Stop Screaming I'm Scared Too
I’m Rod Henderson, a former paratrooper and helicopter aircrewman who spent 22 years in the Australian Army, serving in East Timor, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Afghanistan.
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When a medical separation in 2017 ended my military career, I wasn’t ready to stop serving. I found a new mission at the Australian War Memorial, guiding visitors and helping shape the galleries that honour those who wore the uniform. It was there that I discovered my passion: bringing to life the stories of service and sacrifice, especially the names etched on the Roll of Honour.
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And then one day, someone asked me to share my own story so I started writing.
This is not the story of a great general commanding armies or a special forces hero. It is my story, the life of a regular Australian soldier. Yet it could just as easily represent the thousands who also served with honour and distinction, but whose stories remain little known.
TESTIMONIALS
'Rod’s service to country reveals a captivating story of life as an Australian soldier. He reflects on his career with a sense of pride in an open, honest and engaging manner, warts and all, with a larrikin spirit and a happy transition to a new journey ahead. There are compelling lessons for all to consider.’ - Nick WelchFormer CO 3 RAR 1997-1999
'Thank you Rod. Thanks for reminding me that I should not compare my experiences with others, and deem them less worthy. It was a timely reminder.’ – Kylie
'Rod tells his story with honesty and insight, as a boy with an ambition becomes a soldier and grows into a troubled man struggling to make sense of his world. This is skilful writing. In fact it is story telling at its finest. And Rod is at his finest in his refusal to engage with what he calls "the broken veteran narrative. This is ultimately a story of hope and, possibly, healing.’ – Ross
This book really 'brings home' just how much our service personnel give of themselves for their country. Thank you to every one of you.
For too long there has been an attitude of 'just get on with it', without any regard for the toll on the wellbeing of service people's physical & mental health. Although there is more awareness now, I personally hope more help becomes available in the near future & these men & women are able to talk to their mates without the fear of being dismissed.
Thank you Rod for having the courage in writing about all the good AND bad things. Your raw honesty is very appreciated & I am sure will help many of our service people'. - Vickie
'Stop Screaming I'm Scared Too' is a great yarn, told with raw honesty. Highly recommended to anyone wanting a better understanding of the highs and lows of military life and the consequences it has for some'. - Kevin
