DAVID R. ALEXANDER
"Poppa"

It is with GREAT pleasure that I congratulate you on this HIGH honor.
You are both a great poet as well as a personal friend.

Again congratulations and God bless you

Poppa
January 26, 2006

Clarksville, Tennessee, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor,
and IWVPA Club Member)

FRED ALVIS

Congrats Tony.
If we ever meet in Northern NSW, I will give a shout in your honor - first rounds on me.

Fred
January 27, 2006

Indianapolis, Indiana, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor,
and IWVPA Club Member)

LOYDE P. ARENDER
"Snake"

To: Anthony Pahl, OAM
From: Loyde P. Snake" Arender

Dear Tony,

My Friend, I render a proper hand & heart salute to you for your many years of dedication, devotion, and duty to the Veterans of The World; and, congratulate you on your well-earned award of the Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division (OAM).

Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful, especially to My Friends)

Yo Ole' Bro
Loyde P. "Snake" Arender
January 27, 2006

Monroe, Louisiana, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor,
and IWVPA Club Member)

JOHN N. BALDWIN

Dear Anthony

I spent a couple HOURS on your site, and was thrilled to read the congratulatory letters from dignitaries and statesmen honoring your achievement for the OAM. That award is a capstone, and a fitting thank you, albeit small, for the thousands of selfless hours spent on the IWVPA site and in forwarding the cause of those who fought, who were wounded, and even died for their country. We never asked why, we just went and did.

The internet has reunited me with five... FIVE wounded soldiers on whom I operated, with YOU, and has broadened me and my family in 1,000 ways. Like TV, there is bad and sickness, but if you pick, choose, and use it for good, it is a most incredible tool. I do not believe I could do without it now... the explosion of friends, acquaintances, and the ability to communicate (like this) for FREE... is beyond anything I could have imagined just twenty years ago.

All the best, Mate.
JB

John N. Baldwin
March 6, 2006

Twin Harte, California, USA (Surgeon, Viet Nam Veteran, and IWVPA Contributor)

ROBIN AMY BASS

Congrats again Tony....you done good

Robin

Robin Amy Bass
January 25, 2006

New York City, New York, USA (IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

ROBERT W. BESKAR
"Bob"

Tony,

I want to give you a great big "good on you mate!" You are so well deserving of such an honorable award!! You have touched so many lives and have spread so much good will that thanks is hardly enough. Even though we've never met, I feel your friendship and "Mateship"! Thanks for allowing me to view all of your fine accommodations. Australia is so lucky to have such a fine individual as you.

In "Mateship"
Bob Beskar
February 4, 2006

California, USA (Viet Nam Veteran and IWVPA Contributor)

TIM BONE

Tony,
My Brother,

Highest Congratulations and happiness for you on this tremendous acknowledgement! It's about time that Australia finds out what we here have known already about the kind of rare and good man you are.

I salute you, my friend.
Again, congratulations.

Be Well
Tim
January 29, 2006

New Jersey, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

STEVE BRANDENBURG

Congratulations Tony, and well deserved my friend

Steve
January 26, 2006

Kansas, USA (Viet Nam Era Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

MAUREEN and ANDY BRIGANTE

Tony,

What a beautiful, prestigious award you have received. We're so proud of you. It couldn't have happen to a nicer person. Keep up the great work, you're truly a very special person.

With Love,
Maureen & Andy

Florida, USA (Maureen is an IWVPA Contributor and Andy, a Viet Nam Veteran)

F. WILLIAM BROOME
"Bill"

My Dear Tony

I offer my Heartiest Congratulations on the Significant Honor being bestowed upon you by your National Government. On this Australia Day you are changed citizen, with your chest a bit more out than before. Believe that you are fully deserving, and that all of your friends both in Australia and other countries are chest-busting proud of you for the humanitarian work you've carried out to this time.

Your Deeply Proud Friend,

F. William "Bill" Broome,
Resident of Georgia, United States of America
January 26, 2006

(WWII Veteran , IWVPA Contributor and IWVPA Club Member)

ROBERT A. BROWN
"Brownie"

Tony,

I've fallen off on reading my email; I have over 150 to catch up on. I just now learned of your award. Sorry it's late, but better late than never, especially where this is concerned.

Congratulations!!!

