- August 2008

Son of 39th Militia Lieutenant on Kokoda

I place Aidan Grimes on the same level as the authors, Peter Brune and Peter Fitzsimons with regard to making people aware of what took place on the track.

Kokoda Track - August 2008

"Dear Aidan,

Just a short note to let you know that my trip was the culmination of a lifetime ambition to be there and pay my respects to all who fought on the track and in particular the 39th Battalion. Your guidance and commentary was exemplary and I regard you as a very passionate AUSTRALIAN. I place you on the same level as the authors, Peter Brune and Peter Fitzsimons with regard to making people aware of what took place on the track.

Good luck for the future,

REGARDS, Gary"

Gary French (Son of Lt. French, 39th Militia Battalion) VIC

Kokoda Trek - August 2008

Your guidance and commentary was exemplary making this trip a culmination of a lifetime ambition to be there and pay my respects to all who fought on the track and in particular the 39th Battalion.

"Dear Aidan,

Just a short note to let you know that my trip was the culmination of a lifetime ambition to be there and pay my respects to all who fought on the track and in particular the 39th Battalion. Your guidance and commentary was exemplary and I regard you as a very passionate AUSTRALIAN. I place you on the same level as the authors, Peter Brune and Peter Fitzsimons with regard to making people aware of what took place on the track.

Good luck for the future,

REGARDS, Gary"

Gary French (Son of Lt. French, 39th Militia Battalion) VIC

Kokoda Track - August 2008

Your knowledge, enthusiasm and focus of the historical events and the personal sacrifice of the Australian soldiers on the track in 1942 constantly reminded us of their extraordinary commitment, many of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Australia

John and Richie meeting with Stan and Gloria Bisset post trek"Dear Aidan and Rob and the Our Spirit team,

 
Thank you both so much for leading such a successful and rewarding adventure that my son Richard and I have just completed. Your knowledge, enthusiasm and focus of the historical events and the personal sacrifice of the Australian soldiers on the track in 1942 constantly reminded us of their extraordinary commitment, many of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Australia.
 
Your knowledge of the battles, the positioning of the opposing forces and the enthusiasm and knowledge with which you spoke was simply inspiring. Dad (Captain CDG Butler of the 2/14th Battalion) had spoken many times to us as family members about how hard it was, but until you actually participate and take to the track, you have no idea of what those circumstances may have been like back in 1942. Certainly, we can only truly marvel at the young men who were involved in the conflicts back in 1942.
 
May I wish the Our Spirit team every success in your continued endeavours to tell of the unique stories of the track and its importance in the defence of Australia during the World War II. The service Rob and Aidan conducted at Isurava memorial was something that will remain with us forever. Those words carved in the granite stones, Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice tell it all. As I walked the track after Isurava, those words kept going over and over in my mind and they truly tell of the spirit of the soldiers, many of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice.
 
As I recall the track and the emotional and physical challenges that are presented each and every step, may I thank you once again for bringing to us the opportunity to participate in and forever recall a unique and humbling experience.
 
With best wishes to the team at Our Spirit."

John and Richie Butler - VIC

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