National President of the Returned & Services League of Australia, Rear Admiral Ken Doolan AO RAN (Retd), has been appointed to the Council of the Australian War Memorial, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, announced today. Mr Griffin said the Council plays an important role in ensuring the Australian War Memorial continues to honour Australian service. Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, approved Rear Admiral Doolan’s appointment to the Council as a part-time member for a three-year term.

“Rear Admiral Doolan will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Council, particularly in relation to the Royal Australian Navy,” Mr Griffin said. “Rear Admiral Doolan served as an officer during the Indonesian Confrontation and the Vietnam War; as Commanding Officer of HMAS Tobruk in 1980 and HMAS Brisbane in 1984. In 1990 he served as Maritime Commander Australia and Operational Commander for all Australian combatant force deployed to the 1990-91 Gulf Crisis and Gulf War as part of Operation Damask. “

Since leaving the Australian Defence Force, he has held important and influential roles in the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal, the Order of Australia Association and currently as National President of the RSL. He has also written several historical works about the Australian Navy. “His blend of skills and experience and interest in military history will enable him to make an important contribution to the Council’s work,” Mr Griffin said.

The Australian War Memorial Council comprises up to ten part-time members, and the Chief of Navy, Chief of Army, the Chief of Air Force as ex-officio members. As part of the continuing legacy of commemorating Australia’s wartime service, the Council is responsible for the strategic direction of the Australian War Memorial.