Every time I visit the IWVPA site, I leave with mixed feelings/emotions. It's hard to express them, as I'm sure you're aware. Some are the memories from Nam and then some are for the new brothers we are getting in Afghanistan and Iraq. Always, though, I leave knowing that there are others that share, if not the memories, a love, and respect for those of us who served our countries in Viet Nam.

Thank you for your hard work and dedication! As I've told you many times in the past, it's great to have you as a "Brother Down-Under."

Bob "Brownie" Brown
February 3, 2006

Franklin, Georgia, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and fellow VVO2 Club Member)

NEVILLE BRYANT
"Nifty"

Very well deserved medal Tony. There is nothing more that I can add.

NiftyBlue
January 26, 2006

Gembrook, Victoria, Australia (Viet Nam Veteran and fellow VVO2 Club Member)

HELEN and JEAN-PIERRE CALABRETTO

Dear Anthony,

Congratulations on your Australia Day honour. It's always great to see recognition given to people who deserve it.

We are really delighted for you.

With our very best wishes

Helen and Jean-Pierre Calabretto
January 29, 2006

Malvern, South Australia, Australia: Close Family Friends

CALLY CANTRELL

I just wanted to say, "Congratulations on your Medal." Thank you for your dedication to making our world a better place to live and to love in.

Cally
January 27, 2006

Nashville, Tennessee, USA

"CONGRATULATIONS"
MR. ANTHONY WILLIAM PAHL, OAM

January 27, 2006

Dear Tony:

It is with great satisfaction that I learned of your appointment to the Order of Australia today.

This is indeed, a wonderful and well-deserved honour and one that many of your friends and fellow veterans support with great vigour.

Well done my friend!

Cheers and blessings,

Mike Comeau, CD
Ontario Director
ICROSS Canada

PHIL "COUNTRY" CROWLEY

Well, Congratulations are in order!!!!

According to everything that I have read, you have done an outstanding job. I was thrilled to death when you published my attempts at writing and now, let me say that being a part of your site is an honor. I am going to forward this to Rebecca and her family.

Good Luck and Thank you, my Australian Brother!!

Phil (Country) Crowley

Statesboro, Georgia, USA" Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor
and fellow VVO2 Club Member

GRAEME DODD, OAM

Tony

Sincerest congratulations on your award.

I know that Brendan has already e-mailed you; however, I wished to personally congratulate you and thank you for all you have done for the Association.

Regards

Graeme
January 30, 2006

Doncaster, Victoria, Australia: Viet Nam Veteran,
President of the RAAF Viet Nam Veterans Association

BERNIE "DOC" DUFF

Tony, you have so graciously posted many of my paintings on this beautiful poetry site for quite a while now. I am merely checking in to offer my congratulations for the long overdue accolades you and this site have been awarded by the Australian government.

Great job, Tony!!
Your friend,
Doc Bernie Duff
March 1, 2006

Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, Artist, and IWVPA Contributor)

COLONEL (Ret) DONALD S. ETHELL, OC, OMM, OStJ, AOE, MSC, CD

Tony

Congratulations on receiving the Order of Australia!!!

Well deserved and well-earned. I understand you will be invested in April/May 2006. What a great honour for you and all poets! And for the ICROSS webmaster.

Again - congratulations!

Warmest regards,
Don

Colonel (ret) Donald S. Ethell
OC, OMM, OStJ, AOE, MSC, CD
Alberta Provincial Director
International Community for the Relief of Starvation and Suffering (ICROSS)

ALEXANDER R. FULLARTON
"Lex"

Mate,

You deserve it. Your CV is quite impressive. It is high time someone got the award for WORK DONE instead of buying the bastard which always leaves a sour taste in my mouth. Cheapens the medal in my opinion and does an injustice to those who truly deserve it. Fancy a bloody actress running second to a man who has found a cure for a cancer.

'Money can't buy you love' but that's from someone that's never been to a brothel.

I heartily congratulate you. Do not bullshit, the work you do is phenomenal and a real service to all - a real credit. It is we who are humbled to be included in your poetry. Any chance of it becoming a book? I suppose it would be a real bible by now. Mind you 'Sir Anthony' might be able to swing Australian War Museum behind it. I have seen the Commonwealth spend money on things not worth squat and this is real history, tradition, and culture.

