We did what others could or would not do.
We served our countries, and took pride in
What we did. We came to defend our freedoms.
We took the Queen’s shilling and got little
In return. We asked for less than we received.

We traveled to foreign lands and fought our
Countries foes. For this we were dishonoured
And disrespected by the people who we
Tried to defend. We were called foul and
Filthy names by our families and friends.

Yet, to this day, we soldier on, without regard
For those who look down on us. We still
Do what the others can and will not do.
We still answer our country’s call.
We fight and die so that others can be free.

William Smith
ERAU, 12 November 2007