Past Programs
Awards and Prizes - 2008
Vietnam Victoria Cross sells at auction
21/05/2008
Among those who collect war medals, the holy grail is the Victoria Cross, the highest Commonwealth medal for bravery. Last night, one of the four Victoria Crosses awarded during the Vietnam war went to auction in Sydney, selling for $488,000.
Simpson and his donkey
19/05/2008
Simpson and his donkey. It's the iconic image of Gallipoli, John Simpson Kirkpatrick, ferrying wounded diggers to safety on the back of his famous donkey. In spite of the efforts of many over the years, he has not been awared the Victoria Cross, the highest medal for bravery. It looks like the latest application will be similarly declined.
Battle of Coral
13/05/2008
Over recent years, the Battle of Long Tan has become known as one of the most epic and heroic actions in Australian history. And it was. But today marks the 40th anniversary of another Vietnam War battle, dubbed 'The Battle of Coral', which could be said to have equal importance in Australia's military history. Indeed, with 25 dead and more than 100 wounded, it involved more Australian casualties than Long Tan. In an effort to raise awarenss of the battle, a series of commemoration events are being held this week, including the rare event of an army unit being given an 'honour title' by the Governor-General.
Major Peter Badcoe's Victoria Cross being auctioned
16/04/2008
During the Vietnam war, the Australian soldier Major Peter Badcoe was killed in action at the age of 33 and posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the Commonwealth's highest award for gallantry. Now his family has decided to sell his medals, but it's the letters and tapes he sent home which are included in the sale that paint the most detailed picture of the man.
