Able Seaman Nguyen Le never expected his Vietnamese language skills would become an important part of his Navy career.

Born in Saigon, he came to Australia to study civil engineering at Griffith University. His love of the sea and desire for a new challenge later drew him to the Royal Australian Navy. He joined in 2001.

After completing training, Able Seaman Le posted to HMAS Albatross and 725 Squadron, maintaining the Fleet Air Arm’s training Seahawk helicopters. While serving there, he was encouraged to have his Vietnamese language skills formally assessed.

In 2023, he became a qualified linguist through the Defence Force School of Languages. The testing challenged even a native Vietnamese speaker, with assessments covering military and diplomatic language in Vietnamese and English.

'But I got through it, and I’m really glad I did,' Able Seaman Le said.

His language skills have since allowed him to contribute to Navy in a different way.

He supported Vietnamese People’s Army personnel undertaking combat survivability training through the Defence Cooperation Program. Able Seaman Le translated course material, supported practical training and helped bridge the language gap between instructors and students.

The experience also allowed him to build personal connections with the visiting personnel. They shared jokes, conversations about family, and the differences between Vietnam and Australia.

Able Seaman Le is proud that his language skills can support Australia’s international partnerships. He urges other Defence members who speak another language to consider becoming qualified linguists.

'I’d encourage any ADF member with LOTE-speaking ability, or the enthusiasm to learn a language, to pursue becoming a linguist.'