Smith reflects ahead of Anzac Day

FOR Portarlington & St Leonards RSL Sub-Branch president Travis Smith, Anzac Day is all about mateship, camaraderie and resilience.

Mr Smith served as a reservist in the 1st Commando Regiment 2 Company from 1994 to 2004.

The regiment was based out of Fort Gellibrand in Williamstown and had an integrated structure of regular and reserve soldiers, whose function was to conduct special warfare including conducting covert, long-range reconnaissance and surveillance in enemy controlled territory.

The regiment was known for its rigorous training, encompassing diverse skills like parachuting, diving and demolitions. Mr Smith said he first became a reservist to earn a bit of pocket money on the weekends, and to do a couple of trips away.

“When I went into it in the ’90s, there was nothing on the horizon at all, it was very much peace. Being a soldier was more of a secure job, so to speak.

“Then things started to get a bit more exciting for full time service. Australia got involved in area conflicts which offered plenty of overseas trips.

“I did Bougainville, Malaysia, Brunei and more.

“The experience was immersive in cultures. You really immerse yourself in those hearts and minds roles.”

He said Anzac Day gives him a great opportunity to catch up with many mates who have these shared intensive experiences.

“It’s all different mirrors. What people went through in World War 1 was different to World War 2, to Vietnam to the modern era.

“You spend 24 hours a day with these guys during duty. It’s now about reconnecting with all veterans, some of them which are a bit lost.

“Last year marked 25 years since I was first shot at. I was one of the lucky ones to not get that rough PTSD associated with it. You just did your job at the time.

“To me, Anzac Day is a time to open up and talk.”

Mr Smith will be leading both the 6.30am and 10.45am services at the Portarlington Cenotaph.

“It’s always a great event, it’s truly spectacular.

“We will have the Mustang flying over at 11.03am, which is going to be pretty cool.

“It’s always a really well attended service and has a great backdrop with the pier and city behind.”

The RSL will be open all afternoon for anyone to attend on Anzac Day.

“Whether you’ve served one day, or more, it’s open to them all.”