Congratulations again
Regards

Lex
March 5, 2006

Canarvon, Western Australia: Australian Bush Poet, and IWVPA Contributor

LAWRIE GAY

You Bloody Beauty! Congratulations mate. You certainly deserve your recognition and yes, I do hope some people feel more than a bit embarrassed by their attitude back then.

I do know that like me you get around a bit... and it's terrific huh, and the result often is that we lose track of some people we care a lot about. I have just been eating humble pie these last few weeks as I realise I have lost track with some beaut friends and have had to scramble around and relocate them and then explain why the contact was lost. Me old mate Tony was one of them... and what bloody timing. I seem to be a bit psychic at times and this time I find my old buddy not only travelling well but a superstar as well (and I am proud to have played a small part in that happening)

So there we are mate, don't ever feel I expect anything from you for the few times I have been able to help you, I certainly do not. Just like to know you are OK.

I know you have had a pretty hard time over the years... for the rest of us (vets) it has probably been a good thing because it has been the creator of your fantastic work and I am proud to know you.

Take care, mate

Lawrie
January 27, 2006

Lemon Tree Passage, New South Wales, Australia
(Viet Nam Veteran and IWVPA Contributor)

H. GLEN GRIMES
"Boats"

Congratulations
Love you brother

Boats
January 26, 2006

Swainsboro, Georgia, USA: Viet Nam Veteran and fellow VVO2 Club Member

PAUL S. GIFFORD

Congratulations...Very well deserved.

Paul
January 25, 2006

Lake Forest, California, USA (Member of the The Poets Club,
daughter club of the IWVPA Club)

DENNIS E. HAINES

Tony,

My heart felt congratulations to you on receiving this wonderful and very prestigious award. You are so deserving of this recognition. Your efforts to create the IWVPA web site, is alone an outstanding achievement. To have started all this, continuing to honor veterans through this eloquent web site, and build upon what you started is a great accomplishment. All of us who have contributed things to IWVPA are honored that you have created such a wonderful place for our writings to be posted and everyone to see and read. Your talent, expertise and caring for your fellow veterans and their families are exceptional in so many ways. We the veterans can not thank you enough for all that you have done and continue to do. Keep doing the excellent job with the IWVPA web site that you have been and I know will continue to do.

Again – my sincere congratulations on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia.

Many thanks for all that you do.
A brother in arms and friend forever,

Dennis
March 8, 2006

Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient,
and IWVPA Contributor)

MAJOR VAN E. HARL, USAF (Rtd)

Tony,

I just heard about your award. Congratulations.

Your web site does great work, which means you do great work. Thank you for your efforts and thanks for putting my writings on your web site.

Van
January 27, 2006

Altus, Oklahoma, USA: (Retired US Air Force and IWVPA Contributor

JAMES CAROLYN HARRIS
"JC"

and

ANDY WILLIAMS

Dear Tony:

This is wonderful news. Your service to your country and your fellow service men and women did not end when you returned home, and it is so good to see that this has been recognized. You have touched so many and done so much to give aid and comfort that I pray this will in someway tell you how much you are appreciated.

I know personally that you have created a place where one very dear to my heart can come and feel at home and at ease in writing to help his soul. I know it does not heal all his pain, but it does give great comfort and I have seen that. Thank you and please accept my congratulations.

I told Andy and he was very excited about the award and said he knew of no-one who was more deserving of having their hard work and unselfish devotion to helping others acknowledged. He has been through a lot lately and has not been on line. He hopes to get going again soon, and asked me to convey his congratulations on an award well deserved.

God bless you and all that you do.
J.C. and Andy Williams
January 27, 2006

West Virginia, USA (IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

SISTER MARIA HENNEKAM

Congratulations Anthony on the occasion of you receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia. Well done and well deserved.

God bless

Sr Maria Hennekam
xx
February 1, 2006

Murray Bridge, South Australia: Family Friend

GARY JACOBSON

Words of the poets here do not suffice to capture the breadth of your honor. You are greatly loved for your kind spirit and your good works, unswervingly to go about your self appointed duty. This award, a fitting tribute well deserved, 'tis but public acknowledgement of the high respect felt for you... respect that daily you earn.

Well done, mate... brotherly huggzz....

Gary
January 26, 2006

Idaho, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor and Club Member)

COLIN F. JONES
"Col"

.............. good onya mate!!

