Sergeant Trevor Stanley Bourke enlisted in the Australian Regular Army on 4 July 1962, was allotted to the Royal Australian Infantry and served in South Vietnam during 1967-1968. He returned with his Battalion to South Vietnam in February 1970.
During April 1970 an enemy mine was detonated and badly wounded several of his platoon. Sgt Bourk immediately assessed the situation, moved forward, calmed and gave first aid to the worst wounded and organized the helicopter evacuation of the wounded men.
In June and July and subsequent months of 1970, Sgt Bourk acting as Platoon Commander, led his platoon in a number of successful actions against the enemy. In all his actions Sgt Bourk has shown leadership andf courage of a high order. His competence and disregard of his own safety at all times has set a fine soldierly example for his platoon and Battalion.
His leadership and example has been in the highest traditions of his regiment and the Australian Army.