Media Alert - Army launch of commemorative song paying tribute to Indigenous Australian soldiers

What:
The Australian Army will launch a commemorative song paying tribute to a century of distinguished service by Indigenous Australian soldiers.

The song will be launched during a performance by the song’s creator, John Schumann, at the Australian War Memorial.

Who:
The Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Morrison, AO, Australian War Memorial Director, Brendan Nelson, and the song’s creator, John Schumann, OAM, will be available for a media doorstop.

When:
1.45pm (AEST) on Saturday, 18 April 2015.

Media are invited to stay for the performance following the media doorstop.

Where:
Australian War Memorial, Canberra.

Media are asked to meet at the outside entrance to Anzac Hall no later than 1:30pm, Saturday, 18 April 2015..

Media note:
Media are requested to register their interest with Ms Katie Bird on the contact details below by 12pm (AEST) on Friday, 17 April 2015.

Background:
In the centenary year of Anzac, the Australian Army is recognising the contributions of Indigenous Army servicemen and women and the valued contributions our Indigenous soldiers have made to Australia’s military operations.

John Shumann, who wrote the Vietnam veteran anthem I was only 19, was commissioned by the Australian Army to record a song paying tribute to the Army’s past and present indigenous serving men and women. Mr Shumman and his band, the Vagabond Crew, will perform the song On Every Anzac Day in front of invited guests.

Media contact:
Ms Katie Bird, Communications Advisor Army Headquarters (02) 6265 7241 or 0407 299 525