Sergeant John Kennard enlisted in the Australian Regular Army on 1 November 1951, after several regimental postings within The Royal Australian Infantry Corps he was posted to 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment in April 1968 as Transport Sergeant. He arrived in South Vietnam in January 1969. Sergeant Kennard has carried out the full duties of Battalion Transport Officer throughout his unit's tour of duty in South Vietnam in such an exemplary manner as to gain the admiration of all members of the Battalion.
Although his work would normally keep him in the unit's rear base, Sergeant Kennard has always insisted on leading all unit convoys, no matter how small, whenever re-supply or troop movement by vehicle was required forward. This has involved him leading convoys through likely ambush areas in which enemy mines have been frequently located. His actions have inspired confidence and loyalty in all men under his command.
He had taken a leading role in organising sporting fixtures with local south Vietnamese towns. The popularity of these activities with the local townspeople have been a major factor in the success of the unit's
civic action projects and have resulted in a much closer and friendly association with the 5th Battalion and the Vietnamese people.
His loyalty, devotion to duty and willing acceptance of responsibility far beyond that required of his rank, reflects great credit on himself and The Royal Australian Regiment.