Rod Valdivia
Committee Member – Walk With Us Kokoda
Rod Valdivia is a proud Illawarra local, veteran, and community advocate with a deep passion for Australian military history and supporting his fellow veterans. Having grown up in the region and attended Bellambi Primary School and Woonona High School, Rod has always maintained a strong connection to his hometown, even while serving 32 years in the Australian Army. Now retired from full-time service, he lives in the Illawarra with his wife and three children, dedicating his time to community initiatives.
Rod’s military career began in 1990 as a Storeman in Brisbane before transitioning to the parachute rigger trade in 1996. His postings around Sydney, Nowra, and Albury Wodonga allowed him to remain close to his roots while serving on deployments to Bougainville, East Timor, and Afghanistan. Rising to the rank of Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2), Rod retired in January 2023 but continues to serve in the Reserves at Holsworthy, ensuring his contribution to the Army remains ongoing.
Since retiring, Rod has become an active member of the Wollongong RSL Sub-Branch and a dedicated supporter of local veteran initiatives, such as Barstool Brothers and Heroes on the Water Australia, where he organizes outdoor activities to promote mental health for veterans and first responders. His transition to civilian life is guided by a commitment to giving back to his community and forging meaningful connections with others who share his passion for service.
For Rod, Kokoda represents both a personal and historical journey. He views the trek as an opportunity to honor the hardships and triumphs of Australian soldiers during this pivotal WWII campaign while reflecting on his own service. Rod also sees the experience as a way to connect with fellow veterans, share stories, and build new relationships to support one another in life after the military. As a committee member, Rod brings leadership, a wealth of experience, and a steadfast dedication to fostering resilience and camaraderie among participants.