MIA poet Stuart Clarke offers work in recognition of special man on Anzac Day …
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Billy was born at Glengower Gunbar
But his mum died when he was only eight
Raised by his grandparents until 1915
When Billy joined the army with a mate
Although only 17 assigned to the 17th Battalion
And for Gallipoli were bound when the ship did sail
From assault on Hill 60, then moved to Quinns Post
But hit with dysentery and Typhoid fever became very fail
Billy was supposed to return home because of illness
But he said no, I’m fit and to battalion did return
As prelude to battle of the ‘Somme’ they raided the Germans
With Billy leading, they blew up two bomb stores under enemy fire so stern
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From this Billy’s party captured four German prisoners
Returning with the captives, Billy for his wounded mates went back
Under enemy fire carried one back on his shoulders
Out again for the wounded through sheer determination and his special knack
This time not so lucky as he was hit by the blast of a shell
His right arm blown off, a tourniquet to it he did tie
Then out again looking for Officer Camden and Soldier Robinson
Bringing them back, out again to make sure if he should die
It was only after this he made his way to the first aid station
For his bravery under enemy fire time and time again
The Victorian Cross to the Gunbar lad was awarded
And the bravery of our Gunbar hero will forever remain