Ken Higgins OAM receives Aussie Hero quilt for military service

A military serviceman was ambushed by friends and family in a gift-giving ceremony fit for an Aussie Hero.

Loved ones have honoured a Mackay military serviceman with a gift fit for an Aussie Hero.

Every week Ken Higgins OAM and a few mates catch up for lunch and beer before the weekend.

But when Mr Higgins arrived at the pub on Friday, he was greeted by more than 20 friends and family members for more than just a meal.

With his wife Vicki recording the scene on her phone, Mr Higgins was presented with a custom Aussie Hero quilt for his service in the military.

Mr Higgins served in Vietnam, where he saved the life of close friend John Gosling.

And it was Mr Gosling who nominated Mr Higgins to receive the gift from Aussie Hero Quilts for his service.

Mr Higgins said the presentation came as a shock.

“I had no idea it was happening, my wife didn’t clue me in at all,” he said.

“Every Friday we get together for a yarn and lunch, we just connect to say g’day and enjoy each other’s company for a bit.

“It’s fantastic to receive one, it’s got my name on it and it was made for me and I’m really proud to receive it.”

Aussie Hero make quilts and laundry bags for servicemen and women who have been deployed overseas.

Flight Lieutenant Tracey Pelling presented Mr Higgins with his quilt, and said it was an honour for any past or present deployed serviceperson to receive one.

“I can tell you, everyone who is deployed asks for one, it’s one of those things that when you get the call-up to be deployed you know that you’re going to get your quilt,” she said.

“From when I was deployed, some days are really bad, but the best day is when you receive your quilt.”