Ricky Morris
Gunditjmara Man
Warrant Officer Class 2
Royal Australian Engineers
Australian Army
4th Brigade Formation Elder 2022
East Timor & Afghanistan Veteran
Medals
Australian Active Service Medal with clasps East Timor and ICAT
International Force East Timor Medal
Australian Defence Medal
NATO Non-Article 5 Medal with clasp ISAF
I’m the 21st member of the Lovett family, from the Gunditjmara people of Victoria, to serve Australia. I joined the Army Reserves in Gippsland in 1990, itching for Army life but balancing it with a plumbing and gas fitting apprenticeship and a young family. In 1995, I joined the regular Army as an Engineer, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Serving gave me a sense of pride, continuing my family’s tradition. My grandfather and his brothers served in World War I, and many family members have served in every conflict since. Despite the racism I sometimes faced, the Army built strong bonds and respect among us, regardless of background. One incident I recall was driving past Lake Tyers Aboriginal mission when non-Indigenous soldiers made racist remarks. My cousin Troy, a corporal, reported it through the chain of command. Although racism was around us, it wasn’t tolerated within our unit. We were judged by our abilities, not our skin colour.
My service took me to Timor-Leste in 1999 for four and a half months and then back to reserves. In 2008-09, I volunteered for an eight-month tour in Afghanistan. It was a surreal and dangerous experience, with rockets landing close by and constant threats. I used to pack my belongings and leave letters for my family every time I went out on patrol, unsure if I’d return. One night, a rocket killed two soldiers close to us, and I stopped worrying about getting hit, accepting that if it happened, I wouldn’t know because I would have been long gone.
After returning from Afghanistan, I felt isolated, struggling to reintegrate into civilian life. Going to the pub on a Friday night, everyone seemed to have moved on with their lives. I felt out of place, thinking about those still out there doing it hard. A crack of lightning and a clap of thunder during an everyday chore transported me to the warzone. I had no one to bounce off, only reserve soldiers. Sometimes, people’s ignorant comments about Aboriginals would set me off, making me feel even more isolated. I went into a bit of a hole, drinking to cope with the triggers. I recall my wife’s words: ‘Our war’s over now, yours has just begun.’ The adjustment was tough, but the support from family and friends helped. Anzac Day and Reconciliation Week hold special importance for me, honouring my service and that of all Aboriginal servicemen and women. I was humbled in 2022 when I was appointed the Indigenous Formation Elder for 4th Army Brigade.
I found purpose in working with the Victorian Aboriginal Housing Commission and being active in Aboriginal veterans’ groups. Reflecting on my service, I’m proud of the cross-cultural connections and the opportunities the Army gave me and others.
Now, I focus on my plumbing business and mentoring young people in the construction industry. Looking back, the Army was more than just service; it was about upholding a family legacy and creating a better future for the next generation. My journey from a young boy playing Army with stick guns to serving in real conflicts has been challenging yet fulfilling. Despite the mental strain and the moments of grief, the camaraderie and sense of duty have been deeply rewarding. My story is one of resilience, pride, and a continued commitment to serving my community and country.