Neil Jardine, born on 26 September 1945, was conscripted into National Service in February 1967 and discharged in February 1969.

His service training was at Puckapunyal in Victoria. From there, he undertook artillery training at Liverpool, NSW, and then proceeded to North Head, NSW, with 102 Battery as part of the 12th Field Regiment to prepare for duty in Vietnam.

While at North Head, he became 2IC (second in command) of Number One Gun, earning two stripes as a bombardier.

On 5 March 1968, he was deployed to Nui Dat in Vietnam.

On 12 May 1968, the unit was involved in the largest battle fought by Australian soldiers - the Battle of Coral - which lasted until 6 June 1968.

Neil returned home in November 1968 and was discharged at Watsonia, Melbourne, in February 1969.