WHILE there are no remaining Australian veterans of the Gallipoli campaign still with us, two members of Australia’s Federation Guard will carry their memories to commemorate the 92nd anniversary of the Gallipoli landings in 1915.

Gunner Jimmy Williams and Trooper Sean McPartland will be world’s away from their respective home towns of Canberra and Hamilton Hill when they provide ceremonial guards for commemorative services on the 24th and 25th of April at key sites on the Gallipoli peninsular, including ANZAC Cove and Lone Pine.

Australians all around the world and across the nation gather on this special day to remember our fallen Service personnel with commemorative services held at dawn, the time of the original landing, and 11am, the time of the signing of the Armistice to bring an end to hostilities.

As members of Australia’s Federation Guard, based at Duntroon in Canberra, Gunner Williams and Trooper McPartland will carry a firm sense of the occasion before them as part of the official contingent at Anzac Cove.

“This Gallipoli trip means a lot to me,” Gunner Williams says. “I’m proud to represent the Australian Defence Force and those who have fallen for our country.

“I served with the 8th/12th Medium Artillery Regiment in Darwin before I could volunteer for the Guard, and even when you have volunteered, the Guard has to accept you.”

Trooper McPartland is also making somewhat of a sacrifice for the trip, as he will miss his fiancee’s birthday, which is on ANZAC Day.

“The Army has enabled me to do lots of things and see many places I otherwise wouldn’t have, but to have the opportunity to come and experience ANZAC Day in Gallipoli is really a dream come true for me.

“My great-uncle Dan Hart served with WA’s 15th Light Horse, so this trip has great personal sacrifice for me and my family.

“However, when we’re back in Australia, I’ll be taking my fiancée Emilie out dinner and sharing all the amazing stories of the trip with her.”

- By Michael Weaver, Defence Online Editor