Heroism under fire

The Australian ^ | 17th January 2009

[naturalman1975]

Mark Donaldson VC shows the way to other Australians

MARK Donaldson does not think he is a hero. Heroes generally do not. He believes that everybody would do what he did. But the way SAS Trooper Donaldson earned his VC, on duty with the SAS in Afghanistan, was a rare act of selfless courage. During a Taliban ambush of a coalition convoy, Trooper Donaldson drew enemy fire away from wounded men while they were moved to some semblance of safety. But when Trooper Donaldson realised an interpreter had been left behind, he went back, crossing exposed ground under fire to carry the wounded man back to the convoy. Trooper Donaldson then went back into action. While all VCs are awarded for unmatched valour, there is something particularly impressive in Trooper Donaldson's decision to risk his life to save another's. Only his training, and good fortune, saved him from joining the nine Australians killed in action in Afghanistan or joining the 50 SAS troopers wounded there.

The way Trooper Donaldson won his VC also illustrates a great deal about the war in Afghanistan. Despite unchallenged coalition air superiority, the Taliban are able to challenge fighting patrols in ways that test the training of the troops involved. This is not a war that technology alone can win. In part, it will depend on the quality of the fighting soldiers, but it will also require the coalition to secure the support of ordinary Afghans by convincing them there is more of a future for their families by embracing the allies than obeying the Taliban.

[InABunkerUnderSF]

Congratulations to trooper Donaldson. Truly a man among men.

Here's hoping he grows old.