Corporal Lance Purdon has spent more than 35 years in uniform. This March, he is signing up for Soldier On’s March On Challenge for a very personal reason.
Lance currently serves in the Royal Australian Air Force as a Personnel Capability Specialist. He joined the Australian Defence Force in October 1990, starting in the Navy before transferring to the Air Force in 2000. Over the years, he worked across Australia, including many years as a chef, before retraining in 2017.
Like many serving members, Lance carried the weight of his experiences quietly.
‘It wasn’t until early last year where I actually put my hand up and said, “I actually need some help”.’
As a male Defence member and a senior non-commissioned officer, asking for help didn’t immediately feel easy. But he’s glad he did.
‘For Defence members, asking for help – being male – I was a Sergeant at the time… I thought there would be a stigma to it. I don’t care about that anymore. If I need some help, I am going to look after myself.’
Since then, Lance has sought treatment through doctors, psychologists and psychiatrists. He also connected with March On last year during a significant personal challenge.
‘I was already signed up to do the Kokoda Track in March 2025…it just made sense for me to do March On for Soldier On and start raising some funds to support the work you do,’ he says.
‘I saw the stats with regards to how much money it takes for one person to get in to see a psychologist or a psychiatrist. It’s important that people who need the help can access the support at no cost, thanks to what Soldier On does.’
This year, Lance plans to officially take part in March On, committing to complete at least 96 kilometres across the month. He is hoping to do much more, by riding his bike for this year’s challenge and completing 960km. It’s a big goal he plans to achieve by ramping up his already impressive commitment to regular race riding and lengthy training rides throughout the month of March – not to chase a result, but to stay connected to something bigger.
Now coming up towards the end of my career, I might have to call upon Soldier On once I’ve made that transition.’
That’s why Lance is marching on this March – for his own mental health, and for the mates who may still be finding the words.
By sharing his story, Lance hopes other serving members feel less alone.
‘Putting your hand up is hard. But you don’t have to do this on your own.’
Join Lance this March. Every step counts.
Sign up for March On today and walk, run (or ride) 96 kilometres to support veteran mental health.
