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Home » Updates » Real stories

Real stories

Join us as we share the inspiring real-life stories of Soldier On participants and supporters.  

Exploring journeys of physical and mental recovery, reconnection with community, and career transformations, we showcase the triumphs of the veteran community.  

Keep up to date with upcoming events and program offerings with Soldier On by subscribing to our newsletter. 

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Keep up to date with news, upcoming events and program offerings with Soldier On by subscribing to our newsletter.

  • Lifeblood, Partners

Soldier On staff step up to support the Defence Blood Drive 

From Sydney to Melbourne and Canberra, Soldier On staff will roll up their sleeves this October to support the Red Cross Lifeblood Defence Blood...

  • Afghanistan, Soldier On Ambassadors

David Savage: the lasting impact of Afghanistan

Soldier On Ambassador David Savage says his view of Afghanistan has changed over time....
  • Afghanistan, Veteran support

Twenty-five years on: ‘I’ll never be the same person’ 

Airforce veteran Steve says his service in Afghanistan has had lasting effects on his mental health....
  • Afghanistan, Veteran support

‘Service belongs to the whole family’: Davina Mansfield reflects on 25 years since Afghanistan

Twenty-five years after Australia’s involvement in Afghanistan began, the stories of those who served – and those who supported them – continue to matter....
  • Defence families

From Defence kid to future psychologist: Ella’s journey

As a member of a Defence family, a University of Canberra Soldier On Scholarship helped Ella feel supported....
  • Soldier On Ambassador

Brigadier Ian Errington: a life of service, challenge and curiosity

Brigadier Ian Errington AM, CSC (Retd) brings 38 years of experience in the Australian Army to his role as a Soldier On Ambassador....
  • Fundraising, Partners, Workplace giving

Small donations. Big impact: How The Good Guys are helping support Australia’s veterans

Workplace giving that supports Soldier On is a simple way for organisations and employees to create lasting impact....
  • Fundraising, Veteran Employment

The long ride back

James Line's motivation to do a fundraising bike ride for Soldier On was inspired by the support he received in the past....
  • Outdoor activities, Participate and connect, Surf School

Riding waves and strengthening connections

Getting active and connecting with fellow veterans are positive parts of Soldier On's Reels & Wave surf school experience....
  • Soldier On Ambassador

The community that continues to inspire Karen Gallacher

Few things bring Soldier On Ambassador Karen Gallacher more joy than seeing veterans connect with one another. Whether she is hosting a monthly veteran...

  • Fundraising, Soldier On Ambassador

From awareness to action: Michael Ward’s Soldier On story

Michael Ward's role as a Soldier On Ambassador reflects values that have guided him for years – honesty, action and a willingness to help...
  • Soldier On Ambassador

Challenging assumptions: Jody Hillier’s story 

As a Soldier On Ambassador, veteran Jody Hillier wants to ensure women veterans feel visible....