In a formal ceremony at Government House Victoria recently, Eagle Point resident John Watson was presented with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his distinguished service to veterans.
The award was presented by Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, recognising Mr Watson’s lifelong commitment to the military and his tireless advocacy for his fellow servicemen and women.
Mr Watson’s journey began in 1964 when he joined the Australian Army.
Over a career spanning 30 years, he served in various capacities across Australia and internationally, including exchange postings to the United Kingdom and Germany.
A seasoned veteran, Mr. Watson was posted to Vietnam on two separate occasions – first in 1966 and again in 1969.
His military career saw him take on significant leadership and educational roles, serving as an instructor at the Military Police Training Centre in New South Wales and later as a staff officer at the Directorate of Military Police at Army Headquarters in Canberra. He retired from active duty with the rank of Major.
However, retirement did not mark the end of his service.
A few years after leaving the Army, Mr Watson became a founding member of the current Military Police Association Australia (MPAA) committee.
He dedicated the next 25 years to the MPAA national committee, providing vital support and advocacy for Military Police veterans and their families across the country.
Beyond his professional and volunteer achievements, Mr Watson is a cornerstone of his own large family.
He has been married to his wife, Claudia, for 57 years.
Together, they have three children, 11 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Mr Watson’s OAM stands as a testament to a man who has spent more than half a century ensuring that those who served are never forgotten.
