Australia Day 2008 21 Gun Salute

Gunners gather in Hobbs Artillery Park, an hour after the daylight-saving dawn
Australia Day is upon them to prepare the guns, its going to be warm
Already sweat is upon their brow, it's a final practice but that's just fine
As they manoeuvre the guns into position, four in a line

"Take Post" barks the BSM as his Battery reacts as one
Their movements are quick and sure, this is going to be fun
Drills were refined, BSM is happy with that
Have a shower, on with the polys, medals and check the slouch hat

Hook up the guns to the trucks ready for the tow
Out onto Stubbs Terrace, Kings Park bound in an hour or so
Just time to grab a quick cup of coffee or tea
Temperature is rising fast for our people from 7 Field Battery

Officers look good in their "Sam Browne" gear
GPO with sword will be in command with Battery Guide to his rear
Convoy is ready; the modern Artillery militia of today
Battery Commander knows his people will work through the 38C come what may

Kings Park Memorial looks out over splendid Perth's Swan River shore
The monument serving reminder to the lives lost long before
Ceremonial Artillery plays its part on each 26th January day at this revered location
Firing 21 rounds to celebrate Australia's amalgamation

The guns are positioned by combined strength of hand
No trucks are allowed to drive on this piece of sacred land
The heat is not noticed as the Gunners get the task done
That's three in position, now the fourth and last gun

The ceremony is formal, handover, saluting sword flashing in the burning sun
Everyone awaits the order, it is given and the Salute has begun
Ten seconds between each round, it's over in three minutes perhaps four
The order is given "Cease Fire", the synergy is abated, pack up and push as before

Return to our Karrakatta base, jobs still to do, each Gunner is so proud
At the sound of our Guns which resonated so loud
Smell of cordite drifted across Perth's famous scenic site
Still lightly lingering on their uniforms, the touch of its remnants is just right

Their Army Reservists, proud to belong to the Royal Australian Artillery Corps
Their pride for a job well done is a strong unifying rapport
With Gunners from across Australia who repeat this time worn need
"Everywhere, whither honour and glory lead"

WO2 Eric Bateman