AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN - Mike Fitzpatrick (BB)

At the Going Down of the Sun

Dedicated to my father, Keith Douglas Fitzpatrick, and the Men of the 2/25 Australian Infantry Battalion

“MEN OF COURAGE”

“At The Going Down Of The Sun” is a poignant tribute to the countless individuals who have

sacrificed their lives to defend our great nation. The 2/25th Battalion, known for their brave

defence of the Kokoda Track during World War 2, exemplify the courage and resilience of

those who have fought for our country. This piece serves as a reminder of the immense

gratitude we owe to these fallen heroes.

My father, Keith Fitzpatrick signed up for service in the AIF on the 28th Nov 1941. He served two tours to New Guinea on the famous Kokoda Track, spending a total of 359 days there. He ‘celebrated’ his 19th birthday on Imata Ridge, watching the Japanese and Australian artillery trading shells overhead and his 20th birthday in Lae, the day after it was recaptured from the Japanese.

After the war he continued to serve in the Australian Regular Army until 10th November 1967. During this time he served as a member of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in Japan and as a member of the Coronation Contingent that sailed on the HMAS Sydney to England in 1955 to celebrate the coronation of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. One of his last posting prior to retirement was as Regimental Sergeant Major training National Servicemen,

preparing them for service in Vietnam.

Keith celebrated his 100th birthday on the 17th September 2023 and sadly passed away on the 14th June 2025. He is survived by Valda, his wife for 67 years, seven children, 16 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

~ Mike Fitzpatrick