07/05/2026
As another Anzac Day passes, it is with great respect that we congratulate Second Lieutenant John O’Halloran MG on finally receiving the recognition so richly deserved.
John led 6 RAR’s B Company, 5 Platoon through some of the fiercest fighting of the Vietnam War, including Operation Hobart, Long Tan and Operation Bribie, showing extraordinary courage and leadership.
More than five decades on, Australia has formally recognised those actions with the Medal for Gallantry. A true hero, honoured.
Many will also know John through his book Platoon Commander which also sits in our office. Lest we forget.
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Second Lieutenant John O’Halloran is – put simply – a real-life war hero.
He was just 21 years-old when he guided 6 RAR's B Company 5 Platoon through some of the biggest conflicts of the Vietnam war, including Operation Hobart and the Battle of Long Tan.
But he faced his hardest military challenge at Operation Bribie, leading a fixed bayonet charge against a deadly Viet Cong jungle stronghold. For that action he initially received a ‘mention in dispatches’ in 1967.
In 2025, more than five decades on, he was awarded the Medal for Gallantry for acts of courage. He will receive that honour at an Investiture ceremony at Government House in Perth next week.
A true hero, finally honoured.
Australian Honours and Awards
