As the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RASIGS) celebrates its centenary with parades and activities across the country to commemorate and connect, one New Zealand veteran found himself reflecting on a moment of deep personal pride and enduring military tradition. 

Eighty-two-year-old Sandy Sandford, a former Regimental Sergeant Major of Trentham Military Camp in New Zealand, was selling poppies in Melbourne in the lead-up to Remembrance Day while Her Royal Highness Princess Anne was meeting Australian soldiers of the RASIGS at the nearby Simpson Barracks. 

With 25 years of service in the New Zealand Army – including four tours with 1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment – Mr Sandford’s presence in support of soldiers and their families was a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds between Commonwealth forces. 

“I took my hat off to Her Royal Highness then, and I take it off to her now,” Mr Sandford said. 

He recalled the 1995 royal visit to Government House in Wellington, New Zealand, where he commanded a 100-man guard in honour of Princess Anne. 

“It was such an honour, and I’m so glad to know she is back,” he said.

The guard in 1995, originally planned for the forecourt, was moved into the gymnasium because of inclement weather. 

“The boss called me and said, ‘Sandy, I need a 100-man guard’. We made it happen. HRH inspected the guard, and my wife even had afternoon tea with her,” he said with a smile. 

'I took my hat off to Her Royal Highness then, and I take it off to her now.'

This week’s centenary celebrations of the RASIGS drew together dignitaries, families of the fallen, veterans, serving members and their families to reflect on the Corps’ vital role in modern warfare. From battlefield communications to cyber operations, the Signals Corps remains the backbone of command and control across the Australian Defence Force. 

Head of Corps of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, Brigadier Deane Limmer, said having Princess Anne in attendance as Colonel-in-Chief added a layer of ceremonial significance. 

“Her presence reminds us of the deep heritage we share,” Brigadier Limmer said. 

“It’s not just about technology, it’s about tradition, loyalty and service. To come to the fore, to be in that limelight for a little bit, is just marvellous.” 

The highlight of the week’s activities was the centenary parade.

“To see the veterans attend our centenary parade was incredibly special – they are the living history of our forces,” Brigadier Limmer said.

Veterans like Mr Sandford were front and centre at the parade throughout the week, their medals gleaming, their stories echoing through generations. 

Mr Sandford shared stories with people in the crowd as he sold poppies in support of veterans and to honour the fallen. 

“It’s just another way to serve. We remember them, always,” he said.