The Corridor of Honour at St Marys Diggers stands as a solemn tribute to the brave men and women from our community who have served in conflicts spanning over a century. Their dedication to mateship, courage, pride, duty, and honour is etched into our local history. This blog commemorates the St Marys veterans who answered the call to serve, from the Boer War to modern conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Second Boer War was the first major conflict in which Australian troops served. Many local men from St Marys and the surrounding areas enlisted as part of the New South Wales Mounted Rifles. Their role involved reconnaissance, scouting, and guerrilla warfare against the Boers in South Africa.
1899 – Australian troops, including St Marys’ volunteers, were deployed to South Africa.
The Great War saw a surge of enlistments from St Marys, with many local men serving in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Some fought on the blood-soaked shores of Gallipoli, while others endured the horrors of the Western Front in France and Belgium.
25 April 1915 – Gallipoli Landing, where local soldiers from St Marys played their part.
1916–1918 – St Marys troops engaged in battles such as Fromelles, Pozieres, and Passchendaele.
With Australia again at war, many St Marys residents joined the fight in Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific. Some served with the Rats of Tobruk, while others defended our shores against the Japanese in the Pacific Campaign.
December 1941 – Australia declares war on Japan.
1942 – Local soldiers take part in the Kokoda Track Campaign.
1945 – Victory in the Pacific, marking the end of WWII.
During the Malayan Emergency, Australian troops, including those from St Marys, were deployed to combat communist insurgents in the dense jungles of Malaya. The Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) played a crucial role in this counterinsurgency effort.
1955 – Australian combat troops officially enter the Malayan Emergency.
The Korean War saw St Marys veterans fighting alongside United Nations forces to defend South Korea from a communist invasion. Many served in the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR), enduring bitterly cold winters and fierce battles.
1951 – Australians, including St Marys soldiers, fight in the Battle of Kapyong.
The Konfrontasi, as it was known, saw Australian forces, including those from St Marys, deployed to Borneo to protect Malaysia from Indonesian aggression. This guerrilla war was a test of endurance and skill in dense jungle warfare.
1965 – Australian troops engage in operations in Borneo.
The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th century. Many young men from St Marys were conscripted and served in the RAR, flying helicopters, engaging in jungle combat, and supporting artillery units.
1966 – The Battle of Long Tan, where Australian soldiers fought against overwhelming odds.
1972 – The last Australian combat troops withdraw from Vietnam.
During the Gulf War, Australian forces, including veterans from St Marys, played a crucial role in the naval blockade and air operations against Iraq. While no Australians were directly engaged in combat on the ground, their contribution was vital to the success of Operation Desert Storm.
1991 – The Gulf War ends with the liberation of Kuwait.
Australia’s longest war, the Afghanistan conflict, saw St Marys veterans deployed to combat the Taliban and train Afghan security forces. Similarly, in Iraq, Australians played a role in overthrowing Saddam Hussein and later combating ISIS.
2001 – Australian troops deployed to Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks.
2003 – Australian forces participate in the Iraq War.
2021 – The final withdrawal of Australian troops from Afghanistan.
From the Boer War to modern conflicts, St Marys veterans have stood shoulder to shoulder with their comrades, displaying unwavering mateship, duty, and courage. The Corridor of Honour at St Marys Diggers & Band Club ensures their legacy is never forgotten.
As we walk through this sacred space, we remember that each name represents a story of sacrifice, resilience, and honour—a story that continues to inspire future generations.
Lest We Forget.
Proudly serving the St Marys community for over 50 years, St Marys Diggers & Band Club is your go-to destination for great food, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere. With two venues offering diverse dining, exciting promotions, and top-tier facilities, there’s always something happening. Whether you’re here for a casual meal, a night out, or a community event, we’re the place you’d rather be!
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