On Wednesday, 7 May 2025, the American Australian Association hosted its inaugural Commemorative Veterans’ Dinner Honouring All Who Serve at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors Lendlease and Boeing.
Held on the 83rd anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea, the evening served as an important commemoration and reminder of one of the most significant and strategic allied victories in the Pacific during WWII. The battle is widely considered by many as, ‘the battle that saved Australia’ and while it did not end the war in the Pacific, it was a major turning point. And in the words of Dinner Patron VADM Mark Hammond AO, Chief of Navy, it “demonstrated to the people of Australia what it means to have a friend like America in your corner in times of great need”.
The evening also provided a very special opportunity to remember and honour all those veterans and the courageous Australian and American servicemen and women who have fought to defend our nations in times of trouble, to safeguard democracy, and to protect our way of life.
The evening was masterfully hosted and curated by Amanda Drury. Dinner Patrons, VADM Mark Hammond AO, RAN, Chief of Navy and Ms. Erika Olson, Chargé d’Affaires at the United States Embassy both spoke to importance and strength of the US-Australia alliance, underpinned by our military and broader relationships. ACM (Ret) Mark Binskin AC, Former Chief of Defence Force provided guest remarks, and two of our veteran scholars – AAA-Lendlease Veteran Alumnus Ben Luther, a 22-year RAAF veteran, and Class of 2023 AAA Veteran Scholar Cameron Zbikowski, a US Navy veteran – spoke about how the American Australian Association Veterans’ Scholarship had transformed and shaped their post-military life.
“The American Australian Association Veterans’ Fund isn’t just about education. It’s a lifeline. It made it possible for a 19-year-old kid from Michigan—who once dreamed of seeing the world—to now be standing here in Australia, preparing to make a lasting difference for veterans and communities across the globe.” Cameron Zbikowski
Closing out the evening was John Schumann AM, who brought guests near to tears with his emotionally stirring performance of Fishing Net In The Rain, Khe Sahn and I was Only 19. It was a fitting tribute to our veterans and a memorable end to a wonderful night.
Supporting the evening @ALTILUS, CEA Technologies, News Corp Australia, Nova Systems, T&S Medals & Insignia and Thales.
Our deepest thanks to all for your generosity in supporting our veterans.
