‘Exceptional’ army leader honoured for decades of service
Jordan FallonA long-life devotee to the Australian Defence Force was this week afforded formal commemoration through the unveiling of an individual memorial plaque at the Kearsley Remembrance Gardens.
Lieutenant Colonel Brian Green AM was a career officer with the Australian Army serving from 1958 until his discharge in 1989.
Following his graduation from army officer training, Lieutenant Colonel Green undertook an overseas deployment to Papua New Guinea with the Pacific Island Regiment between 1966 and 1969.
Throughout 1970 and 1971, he completed a tour of duty to Vietnam with the 2nd Battalion of The Royal Australian Regiment.
Upon his return to Australia, Lieutenant Colonel Green assumed leadership positions across the east coast where he was responsible for educating new recruits in various aspects of their academic and military training.
It was Lieutenant Colonel Green’s passion for mentoring the next generation of army leaders that saw him recognised during the 1983 Queen’s Birthday honours when he was made a Member of the Order of Australia in the military division “In recognition of service to the Australian Army, particularly as 2nd in command of the Field Force Battle School”.
“Lieutenant Colonel Green was an exceptional leader who dedicated so many decades to instilling his knowledge on those going through the formative years of their army career. His service has positively impacted thousands of Australians” Committee Chairperson Jordan Fallon said.
Following his retirement from the Australian Army, Lieutenant Green commenced a distinguished career as a journalist, before retiring to the Hunter Valley with his wife, Beverley.
It was during his twilight years, that Lieutenant Colonel Green was introduced to the Kearsley Community Dawn Service Committee, where his knowledge and experience were an invaluable asset to the Committee, and more broadly, the local community.
Lieutenant Colonel Green would regularly provide support to the community, including assisting local school children in developing an understanding of the deep history of the Australian Defence Force.
Lieutenant Colonel Green passed away on 26 December 2021 following a long illness.
Family members from across New South Wales attended the ceremony to witness Lieutenant Colonel Green’s plaque be unveiled on the ‘Post-World War II Bench of Remembrance’.
“Lieutenant Colonel Green dedicated his whole life to serving his country and his community. He was driven to make a positive and helpful difference to others. His legacy will live on through the installation of this memorial plaque” Chairperson Jordan Fallon said.
