Joseph Maxwell VC, MC and Bar, DCM is believed to be the second most decorated soldier from WW1, while Leslie Maygar, affectionately known as a 'true fighting commander' always lead by example in both the Boer War and WW1.

In this edition we look a John Leak, a teamster who went on to be a VC recipient with incredible acts of bravery at Pozières. Alby Lowerson, a gold miner, captured twelve machine-guns and thirty prisoners at Mont St Quentin.

Both of these VC recipients were wounded multiple times which eventually led to being invalided back to Australia, but not before they undertook acts of the bravest kind, like throwing back bombs as if they were cricket balls.

Both these gentlemen earnt their VC through exceptional bravery in the jungles of New Guinea.

Not only should we be thankful for LTCOL Joynt's heroic efforts in Plateau Wood, he was also involved in the campaign to build Melbourne's magnificent Shrine of Remembrance. Daniel Keighran is a name synonymous with the modern veteran and is only one of four living Australian VC recipients.

Clarence Jeffries organised and led a bombing party which eliminated obstacles and captured thirty-five prisoners and four machine-guns while Joergen Jensen eliminated a machine-gun crew and captured forty prisoners.

Did you know that Defence has a Cooperative Research Centre that helps to improve the competitiveness, productivity and sustainability of Australian industry? See what they are working on and also listen to their Chief Scientist in the upcoming Future Technologies of War Conference.

Review the eligibility criteria and apply to have your leadership experience formally recognised with the Cert IV in Leadership and Management.

Watch this short video on why and how you can invest in your #IntellectualEdge.

It's important for all serving members of our military to have a foundational knowledge of these hot topics.