Gallantry Decorations - December 2025 (2)

Overview

The Gazette, dated 28 October 2025, announces the Gallantry Decorations for December 2025, a proclamation issued under the authority of the Governor-General. This notice, numbered C2025G00688, supersedes the previous Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No C2025G00682 dated 11 December 2025. The awards recognise exceptional bravery and acts of gallantry by individuals in perilous situations. The Star of Gallantry is awarded posthumously to the late Lance Corporal Kerry Michael Rooney for his conspicuous gallantry during Operation BRIBIE in South Vietnam, demonstrating great personal courage and leadership in the face of danger. Additionally, Colonel Geoffrey Charles Skardon (Retd) is commended for his acts of gallantry in August 1964, highlighting the enduring recognition of bravery and service by the Australian government. This announcement reflects the nation's commitment to honouring those who have shown exemplary courage in the line of duty.

Scope and Application

The Gazette C2025G00688, issued on 28 October 2025, announces the Gallantry Decorations for December 2025, highlighting the bravery and service of individuals within the Australian Defence Force and other relevant personnel. This announcement applies to the named recipients of these decorations, specifically recognising their acts of conspicuous gallantry in action. The scope of the legislation includes the posthumous recognition of Lance Corporal Kerry Michael Rooney, who displayed exceptional bravery in South Vietnam, and the recognition of Colonel Geoffrey Charles Skardon for his gallant actions in August 1964. The geographic reach of this Gazette extends to the Commonwealth, as it pertains to acts of gallantry by Australian citizens or entities in service to Australia, regardless of where these acts occurred. The Gazette does not detail any exclusions or exemptions; however, it is implicit that only those who have demonstrated exemplary bravery in the face of great peril are eligible for such recognition. The application of this Act is primarily ceremonial and honorific, serving to formally acknowledge and celebrate acts of gallantry within the military and related sectors.

Key Provisions

The Gazette C2025G00688, dated 28 October 2025, outlines the awards of Gallantry Decorations for December 2025. This includes the Star of Gallantry (SG) awarded posthumously to the late Lance Corporal Kerry Michael Rooney (section 2) for his conspicuous gallantry in action in South Vietnam on 17 February 1967, as a Section Commander of 5 Platoon, Bravo Company, 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment during Operation BRIBIE. Additionally, a Commendation for Gallantry is awarded to Colonel Geoffrey Charles Skardon (Retd) for his acts of gallantry in August 1964. The Act does not impose specific obligations or requirements on any party or entity; it serves as an announcement and recognition of the bravery and service of these individuals. It establishes a formal acknowledgment of their actions and contributions, particularly in circumstances of great peril. The awards recognise the exceptional courage and service of these individuals, providing them with a formal recognition of their gallantry. There are no specific offences, penalties, or consequences outlined in this Gazette for breach, as it is primarily a notice of recognition and does not involve regulatory compliance or enforcement. The awards themselves are symbolic and honorific, acknowledging the bravery and service of the recipients. The Gazette serves to officially announce these decorations and supersedes previous announcements, such as Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No C2025G00682 dated 11 December 2025. The act of awarding these decorations is governed by the statutory authority of the Governor-General and the formal processes of the Australian Honours System.