On Wednesday, our ceremony commemorating Anzac Day welcomed guest speaker Terry Docking. His personal journey captivated us all, and he was introduced by grandsons Edward and Harry, who currently attend BAC.
Terry's family history is intertwined with military service. His father, uncles, and father-in-law all served their country. Two died in a trench at the Somme in World War I, and another faced life-threatening injuries on the Kokoda Track in World War II, a remote place, far from home and comfort. As Terry shared their stories, he painted a vivid picture of courage and resilience in the face of adversity displayed by Anzac soldiers through each war Australia and New Zealand have faced over our shared history.
Recalling his own experiences during the 1960s and 1970s, Terry took us on a journey through Australian Compulsory National Service. Selected by lottery, he underwent rigorous training before deployment to the Royal School of Artillery. Though his unit was not sent into active service, Terry's time in the Australian Defence Force left a lasting impression on him. Humorously, he recounts how "it's the only lottery I ever won!" However, it sheds light on how life can change in a heartbeat, and we can be thrown into situations we have never encountered before.
Thank you, Terry, and all those who have served our nation. Their stories remind us of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have sacrificed for our freedom.
