In a quiet moment amongst rehearsals, Officer Commanding of Australia’s Federation Guard Major Christopher Pitman paid his respects to his great grandfather, No. 2434 Private George Taylor, and his mates.
Private Taylor enlisted in Castlemaine on July 10, 1915, as part of the 5th Reinforcements, 22nd Battalion Australian Imperial Forces. He served throughout various locations predominantly across the Western Front up until his medical discharge August 6, 1916.
“My great grandfather was one of the lucky ones who survived World War I, although I’m not sure he would have felt lucky due to his significant injuries,” Major Pitman said.
Over the past two days, Australia’s Federation Guard along with members of the Royal Australian Navy Band visited a number of WWI battlefields and cemeteries in the lead up to Anzac Day.
“As a serving member and veteran myself, I know the cost of war, but physically being here and walking these battlefields I’m in awe of what our ancestors accomplished”
More than 156,000 Australian soldiers returned home, many with significant injuries by what they had experienced during the war.
“This experience has made me reflect on what my great grandfather experienced and the lasting impact of war.”
On Anzac Day members of Australia’s Federation Guard will be supporting numerous Anzac Day commemorative activities throughout the Somme Region.
