I'd just turned 19 and living on the family farm when the government sent me a letter explaining that I was needed to defend the country. Australia was fresh out of wars at the time so it was no big deal. Just three months basic training at the Puckapunyal Army Camp, followed by three month's part-time in some specialised outfit. I didn't want to do this service as life was good in Civvy Street, but they reckoned the girls went for uniforms, so I asked my Old Man for advice.

"I can get you an exemption, son. I'm doing the same for your brother."

How?" I asked.