Ryan Fletcher – AVCAT Scholar

I am proud of my Dad’s service in Vietnam, and to be awarded the Long Tan Bursary means a lot. I know my Dad, in turn, can be proud of me.  

By Ryan Fletcher

Supplied: Ryan surrounded by members of 3RAR B Company

Building design has been an interest of mine since primary school. I was really pleased to be accepted into the Bachelor of Design (Architecture) in 2021 after completing my Advanced Diploma in Building Design (Architectural), at Swinburne University of Technology. 

Ryan building a model

This meant moving 550km away from my hometown to Melbourne. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, I have been studying online. Through all of the uncertainty, my Long Tan Bursary has been constant. It means one less concern, and I have very much appreciated it. It has enabled me to have the right tools and materials to study remotely.

My father served in Vietnam in 3RAR B Company in 1971. I have come to know many of his army mates and have had the honour of hearing their stories first-hand. I have great respect for how their service has contributed to the many freedoms our country has today.  

Ryan Fletcher

Army service is a big part of my family and family history. My paternal grandfather was a veteran of World War II, and my maternal great-grandfather was a veteran of World War I. He received a Military Medal and Bar for his bravery. 

I was honoured to receive the Long Tan Bursary during the second year of my Advanced Diploma. It has carried through into my Bachelor’s course and made a huge difference in easing financial worry and helping me on the way to achieving my dream. 

I am proud of my Dad’s service in Vietnam, and to be awarded the Long Tan Bursary means a lot. I know my Dad, in turn, can be proud of me.  

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