Vietnam veteran becomes an Ironman

Vietnam veteran George Hulse at the Ironman event in Cairns

It has been a year of milestones for George. After competing in the 226km Ironman Oceania Championship event, the retired Lieutenant Colonel is turning his attention to the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.  

Vietnam Veterans' Day is commemorated annually on August 18, the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan – one of the most significant conflicts for Australian service personnel who fought in the Vietnam War.  

More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam from 1962 to 1973. Of those who served, more than 500 died and around 3,000 were wounded or fell ill.

George’s Army service spanned over thirty years from 1960-1992, including twenty years in the Regular Army followed by twelve years in the Army Reserve. His deployment to the Vietnam War was one of his key posts from 1968-1969.  

“When it comes to commemorative events like this, it goes a long way in keeping recognition alive and connecting veterans to the broader community,” explains George.  

“This is a way for people to say, ‘thank you’ and understand the work and how it affected us physically and mentally.”  

George's career in the army spanned more than three decades

In 1968, George was called to the 26-day Battle of Coral and Balmoral near Saigon. Upon arrival, he was told he would use his expertise in both Infantry and Military Engineering. He worked day and night in what he called a very tight battle against the 7^th Division of the North Vietnamese Regular Army. 

“It was the largest battle fought by an Australian Army since World War II,” explains George. “However, back home, it was not as publicised as the Battle of Long Tan.” 

Due to anti-war attitudes in Australia during that time, George noticed the effect the war had on veterans’ mental health when they returned home.  

An athlete all his life, George found out early on that running and sports was a way for him to let off steam and would later help him deal with his PTSD.  

A cycling accident in 2021 resulting in a titanium hip means George is a true Ironman. George decided to engage in endurance triathlon events with the East Coast Cycos club after his retirement in 2002.   

“It’s mental and physical and keeps you engaged in wanting to achieve things, it’s therapeutic to do your best at it,” says George. 

In the final 200 metres of his recent Ironman event, George chose an inspirational Vietnam song to be played for him over the speakers called “Khe Sanh” by Cold Chisel. 

“When the officials said, ‘You’re an Ironman!’ – I had euphoria.” 

A former RSL Sub Branch President, George is still involved in the veteran community

George continues to stay very involved in service to his community, including a two-year presidency with the Toowong RSL Sub Branch. He is also the Immediate-past President of the First Field Squadron Association, Vice President of the War Dogs Association, and a member of the Defence Reserves Association.  

“Time goes on and Vietnam veterans understand there are younger vets who need to be cared for and looked after too,” George says.  

To mark the significant anniversary, George will head to Canberra for a commemorative service at the Vietnam Veterans Forces National Memorial followed by the Last Post Service at the Australian War Memorial in the afternoon.

On Vietnam Veterans’ Day (18 August), join us in honouring all Australians who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War.  

Attend an event at your local RSL Sub Branch or tune into a commemorative service.  

Learn More