U.S. Army I Corps Band Honors Australia’s Fallen

25 July 2017

From I Corps

ENOGGERA, Australia — Soldiers of America’s First Corps Army Band performed at memorial service at Gallipoli Barracks during Talisman Saber 17, July 17, 2017.

“It’s really an honor come to a foreign country and recognize their fallen on their own soil,” said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Todd Borges, music performance team leader, American’s First Corps Army Band.

Borges supported the ceremony by playing “Taps” to honor the fallen American Soldiers, and “Rouse,” for the raising of both U.S. and Australian flags that were part of the ceremony.

Borges wasn’t the only American to play an active role in the ceremony. U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Walter Tagalicud, senior enlisted advisor for First Corps, was also present to meet the Australian veterans who perform this ceremony to honor their fallen.

“I feel privileged and honored to participate in this ceremony,” said Tagalicud. “The soldiers that served before us have paved the way for partnership, and a great relationship between both armies along the way.”

Australian Warrant Officer 1st Class John Franklin, Band of the 1st Regiment, Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery, helped incorporate American’s First Corps Army Band, and American flag into the ceremony.

“It is important that we remember the fallen,” said Franklin. “Days like ANZAC Day and Memorial Day have been getting bigger and bigger because people are realizing the sacrifices of the military.”

According to Franklin, the veteran group, Dads Army, maintains the Memorial Walk, and perform this ceremony on a monthly basis. The ceremony started with a roll call of Australian service members that died within the last month.

“It really enhances the overall alliance that we have,” said Franklin. “It gives a great impression to visitors that don’t understand how strong the alliance is between the Australians and Americans.”