From a Young Orphan in Vietnam to a Proud Australian Veteran - A Journey of Resilience

For Van Minh Nguyen, this story begins far from the shores of Australia, in the war-torn landscapes of Vietnam. Born in Vietnam, Van Minh's life took a dramatic turn in 1975 during the final days of the Vietnam War, when he was just nine years old.

Van Minh Nguyen in 1975

Imagine being a child in a war zone, surrounded by chaos and uncertainty. This was Van Minh's reality until 'Operation Babylift' - a daring humanitarian mission led by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) changed everything. Can you picture the relief and hope that must have filled those young hearts?

Click to know more about the Operation Babylift

"I was just 9 years old when the RAAF rescued me and other orphans. I'm forever grateful to those service men and women who gave me a second chance at life," Van Minh recalls.

Think about the incredible journey that brought Van Minh to Australia, a land of peace and opportunity. "I'm proud to be an Australian citizen, and I call Australia home. I'm grateful for the tranquillity and peace I've found in my new life," he says. Isn't it amazing to see how such a transformation is possible?

What does it mean to serve your country? For Van Minh, it meant joining the Royal Australian Navy as a Junior Recruit at just 15 and a half, with the blessing of his Australian foster parents.

Van Minh Nguyen in 2024 at Anzac Day Commemorative Service

"I served for eight years before being medically discharged after a severe accident," he recounts. Despite the injury, his spirit remains undiminished. "I’m a little slower nowadays but physically still very active. Currently, I volunteer as a mentor at a navy cadets’ unit in Sydney."

Van Minh on Anzac Day 2024 with Mr Andrew Gee, the former Veteran Affairs Minister

Van Minh's service record is a testament to his dedication. From HMAS Leeuwin to HMAS Kuttabul, and on-board HMAS Adelaide (II) and HMAS Albatross, his roles were diverse and impactful. "I served as an AVN Aviation Support Sailor known in the navy as a Flight Deck Marshall or a ‘birdie’(nickname)," he explains.

Following his Navy days, he continued to serve the public for 21 years at the NSW Attorney General’s Department for Court Services before retiring.

In 2023, a significant year marking the 50th anniversary of Australia's official involvement in the Vietnam War. Imagine reading about your own life's journey in an RSL Australia article, and then seeing your story brought to life on A Current Affair (ACA) with photographs and video clips from the Australian War Memorial archives. "It was a surreal experience to see my story come alive through these archival materials," Van Minh reflects.

Through all the challenges and changes, Van Minh remains profoundly grateful for his journey and the people who have become his family along the way. "I'm grateful for my service and the friends I made along the way—friends who are now family," he adds, his words filled with heartfelt emotion.

Van Minh says, "Once upon a time, I was sweet and innocent... and then NAVY happened..."

His story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the transformative power of service, and the profound impact of compassion. His journey from a young orphan in Vietnam to a proud Australian veteran is a testament to the enduring bonds between nations and the indelible mark left by those who serve.

On this 18 August, as we commemorate Vietnam Veterans' Day on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. It's a day to remember the sacrifices of those who died and to say thank you to the almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of our involvement in the Vietnam War. As we honour these brave individuals, let's also celebrate the stories of resilience and dedication, like Van Minh's, that continue to inspire and remind us of the profound impact of service.

Explore the Vietnam War Collection

At Military Shop history comes to life through an extensive range of authentic and replica memorabilia. These make perfect gifts for Vietnam War Veterans, their families, or collectors who want to preserve history.