Rick McCarthy describes himself as someone who is always on call and dedicated to helping local communities.

A Vietnam Veteran, and the founding director of Honour Our Fallen, a not-for-profit organisation he established to remember and preserve the memories of deceased military personnel who served our nation in all conflicts, Rick is commemorating 50 years since the proclamation to end Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War in 2023 by walking 1200km from the Gallipoli Barracks at Ennogra in Brisbane, to Bowral, his former hometown, in the NSW Southern Highlands, between August 17 and September 24.

All funds raised from the event will be shared by Honour the Fallen and Soldier On, another not-for-profit organisation which delivers holistic support services that enable current and former Australian Defence Force personnel, and their families, to lead meaningful civilian lives, post deployment.

“As we mark the 50 years since Australia’s final withdrawal from Vietnam, it is important to remember the sacrifice our fellow service personnel have made during all conflicts Australia has been involved in since the Boer War,” Rick said.

“We are calling for more volunteers to participate in perpetuating the memories of the conflicts, and helping our school students understand the sacrifice of others when protecting our great nation.

“Supporting a second charity, such as Soldier On, felt a natural fit for what we are aiming to achieve with the program.”

As he journeys through the Clarence Valley later this month, Rick will be passing through New Italy on August 25, Harwood on August 26, Maclean on August 27, and Grafton on Auguust 28.

To follow Rick’s progress, please visit www.rickswalkforveterans.com.au and www.honourourfallen.com