Navy People: Jennifer North - ANZAC Day in France

29 March 2010

In April this year Jennifer North, 29, will not be celebrating her 30th birthday with mum Heather O’Dea and twin brother Timothy in Semaphore. Instead Jennifer, a Navy Able Seaman will be part of the Australia’s Federation Guard contingent for the Dawn Service at Villers-Bretonneux in France.

The famous World War I battle around Villers-Bretonneux in 1918 broke the back of the German Army. The German Chief of Staff, General Ludendorf, called it the German Army’s blackest day. The Aussie Diggers, commanded by Australian General Sir John Monash, won the victory shortened the First World War. Even now the school children at Villers-Bretonneux are taught to ‘Remember the Australians’.

“I experienced a diverse range of jobs before joining the Navy” said Jennifer, “Working in horticulture, food processing and the building industry, amongst others. I joined the Navy as a ‘sparkie’ in 2004. The Navy has surpassed all my expectations, providing stability, adventure, diversity and leadership.

After serving in Cairns and the Middle East Jennifer volunteered for Australia’s Federation Guard and began her posting this January.

“This will be my first overseas trip with the Guard. Being so new I felt highly privileged to be chosen.

“I haven’t got a shopping list yet. After the job’s done it’s all about maximum indulgence. Soaking in everything the country has to offer.”

“On location I expect a few tears; when the enormity of the sacrifices made by our ANZACs sinks in. I believe a Nation’s military history defines its values. I am so proud to be an Aussie. Our Diggers showed phenomenal resilience, bravery and resourcefulness to protect their Queen and country.”

“They did it for their mates. That is an Australian virtue that carries over to today.”