Public servants in the Veteran Affairs departments are being directed not to say “thank you for your service” to veterans in media releases and social media posts according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald.

CEO at the WA RSL John McCourt told Gareth Parker while the phrase is widely used in the US, he can understand why it’s not being embraced in Australia.

“Australians are rather self-effacing,” he said on 6PR Breakfast.

“The Americans are our friends, I’ve served with them, they go a little bit over the top over there.

“For example, if you’re flying on an aircraft they announce who you are, and you feel like just slinking into the floor.”

Press PLAY to hear the full interview below 

Image: iStock by Getty