Keighran VC presents Victoria Cross to Memorial

Australia’s latest Victoria Cross recipient, Corporal Daniel Keighran VC, today presented his Victoria Cross to the Australian War Memorial, where it will go on display in the Hall of Valour early next year.

Corporal Keighran’s Victoria Cross, on loan to the Memorial, was presented with his accompanying medal group to Dr Peter Pedersen, Assistant Director and Branch Head of the National Collection at the Australian War Memorial.

“The Memorial is delighted to receive Corporal Keighran’s generous loan of his medals,” said Dr Pedersen. “They are an important part of the ongoing story of the Australian experience of war, and we are proud to put them on display.”

“Corporal Keighran’s medals and story will join those of many ordinary men and women who have done the extraordinary; their deeds form an immortal part of our nation’s history. I am sure many Australians will want to see Corporal Keighran’s medals and learn more about his remarkable courage and selfless service.”

Corporal Keighran is only the third recipient of the Victoria Cross for Australia, which in 1991 replaced the British or Imperial Victoria Cross. When Corporal Keighran’s Victoria Cross goes on display next year, it will become the 69th Victorian Cross on display at the Memorial (this total includes three British medals).

“I visited the Hall of Valour just before I received my Victoria Cross and I remember reading the other VC stories and thinking how proud I would be if my medal was displayed there,” said Corporal Keighran.

“It will certainly be in good company, especially when the actions of so many recipients cost them their lives.

“I hope my VC inspires people to visit the Memorial, to learn more about our military history and the sacrifices of all those who have served.”

Corporal Daniel Alan Keighran was awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia following his heroic actions at Derapet, Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, on 24 August 2010. His citation reads in part: “[Corporal Keighran’s] acts of exceptional courage in circumstances of great peril were instrumental in permitting the withdrawal of the combined Australian and Afghan patrol with no further casualties. His valour is in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force.”

The Hall of Valour honours all the Australians who have received the Victoria Cross, the highest award for bravery in time of war. Amid great battles and the movements of armies, the exploits of courageous individuals have always provided inspiration. The Hall of Valour recognises the deeds of ordinary Australians under the extraordinary conditions of war.

Corporal Keighran’s full medal group comprises the following honours and awards:

• Victoria Cross for Australia
• Australian Active Service Medal with Clasp Iraq and Clasp ICAT
• Iraq Campaign Medal
• Afghanistan Campaign Medal
• Australian Service Medal with Clasp East Timor
• Australian Defence Medal
• United Nations Mission in Support of East Timor Medal
•  NATO Non Article 5 Medal with Clasp ISAF
• Meritorious Unit Citation for 1-MTF
• Infantry Combat Badge