Among the trees that line the grounds of Bowen State School, a solemn corner is dedicated to the memory of three former students who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Vietnam War:
Private Trevor Black, Corporal Norman Womal, and Private Rodney Hughes
In their honour, trees were planted, each accompanied by a simple white post bearing a bronze plaque with their names. Over time, the original trees have been replaced to ensure that healthy, flourishing specimens continue to represent our enduring respect and remembrance.
Private Trevor Ralph Black (1947–1969)
A quiet and determined young man, Trevor Black served with the 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. He was killed in action on 8 April 1969, during combat in Long Khanh Province, South Vietnam. He was just 21 years old. Trevor is buried in Bowen General Cemetery, and his name is inscribed on Panel 6 of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Corporal Norman James Womal (1938–1966)
Born and raised in Bowen, Norman Womal served with the 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. On 17 October 1966, during a mission in the Nui Thi Vai Mountains, he was fatally shot through the neck by enemy snipers. Despite his injuries, he continued to lead his men and return fire until his death. He was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches for bravery. Corporal Womal was 28 years old and now rests in Bowen General Cemetery, with his name recorded on Panel 5 of the Australian War Memorial.
Private Rodney Donald Hughes (1948–1968)
A former Bowen student known for his good humour, Rodney Hughes served with the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. On 17 November 1968, he was killed by a sniper during operations in Phuoc Tuy Province. He was just 20 years old. Rodney is buried in Bowen General Cemetery and is also commemorated on Panel 5 at the Australian War Memorial.
The names of Black, Womal, and Hughes also appear on a black granite plaque at the Bowen War Memorial, alongside that of 2nd Lieutenant Ian George Mathers, another local son who died in Vietnam.
“They were just boys from the bush. But they showed the courage of seasoned men. Bowen will never forget them.”
— Local resident, Anzac Day Remembrance
Their memory lives on — in Anzac Day services, in family stories, and in the quiet respect of the students who walk the same school paths they once did.
Lest We Forget.