Much respect to him. Not only is it almost impossible to pass SAS training, (Australian SAS is just as tough as the British SAS) but to earn the VC as well is nothing short of incredible. Most VCs are awarded posthumously. Fair play to him & if I ever met him, I'd shake his hand and buy him a pint. He is a credit to his regiment and he epitomises everything the SAS stands for. He is a perfect role model for his kids & his family must be bloody proud.
I salute the Australian SAS, dont come on here saying stupid things like "they arent as good as the British SAS" they are as good as they need to be and this man is a hero, it saddens me that so many people in Britain now have a lack of manners.. we used to be known for being so polite and gentleman like, well i am, and i know there are others still around who think like me, i know when to show respect.
Respect Australian SAS ,NZ SAS ,British SAS ,Canadians ,USA Delta force ,Ghurkas ,foreign legion etc etc yes there will be banter ,but when the time comes ,they stick together & fuck shit up .Too much pride can get in the way of a great thing .The greatest thing is friends coming together .They protect us so TOP BOYS & thank you
Thats the way it goes, Mark. I am a Native American Marine & I commend you and deserve it. Gallantry is earned not acquired. And of course your lovely wife & kids would think so too.
True hero. He exemplifies everything a member of the military should aspire to be, from his poise, to his accomplishments, to his humility. Well done, Mark Donaldson - from a United States Navy Sailor
Kudos bro your humility is what the SAS is all about . Man him and Willie Apiata are true men in all senses but dont call them heroes I think theyd dislike it . And like Willie he just wants to join his brothers inbattle whereever ,whenever . These men are real role models , Thanks bro for your service ur a wesome
there was an aussie in my regiment in the royal green jackets in the late seventies, he was a brilliant soldier as good as anybody.this guy could have got in the british sas believe me. the british sas was made up of men from many different nationalties, not just british.one of the most heroic to serve with the british sas in yemen and died there was a polynesian guy i think he was from fiji.
@ozzyguy67 the NZSAS are cut from the same thread as these guys mate. Infact a kiwi got one of the VC's from the queen herself. There is actualy a fairly extensive doco on the NZSAS on youtube, have a look if youre interested.
Why must you airsofters bicker as to who is better or worse trained?? Why can't you see this video for what it is, a soldier whose bravery and call to duty matches that of any SOF force, whether Delta, SAS, or SASR. I see a fucking incredible hero and fellow brother born under a different flag who I could only look up at with incredible awe and aspire to be like. IYD 3rd Ranger Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment
This guy (and the rest of the SAS) are whom people should look up to, admire and aspire to be. Not Junkie, rich, straight out of rehab music stars that plaster every ones tv.
No wonder Australia wants to break away from the Queen when you lot talk like that. I have and will always look at the Australians as Brothers. Why would you even bother saying that our SAS is better than theirs?? As far as I'm concerned this fella still had to pass selection and he sounds like a good bloke. Fair play to him and I hope Britian and Australia always remain close.
@Brady2k10 Every country has it's idiots. The anonymity of the internet magnifies the lack of respect all to prevalent in the times we live in. The deeds of people like Mark Donaldson and Johnson Beharry should engender nothing but esteem and admiration.
when you read this type in clarkson on the VC . and you can find out that this is a rare award . he starts by telling you storys of people who didnt receive it . and what they did . its fucking mental . this bloke is a ledgend . i fucking love aussies .
@DarkReapZz Special Air Service.Started off as the Long Range Desert Group in WW2.Britain,NZ Australia and Rhodesia had SAS units.These are men you dont want to piss off.Selection is very hard and only a few make it.There motto Is Who Dares Wins.
surprised how they give the identities of those soldiers... if this was UK SAS those guys wouldnt be on TV or receiveing medals although they deserve them! still believe that UK SAS are the best of all
As a American Soldier and the father of three American soldiers, I find the bickering between members of the different allied nations quite distasteful, and if any of you posters really are military, very un-professional. To Trooper Donaldson, a hearty "WELL DONE". The rest of you can stop sniping each other, get your fat asses in shape, and report to your local military recruiters office, get trained, grab a weapon and stand a post.
@GamingNetworkShow The VC is an award given by the commander in chief her majesty queen elizabeth. The queen is still the head of state of the UK, Australia, NZ, Canada etc (15 nations in total) therefore he recieves the highest military award the victoria cross.
Respect to the Trooper for his actions however it's madness that the media have shown not only him but also his relatives . OK it's good PR but very foolish & never would've been allowed a few years ago ..
