Aussie VCs in England for Coronation
Victoria Cross recipients Corporal Mark Donaldson and Corporal Daniel Keighran, in London for the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, took time out to visit Australian troops involved in Operation Kudu.
CAPTION: Victoria Cross Recipients Corporal Daniel Keighran, Corporal Mark Donaldson and Keith Payne in front of the home of the Victoria Cross Roll of Honour, the Union Jack Club, London. Story by Lieutenant Commander John Thompson. Photo Leading Aircraftwoman Emma Schwenke.
The pair made an impromptu visit to southern England where Australian Army soldiers were training Ukrainian recruits to defend their country from Russia’s invasion.
“It is remarkable what our troops are doing here – they are helping these recruits develop critical skills and techniques that will make a huge difference on the battlefield,” Corporal Donaldson VC said.
“I’m deeply impressed – the standard of training is exceptionally high,” Corporal Keighran VC said.
Corporal Donaldson, Corporal Keighran and Keith Payne VC were invited to take part in Coronation of King Charles III.
Corporal Keighran will take part in the Order of Chivalry, walking into Westminster Abbey behind Keith Payne.
“It is an extraordinary opportunity – I’ll be representing the Commonwealth proudly and I’ll be wearing that slouch hat with pride,” Corporal Keighran said.
Corporal Donaldson said it meant a huge amount to be invited to the Coronation.
“During the service I’ll be reflecting on my mates and all the young men and women who are serving right now – the next generation who are taking that legacy forward, and the tough conditions they may have to face,” Corporal Donaldson said.
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