True Blue Conversations - Robert Kilsby - Australian SASR Vietnam Combat Veteran - Author Keynote Speaker

On this week's podcast, I speak with Robert Kilsby, a former Australian Special Forces Special Air Services Regiment Vietnam combat veteran. Born on Boxing Day in 1951 in the small coal-mining town of Leigh Creek, South Australia, Robert's early years were steeped in the spirit of adventure—bushland escapades, go-kart races, and the kind of rugged independence that would come to define his life. By age 14, Robert had already experienced one of life's hardest lessons—his parents' separation. But instead of falling, he rose. He understood something rare at that age: that people, even parents, are human. That insight marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of resilience, purpose, and service. In 1969, just one day after Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, Robert began his military career. He joined the Australian Regular Army with a determination to be a part of the Vietnam War before it ended. Not long after, at just 18 and a half years old, he became one of the youngest soldiers to be badged as an SAS Trooper—an elite path marked by grit, humour, and unstoppable drive. From high-risk operations, including those with SEAL Team 1 in Vietnam, to developing unconventional warfare tactics back home, Robert helped shape the future of Australia's Special Forces. His career spanned infantry, intelligence, Mandarin Chinese language training, and leadership roles in SASR counterterrorism operations. His post-military life has been just as extraordinary. From founding Veterans In Motorsport – Australia, to paddling 2,450 kilometres down the Murray River at age 70 to raise funds for homeless veterans. Even after facing down stage 4 cancer in 2022 and open-heart surgery in 2024, Robert's next mission is already underway: becoming a keynote speaker and author. His message? 'Ultimate Freedom – How to Be in Charge of Yourself' from his 2026 book Ultimate Freedom – The Five Fundamental Principles to Being In Charge of Yourself. A philosophy forged in fire, lived on two battlefields—one in combat, the other in life. You're about to hear from a man who's never stopped pushing limits—who embodies courage, service, and reinvention. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Robert Kilsby Editor: Kyle Watkins

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True Blue Conversations - Robert Kilsby - Australian SASR Vietnam Combat Veteran - Author Keynote Speaker is an episode from True Blue History Podcast by Adam Blum.

This episode is 02:46:00 long.

This episode was published on Jan 19, 2026.

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