There is a reason..The Australian SAS have more American, black hawk helicopters stationed for their disposal, than any other unit...ISAF or USA...Think about that!!!!....It tells you, all you need to know!!!!
Is Mark going back to Afghanistan? I see Willie Apiata, the other VC, is back in action. He is in Kabul right now. It would be great to see Mark and Willie going into the action together. They would soon clear out any strongpoints.
@theandy4ever created because when the sas were formed in the 2nd War, North Africa, the Auzzies were also station in the North Africa Region during this time they both worked together and built up a reputation
@TheDudeFrom0Z It's not a competition but you are awarded them. If you have never heard the phrase "won himself a gong" then you've probably never served.
Such a soft spoken mello guy. It seems the baddest ones usually are. Just curious, does anyone know if the Australian SAS are tier 1 spec ops? How similar is their training to the British SAS. I saw a doc on the NZ SAS, pretty hard core stuff.
@AdoPotts6 Oh yes? And how would you know? Are you in either regiment? Far as I'm aware the training they do is quite similar, they both get plenty of action, they work together, you even get soldiers who change between the two. Possibly the British SAS is better in the jungle because of the all the stuff they do in Borneo. But otherwise you're talking tripe
@Realgrimble I am lead too believe that the Queen of England (head of state of AUS and NZ) awards all soldiers of her commenwealth with medals its not a govermental desicion.
@GamingNetworkShow Its a british commonwealth/ empire award. So naturally australia being a former colony of Great Britain and a commonwealth nation has the award for extreme valour. And no they did not capture the guns from the chinese they were captured from the russians who had captured them from the chinese and used them in the battle of Sevastople. Although in the first world war it is believed some were made from chinese guns captured during the boxer rebelion.
that footage at the start looks like the film released of the battle of derapet. I'm watching derapet now though and i can't see that particular shot. probably just all of afghanistan looks the same
@borofalcon101 - Did you see the Queen in that video you fool? At least, I THINK that was the Queen. Australia is still technically under the jurisdiction of Queen Elizabeth II herself. I'm not sure. but the reason why Australia, New Zealand, the UK, share things like the SAS'es (at least, the concept I think) and the Victoria Cross is because of the close bond between the countries - being all Commonwealth countries or some shit like that :P It's not really copying, still the same Empire lol.
Much respect to him. Not only is it almost impossible to pass SAS training, (Australian SAS is just as tough as the British SAS) but to earn the VC as well is nothing short of incredible. Most VCs are awarded posthumously. Fair play to him & if I ever met him, I'd shake his hand and buy him a pint. He is a credit to his regiment and he epitomises everything the SAS stands for. He is a perfect role model for his kids & his family must be bloody proud.
I salute the Australian SAS, dont come on here saying stupid things like "they arent as good as the British SAS" they are as good as they need to be and this man is a hero, it saddens me that so many people in Britain now have a lack of manners.. we used to be known for being so polite and gentleman like, well i am, and i know there are others still around who think like me, i know when to show respect.
Respect Australian SAS ,NZ SAS ,British SAS ,Canadians ,USA Delta force ,Ghurkas ,foreign legion etc etc yes there will be banter ,but when the time comes ,they stick together & fuck shit up .Too much pride can get in the way of a great thing .The greatest thing is friends coming together .They protect us so TOP BOYS & thank you
Thats the way it goes, Mark. I am a Native American Marine & I commend you and deserve it. Gallantry is earned not acquired. And of course your lovely wife & kids would think so too.
True hero. He exemplifies everything a member of the military should aspire to be, from his poise, to his accomplishments, to his humility. Well done, Mark Donaldson - from a United States Navy Sailor
The Aussies are a bunch of tough, well trained, and respected soldiers. This is coming from a Canadian.
the VC is the highest award for valor in the entire commonwealth and every member state of the British Empire! good show
Cpl Willie Apiata V.C. and Trooper Mark Donaldson V.C. are true examples of legends.
Kudos bro your humility is what the SAS is all about . Man him and Willie Apiata are true men in all senses but dont call them heroes I think theyd dislike it . And like Willie he just wants to join his brothers inbattle whereever ,whenever . These men are real role models , Thanks bro for your service ur a wesome
there was an aussie in my regiment in the royal green jackets in the late seventies, he was a brilliant soldier as good as anybody.this guy could have got in the british sas believe me. the british sas was made up of men from many different nationalties, not just british.one of the most heroic to serve with the british sas in yemen and died there was a polynesian guy i think he was from fiji.
god bless you trooper Mark Donaldson VC hero from Northern Ireland
As for the Aus' vs Brit' SAS thing guys: They work together and train together frequently.
