Commodore Dagg has been invited as special guest to the upcoming Anzac Day Ceremony, a time to take pause and pay homage to Australia’s brave.

“I will also be thinking about families and friends of those who have served, or are currently serving, remembering that war affects everyone,” he said.

Commodore Dagg joined the Royal Australian Navy when he was 19, training in Electronic Technical Systems. Thirty-seven years on and the adult recruit has developed into a leader on many levels, earning the Conspicuous Service Cross and being appointed Director General Engineering in the Navy.

“Australia has a very good diplomatic position in international relations. We are able to be incredibly supportive and provide help to nations all around the world. I feel very privileged to be part of that support effort,” he said.

Commodore Dagg’s service has taken him right across the world to such places as the Middle East, visiting Kuwait during the post-invasion in the early 90s.

”Much of the infrastructure was being rebuilt, after it had been destroyed during the war. Unless you see it in real life, drive through the destruction and smell it, you don’t really understand the enormity of war. The ash in the oil was very much evident, the oil well fires had been put out and there was oil that had burned on the infrastructure. Towns, cars, trucks, tanks were burned to the ground.”

As Commodore Dagg helped to rebuild infrastructure, his support has also built better international relations, a reward in itself.

“Everybody processes their experiences differently. On top of the support from my wife, I compartmentalise what I see: I just remember I’m here doing good.” 

For Commodore Dagg, the upcoming Anzac Day Ceremony will allow him to carry on the spirit of support as he intends to make an appearance not for himself, but for those who have served and are currently serving for their country.

“It’s part of the Australian psyche: we are not only here to serve our country but to help others.”