Australian Service Medals: Australia recognises Rifle Company Butterworth veterans

The decision follows a Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal Inquiry into Medallic Recognition for Service with Rifle Company Butterworth, which recommended this change. The government has accepted the tribunal’s recommendations.

“Veterans who deployed with Rifle Company Butterworth between 1970 and 1989 made a valuable contribution to the security and stability of Malaysia during a time of uncertainty,” Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Matt Keog0 said.

“The government values their service, and that’s why we’ve carefully considered their submissions as well as the recommendations of the independent Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal.”

The Australian government has now acknowledged that recognition has been sought by Butterworth veterans, families and ex-service organisations for some time. Their advocacy has helped ensure the experiences of those who served at Rifle Company Butterworth have been properly considered and understood.

The government acknowledges those who served with Rifle Company Butterworth and of the role they played in advancing Australia’s interests abroad.

“To all those who served, the Australian government recognises your contribution and thanks you for your service. These veterans will continue to be recognised with the Australian Service Medal,” Minister Keogh said.

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Importantly, following registration of the legislative instruments, recognition as non-warlike service may provide access to additional veterans’ entitlements and support as well as more beneficial claims assessment for conditions relating to this service.

Robert Dougherty

Author

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.

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