- Published:
- Saturday 25 April 2026 at 8:00 am
This ANZAC Day (25 April), Ambulance Victoria (AV) graduate paramedic and Australian Army Nursing Officer Captain, Matthew Purdon said it’s a time to come together and remember those who have served our country.
A third generation Australian Defence Force (ADF) member, Matthew said he always knew he wanted to join the Army.
“My grandfathers served in WWI and WWII and my father served during the Vietnam era, so I always felt it was something I wanted to do to give back to my country,” he said.
“While I’ve had a very different experience in the Army so far compared to my grandfathers, it’s nice knowing we were all part of something bigger than yourself.
“Everyone who joins the ADF has a different reason for doing so, but ANZAC Day brings us all together, regardless of your service role or history.
“It’s nice having a day where the whole country has eyes on our past and present ADF personnel.”
Matthew first joined the Army in 2005 as a truck driver based in Queensland, where he was responsible for transporting people and equipment around the state.
He then transitioned into nursing and after moving to Victoria, was promoted to the role of Captain in the 3rd Health Battalion, 2nd Surgical Company.
As part of his role in the 2nd Surgical Company, Matthew works as both an anaesthetic and emergency nurse helping to bring surgical and resuscitative care as close to the point of injury as possible, as part of a small deployable field hospital.
Ultimately, his position as a military emergency and anaesthetic nurse combined with his experience as an emergency trauma nurse at major Melbourne hospitals, led Matthew to become a paramedic with AV.
“I now feel that my every day job reflects my work in the Army as they’re both focused on getting patients the pre-hospital emergency care they require, regardless of where they are based,” he said.
“There are many transferrable skills such as the ability to connect with patients, and the goal is always to provide the best care you can before the patient arrives at hospital.
“Part of the reason I’ve swapped nursing for paramedicine is because another nursing officer convinced me that it’s the best job ever. So far, I love it and fully agree with them.
“Each day is exciting and it’s great to be out amongst the community.”
Matthew is currently completing his graduate program at AV’s Frankston branch and said the support has been outstanding.
“I’m constantly learning and everyone has been very reassuring and supportive, including of my Army service,” he said.
“I’m proud of all I’ve achieved so far at AV and even more so of my 20 years and counting in the Army.
“It feels good knowing my kids will grow up seeing me wearing the uniforms and know that I’ve given back to not only my community, but also to my country.”
Lest we forget.
Updated