Colin
http://cfj.anzacpoetry.com/

Colin F. "Col" Jones
January 26, 2006

TO A FRIEND

~ 1 ~

Test thee then thy friendships to the limit,
Lest in that sacred circle there is none in it.
Yes some might use thee for a personal gain,
Acquainted with, and friendship aren't the same.
Promote not self lest self promotes your fame,
As progress caused in someone else's name,
For the badge of honour is worn above the heart,
Wherefrom its symbol should never ere depart.
Lesser flowers mass around the rose you know,
And yellow Taraxacum there beside it grow,
But then the Rose oft is not red but yellow,
And Angels are like Devils but more mellow.
But where this observer sits the sweet bird sings,
As from the Rose the breeze true crimson brings.

~ 2 ~

About the Rose the un-mown grass is green;
The nettles hide their stings that they be seen,
Caught in the reflections of the vermillion light,
That might attract the Bumble Bee's delight!
But now the sun must sink beyond the hills,
Night reaching out that darkness she fulfils,
And in the settling refuge of her claim,
The sleepless Rose is all alone again.
Bathed in the silver light of the ancient moon,
Around the Rose a million more roses bloom,
But a Red rose in darkness, is the colour black,
The glory it perceived it now doth lack.
'Tis time to sleep; to fold the petals away,
For soon enough they'll fade in the light of day.

~ 3 ~

What more can we do than to do our best;
To seek with passion to fulfil our quest,
Surmounting doubts, pausing then going on,
Obligated by conscience; obligated to none.
Not born from dreams; born from dire need
For self stimulation yet not for greed.
Then learning more; friendships truly formed,
A family of poets; talents sincerely performed.
And this shared pain, and anger and delight,
This understanding! This love! This tenacious fight
Is given space to germinate, grow, and blossom
By the on going passion of a sincere person.
My good friend, my mate my man of peace,
Tony Pahl may all your joys increase.

©Copyright January 29, 2006 by Colin F. Jones

Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia:
(Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

DEL JONES
"Abe"

AN AUSSIE BARD

He joined the RAAF
At the age of seventeen
And been a Proud Australian
All those years in between.

For more than twenty years
He served in the Air Force
A chopper gunner in Viet Nam
That served to change life's course.

Disabled by that Service
But things really began there
To Serve his fellowman
To help others See and Care.

Like so many other Veterans
Who survived that War
When the battles ended
He found that there were more.

Some had their personal demons
To contend with when back home
Some searching for their "Peace"
Their life spent on the roam.

Much more fortunate than some
He had a strong and loving Wife
And two wonderful Daughters
To help him reclaim his Life.

But his Comrades in Arms
Those, of like Heart and Mind
Searching ways to Honor them
Was kind of hard to find.

Then in Eighty-eight
He found his Skill with Pen
And never looking back
He's been writing Words since then.

A fine, untrained Wordsmith
His style unlike most the "rest"
He found his outlet for his Thoughts
And his Feelings, worst and best.

He also made some places
For others to pen their word
And to maybe help those others
So their thoughts might be heard.

He tries to help less fortunate
And to end suffering and strife
But don't call him a "Hero"
That's just how he lives his life.

But folks in Canada disagreed
Honored by ICROSS in '04
"Humanitarian of the Year Award"
And this year, there's even more.

The "Order of Australia"
Is kind of like being "Knighted"
And knowing one of that "Order"
Makes me kind of excited.

We need more People like him
And I am Proud to call him, "Friend!"
And I wish him all the very best
With this heartfelt, "Congrats!" I send.

©Copyright January 22, 2006 by Del 'Abe' Jones

Congratulations Tony – and well deserved

Spokane, Washington, USA (Viet Nam Veteran and IWVPA Contributor)

NOEL KESSLER

And one more to the list Tony. Congratulations Brother. Quite an honor!

Poncho
January 26, 2006

Clyo, Georgia, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and fellow VVO2 Club Member)

LOU J. KLAIBER
"Cal"

ooooOOOOOORRRRRRRAAAAHHHH!

Congratulations on a well deserved honor. We are proud of you, Tony.

Cal
January 27, 2006

Georgia, USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor and fellow BPJ Club Member)

RONNIE G. LEONARD
"Ron"

Tony,

First off, good going bro – congratulations on winning the OAM. It does us all proud and it couldn't have gone to a more deserving soul.

