Ron Hamlyn was a Staff Cadet at the Royal Military College, Duntroon from 1954 until 1957 when he graduated as a Lieutenant in the Australian Infantry Corps. After periods of regimental service, which included 13th National Service Battalion, Pacific Islands Regiment, 1 RAR and The Infantry Centre, he served with 5RAR as Admin and B Company Commander on operational service in South Vietnam during 1966-67.

He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1983, having served as Secretary to the Military Board and other appointments during two periods of service at Army Office. He also had postings as a Senior Instructor and Staff Officer in various Colleges, Schools and other Headquarters.

Ron joined the 5RAR Association during the 1980s and in 1988 he was appointed as a member of the Executive Committee. He served terms of duty as Secretary and Membership Officer. In 2005 he was appointed to the dual roles of Treasurer and Membership Secretary of The Association.

After his appointment as Treasurer came the need for increased financial support for the services provided to members, Ron established and improved accounting methods and systems. He increased and protected The Association’s financial standing. His most excellent performance as Treasurer has ensured the stability of The Association and has increased its ability to meet our financial aspirations and accounting obligations.

In his role as Membership Secretary, Ron guided the establishment of an up to date database of 5RAR members and former members and their service with 5RAR. This database has been shown, on occasions, to be more accurate than the Dept of Veterans’ Affairs records. This is a valuable tool, allowing the Association to maintain contact with veterans and their families and to react to matters of welfare and nostalgia.
Over the past 23 years as a member of the Committee, Ron has provided a point of contact for all members of the Association; he has provided the resources of his home as an office at which he performs the onerous daily responsibilities of his honorary appointments.

Ron Hamlyn has served the Fifth Battalion and 5RAR Association with distinction for a period extending over 43 years. He is an excellent candidate for Life Membership of The Association.

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