Parliament House Canberra ACT 2602
Telephone 02 6277 7820 Facsimile 02 6273 4140
The Hon Alan Griffin MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
VA004
24 January 2009
ABBOTT’S COMMENTS OFFENSIVE AND DEGRADING TO VETERANS
Tony Abbott's comparison of former Prime Minister Howard's Presidential Medal of Freedom
and Trooper Mark Donaldson's Victoria Cross is offensive.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs Alan Griffin said today the comments highlight a fundamental lack
of understanding of the service and sacrifice of Australia's military and its veterans.
"While rightly lauding Trooper Donaldson, Tony Abbott has then sought to equate a Victoria
Cross awarded to a man who has shown supreme bravery under fire to save the lives of others
to the medal given to former Prime Minister Howard.
“Such a comparison is offensive and degrading to those who put their lives on the line for our
country.
"You can have a legitimate debate about the merit of John Howard's award. However, Mr
Abbott's contention that political courage is "a higher and rarer virtue" than physical courage
suggests that he clearly sees Mr Howard's medal as superior to the Victoria Cross.
"The deeds required to be awarded a Victoria Cross are incomparable with the challenges of
political life.
"Mr Abbott must have a complete lack of understanding of what our veterans and their families
have given to this country, or the conditions under which they serve.
"I call on Malcolm Turnbull to ensure Mr Abbott apologises for his offensive comments and
comparisons. It is the least our servicemen and women and our veterans deserve,' Mr Griffin
said.
Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109
The VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a
week on 1800 011 046.
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