From infantry to international service: Mick reflects for ANZAC Day
For Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services client, Mr Michael (Mick) Trevitt, joining the military at just 17 years old was a chance to change direction and build a better future.
Growing up in Sydney in the 1970s and 80s, Mick was looking for a way to escape the ‘fast life’ and ‘gain some much-needed discipline’. Enlisting in the Australian Army offered exactly that.
‘I trained as an infantry soldier before being posted to Brisbane,’ Mick says. ‘After three years I sustained a back injury, so I decided to continue my career in the Medical Corps instead.’
Following his medical training, Mick was posted to 1 Field Hospital, an experience he remembers fondly.
‘It was a lot of fun – very similar to M*A*S*H* (the American war comedy drama set in a Korean war mobile army surgical hospital),’ Mick says.
Mick’s training then led him to a posting overseas. In 1995, he was selected to deploy to Rwanda as part of Australia’s medical support force under Operation Tamar.
The mission followed the devastating genocide that had taken place in the country the previous year. While the work could be confronting, he says the experience left a lasting impression.
‘Although I witnessed some of the worst of humanity, there were also some beautiful memories,’ Mick says. ‘The countryside was absolutely stunning with lush mountains, tea and coffee plantations, and the wildlife, including gorillas!’
Among the most meaningful moments were the visits to local orphanages supported by the Australian contingent.
‘It was quite humbling to interact with these war-torn kids who were just happy to see us,’ Mick says.
As ANZAC Day approaches, the veteran says he will be marking the occasion by reconnecting with those who shared his time in service.
‘This year for ANZAC Day, I’m going to Cairns to catch up with some old military mates,’ Mick says. ‘Next year I’ll be back in Robe assisting ‘Robe 2 Recovery’ and the Robe RSL.’
In recent years, ongoing health issues have meant Mick has needed additional support at home. He says the assistance he has received from Resthaven has made a significant difference.
‘Resthaven’s staff and management have been such a relief in assisting me at home,’ Mick says. ‘I just can’t thank them enough for the professionalism and empathy they show at all times.’
Thank you for sharing your story, Mick. Your story highlights the many different paths of service that people can take in military service, not only on the front line, but in the vital support roles that care for others during times of crisis.
Resthaven is honoured to support veterans like Mick, and we thank him for his contribution, both during his time in the Army and within the community today.