Colonel David Hackworth, Vietnam Veteran and advocate for veterans and serving soldiers, has died aged 74. Affectionately known as ‘Hack’ by soldiers and friends he died from bladder cancer thought to be the result of exposure to Agent Blue during the Vietnam War.

Hackworth was one of the most decorated US Army soldiers and best known for his outspoken views on US involvement in the Vietnam War. Hackworth stated that the US could not win the war and narrowly escaped a court martial for his comments. After leaving the Army he went into self-imposed exile in Australia. In Australia he lived in and around Brisbane and was heavily involved in the anti-nuclear movement.

He later returned to the US as a journalist and commentator on military affairs. He expressed considerable doubts about the US role in Afghanistan and Iraq. He had also regularly criticised the Pentagon and the Bush Administration for both their poor logistical support of the soldiers serving there and their battle strategy. Hackworth believed there was no way the United States could win a war in Iraq under their current battle strategy.

He leaves behind a wife and extended family. Vale Colonel David Hackworth – you will be much missed.

To the everlasting glory of the infantry
Shines the name, shines the name…