As special guest of Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan, Mr Bullen was in the country’s capital to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of El Alamein in which he served.

The 96 year-old was joined by 22 fellow veterans of the battle at a reception in their honour, followed by a Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.

“The ceremony was absolutely spot on,” Mr Bullen said. “I’ve had a wonderful day, they’ve treated us like VIPs. I really appreciated the reception.”

Mr Bullen said recalling the events of the Battle of El Alamein on Monday was poignant.

“We remember about all the events that took place,” he said. “Some are good and some are nasty memories.”

Monday marks the anniversary of the second of three major battles that occurred around El Alamein in Egypt between July and November 1942.

During this time the Australian Imperial Force suffered almost 6000 casualties over the course of five months.

The fighting proved to be the turning point of the war in North Africa as it resulted in the withdrawal of German and Italian forces from there.

Mr Tehan said the Battle of El Alamein was an important commemorative event for our nation.

“To have Mr Bullen travel from Warrnambool to join us is a reminder of the service and contribution servicemen and servicewomen from Warrnambool provided to our wartime efforts,” he said.

Mr Bullen joined the army in July 1940. Prior to joining, Mr John Francis Bullen was a plumber’s assistant.

Mr Bullen was deployed to the Middle East in December 1940, where he was involved in the Battle of El Alamein.

He continued his career in the army until his discharge in December 1945.

Mr Tehan said it was important for the community to recognise these anniversaries. “I encourage everyone in Wannon to pause and remember the service and sacrifice of Australian soldiers in North Africa during the Second World War and all Australians who serve in defence of our nation,” he said.