Army veteran upholds Anzac spirit

by Ashleigh Howarth

When John Hardgrave saw his grandfather leading an Anzac Day march with his medals proudly pinned to his chest, it inspired him to pursue his own life of service.

“One of my earliest memories of wanting to join the military was when I watched my grandfather lead the Anzac Day march in Brisbane one year, and I just remember how proud he was,” John says.

“I also remember the comradery between him and the mates he served with, which made me realise that was something I wanted to be a part of.”

John, who lives in Albany Creek, and is the Head of League Development at RSL Queensland, enlisted in the Australian Army when he was 19 and served his country for 17 years.

He has completed tours of the Solomon Islands, Timor - Leste and Afghanistan, and was involved in the flood recovery after the 2011 Grantham floods.

“I am incredibly proud of what we were able to do at the time on the ground, both here and overseas.”

After being discharged, John has continued to serve his country through the Australian Army Reserve, where he mentors the next generation of soldiers.

He has also been involved in initiatives to raise money for veterans, is the Director and Treasurer of the Gaythorne RSL, and volunteers at the Bribie Island Surf Lifesaving Club and his local football club.

Anzac Day is one of the most important days of the year for John.

“For me, Anzac Day is a personal thing. It’s a time to recognise the sacrifices of those people who have signed on the dotted line and given a blank cheque to Australia to serve, even if that means they might die for their country,” John says.

“We recognise those that served before us and who bravely fought so we could enjoy the lifestyle and the freedoms we as a nation enjoy today.”