Book launch: Fighting for Country | National Library of Australia (NLA)

Book launch: Fighting for Country

Join author James Saunders as he discusses his new book, Fighting for Country, detailing the extraordinary life of his uncle, Reginald Saunders, Australia’s first Indigenous military officer.

More than the story of Reg's military career, Fighting for Country is also the story of his family and his people, and of Reg's postwar life of struggle and service. 

James has drawn on military archives and family records to bring this incredible story to life – a masterful account of this courageous and inspirational Australian legend.

Attend in person 

Entry to this event is free but bookings are essential. James will be signing books in the foyer from 7:00pm.

Watch online

The presentation will also be available online. Please make a booking and we will send you a direct link to the livestream event via email. Or you can join anytime through the Library's YouTube channel.

A book cover featuring an image of a smiling soldier is pictured next to an image of the book's author sitting outdoors with sunset in background

About James Saunders

James Saunders is a Gunditjmara Wiradjuri and Wongaibon man from the Saunders and Parker family lines. He is the nephew of Captain Reginald Saunders, whose life and service sit at the heart of this book.

Born in Pambula on the south coast of New South Wales, James grew up with a deep awareness of the responsibilities that come with family, Country and history. James runs the Barragi Mawang agency and lives on Gadigal Country.

His writing reflects a new generation of Indigenous storytelling, grounded in family truth, cultural responsibility and a clear commitment to telling history as it was lived.

Event details
23 Sep 2026
6:00pm – 7:30pm
Free
Online, Theatre
Accessibility
Assistance animals icon Assistance animals icon Assistance animals welcome
Assistive learning icon Assistive learning icon Hearing induction loop
Wheelchair icon Wheelchair icon Wheelchair accessible
Book lovers
Family historians
First Australians
Author talk Book launch First Australians

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