Frederick Albert Cullen OAM
~ On the Canvas Of Service, 2022
I still have something to offer…
Content Advisory:
The following story contains personal reflections from an Australian veteran that may include themes of trauma, war-related experiences, mental health struggles, and suicide. These narratives are shared with deep respect and the intent to honour service, foster understanding, and offer hope to those facing similar challenges.
If you are feeling distressed or need support, we encourage you to reach out. Help is available.
-
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
-
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling: 1800 011 046 (24/7 support for veterans and their families)
Please proceed with care and compassion.
When Of Service first took form, I had no vision of including a World War II veteran. It was not out of disinterest—it simply never occurred to me. I was a civilian with no personal connection to the world of service, separated from that era by decades. And yet, somehow, I found myself preparing to meet Fred. Destiny, I believe, has a quiet way of stepping in when we are ready to listen.
I had planned our time carefully—two days, gentle and unrushed, with space for rest. Fred welcomed me with a glint of humour and remarkable clarity. “I will give you my primary education, secondary and tertiary education, qualifications achieved, jobs taken throughout life, and other occupations like farming and grape growing.”
What followed was a journey through history—told with warmth, detail, and a dry wit that made me feel like I was right there with him. “My memory holds good,” he said, “apart from this leg business.”
Sergeant (SGT)
Australian Army
13/6/1921 – 22/2/2024
He described his time at Seymour and Bonegilla, painting vivid scenes of the army camps along the Murray River as Australia braced itself for the possibility of invasion. “Around this time, the Japanese were about to land, contemplating landing in Australia and capturing it,” he recalled.
Then came the story of Les Atkins.
“The actual man who picked me up died only a couple of months ago; he eventually made contact with me because his daughter married a boy who lived next to us. He visited me here, and we were talking and drinking some whisky together at this very table we were sitting at.” His voice softened. “Les Atkins was his name.”
Meeting Fred was an honour I carry with quiet reverence. He is not just a veteran, but a living embodiment of Australian values—resilience, lifelong learning, and a humble commitment to service that continues long after the war has ended.
© All rights reserved. Based on extracts from: Jenani Therone, Of Service, Australia: Harvest Publishing by House of JT, 2024, pages 199 – 208.
© Copyright Notice
The content featured here is extracted from Of Service, the original fine-art publication by Jenani Therone. It is reproduced with permission from both the author and the publisher. All rights are reserved. No part of this content may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without explicit permission.
