This is Boorowa

Arthur Hoswell: Royal Australian Navy Veteran


Listen Later

Send us a text

Sail into the past with the seasoned tales of retired Navy Warrant Officer Arthur William Hoswell, whose stories span the dusty stretches of Cobar to the open seas with the Royal Australian Navy. As Arthur recounts his days as a General Service Seaman to his dynamic role in naval aviation, we're reminded that the ocean's depths hold more than just secrets—they're filled with the echoes of adventure and the hum of contra-rotating propellers. Uncover the legacy of naval operations as we navigate through Arthur's rise to a leading hand, his brush with the cutting-edge sonar tech of the time, and the diverse experiences that shaped his 20-year maritime career.
 
 The skies above and seas below brim with memories, from jovial encounters with jet fighters near Hawaiian coasts to the solemnity of the Vietnam War's naval operations. Arthur's vivid narrative brings to life the multiplicity of aircraft roles, the camaraderie found on carriers Sydney and Melbourne, and the unexpected moments of levity—even when faced with the gravitas of wartime missions. Experience firsthand the tension and triumphs of search and rescue operations and feel the weight of history in the recounting of the tragic Voyager incident, offering a window into the enduring impact of service on the human spirit.
 
 After the uniform is hung and the medals are polished, the journey of a veteran unfolds in new chapters. Arthur walks us through his post-service life, from the challenges of reintegration to the solace found in family and community. As Anzac Day approaches, we're called to honour not just the service rendered but the individual stories that comprise our nation's history. Venturing beyond the parades and poppies, we commit to preserving the narratives of veterans like Arthur—because their legacies steer the course of our collective memory, steering us toward a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made for peace and freedom.

Support the show

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

This is BoorowaBy JD Podcast Studio