Norden VC investiture ceremony
The Victoria Cross for Australia was formally presented to the family of the late Private Richard Norden today, in recognition for his bravery and dedication to service during the Vietnam War.
CAPTION: Governor General Sam Mostyn congratulates Robynn Freeman, widow of Private Richard Norden, after presenting her with her husband’s Victoria Cross for Australia. Mrs Freeman is flanked by her and Richard’s sons, Scott and Shane. Photos by Paul Berry.
Private Norden’s gallantry during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral in Vietnam in 1968 has never been forgotten.
In November last year, Governor-General Sam Mostyn announced that His Majesty The King had approved the awarding of the Victoria Cross for Australia for Private Norden.
Today at a special investiture ceremony in Rockhampton, Australia’s highest military honour was presented to Private Norden’s widow, Mrs Robynn Freeman.
Private Norden’s is the 102nd Victoria Cross awarded to an Australian and the fifth to an Australian Vietnam War veteran.
The awarding of the Victoria Cross reflects Private Norden’s courage and selflessness in the heat of battle.
On 14 May 1968, Private Norden’s platoon came under heavy fire during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral.
Using his initiative and demonstrating a depth of care for his fellow soldiers, Private Norden rescued a wounded soldier and recovered the body of another, with very little cover and under intense enemy fire.
Private Norden displayed a complete disregard for his own personal safety.
His courage and selfless acts resulted in the enemy position being secured and likely saved the lives of many others on that day in 1968.
Minister for Defence Richard Marles said PrivateNorden’s bravery during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral exemplified the values Australians hold dear – those of tremendous courage and mateship.
“I am honoured to have attended today’s investiture ceremony to see Private Norden recognised with Australia’s highest military honour,” Mr Marles said.
Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said Private Norden personified the ANZAC spirit – disregarding his own safety to put his mates first.
“I’m so pleased that today, almost six decades after his heroic act, his family are finally receiving this important acknowledgement of his selfless service,” Mr Keogh said.
“I want to acknowledge and thank the veteran community for their advocacy for the appropriate recognition of Private Norden.”
Today marks an historic occasion for Australia and the Australian Defence Force and a particularly significant day for Private Norden’s family.
Constable Richard Norden was killed in a motorcycle accident in the line of duty while serving as a member of the Australian Capital Territory Police in 1972.
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