Anzac Day through the eyes of a digger

Controversy, scandal and furore surround the Australian Defence Forces leading into this year’s ANZAC Day celebrations.

From claims of MP Andrew Wilkie’s “bastardisation” as a young cadet to the sex scandal enveloping the Australian Defence Force Academy, the ADF is under intense scrutiny.

City News took some time out with a young soldier to examine why he won’t be letting these latest intrigues get in the way of remembering what ANZAC Day is all about.

Private Scott* has served two tours of duty as a gunner in an infantry section, one in East Timor in 2007 and Afghanistan in 2008. The young Private took some time out from the military to travel and spend time with his wife before joining the Army Reserves.

“The spirit of the ANZAC is about mateship,” he said. “Not letting your mates down always pulling your weight and looking out for each other.”

Private Scott said it was especially important to remember those soldiers he knew personally.

“ANZAC Day is an opportunity to remember all those who have served before you and paying tribute to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“In spite of what some people may say ANZAC Day is as relevant now as it ever was,” he said. “We were a young country, it was the first time we served under our own banner and in a way it helped to forge our identity as a nation, and that’s a big one for us.”

ANZAC Day for Private Scott will begin with the march through the streets of Sydney followed by catching up with old mates to remember fallen comrades over a “few quiet beers”.

The ANZAC Commemorative Service will take place at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park at 12:30pm.
The parade commences at 9:00am, Corner Pitt Street and Martin Place. The route for the march is via Pitt Street, Martin Place, George and Bathurst Streets, to Elizabeth Street.

*Not his real name