You have given us all a place to vent our inner most feelings, and those feelings we write about has a medicinal quality that seems to help so many others.

Keep up the fire!

Ron
January 28, 2006

Anchorage, Alaska, USA (Viet Nam Veteran and IWVPA Contributor)

ROGER LIEBMANN
"Rogue"

Congratulations Digger,
I always knew you were spot on!!

Rogue
January 26, 2006

Bunbury, Western Australia, Australia (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor,
and IWVPA Club Member)

JOHN ROBERT MALLERNEE

Tony,

Congratulations and adulation for your selfless devotion, which brought you this prestigious and much deserved honor.

Thank you.

John Robert Mallernee
January 26, 2006

Washington, DC USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor and Club Member)

MICHAEL MARKS

Hi Tony!

This letter is long overdue, its delay in small part to a very hectic last month but to a much greater measure my speechlessness at the great news you shared when last we corresponded. I went on the web and read up on the Medal of the Order of Australia and in a utter insufficiency of language skills I could only come up with a hushed... wow.

And yet, as much as it is a huge honor, I could not help but think of the sacrifices in your life upon which the honor was based and for which it is so well-deserved. It would be easy for someone today to focus on the poet, the webmaster, the collector, and protector of a delicate art that honors the lives of those who fought for freedom. For myself however, I was struck at once of the image of a much younger Tony Pahl in the jungles of Viet Nam, living and breathing the realities upon which many now reflect in writing as abstracts. Taking liberties with assumptions about your life which for which I have little basis aside from our correspondence, I believe in my heart that it was your service as a warrior, and your dedication to all those before and after, that shaped the vision that would become IWVPA, that would craft the words of your own poems and would bring comfort to so very, very many. It is not the nature of the civilian to stand guard over the memories and reputations of comrades; it is the work of warriors. You have done so unflinchingly through years of hard word when I'm sure the lure of easier endeavors fought for your attention. You have made it an enduring monument Tony, and in that you have every reason in the world to beam with pride.

I will share with you something I heard at the inauguration of the USMC Scout Sniper Association. The general overseeing the event looked about the room at a crowd of snipers whose service ranged from Iraq a week before all the way back to the beaches of Tawara. He looked at the room, whose walls were covered with photos and rifles and such and said "What you have created here is more than just a memorial to service past; it is an example to those yet to come. It will become a place which, when seen by the young soldiers of tomorrow, they will aspire to be worthy to join your ranks. It will give them pride, push them to excel, and in the dark moments of combat give them strength. This" he gestured, "is your mission, and it is your strength that will see that mission continue." Tony, as I looked about the room I couldn't stop the tears brimming in my eyes to see the absolute glow from the men around me, the fierce pride in their own eyes as they sat straight and tall.

I believe most sincerely that IWVPA is your great mission Tony, and that in the same vein it will go on to inspire countless soldiers who one day might find themselves in the very scenes you penned. They will see the reality in words that could only come from someone who'd "been there, done that" and will take strength knowing that you prevailed. I believe some will be inspired to prove themselves to be the stuff of poetry, or to one day take pen in hand themselves and add their own message to this great testament that you have built. It is as real and as critical a mission as they come and it could not have been done any better. Well, mission accomplished Tony, and damn well done.

I send this with my best salute, and my own pride at the honor of being able to call you my friend.

All the best,

Michael
February 24, 2006

Poet and IWVPA Contributor

PAUL F. McCANN

Hi Tony,

Well old man, Congratulations are in order big time for you in relation to the OAM. My wife and family are so delighted when we heard the fantastic news. No doubt you'll have to attend lots of functions and talk about you life both as a Soldier and a Poet. It couldn't have gone to a better man.

Respectfully yours,

Paul
January 31, 2006

Sydney NSW, Australia (Writer and IWVPA Contributor)

MARGARET and JOHN McINTOSH

Congratulations Tony for being awarded the Honour of "Order of Australia"

from Margaret and John (Blue) McIntosh
January 31, 2006

Murray Bridge, South Australia: Family Friends

NANCY L. MEEK
"Lilripple"

My Dearest Tony....

I am extremely elated that the decision has finally been made to present you with the award you so richly deserve. I hope you don't mind me asking you to forward my letter of support onto the IWVPA group members. I am bursting with joy for you and would like everyone to know how much I appreciate you. I would have contacted you sooner but I was asked to keep this in the strictest of confidence until the decision was final.

