Derek Smith OAM
Derek Smith, OAM enlisted into the Australian Army as a 16-year-old apprentice and progressed to Major over his 23 years of service. Derek deployed to Vietnam on three tours in 1966, 1969 and 1971.
Derek has a proud family history of service. His father served in World War II and his grandfather served in Gallipoli during World War I.
Derek and his family have maintained an ongoing connection to Vietnam, supporting orphanages and communities. On Australia Day 2019 Derek was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to international community through humanitarian aid.