It was two days after Les Ramsay's daughter was born before the soldier, who had been serving in Vietnam at the time, found out the child he had been expecting with wife Bev was a girl.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It would be another eight months until Mr Ramsay, from Anna Bay, would lay eyes on his daughter, Kym.
After returning home and meeting Kym, Mr Ramsay had to do one of the toughest things in his life - leave again. He returned to Vietnam for another month of service.
Kym marks her birthday with two lots of celebrations - on the actual day of birth, May 3, then again on May 5 with her father, two days later, signifying the timing in Mr Ramsay's mind that Kym entered his life.
It was stories such as the Ramsay's that were told during a presentation in Raymond Terrace on May 2 where federal MP Meryl Swanson presented Vietnam veterans and peace keepers from the Paterson electorate certificates of appreciation for their service.
For his service in contributing to Australia's efforts during World War II, the late William Dawson was also recognised.
The certificate was accepted on his behalf by son-in-law, Rod Bull. Mr Bull, from Raymond Terrace, also received a certificate of thanks for his service to Australia during the Vietnam War.
"I've heard in the last few weeks some terrific speeches and really rise words around Anzac Day and being in service to your nation," Ms Swanson said before presenting the certificates in her office.
"I just think there is something about the character of people who found themselves in service, whether they went voluntarily or they were conscripted. No matter what you did, it does shape you as a person.
"I want to make special mention of the families. Often, families were irrevocably changed by what those who served went through. Sometimes there's not a lot said about the families. But we do recognise that families go through the journey, the experiences, as well, albeit differently. But they have a story to tell as well. I want to salute you for that service."
Ms Swanson presented David Elliott a certificate of thanks for his service in contributing to Australia's efforts in peace operations.
She then presented certificates to veterans who served during the Vietnam war. These included Mr Ramsay, Mr Bull, Kenneth "Kenny" De Loas from Rutherford, Peter Griffiths from Medowie, John Head from Tanilba Bay, Robert "Bob" Parish from Medowie, Peter Rosemond from Sawyer's Gully (near Maitland) and Michael O'Hearn from Telarah.
In a separate event, Mr O'Hearn was also recognised on Thursday with a Unit Citation for Gallantry for Battles of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral, which are considered to be Australia's longest and most costly battles of the Vietnam War.
After receiving his certificate certificate of thanks for "service in contributing to Australia's efforts in Vietnam", Mr Ramsay, joined at the ceremony in Ms Swanson's office by daughter Kym and wife Bev, said it meant a lot to his family.
"I'm very grateful for the recognition," he said. "The only sadness to it is that it has taken so long for Australia to recognise Vietnam veterans."
Mr Rosemond commented, too, that it was nice to be recognised.
"It is an acknowledgement of a service that was voluntary and that we made a contribution [to Australia]," he said.
It is the second presentation Ms Swanson has held to recognise veterans in the Paterson electorate. She also held one at her office in March.
RELATED READING: Port Stephens war veterans with certificates of appreciation
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
