The scheme existed from 1951 to 1972, and over 280,000 people served during this time.
Former Cobram local Peter Sutton said a number of local residents served as a ‘Nasho’, including one of his uncles.
“Those serving were referred to as Nashos,” Mr Sutton said.
“Nashos served within Australia, with many serving overseas in various theatres including Borneo, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, waters off the Korean Peninsula and in Vietnam.
“When I celebrated my 60th birthday in 2024, I travelled to PNG and attended lectures by a historian Dr Max Quanchi, who had served as a young Nasho in PNG.”
This scheme saw individuals 'called up' to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force and the Australian Army.
“There were effectively two schemes in operation, the first was from 1951 to 1959, with 220,000 Australians serving during this period,” Mr Sutton said.
“The 1950s saw the Cold War and the fear of spreading communism, and the government saw a need to boost numbers.”
Mr Sutton said that then-Prime Minister Robert Menzies believed it was urgent to strengthen Australia’s defence forces, arguing that a strong alliance of democratic nations could help prevent war rather than make it inevitable.
“Numbers were bolstered and the Menzies Government ended it for the RAN and RAAF in 1957, and on November 24, 1959 they determined to end the scheme,” he said.
“Then, on June 30, 1960 all national servicemen were declared to have ended their service honourably.
“The second operated between 1965 to 1972, with a further 60,000 Australians serving at this time.
“The second scheme was more controversial, as this was during the period of the Vietnam War.”
Mr Sutton said over 15,000 Nashos served in Vietnam, with 200 of those killed.
“The selection process involved a ballot based upon birth dates,” he said.
“All males who turned 20 and were born within a specific six-month time were required to register ... those whose birthdays were drawn were called up.”
Registration commenced from January 1, 1965, with the first ballot held in March.
“There were exemptions,” Mr Sutton said.
“These included a limited number of Aboriginal Australians, permanent members of the armed forces and non British migrants, though this changed after 1967.
“Those called up had to meet a number of qualifications, which included medical and fitness assessments, security checks and an interview.
“Interestingly, in 1965, 38 per cent were deemed unfit for service and in 1970 this number had increased to 51 per cent.”
The scheme ended in 1972, discharging national servicemen. About 11,000 were still serving at the time.
“National Servicemen’s Day recognises and acknowledges their service,” Mr Sutton said.
“Whether overseas or home, they did serve their country, some paying the ultimate price.”
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