With my sincerest love and gratitude, I am

Nancy
January 25, 2006

Charleston, South Carolina, USA (IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

Webmaster's Note: I don't feel comfortable in including the supporting letter that Nancy mentioned, feeling already that this page has the makings of "blowing my own trumpet" too loudly. AWP

JOSEPH C. MERCIECA
"Chick"

Hiya M8,

Congrats on your award, thoroughly deserved in my book!

I would be honoured to act as your chauffeur and drive you and Maria to Government house for the presentation of your award in the Mercedes. After all, the car is a former diplomatic vehicle for the republic of Liberia.

Take care,
Love to you both
Chick and Sue
January 29, 2006

Daisy Hill, Victoria, Australia (Viet Nam Veteran and IWVPA Contributor)

AL O'CANAS
"Pancho"

Tony, this is "OUTSTANDING"; Congratulations for a Well Deserved Recognition!!! This is simply Beautiful!!!

Pancho
January 27, 2006

Dallas, Texas, USA (Viet Nam Veteran and fellow VVO2 Club Member)

JEFFREY ORTH

Congratulations on being recognized for your humanitarian service.

After the events of Sept. 11, 2001, I carried the U.S. Flag back and forth across the Golden Gate Bridge every week day morning for a year to memorialize those who lost their lives and to honor those first responders who gave and risked their lives. During that year, I asked several people from other countries who lost citizens on that day to join me in my walk across the bridge. I am happy to report that there are two young Australian men here in San Francisco, who proudly carried their nation's flag along side "Old Glory".

Thanks again, Mr. Pahl, for your contributions to society.

Jeffrey Orth
January 28, 2006

San Francisco, California, USA (Viet Nam Era Veteran)

KERRY "DOC" PARDUE

Congratulations, well done my friend. So happy that you were honored, you deserve it.

Doc Pardue
February 15, 2006

Chandler, Arizona, USA (Viet Nam Combat Medic, IWVPA Contributor,
and IWVPA Club Member)

NICK PERCOWYCZ

Dear Mr. Pahl –

I would also like to congratulate you on the award of the medal you received!! I read your biography, and it sounds to me this is just one of many of well deserved awards! Well done!!! When I meet a veteran for the first time, I always tell them thank you! It is my way of letting them know I appreciate what they did for me!

I thank you Mr. Pahl, for all that you did for me!!

God bless you!!!

Nick
February 1, 2006

USA (IWVPA Contributor)

RICHARD D. PRESTON
"Boondocker"

Proud of you mate, this is an award well deserved. You have made a positive contribution and effort to bring to light the heartfelt emotions of Veterans worldwide; those of which would have no place of expression without the IWVPA. The result... healing and a feeling of self worth for many of us.

God Bless you, my friend.

Boon
January 28, 2006

Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA: Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor,
and fellow BPJ Club Member

PETE QUIGLEY
"Quig"

Congrats Tony. Ya do good Brother. As Nifty said, "Very well deserved."

Quig
January 26, 2006

Augres, Michigan, USA: (Viet Nam Veteran and fellow VVO2 Club Member)

JANET RATTAY

Dear Tony,

Congratulations on your award. I was perusing the website and there it was. You are so deserving of it. Bernie and I send our warmest and sincere wishes to you. You do an outstanding job.

Love,
Janet
January 29, 2006

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA: (IWVPA Contributor and IWVPA Club Member)

RICHARD W. REITH
"Rich"

FOR TONY ON THE OCCASION OF HIS HONOR

When God puts angels with us
He hides them in plain view
they do not sing, and have no wings
They look like me
and you

They may be Christian or Muslim
or may be Hindi or Jew
You just know by what they sow,
You know
by what they do.

We knew of the angel amongst us
the poet through and through
Who has brought peace, and to pain, surcease,
to thousands he never knew.

From Canada to Australia
He's fought evil of every hue,
From an awful war on distant shore
to starvation and suffering too.

Canada found this angel
Then Australia saw him too
And sang his praise with voices raised
and we know, long overdue.

So today we sing the praise
of the caring he never outgrew,
and he, who from his heart will never depart.
We will know by what he'll do.

Thank God for the touch of this angel,
devotion to good, let's renew.
And let it be that what people see
Is all the good WE do.

