A Spotlight on John King
With Anzac Day approaching, we want to take a moment to honour the service, sacrifice and resilience that defines this important day. Vikings is proud to commemorate those who have served and continue to serve our country.
One such member is John King, a passionate individual who has dedicated his life to the military from the age of 19.
In January 1971, John received a call-up from the Australian Government to serve as a National Serviceman. What began as a two-year commitment would evolve into a military and public service career spanning more than four decades. A journey marked by duty, resilience, and an enduring dedication to comradeship.
John’s military life was defined by three distinct chapters: two years of National Service, 23 years in the regular Army, and 14 years in the Army Reserve. Over those 39 years, he witnessed extraordinary moments in Australia’s defence history, including being in command of his Battalion on the day the world changed on 11 September 2001. He reflects on his time in uniform with immense gratitude. “I had my 21st birthday in the Army. Life has been good to me, I’ve had good friends, meaningful challenges, and a family that is the greatest part of my life.”
His service took him to foreign countries, which offered him a perspective few civilians could appreciate. “It gave me a greater appreciation for what we have here in Australia. It’s the best place in the world for freedom and lifestyle, the bee’s knees, really.”
John’s dedication didn’t cease upon retirement. After formally stepping down from active defence duties, with the intention of focusing on family, he was quickly approached to serve as the National Secretary of the Returned & Services League (RSL) of Australia. He later held positions as ACT President and Deputy National President of RSL Australia, roles that had him overseeing not only local operations but also RSL branches overseas. His second planned retirement in 2024 was short-lived; within a year, he was once again elected Branch Media Adviser.
Even now, John continues to serve, working with the Tuggeranong RSL Branch. “I retired again last June from the presidency. My goal was to stay at home and pester my wife,” he chuckles. “But they asked me to stay on, so I did.”
A Vikings Group member since 1993, John now has a cherished Sunday tradition, each week, he and a group of mates, along with their partners, gather at the Town Centre Vikings Club, a ritual that highlights the importance of community and connection. “There’s usually ten of us, and our wives, we just talk and enjoy lunch. It’s become something really special.”
John credits the unwavering support of his family for everything he’s been able to accomplish. “No serviceman or woman could do what they do without family behind them. I was away for eight months once, and my wife ran the household and raised our children without missing a beat.”
To John, Anzac Day is both solemn and celebratory. “It’s the real time that I reflect on the people I worked with who are no longer with us. In my unit, we started with 15. Now, there are only four of us left.” He finds great meaning in the traditions of the day, especially the dawn service. “It’s the best start to any Anzac Day,” he says. “There are two sides to it, I commemorate with my mates who are still here, and I honour those who’ve gone”.
When asked to describe himself in three words, John chooses carefully: grateful, life, and comradeship. “I’m grateful for everything I’ve been able to do. Life has been good to me, with all its ups and downs. And I deeply appreciate my comrades. That’s what it all comes down to in the end.”