Australian Defence Force Academy 2020

McQuilty spoke about his lived experience transitioning from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, (post Iraq 2006), to being Wounded in Action, (Afghanistan 2011), adapting his mindset and attitude to face challenges during recovery and rehabilitation. He also spoke candidly about suicidal ideations, mental demons, 35 surgeries and developing a positive outlook. McQuilty spoke at length about recognising, understanding and developing our “Shield of Resilience”.

Lt Col Matt Freeman, Commanding Officer, Australian Defence Force Academy, 2020 - "I am writing to thank you or the assistance provided by yourself during Exercise Newton (EXNEW) at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) on 10 Nov 20.

I also wanted to thank you for being kind enough to present to our Second Year Trainee Officers about the importance of mental resilience, mateship, and being able to share and talk about your hardships with those you hold dear, whether it be at home, or at work. Your experiences help to articulate the importance of these facets were genuinely appreciated by the staff and Trainee Officers alike.

It resulted in a significant contribution to the success of EXNEW."

Credits

Warrant Officer Class One Christopher Sharp
Australian Defence Force

Captain Dan Tidd
Australian Defence Force Academy

Lt Col Matt Freeman
Commanding Officer, Australian Defence Force Academy