And

When it comes to his end of days
To the end of his passion fervent,
He will hear those precious words of praise:
"Welcome home, my faithful servant."

©Copyright January 2006 by Richard W. Reith

Words cannot describe how wonderful that is. AWESOME, TONY!!! What a way to celebrate Australia Day!!

Rich
January 26, 2006

Dallas, Georgia, USA: Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member

RANDY E. RICHMOND

I never had a doubt! Congratulations my friend on a truly great honor... you've done yourself, your family, your country, and we here, proud! Here is a sharp hand salute (the funny Aussie kind with the palm facing outward) to you sir and brother. Now I can tell my friends that Anthony Pahl OAM once slept in my bed.... hmmm, wonder what that would do on e-bay?? LOL

Wish I could be there to see the presentation my friend... take lots of pictures!

Randy
January 26, 2006

Waterloo, Iowa, USA: Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member

KELLY AND PATTY RIGGIN

Dearest Mr. Pahl,

Sending congratulatory greetings your way from Northern California! Del Jones is a dear friend of mine and has sent along your notice of award of OAM; how fitting that it would be announced, as well, on Australia Day!

For many years, my husband and I have both worked in support of Defense and I was honored to have worked with the Australian Navy to supply them certain DF systems. Your country is most beautiful, as is your spirit to serve, and we are proud to extend our heartfelt greetings and congratulations to you and your family.

All the best to you,
Kelly and Patty Riggin
January 28, 2006

California, USA

MARY E. ROGERS

Tony,

Words cannot convey what I feel. I am so very proud of you and all that you do and accomplish. You are so deserving of this award. It is not just keeping our writings safe and giving us a home to display them but it is also your love and caring attitude that is appreciated deeply. I am honored to call you friend. May that third party not be needed for many, many years. They may be able to keep the website going but they could never replace your friendship and love that you give to each and everyone of us.

I feel much excitement for you tonight and I send you and Maria my love. She must just be about as proud of you as any wife could be.

Love and best wishes always,

Mary
January 26, 2006

Lewistown, Pennsylvania, USA (IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

RAAFVVA
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE VIET NAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION

Hi Tony

Congratulations on being awarded the OAM. I was aware you had been nominated and RAAFVVA supported the nomination but one never knows how it will go until the awards are released. You fully deserve recognition for your work with veterans and we are proud to call you a member of our association

Best Regards
Brendan Lynch
Sec RAAFVVA

January 26, 2006

CHRISTINA A. SHARIK

Congratulations, Tony!!!!!!!!!

Big hugs from here in Ohio! (And Jean is asking: Could she please have an autograph?!) What a thrill for you - I can't think of a better person to receive such an honor

Hugs,
Christina
April 10, 2006

Ironton, Ohio, USA (IWVPA Contributor and IWVPA Club Member)

FAYE SIZEMORE

Congratulations, Tony! You are deserving of this, and so very much more.

Hugs to you, my friend...
Love,
Faye
January 26, 2006

Liberty, South Carolina, USA: IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member

JAMES SIDEL, CD
"Jim"

Good afternoon Mr. Pahl,

I have heard so much of you, and only wish to congratulate you on being nominated and made a recipient of the Order of Australia. I am sure that like in Canada, this honour means much to those who receive lit.

On behalf of me and my family we wish you all of the best.

Almost forgot, and feel a bit foolish for taking so long to send regards for the 2004 ICROSS Humanitarian award.

In the Service of Peace

James (Jim) Sidel CD
January 29, 2006

Mcpl Mark Isfeld Memorial Chapter
Canadian Association of United Nations Peacekeepers (CAVUNP)

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL MURRAY BRIDGE

Box 22
MURRAY BRIDGE SA 5253

Dear Anthony,

Congratulations on being awarded the OAM.

It is good that your dedication, enthusiasm, and tireless efforts on behalf of the Viet Nam Vets has been acknowledged. You are obviously one of the great quiet achievers.

Best wishes for your future endeavours.

Your sincerely,
Peggy Bennett
30 January 2006

ANN-MARIE SPITTLE

Major congrats Tony!

And don't forget to post the pictures for us of your great day, so we can see you getting your awards.

Ann-Marie
January 26, 2006

London, England (IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)

MIKE SUBRITZKY
"Subs"

Yo Tony!!!

