After 50 years, still proud to be called a sapper

In a celebration of dedication and commitment, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Frank Franolic was awarded his third Federation Star in a ceremony to acknowledge his 50 years of service.

CAPTION: Warrant Officer Class One Frank Franolic, right of centre, stands with friends and family after being presented with his third Federation Star. Story by Captain Carlie Gibson. Photo by Warrant Officer Class Two David Eason.

The event – held at the School of Military Engineering where WO1 Franolic is posted – honoured a career that began as Australia was exiting the Vietnam War.

Reflecting on his service, WO1 Franolic spoke of a different time in Australia.

“What does 50 years look like? The Sydney Opera House was a month old, Cyclone Tracy hadn’t hit Darwin yet, and mobile phones were still 25 years away,” he said.

“I am proud to be a soldier and to wear this uniform, but most of all, I am honoured to be in the Royal Australian Engineers, and for over 50 years be called a sapper.”

Enlisting in 1973, WO1 Franolic has become a prominent figure at the Royal Australian Engineers, where he continues to share his experience with training staff at the School of Military Engineering in a mentoring role.

Commanding Officer School of Military Engineering Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Marcinkewycz said WO1 Franolic continued to place the needs and interests of the nation and its people ahead of his own.

“We see this through his posting and operational service history. In fact, Frank has served at SME (School of Military Engineering) on seven different occasions at every rank, from sapper to warrant officer class one,” he said.

“A truly remarkable achievement.”

Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart presented WO1 Franolic with his third Federation Star, acknowledging the profound impact he has made on the Corps and the Army.

“His presence and experience help our training staff to continually improve and strive each day to be the best they can be,” he said.

WO1 Franolic said he was grateful for the acknowledgement.

“I am humbled to be here today among so many professional and dedicated members of the Defence Force,” WO1 Franolic said.

“I am very happy to live with my friends and family in the best country in the world.

“Throughout my 50 years of service, soldiers have always had a strong bond and look after each other, and this has not changed. We are a great Army and will always look after our mates.”

CAPTION: Warrant Officer Class One Frank Franolic is presented with his third Federation Star by the Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, at the School of Military Engineering.

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