Army celebrates in style

Respects: DCA Maj-Gen Ian Gordon, CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy and CDF ACM Angus Houston pay their compliments as the Army Banner is paraded at the birthday celebration.Photos by AB Neil Richards

By Cpl Andrew Hetherington
Volume 11, No. 38, March 8, 2006

THE Army’s 105th birthday was celebrated at Blamey Square at Russell Offices with a ceremonial parade, followed by a barbecue and cutting of a birthday cake.

The Army component of the Federation Guard put on a precise drill routine with the Army Banner in front of a crowd of 200 people and parade guests CDF ACM Angus Houston, CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy and DCA Maj-Gen Ian Gordon.

Lt-Gen Leahy said in his speech that the 105th birthday of the Army was a very significant day for both the Army and Australia.

“The Army is one of the oldest institutions of the Australian nation. The Army and our nation has grown and flourished together,” he said.

A pleasure: CA, assisted by Spr Matt Kneebone, cuts the cake

“A significant number of our mates are currently deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan and in other places. They all face a difficult and dangerous mission.

“As Chief of Army I feel proud of every one of you [serving] today.

“We must never forget the burden of our history, we cannot let down those who have gone before us.

“Even more importantly, we cannot let down our mates who are at the sharp end in various parts of the world. I know that you won’t and happy birthday and good soldiering.”

Parade participant Bdr Peter Hesketh, of the Federation Guard, said he was proud to be a part of the birthday celebrations, especially with the Army Banner on parade.

“Normally soldiers don’t usually get to see the Army Banner on parades,” he said.

Fellow Federation Guard member Spr Matt Kneebone, who shared the cake-cutting duties with the CA, said it was a privilege to be a part of the 105th celebrations.