Bob Monkcom
1947- Present
Bob Monkcom, a Leumeah local, enlisted in the war on the 11th of November in 1965, just before he was 19 years old. Monkcom was a tradesman in the army, he also was a mechanic and a corporal. Monkcom was married 6 weeks before going to war at age 20, in 1968. He fought in Singapore, Malaya and Nui Dat, which was an Australian Taskforce where 3 battalions were and was involved in the battle of Coral.
On a Friday morning, three of the members of the JTCHS Anzac project team travelled to Leumeah to interview an Australian-born veteran who fought in the Vietnam war. His name is Bob Monkcom. As we arrived, Bob Monkcom and his wife, Elaine, gladly welcomed us into their home and were ready to be interviewed. We were nervous but also respectful. Mr and Mrs Monkcom were delighted, which helped us remarkably, and whilst filming, it became more comfortable. Not only did Bob feel the need to provide some resources to assist us with our project, Bob's wife without hesitation, was pleased to share with us her point of view and attitude towards Bob's involvement before, during and after the war. Bob reflected on his experiences, the pros and cons as well as his strong willed feelings, emotions and memories he has. We lost track of time as the interview was longer than expected, but to our advantage, it provided us the additional information we needed.
In conclusion, from this interview, each and every one of us gained more understanding of the Vietnam war and a perspective of a veteran whom was willing to let us share his battles amongst the school community and complete our project.
Reflection of the Interview with Bob Monkcom by Tiarra Seignarack