Absolutely outstanding mate!!!

Bloody well deserved too I might add!!!

Over the last several years your work has supported kids homework assignments, University research in regards soldiers and war, and given a lot of pleasure and experience to many, many thousands... and that is only through your work as the webmaster of the IWVPA.

Not withstanding all of the other community oriented stuff that you are involved in, the Honour and due recognition that you have received is long overdue, and I am glad that your country has chosen to recognise your work with this Decoration and Honour.

For our American friends, what Tony has just received is "Membership" in an Australian Order of Chivalry.

The blue of the ribbon, is associated with the sea that surrounds "The Lucky Country" plus (from memory), the overall colour of the National Ensign (flag). The 'fluffy' round shape that is the medal, and the round shape on the ribbon, represents the flowers of the Australian "Golden Wattle" tree, which is native to Australia. It is a very beautiful and delicate flower, which blooms in the harsh outback environment which is Australia.

Tony... good on yer mate.

Hugs and sloppy kisses,

Subs
January 26, 2006

New Zealand (Rhodesian War Veteran, Peace-keeper, IWVPA Contributor,
and IWVPA Club Member)

DAVID LEE THOMPSON

Dear Anthony,

Happy Australia Day and congratulations to you, Anthony W. Pahl, OAM, for being presented with the Order of Australia Medal because of your service to veterans on the international level.

It is truly an honorable thing that you do for us, and I, for one, am most appreciative. You seem to give so much of yourself, and I can't help but feel that there's an even higher reward for you one day. Rest assured that the words I've spoken come from the heart.

May you and Maria have a blessed day.

Respectfully,

David
January 27, 2006

Salt Rock, West Virginia, USA (Viet Nam Veteran and IWVPA Contributor)

DORIS VEGA

Hi Tony...

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

May the Lord reward you in heaven for what you do here on earth...

Love,
Doris
January 27, 2006

USA (IWVPA Contributor and fellow BPJ Club Member)

SANDY VINSON

Dear Brother,

It is with great joy that I learned tonight of your recent award, the Medal Of the Order of Australia. It has been a true journey of your always growing and glowing spirit, which culminated in such hard-earned and well-deserved recognition.

How very poetic it is, that from the beginnings of our friendship, you have so beautifully Advanced, Australia Fair - in word and in deed. In thought, I keep you within the circle of those I count as friends, never to be forgotten. Trust that our friendship shall forever remain gently wrapped within a safe and friendly perimeter - such is the tissue of my heart - and always blessed in prayer, as I close each precious day.

May St. Arty continue to be your special internal muse, and spirit-guide....

Always,
Sis
SandyV
January 27, 2006

Texas, USA (Friend, poetess, and patriot)

William H.A. Willbond MSM, CD
"Billy"

CONGRATULATIONS
Anthony William Pahl
World famous Military Poet (the Aussie Bard) Awarded the Order of Australia

A kid, Tony served oe'r in Viet Nam – a Helo Dust off MG man
He served his Country, with courage, love, and great pride
Suffering inner turmoil because so many Aussies had died
Beautiful Maria, his young Bride, persevered, staying at his side

Tony suffered in uniform for more than 20 long years
Received hospital treatment and was pensioned in tears
As part of his therapy he wrote many's the fine poem
Which helped many others, who just now came home!

Those who were suffering because their mates were all dead
Understood Tony's writings – they admired what he said
He started a veteran's website, called the IWVPA
Where Military Poets and friends can now have their say

ICROSS CANADA now has a website run by Tony Pahl
He volunteers and donates his site and has time for us all
About suffering AIDS ORPHANS and each hungry kid
He spreads the word worldwide, and we wish others did!

His Country will now give him deserved high recognition
For his helping our wounded – it's their act of contrition
And because of this honour, poets across the world, wide
We will all applaud Tony as he stands tall with pride!

©Copyright January 2006 by William H.A. Willbond MSM, CD

CONTRATULATIONS MATE

Saanichton, British Columbia, Canada
(IWVPA Contributor, and CEO and President of ICROSS CANADA)

THURMAN P. WOODFORK

Now, that is truly outstanding, and well deserved. Congratulations, Tony.

T. P. 'Woody' Woodfork
January 25, 2006

Washington, DC. USA (Viet Nam Veteran, IWVPA Contributor, and IWVPA Club Member)