Given that the weather was certainly more conducive to staying at home in front of the fire, there was none the less a more than credible number of people who turned up to help the VVMC NSW Chapter celebrate the 42nd anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. With the exception of a few of the younger and more hardy, the order of dress and protocol for the occasion, was, leave everything on that you were wearing when you arrived, then, add some more clothes if you had them and quickly proceed to the nearest fire drum. I really got the feeling though, that, the very fact that it was such a lousy day actually enhanced in a perverse sort of way the sincerity of all who attended, because, although each individual there would have had their own personal reasons for going, when it came down to the final crunch, there’s no doubt in my mind, that, everyone was there that day because they really wanted to be.

As in previous years, the Commemorative Service formed the major part of why we were there and more than worthy of mention was the performance of the Catafalque Party. The Bugler, who, given that he was probably by far the youngest amongst them, and, was also facing a very large no nonsense crowd, did a rendition of Last Post, plus Rouse and Flags to Masthead that was an absolute credit to himself and the Army. In addition, I doubt that any of the soldiers, due to the bitter cold wind that was blowing, had much feeling left in their hands and feet by the time they were finally marched off, so, I’m sure that I can speak on behalf of all who attended, by saying that the Catafalque Party definitely deserve a huge pat on the back for their contribution to the ceremony.

It’s good to see that whilst upholding the traditional format of a Commemorative Service the VVMC are not afraid to introduce some of their own variations, this has led to it to evolve into one of the best Services of its kind in Australia and is a credit to all involved, and, when you chuck in the added bonus of a great nights entertainment in good company, well, you would be a mug if you didn’t turn up next year and be a part of it.

So, thanks to the VVMC NSW Chapter for sharing your celebration with us, and thanks also to all members of the Services, past and present, for giving us the freedom and a country to have it in.