Veteran honoured for vital work

Busselton Returned and Services League president Bob Wood has been announced as the recipient of an Order of Australia Medal.

A Vietnam War veteran, Mr Wood received the OAM for his service to veterans and their families.

Suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after his time in Vietnam, Mr Wood decided to start volunteering with the RSL in 1995.

"I realised there were lots of other people who needed help," he said.

Mr Wood also volunteers with the SAS and the Royal Australian Regiment Association.

As a pensions officer and advocate for the three organisations, Mr Wood helps veterans receive their pensions and benefits and also works with war widows.

"I've done a lot of training and courses in my role," he said.

"You have to be aware of which way to steer people.

"A lot of people have no idea about what they are entitled to."

Mr Wood said his role involved a lot of work, but it had not dulled his enthusiasm for it.

"It's really demanding, but for now I'll keep going," he said.

Mr Wood will receive his medal at a ceremony at Government House in Perth in April.

It will be presented by Governor Kerry Sanderson on behalf of the Governor-General.