International mates at service in Philippines

As dawn broke above the West Philippine Sea, hundreds of Australian, New Zealand, Filipino and United States personnel gathered to commemorate Anzac Day and remember Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in war.

The soldiers were in Aporawan for Exercise Balikatan, an annual Philippines–US military exercise Australia has participated in since 2014.

The combined force took time from defensive operations in preparation for a counter-landing live-fire activity to mark the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings.

WO2 Damian Woods, the most senior Australian enlisted soldier in the position, spoke of sacrifice as a common theme for soldiers during the ceremony.

“Across different nations, uniforms and generations, we share a common understanding of service,” WO2 Woods said.

“At dawn, we remember those who served before us, who endured hardship and showed courage and made sacrifices so that others might live in freedom and peace.”

For many, it was the first time they had participated in a “field service”.

For Pte Thomas Williams, it was his first service with 5/7RAR.

“It was pretty special doing the ceremony overseas,” Pte Williams said.

The infantry soldier marched in the catafalque party to stand guard around a display of Australian and New Zealand in-service rifles with bayonets held up by sandbags.

An Australian slouch hat and New Zealand beret were hung from the weapons.

Behind them, the national flags were on display.

OC the combined Aussie and Kiwi combat team Jackal, Capt Sharm Heitmann, said Aussies had always found mates.

“In World War II, we fought together with Pacific nations,” Capt Heitmann said.

“Today, on Exercise Balikatan, we are again together, showing strength and solidarity with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, in Manila, personnel from Australia, New Zealand and partner nations stood shoulder to shoulder with Philippine counterparts at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honour those who served and sacrificed.

Commander of the Australian contingent in the Philippines for Exercise Balikatan, Lt-Col Ben Woolmer, said marking Anzac Day while deployed overseas carried deep personal and professional meaning.

“It’s a time to pause as a leader and reflect on the dedication of our soldiers, sailors and aviators, and the sacrifice of those who came before us,” Lt-Col Woolmer said.