his adaptability and crisis management skills. 

Following his medical separation in 2017, Rod's commitment to service persisted through his volunteer work with the Australian War Memorial, where he has undertaken various roles.

Rod's recent publication of his memoir, "Stop Screaming I'm Scared Too," not only establishes him as an author but also underscores his dedication to sharing military experiences. This aligns with his passionate advocacy for veterans' health and wellbeing issues, encouraging fellow service members to articulate their experiences.

Currently residing near Canberra, Rod balances his professional commitments with family life, sharing his home with his wife, three young boys, two German Shepherds, and a flock of sheep.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Rod on this appointment. As I approach the final weeks of my tenure as Chairperson, I eagerly anticipate collaborating with Rod in this new capacity, confident in the positive impact his leadership will bring to our organisation in parallel with our new Chairperson.

Ian Lindgren

Chairperson