John Schnaars OAM
Retired Trooper
Gunner/Signaller
1st Forward Delivery Troop, 1st Armoured Regiment
Royal Australian Armoured Corps
Vietnam War Veteran
Medals and Awards
Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75 with clasp
Vietnam Medal
Australian Defence Medal
Anniversary of National Service 1951-72 Medal
Returned from Active Service Badge
Army Combat Badge
NAIDOC Senior Male Citizen of the Year 2004
Order of Australia Medal (General Division) 2019
John Schnaars is an Indigenous Vietnam Veteran who has always believed in paying respect to all indigenous defence service men and women who have served Australia in times of conflict. As a result of this vision, he established Honouring Indigenous War Graves Inc. in June 2005. This non-profit organisation operates around the primary objective of “honouring the service and sacrifices of our indigenous veterans” in Western Australia. Over a short period of time (2005-2010) he, along with his many supporters, has enabled the acknowledgement of over 100 indigenous veterans throughout the state. H.I.W.G. Inc. has touched the hearts of many families, communities, ex- and current defence personnel and many others through his ability to “make it happen”.
John’s perseverance and strength of character has resulted in the placement of many headstones throughout Western Australia for those indigenous veterans who otherwise would not have been recognised, along with a ceremony of recognition and acknowledgement for the families of these veterans. This alone has provided a long overdue opportunity for family and friends to openly share their love and pride for their passed loved ones’ efforts. He has often been asked what drives him and keeps him motivated when it comes to Honouring Indigenous War Graves Inc. His response is as follows:
Lest We Forget
http://www.hiwg2005.websyte.com.au/