Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

I had the privilege of being the driver for Major P W Bourke, the Officer Commanding C Squadron First Armoured Regiment, second tour 1971.

Major Bourke was the OC during the Battles of Long Khanh and Hermit Park.

He was a leader who was deeply committed to his postion of responsibility and to the men under his command.

That leadership was tested in terms of his ability to manage both our Squadron and the other Units with whom we shared the field of battle; and he was also seriously challenged by the injuries suffered by his men, arising directly or indirectly from his orders.

He was a deeply religious person and I believe that at this time in particular, he found solace with God, as his way of dealing with these multiple difficulties of leadership during wartime.

It was perhaps the weight of this burden combined with a reserved manner, that made him seem aloof, however his focus was always on the job at hand and the competence of those for whom he had responsibilty.

He was a great Australian and his service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.