In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo sits down with John Giampino, a 31-year veteran of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport and an ambassador for "I've Got Your Six." John's extensive military career began with his enlistment in the Melbourne University Regiment and transitioned into full-time service in 1985. He shares his experiences from initial training at Kapooka to various deployments, including peacekeeping missions in Bougainville and East Timor.

John's vivid recollections paint a detailed picture of life in the military, from the rigors of training designed to build resilience and condition soldiers for the demands of service, to the challenges and camaraderie of operational deployments. He discusses the unique aspects of water transport, including the critical role of teamwork and the necessity of being self-reliant while at sea.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on John's deployment to Bougainville during a time of unrest. He describes the initial shock of landing in a conflict zone and the importance of building trust with the local population, highlighting an incident where his quick action helped rescue a helicopter crew from a crash. John's accounts underscore the unpredictable nature of military operations and the resilience required to navigate them.

The episode also delves into the importance of self-care and mental health for veterans. John discusses the necessity of support networks and the role of organizations like "I've Got Your Six" in providing essential services to veterans. His insights into the mental and emotional challenges faced by service members are invaluable for both veterans and their support networks.

Throughout the episode, Andy and John maintain a conversational tone, balancing the gravity of the topics discussed with moments of light-hearted banter, reflecting the close-knit community within the military. This episode is a compelling listen for veterans, first responders, and anyone interested in the lived experiences of those who serve.

Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
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