SENIOR SOLDIER: The ARTC's new RSM, Warrant Officer Class I Ken Nelliman, found inspiration in the World War II service of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion. Picture: Les Smith

WARRANT Officer Class I Ken Nelliman is the first Indigenous man to serve as a Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) at the Kapooka army base.

Inspired by the navy service of his uncle Ted Wymarra, Torres Strait Islander men who fought for Australia in World War II and Eddie Mabo – who told youngsters they could do whatever they wanted in the world – WOI Nelliman decided at a young age the military life was for him.

The 49-year-old recently celebrated 30 years in the army and in January took up the role of RSM of the Army Recruit Training Centre at Kapooka.

He is the senior soldier of the battalion who is also the keeper of customs and traditions and the expert on discipline.

“When I was a young soldier I always wanted to be a Regimental Sergeant Major, but to actually come back here as RSM at the ARTC where soldiering starts is something I am extremely proud of, and to be the first Indigenous RSM is an epic milestone for me,” WOI Nelliman said.

Having entered Kapooka as a recruit in 1987, WOI Nelliman returned in 1998 and moved on at the end of 1999 thinking it would be his last stint at Kapooka .

A cavalryman with the armoured corps, WOI Nelliman has served as an armoured vehicle commander in Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan.

While being proud of his Indigenous heritage, WOI Nelliman does not believe it has affected his military career one way or another.

“The fact is, at the end of the day we all throw the uniform on and there is only one colour – green,” WOI Nelliman said.

“If you are a soldier, you are a soldier.

“The amount you put in is the amount you get back.”

Despite that, WOI Nelliman is pleased to see the army encourage women and Indigenous people of both sexes join up.

There are currently 94 recruits with an Indigenous background at Kapooka.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my 30 years, and if I had my time again I would not change it for quids,” WOI Nelliman said.

“It has offered a lot to me and my family, and I am proud to have served as a soldier in the Australian Army.”