31 May 2023
NAIDOC WEEK
An Army warrant officer finds fulfilment guiding a new generation of Indigenous soldiers.
Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Jim Sebasio’s proudest day in uniform came when he commanded his first patrol.
It was a chance for the senior Torres Strait Islander soldier to help the next generation of Indigenous soldiers and became the thing he loved most about his job.
Today, WO2 Jim Sebasio is the Indigenous Uncle at Charlie (Sarpeye) Company, 51st Battalion, The Far North Queensland Regiment (51 FNQR) and he continues to help new generations coming through the ranks.
“Sarpeye Company is majority Torres Strait Islanders and sometimes there is a language barrier,” WO2 Sebasio said.
“My job is not to interpret but to make sure they understand the expectations within the Army.
“I want to point the young fellows in the right direction and help them to set a goal.”
With his family originating on Erub Island and growing up in Bamaga, WO2 Sebasio has a deep connection to the Torres Strait Islands. He lives in Brisbane and regularly travels north to provide mentorship and guidance to soldiers joining Operation Resolute.
51 FNQR personnel contribute to Operation Resolute by conducting patrols from Thursday Island to help protect Australia’s borders and offshore maritime interests.
It’s the same mission WO2 Sebasio’s grandfather carried out during WW2 as part of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion.
He was one of the more than 800 Torres Strait Islander men who enlisted to protect Australia’s northern tip from the Japanese.
By the end of 1942, a large proportion of fighting-age Torres Strait Islander men joined the battalion, with many of their descendants, like WO2 Sebasio, going on to serve in 51 FNQR.
“My grandfather passed away before I was born - I didn't get to meet him,” WO2 Sebasio said.
“I heard stories about him and wanted to join. I wanted to keep our name in the Australian Defence Force.
“I'm very proud to carry on his legacy and be a role model for future Torres Strait Islander soldiers.”
