THAT cheeky grin of Private Harry Summerville smiles from the wall of the Wingham Memorial Town Hall among 23 other photographs in the Centenary of Anzac Photographic Exhibition.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The exhibition was unveiled on June 12 to honour all those from Wingham and the Upper Manning who served in all theatres of war over the last 100 years.
The project was funded by the Australian Government's Centenary of Anzac local grants program and was enthusiastically supported by a large number of community members who worked tirelessly to bring the project to fruition.
The photograph of Harry in the jungle of Vietnam first appeared in the Wingham Chronicle and Manning River Observer on May 2, 1967 and became well known as the face behind the Redgum song and video “I Was Only 19” released in 1983.
It has appeared in a number of Battalion and Defence Force publications and is held in the National War Memorial in Canberra.
Harry was raised and worked on his parents' (Edward and Elizabeth) dairy farm in Wingham.
He was called to National Service (1965-67) which included a 12-month tour of duty in Vietnam where he took part in the Battle of Long Tan on 18 August, 1966.
Harry had a memorable sense of humour and dry wit which served him well in the army.
He was much loved by his platoon 'brothers' who showed that respect when on ANZAC day, 2004 they came from all over Australia for a final farewell with Harry proudly wearing his medals on his pyjamas.
The next day he turned 59 and passed away peacefully next morning, too young – like many of his platoon mates.
They farewelled him to the tune of Redgum and managed to break the record of the number of kegs drunk at the Australian Hotel, in a fitting acknowledgement of popular Wingham son whose face now will take its place as a great honour.
Occasionally, those who loved and respected him (and still use his one liners) can raise a glass or salute him now when attending functions at the Wingham Memorial Town Hall.
Lest We Forget.