The 2007 Sydney Reunion
These are my immediate observations, impressions and comment about the Rhodesian Light Infantry Regimental Association (Australasian Branch) re-union before and during the Anzac day holiday in Sydney, Australia 0n Wednesday 25th April 2007.
The dinner the night before the Anzac Day parade and then the Anzac Day parade and following get-together enabled a magnificent surge of comradeship and renewal of self-belief and self-respect in all that we had stood for as soldiers in Rhodesia.
The massive and enthusiastic crowds watching the march took the RLI contingent to their hearts and enthusiastically applauded our Ouens. This, in itself, was a heart-warming and encouraging experience. Many of my friends and my (probably much biased) Rhodesian born children said spontaneously after the march that the RLI contingent was the smartest of all the civilian attired groups on the three hour long column of veterans and others on the march. The Ouens marched with such obvious pride and precision that the effect on the watchers was palpable.
The reunion was a significant occasion for the wives of many who attended because they could see the importance that friendship and mutual respect forged in combat have on teams of men, and also the significance and importance of the RLIRA to maintain that comradeship, respect and self-confidence. The wives could also forge a special and unique bond between themselves that will only strengthen the worth of the Association to all whom are involved in it and its objectives.
All in all it was a joyous and memorable event of much vitality and regeneration of dormant regimental spirit that I expect will long remain in the memories of those who attended and enjoyed the camaraderie, sense of team, and unique ‘occasion’ of their short time together.
The Saints forever!
Digger Essex-Clark
Click here to watch a video of the parade. To download the video please right click here an click on the save as option.
Below are some pictures from the event. Please click on the pictures to enlarge.
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