Daniel Keighran VC & Mark Donaldson VC

Corporal Daniel Keighran VC joined the Australian Army in 2000 and served in East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during the Battle of Derapet on 24 August 2010.

Like many veterans, Daniel has found the situation in Afghanistan upsetting and has shared a message for people who may also be struggling at this difficult time.

Corporal Mark Donaldson VC joined the Australian Regular Army in 2002, and was posted to the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) two years later. During the Battle of Khaz Oruzgan, part of Operation Slipper, Mark placed himself in the line of enemy fire to protect injured troops and rescue an interpreter. He received the Victoria Cross for his actions.

Mark is enormously proud of the contribution he and his fellow Australians have made in Afghanistan. He understands that there are some members of the veteran community who may be struggling with recent events that have transpired and encourages anyone who wants to talk to contact Open Arms or Safe Zone.