The Geelong Cats has a proud history of senior players who served their country in times of conflict with a total of 182 players participating in the Boer War, World War 1 & 2 and Vietnam.  

Of that number 110 served overseas, 13 were killed in action and 6 received Bravery Awards.  Typical of these former players was Fred Flanagan who enlisted in April 1942 and was discharged in 1946.  Fred was wounded in action on the Kokoda Trail receiving the MID for his efforts. Fred joined the Cats in 1947 and went on to become Captain of the 1951-52 Premiership Teams.

Wayne Closter was another player who served overseas in Vietnam.  Wayne came back to play some 200 games for the Club.

The following Cats gave the ultimate sacrifice during service to their country.

John Bell – 27/12/17 – Western Front
Alan Cordner – 25/4/15 – Gallipoli
Joe Crowl – 27/6/15 – Gallipoli
Les James – 22/10/17 – Belgium
Bill Landy – 19/7/16 – France
Arthur McKenzie – 18/7/16 – France
Joe Slater – 2/5/17 – France
Clyde Hellmer – 24/4/45 – New Guinea
Jim Knight – 11/10/43 – Milne Bay
Ralph Lancaster – 28/8/42 – New Guinea
Jack Lynch – 8/9/44 – Charter Towers

We do not glorify war on Anzac Day. Far from it. We remember the dreadful loss of lives in the many gallant battles fought by those brave young men who stepped forward when called upon to serve their country. Nor are we aggressive, but we believe in showing the future enemy that we are so determined to defend our shores that he should think twice before taking on the Sons of Anzac!
Sir Colin Hines, President, R.S.L. (NSW) 1977

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.