By Hugh Pearson
Long-time Gembrook resident Norm Smith has detailed his experience with the Commonwealth monarchs after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday 8 September.
While on service at the Puckapunyal Military Base, Mr Smith found out about King George VI’s death when watching a movie.
“I was at the pictures watching a film when it flashed on the screen the King had passed away,” Mr Smith said.
Some servicemen were distraught after hearing the news of the King’s death.
Mr Smith recalls being showered in glass after one serviceman punched a window in anger.
“When I walked past he put his fist through the glass side and I got showered in glass,” he said.
When the Queen visited Warragul in 1954 Mr Smith and his compatriots received a letter saying they would be forming a guard of honour for her majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Despite the heat, Mr Smith was one of many servicemen to present arms as the Queen drove past.
“It was a great experience,” Mr Smith said.