From one soldier to another, great work mate.
its always been about the man beside you, and the mission you are engaged in, good work mate
@GamingNetworkShow Its a Commonwealth metal, Brits, Aussies, Canadians, Kiwis.
@ozzyguy67 the NZSAS are cut from the same thread as these guys mate. Infact a kiwi got one of the VC's from the queen herself. There is actualy a fairly extensive doco on the NZSAS on youtube, have a look if youre interested.
Why must you airsofters bicker as to who is better or worse trained?? Why can't you see this video for what it is, a soldier whose bravery and call to duty matches that of any SOF force, whether Delta, SAS, or SASR. I see a fucking incredible hero and fellow brother born under a different flag who I could only look up at with incredible awe and aspire to be like.
IYD
3rd Ranger Battalion
75th Ranger Regiment
Good on him, what a courageuos bugger. cant wait to try for the SAS
thank you one of a chosen few god bless you
Respect-one brave bloke- lived to the "who Dares Wins" motto, fairplay
Who gives a fuck who's better, if I had to fight either the british or ausie SAS I'd shite my pants!
This guy (and the rest of the SAS) are whom people should look up to, admire and aspire to be. Not Junkie, rich, straight out of rehab music stars that plaster every ones tv.
What a bloody legend. Top effort mate!
No wonder Australia wants to break away from the Queen when you lot talk like that. I have and will always look at the Australians as Brothers. Why would you even bother saying that our SAS is better than theirs?? As far as I'm concerned this fella still had to pass selection and he sounds like a good bloke. Fair play to him and I hope Britian and Australia always remain close.
I'm American and to the UK...Thank you for the SAS
Excellent job Mark. Few will know what any service member means when we say ":for our comrades!". Bravo Zulu.
@Brady2k10 Every country has it's idiots. The anonymity of the internet magnifies the lack of respect all to prevalent in the times we live in. The deeds of people like Mark Donaldson and Johnson Beharry should engender nothing but esteem and admiration.
i am from greece...All australian soldiers is brave man..mbravo to originals hero...
Yes, Australia and NZ have their own SAS Regiments.However they maintain strong ties with the original (UK) SAS.
The Hugh Jackman of the SAS-R.
when you read this type in clarkson on the VC . and you can find out that this is a rare award . he starts by telling you storys of people who didnt receive it . and what they did . its fucking mental . this bloke is a ledgend . i fucking love aussies .
god bless you-real hero. well done from the uk
salute to u bro, we as australians are trully proud of u indeed, just shows the aussie spirit is still strong.
that man is a hero, in every sense of the word!
@DarkReapZz Special Air Service.Started off as the Long Range Desert Group in WW2.Britain,NZ Australia and Rhodesia had SAS units.These are men you dont want to piss off.Selection is very hard and only a few make it.There motto Is Who Dares Wins.
Nice one son, keep up the fantastic work.
surprised how they give the identities of those soldiers... if this was UK SAS those guys wouldnt be on TV or receiveing medals although they deserve them! still believe that UK SAS are the best of all
As a American Soldier and the father of three American soldiers, I find the bickering between members of the different allied nations quite distasteful, and if any of you posters really are military, very un-professional. To Trooper Donaldson, a hearty "WELL DONE". The rest of you can stop sniping each other, get your fat asses in shape, and report to your local military recruiters office, get trained, grab a weapon and stand a post.
Makes me proud to be Australian.
@GamingNetworkShow The VC is an award given by the commander in chief her majesty queen elizabeth. The queen is still the head of state of the UK, Australia, NZ, Canada etc (15 nations in total) therefore he recieves the highest military award the victoria cross.
Legend. Australian SAS - tough as nails!
I learned something new... I didn't know that the SAS had official uniforms.
yes the aussie SAS have their own regiments and we use Australian VC medals now since it was officially handed over in 1991 i think it was
Respect to the Trooper for his actions however it's madness that the media have shown not only him but also his relatives . OK it's good PR but very foolish & never would've been allowed a few years ago ..
There is a reason..The Australian SAS have more American, black hawk helicopters stationed for their disposal, than any other unit...ISAF or USA...Think about that!!!!....It tells you, all you need to know!!!!
Well done mate.
Well done mate! You are truly SAS!!!!!!!
HE IS A BLOODY LEGEND
like all VC winners humility above all else.
