Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) William ‘Bob’ Parsons recently marked an extraordinary milestone in his military career, celebrating 50 years of dedicated service to the Australian Army. Parsons embarked on this journey straight out of high school on June 13, 1973, and was honored for his unwavering commitment to Defence on November 19. During a ceremony coinciding with the conclusion of Exercise Rhoden Strike, Commander 2nd (Australian) Division Major General David Thomae presented Parsons with a third Federation Star and a seventh clasp on his Defence Long Service Medal.
At the ceremony, WO2 Parsons, surrounded by friends and family, reminisced about his experiences, including achieving his Centurion drivers’ course milestone, which allowed him to operate a 52-ton main battle tank before even obtaining a civilian learner’s permit. Parsons expressed pride in his achievements, acknowledging the support of his family, particularly his wife Kerry, whom he credited for their collective effort, and his son, WO2 Robert Parsons, who also serves in the Royal Australian Armoured Corps.
Currently serving as a training development officer at Melbourne University Regiment in Hobart, WO2 Parsons continues to share his wealth of knowledge gained over the years. He emphasizes the significance of self-discipline, soldier welfare, and the pivotal role of junior non-commissioned officers in the Army’s hierarchy. Parsons, who has amassed various qualifications in armoured vehicles and completed numerous overseas training programs, advises young soldiers to persevere, highlighting the diverse opportunities and camaraderie the Army offers.
Encouraging those considering a career in Defence, WO2 Parsons suggests seizing the lifelong experiences and opportunities that the military provides. Post-retirement plans for Parsons include traveling with his wife, enhancing his golf skills, and spending quality time with family. Additionally, he aims to contribute to the Hobart community through volunteer work, aiming to continue making a positive impact beyond his military service.
WO2 Parsons’ story reflects the dedication and sacrifice of military personnel who devote their lives to serving their country. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring soldiers, showcasing the rewards of perseverance, hard work, and a steadfast commitment to Defence. As the Defence Long Service Medal receives an update, Parsons’ legacy stands as a testament to the enduring values of honor, duty, and service ingrained in the Australian Army’s rich history.
📰 Related Articles
- Triple J Celebrates 50 Years of Australian Music Influence
- Vietnam War Veteran Reunites with Singer After 50 Years
- Royal Australian Mint Celebrates 45 Years of Iconic Cake Cookbook
- Presbyterian College Celebrates 60 Years of Community Service
- Pomona Swap Meet Celebrates 50 Years Showcasing Classic Cars