Once-in-a-lifetime experience

On his first overseas tasking as an ADF member, Leading Aircraftman Zachary O’Sullivan will be one of 4000 military personnel marching through London in His Majesty the King’s Coronation Procession.

CAPTION: Leading Aircraftman Zachary O’Sullivan with Australia’s Federation Guard during a rehearsal for the Coronation of His Majesty The King, at RAF Odiham, UK. Story by Flight Lieutenant Lily Lancaster. Photo by Leading Aircraftwoman Emma Schwenke.

He will be marching in the contingent representing the 56 Commonwealth countries and beside him will be 38 of his peers from each of the three services.

When Leading Aircraftman O’Sullivan heard the news that he had been selected for the prestigious event, he knew his family would be proud.

“The first thing I did was text my brother and call Mum and Dad and let them know,” Leading Aircraftman O’Sullivan said.

“I feel very honoured and privileged to have been selected.

“It’s an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I still can’t believe I’m here.”

Leading Aircraftman O’Sullivan grew up on the Gold Coast where he was inspired by his RAAF Dad to join Defence.

He is proud to now be a part of the ADF’s only ceremonial capability, Australia’s Federation Guard.

His Mum and Dad are looking forward to watching their son on TV as he participates in an once-in-a-lifetime event just one day before his 26th birthday.

“I reckon it’s going to be unreal,” Leading Aircraftman O’Sullivan said.

“I mean, the amount of drill we’re putting into it, it’s going to be something I’ll never forget.

“By the end, I think I will feel relieved – it’s going to feel surreal walking through the Buckingham Palace gates.

“When I first joined the military, I never thought I’d be here.”

 

 

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