Jonathan Church Good Soldiering Award Ceremony

Each year on Army’s birthday, the recipients of the Jonathan Church Good Soldiering Award (JCGSA) are announced. The award is named in honour of Trooper Jonathan Church who in 1995 risked his life and safety, to carry an innocent child in need of help, out of harm’s way. Trooper Church’s actions personified the values of the Australian Army soldier; he demonstrated ethical leadership, strength of character and service beyond expectation. The soldiers and junior officers who receive the JCGSA are recognised to be exemplars of Army values, leadership, compassion, and ethical soldiering.

Now in its 10th year, this year’s recipients were presented with certificates by the Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, with their family and Army family watching on at Russell Offices in Canberra.

The Ambassador of this year’s JCGSA was awarded to Corporal Meghan Manuzic, with Corporal Nathanael Bull, Corporal Sarah Kerr, Corporal Angus McGregor, and Corporal Rebecca Ross also recipients of this year’s award.

All JCGSA recipients have consistently demonstrated the core values every Australian soldier must aspire to by being a respectful and courageous leader, who takes the initiative and works for the team. They have become a role model for those around them, fostering high morale and devotion to duty whilst providing leadership of the highest order.

The 5 soldiers will continue representing the Army and the JCGSA for the following 12 months, travelling on a study tour later in 2025.