True Blue Conversations - Emma Donaldson - Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs)/Wife, Mum, Veterans' Families Advocate Veteran
Description
On this week's podcast, I speak with Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs)
veteran Emma Donaldson. Emma served for 20 years, both full-time and as a
reservist. Emma served in several units throughout Australia. Emma served at 152
Signal Squadron attached to the Special Air Service Regiment in Perth. Emma
excelled in her role and would later meet her future husband while serving at 152
Squadron. Emma is a veteran/wife, Mother and the first I have interviewed talking
about the role of wives and children back at home while their partners are deployed
overseas.
Emma met and is married to Mark Donalson VC. Mark served in the SASR and was
awarded the Victoria Cross for his action in combat in Afghanistan in 2008. Emma
talks openly about the day she found out that Mark would be awarded the highest
bravery award, the Victoria Cross. Emma talks about the good and the bad aspects
of the Victoria Cross on families. Emma supported Mark through 7 tours of duty while
balancing home life as a full-time Mum. Emma also talks about how important the
support of the wives and partners is while their partners are deployed. Emma speaks
about the loss of friends, her postnatal depression, and her miscarriage, the struggle
that all veterans and first responders face when transitioning out of uniform. Emma
also talks about rediscovering her identity and purpose as a civilian.
Emma now works as a Veterans Liaison Officer for Legacy Club Services,
advocating for veterans and their families. This is a raw and honest chat about the
true cost of service as a veteran and life at home supporting your partner of a special
forces operator and rediscovering yourself post-service.
Presenter: Adam Blum
Guest: Emma Donaldson
Editor: Kyle Watkins
United States