Respect NZ
you have brought honor to your family
@testbooster He's from the australian SAS (SASR) not the british SAS.
hero
@TheEnglishBadman australians have an SAS unit too
Is Mark going back to Afghanistan? I see Willie Apiata, the other VC, is back in action. He is in Kabul right now.
It would be great to see Mark and Willie going into the action together. They would soon clear out any strongpoints.
a real hero and all respects from n ireland
respect !
Australia is part of the Commonwealth with the Queen of England as Sovereign. The cannon was from at battle at Sebastopol during the Crimean War.
@moakley on the plus side it is a big morale boost for the rest of the military
@testbooster this is aussie sas
the big VC, eh?
obviously an extreme act
good work soldier australia thanks you.all the best
SAS are in all Royal Armies. Britain, Oz, NZ ect. As they were all in the North African campaigns where it was formed.
one of my relatives got awarded the vc cross his name is Harry Murray
well earnt man cheers from nz
@theandy4ever created because when the sas were formed in the 2nd War, North Africa, the Auzzies were also station in the North Africa Region during this time they both worked together and built up a reputation
wtg mate greatest respect
@GamingNetworkShow Its an award for commenwealth forces
a national hero
@Ronnydino2008 nope. they used to be but now they're awarded by the government in power.
go donaldson! hero of Afghanistan!
@TheDudeFrom0Z It's not a competition but you are awarded them. If you have never heard the phrase "won himself a gong" then you've probably never served.
Respect.
@AdoPotts6 seeing they train together and fight together i would say they are pretty much the same.
Such a soft spoken mello guy. It seems the baddest ones usually are. Just curious, does anyone know if the Australian SAS are tier 1 spec ops? How similar is their training to the British SAS. I saw a doc on the NZ SAS, pretty hard core stuff.
@theandy4ever Wow weird, if an SAS soldier over here got an award it wouldn't be on TV, they're identities are protected, even years after they leave.
@AdoPotts6 Oh yes? And how would you know? Are you in either regiment? Far as I'm aware the training they do is quite similar, they both get plenty of action, they work together, you even get soldiers who change between the two. Possibly the British SAS is better in the jungle because of the all the stuff they do in Borneo. But otherwise you're talking tripe
SAS = SUPER AWESOME SOLDIERS!!!! hahaha lol SAS fuckin rule man! especially Mark Donaldson!
@Realgrimble I am lead too believe that the Queen of England (head of state of AUS and NZ) awards all soldiers of her commenwealth with medals its not a govermental desicion.
@GamingNetworkShow Its a british commonwealth/ empire award. So naturally australia being a former colony of Great Britain and a commonwealth nation has the award for extreme valour. And no they did not capture the guns from the chinese they were captured from the russians who had captured them from the chinese and used them in the battle of Sevastople. Although in the first world war it is believed some were made from chinese guns captured during the boxer rebelion.
@Bdiddly1 Yes , there is only 1 Victoria cross
that footage at the start looks like the film released of the battle of derapet. I'm watching derapet now though and i can't see that particular shot. probably just all of afghanistan looks the same
it kinda sucks that his kinda being used as a poster boy for the defence force and now his full name is out to the media as well
@GamingNetworkShow im sure its made from Russian cannons from Crimean war..[i think]
@DarkReapZz
Special Air Services
Wearing a VC has to be much harder than actually earning it.
@testbooster hay mate hes australian and dont you forget it
pollies should be alowed to publicly speak at these presentations. it should be about the bloke getting the award. not about pollies getting votes.
i hate how channel 9 always uses footage thats old and incorrect for there current stories
Hugs.
@BashProductions123 by a man called Sir David Strilling. who is in English in 1941
respect digger
@AdoPotts6 agreed
Obviously the worst bit about it is that when they attacked he had to stop cooking on the Barbeque! LOL JK :P
@borofalcon101 - Did you see the Queen in that video you fool? At least, I THINK that was the Queen.
Australia is still technically under the jurisdiction of Queen Elizabeth II herself. I'm not sure. but the reason why Australia, New Zealand, the UK, share things like the SAS'es (at least, the concept I think) and the Victoria Cross is because of the close bond between the countries - being all Commonwealth countries or some shit like that :P
It's not really copying, still the same Empire lol.
@Brady2k10 It's patriotism. Our patriotism for "ALL THINGS BRITISH, Blaah huzzah bullshit" kinda blinds us a lot. Apologies.
@tommygunner13 american youtubers?
SAS ftw
I love Australia
@MrBeefaroo "we"
shouldnt this be expected on every special operitive?