In the first half of the incursion, Students watched an outstanding performance called ‘Dusted Off’ by Brett Hunt, the son of Frank Hunt, a Vietnam veteran.  Brett’s father is famously mentioned in Redgum’s song ‘I Was Only 19’ as  'Frankie kicked the mine the day mankind kicked the moon'. Brett’s performance was a combination of song, words and sound effects based on his Dad’s experience and those of the veterans Brett has known and spoken to over the years. Brett shared his parents and family’s stories and spoke about the long term effects of the war on the families of veterans. The performance was gripping, engaging and every student took something powerful from the play.

For the second half of the incursion we were fortunate to have three Vietnam veterans from Campbelltown RSL sub branch, Denis Wass, Ray Ezzy and Colin Noonan who generously gave up their time to speak to the students about their experiences. The History Club in April had interviewed these veterans about their experiences as part of the Anzac Day Schools Competition. At the incursion, Year 10 had the opportunity to ask questions of the veterans. The veterans explained how they were conscripted into the army, the nature of combat and their treatment on return.

The following are some student reflections:

‘Listening to Brett’s play taught me and all of my peers about the real struggles about war and what his father went through in a very creative perspective that engaged everyone. It not only brought out the soldier's perspective, it also brought out the family's perspective and what they went through. We also got a chance to listen to actual veterans who fought in the war listening to their point of view and then answering questions. Hearing from actual veterans helped to understand the different aspects of what each soldier experienced. We also learnt a lot of new things that we did not touch upon  in class, such as  soldiers having to use metal detectors and bayonets to feel for mines in the ground. It was an honor meeting the veterans and Brett and it would be amazing if we got to meet them again to learn even more about their experiences and stories in the war.’    Simra B, Year 10

‘This experience was one that I will not forget. Brett's creative play really made the Vietnam War and people's stories come to life with the use of his electric guitar and his passionate voice. There were times when some of us jolted by the noises and it made me think about how those people who experienced the Vietnam War were always on edge and always had some fear even when the war was finished. In their dreams, it was still alive and vivid. It really was an eye-opening experience and gave me a different view of the Vietnam War. Meeting veterans deepened my understanding of the War and I had an insight into individual stories, for example, their scariest experiences, how they handled all the grief and pain and more. I just want to say thank you to everyone who was involved in making this incursion happen to the teachers, veterans and Brett who performed for us.’  Jessica T, Year 10

‘For us, experiencing the veterans’ talk today provided us with more information and gave us a first-hand experience of the events that happened during the time. Hearing from Brett Hunt and the Veterans was greatly appreciated by the whole year 10 cohort. For many in year 10, hearing about these very personal experiences and events helped others gather a deeper understanding and appreciation of all those who have served our country. Some of the students have had family members be sent off to war, so these talks and performances really related to us and showed us just how emotional and just how much these stories relate to us. Hearing of the tragedies of war they had faced and the mistreatment they received once they returned was overwhelming. We are so thankful for the veterans’ giving their time to talk to us, and we are so appreciative of everything they shared. It was an enlightening experience and formed a deeper understanding of how they had served in the war. We thank them for their service and for having the courage to share their stories with us.’  Amelia R, Zarah-Jane A and Sophia W

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher and History Club Coordinator