DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE
Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6265 3343, Fax: 02 62656946
MSPA 380/09
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
EMBARGOED:
11:30pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time, Tuesday 10 November 2009
(12:30pm Greenwich Mean Time, Tuesday 10 November 2009)
TROOPER MARK DONALDSON VC MEETS
HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABTH II
Australian Special Air Service Trooper Mark Donaldson, VC has attended an audience with
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Trooper Donaldson said being granted an audience with the Queen is a great honour and
something he will never forget.
“I feel very proud to be given the opportunity to meet Her Majesty the Queen. It’s something
not many people get do, so I feel very privileged,” Trooper Donaldson said.
Trooper Mark Donaldson, VC will also play an important role in Wednesday’s Passing of the
World War One Generation Service at London’s Westminster Abbey, as part of the official
commemorations marking Remembrance Day 2009.
Trooper Donaldson will join British Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry, VC in laying a wreath
during the service.
“Participating in the Remembrance activities and representing Australia and the ADF at the
international level is an honour I’m very much looking forward to,” Trooper Donaldson said.
While in London, Trooper Donaldson will meet with members of the Victoria Cross and
George Cross Association of which he is the newest member.
“It will be a learning experience for me to meet with other VC holders through the
Association. It will be good to share stories about commitments, the Association and life after
the receipt of the award.”
Media note:
Trooper Donaldson’s audience with the Queen will take place at Windsor Castle at 12.15pm,
Tuesday 10 November 2009 (London, UK time).
The Passing of the World War One Generation Service will be held at Westminster Abbey
from approx 10.45am on Wednesday 11 November 2009 (London, UK time).
Media contact:
Australia - Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
United Kingdom – Major David Harris: +61 (0) 409 905 297
NEWS 
