Awardee reflection - Rachel Duncan

The two weeks we spent in Vietnam seemed like the fastest but also the slowest two weeks of my life. It was an amazing experience to be in a foreign country with a group of 19 kids and 6 adults that didn't know each other and come out on the other side with connections that will last a lifetime.

It was a surreal feeling to know that we were standing in the same spots the ANZACS so bravely fought in decades before. Being in those same places made me feel a deeper connection to the soldiers that fought in Vietnam, and helped me realise exactly what ANZAC Day is about, and how significant it is.

When we visited Long Tan, we took a few moments to reflect on what Dennis told us, what had happened in that exact place we sat, and the 18 courageous men who gave the ultimate sacrifice while protecting their country. I felt like I was really there, like I was a bystander to the fighting.

Throughout our trip, we were immersed in the Vietnamese culture - the food, the smells, the sights, the traditions. Some parts were extraordinary, and some parts were a bit interesting. The exotic fruit breakfasts were definitely a highlight.

There were so many people in Vietnam, especially Ho Chi Mihn City, something I'm not used to coming from a town of 70 people.

My biggest takeaway from the tour was to be grateful for everything, because no matter what it is, it is better than nothing. Reflecting on my time in Vietnam, I have realised how blessed I am to be able to have wants, instead of barely having the things I need. The children in the orphanage were ecstatic at the small gifts we brought them, and even the tiniest of stickers brought joy to their faces.

We had an amazing tour guide, Martin, who made our trip so much better. He immersed us in Vietnamese culture, and captured the moments with famous 'Martin Selfies'.

I am so grateful for the support of everyone who helped me along the way. Our two weeks in Vietnam was an experience I will never forget and I'm so glad I got to share it with everyone that I did, and that I got to build connections that will last a lifetime.