A Soldier’s Valour: Private Richard Norden’s Victoria Cross Honour

In a moment that will resonate through Australian history, the family of Private Richard Norden received the Victoria Cross for Australia, the nation’s highest military honour, in a poignant ceremony in Rockhampton on 15 July 2025. This prestigious award, presented to Private Norden’s widow, Mrs Robynn Freeman, celebrates the extraordinary bravery and selflessness he displayed during the Vietnam War’s Battle of Fire Support Base Coral in 1968. 

 Victoria Cross for Australia for the late Private Richard Leslie Norden VC

A Courageous Act Under Fire

On 14 May 1968, Private Norden’s platoon faced relentless enemy fire during one of the Vietnam War’s fiercest engagements. Amid the chaos, with little regard for his own safety, Private Norden risked everything to rescue a wounded comrade and recover the body of another fallen soldier. Under intense enemy fire and with minimal cover, his gallant actions not only secured a critical enemy position but likely saved countless lives. His courage embodied the ANZAC spirit, bravery, mateship, and sacrifice.

Former Australian Army soldier Mr Keith Payne, VC, AM, during the Victoria Cross for Australia investiture ceremony for the late Private Richard Leslie Norden, VC, in Rockhampton, Queensland, on Tuesday, 15 July 2025.

A Long-Overdue Recognition

Private Norden’s gallantry was formally recognised last November when Governor-General, the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, announced that His Majesty The King had approved the Victoria Cross for Australia. This award, presented nearly six decades after his fearless deeds, is a testament to the enduring impact of his actions and the tireless advocacy of the veteran community. Tragically, Private Norden lost his life in 1972 while serving with the Australian Capital Territory Police, making this posthumous honour all the more poignant.

For those inspired by such stories, the Military Shop’s In the Service of Others Collection captures the essence of this bravery. This limited-edition collection, with only 1,000 sets available, includes replica Victoria Cross and George Cross medals, honouring the legacy of Australia’s five Victoria Cross recipients, Warrant Officer Keith Payne, VC, AM, Mark Gregor Strang Donaldson, VC, Benjamin Roberts-Smith, VC, and Daniel Alan Keighran, VC, alongside the sole George Cross recipient, Michael Kenneth Pratt, GC. Each set comes with a certificate of authenticity featuring citations for these remarkable individuals, making it a cherished keepsake for those who value the sacrifices of our veterans.

Explore In the Service of Others Collection

Voices of Gratitude

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, who attended the investiture ceremony, reflected on the significance of the moment: “Private Richard Norden’s bravery during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral exemplifies the values we hold as Australians, tremendous courage and mateship. Under fire from the enemy, Private Norden did not hesitate as he moved forward to help his fellow wounded soldiers.”

Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of remembrance: “When we say ‘Lest We Forget,’ that’s a call to action to never forget the service and sacrifice of Australia’s personnel. Private Norden personified the ANZAC spirit, disregarding his own safety to put his mates first. I’m so pleased that today, his family are finally receiving this important acknowledgement of his selfless service.”

The family of late Australian Army soldier Private Richard Norden receives the Victoria Cross for Australia at an investiture ceremony in Rockhampton, Queensland, on July 15, 2025, honoring his bravery and dedication during the Vietnam War.

Honouring Soldiers Through Timeless Collections

The legacy of soldiers like Private Norden is also preserved through collections that celebrate Australia’s military history. For instance, the Cameron Baird VC MG Medallion Set from the Military Shop is a stunning tribute to Corporal Cameron Baird, another Victoria Cross recipient, whose courageous actions in Afghanistan inspire us all. Limited to just 500 units, this set supports charitable works through Cam’s Cause, allowing collectors to contribute to his enduring legacy while owning a piece of history.

Explore Cameron Baird VC MG Medallion Set

Similarly, the Military Shop’s Vietnam War Collection offers a range of meticulously crafted items, from replica medals and medallions to figurines and drinkware, designed in collaboration with Australian military and veterans’ associations. For over 30 years, these collections have helped families and communities honour the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans, ensuring their stories, like Private Norden’s, are never forgotten. Whether it’s a detailed figurine capturing the spirit of the era or a medallion commemorating the 50th anniversary of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, these items serve as powerful reminders of the ANZAC spirit.

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A Legacy That Inspires

The investiture of Private Norden’s Victoria Cross is more than a recognition of one man’s bravery, it’s a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless Australian service members. For his family, the veteran community, and the nation, this moment honours a soldier whose courage in the face of danger continues to inspire. As we reflect on Private Norden’s legacy, we are reminded to hold fast to the values of courage, selflessness, and mateship that define the Australian spirit. Collections like those from the Military Shop provide a tangible way to connect with this history, allowing us to keep the memory of our soldiers alive.