Ian served in the Royal Australian Navy from 1979 to 1999. During 1981 to 1992, he served as a submariner in special intelligence operations on the HMAS Onslow and HMAS Otama.
On ANZAC Day, Ian has a ceremonial role at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park. As a volunteer member of the NSWRSL Corps of Guards, he assists the public in its understanding of the memorial which was built in 1934. It is the main commemorative military monument in Sydney, designed by C. Bruce Dellit. Its exteriors are adorned with monumental figural reliefs and sculptures by Rayner Hoff.
Ian was very generous of his time in explaining the significance of Sacrifice, the central sculpture of a deceased youth representing a soldier, held aloft on his shield by a caryatid – three female figures, representing his mother, his sister and wife.
When asked of his thoughts on ANZAC Day Ian simply stated, “Absent friends”.
Included in hEAd oN exhibition.
Date: 25/04/12
Location: War Memorial Hyde Park Sydney
Photographer: Allan Coker
