Mark Donaldson

Corporal Mark Gregor Strang Donaldson is an Australian soldier and a recipient of the Victoria Cross for Australia, the highest award in the Australian honours system. Serving as a Trooper in the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR), he distinguished himself during the Battle of Khaz Oruzgan in Afghanistan during Operation Slipper. Under heavy enemy fire, Donaldson deliberately exposed himself to protect wounded soldiers and successfully rescued a wounded coalition interpreter.

His exceptional gallantry in the field led to him being presented with the Victoria Cross for Australia by the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, in Canberra on 16 January 2009. Following his valorous actions, he was named the 2010 Young Australian of the Year and was subsequently promoted to the rank of corporal in June 2010.

Donaldson's military career is marked by multiple deployments and recognition, including unit citations for gallantry and meritorious service. He remains one of the most highly decorated modern Australian soldiers, embodying the premier traditions of the Special Air Service Regiment and the Australian Defence Force.