John Lovett discusses his father Herbert’s service. Herbert Lovett served as a machine gunner on the Western Front during World War 1, and served again in World War 2. Four of Herbert’s brothers also served. Herbert lived around Lake Condah Mission and Heywood in Victoria. He received no soldier settlement, despite having applied. John discusses his efforts at gaining recognition for his father’s service, and for his father’s treatment at the hands of the authorities. While Herbert served his country, John believes that when he returned ‘he was back to being black’.

This interview took place on 6 March 2015 in Heywood and was conducted by Dr Allison Cadzow with Craig Greene as part of the Australian Research Council-funded research project Serving our Country: a history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the defence of Australia.

The interview recording above is made available to be viewed here by permission of the interviewee(s), John Lovett. The recording may not be copied, reproduced or communicated in whole or in part without the prior permission of the interviewee(s). Requests for permission for use of this material should be made to the Serving our Country research project: our contact details.

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