With a distinguished career of service for both the Australian Navy and the US Army, Jim Ryan spends much of his time making and sourcing models as he pursues his interest in military history.
Now 90 and living at the Vietnam Veterans Keith Payne VC Hostel at Noraville, Ryan recently donated a statue of prisoners of war in Sandakan to the hostel, which is working towards displaying a collection of Vietnam and other war memorabilia.
Born in Australia in 1933, he moved to the US at the age of 18, becoming a US citizen but returned to serve with the Australian Navy during the Korean War.
Ryan was on board the HMAS Condamine when he and his crew were tasked with rescuing a downed Australian pilot.
They were strafed by a Russian MIG during the rescue attempt but were all able to make it back safely.
He was awarded a Mention in Dispatches for his actions in Korea.
After Korea, Ryan returned to the US and continued his service in the Army.
He was an Honorary Major for the US during the Gulf War, where he was responsible for commissioning air conditioning, water treatment, sewage and aviation turbine fuel tankage.
“I learned a lot about teamwork and leadership during my time in the Army,” he said.
“I also learned the importance of never giving up, no matter how tough things get.”
After the Gulf War, Ryan retired from the Army and travelled all over the world.
He lived in the US, the UK, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia before moving back to Australia in 1987 where, as an engineer for Bechtel Corporation, he worked on numerous major projects, including the Amoco refinery in Brisbane, the Portland Aluminium Smelter in Victoria and Queensland Alumina Limited.
Jim and his wife Gloria had two daughters and one son.
Sadly, their daughters have passed away but they continue to value family, and are particularly close to their supportive grandson, Michael.
“Our grandson Michael is our rock,” Ryan said.
“He is a testament to the goodness of people.
“He’s always willing to help out, no matter what.”
The couple owned a lovely home at The Entrance before moving into care at Vietnam Veterans Keith Payne VC Hostel in 2020.
They made the decision with Gloria needing full-time care and the couple not wanting to be separated.
They have rooms next to each other and continue loving to spend time with each other.
“We are exceptionally happy with our lives here at Vietnam Veterans,” Ryan said.
“The staff are friendly and caring, the activities are always varied and interesting, and the facilities are top-notch.
“We feel safe and secure here and know that we are in good hands.”
These days, Ryan spends his time on the computer as he buys and creates models.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my stories with the community,” he said.
“I hope that my experiences can inspire others to make a difference in the world.”
A hostel spokesperson said Ryan’s story was an inspiration to all.
“He is a true patriot who has dedicated his life to service and sacrifice,” the spokesperson said.
“We are grateful for his willingness to share his stories with us, and we are proud to call him a member of our community.”
Source:
Vietnam Veterans Keith Payne VC Hostel