Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Clarence Sporne was like so many brave soldiers - going to war on a promise of so much. Fight for your country, fight for your family and their freedom and in return so much will be achieved.

He was 17. He received minimal training and off he went a boy fighting for his country. In the 2 years he was there he watched on as so many innocent and proud men gave everything they had including their lives.

After shellshock, gassing, disentry, starvation, mental shock etc. he was finally medically discharged - unfit for further duty and sent home. He married and had 4 children - all boys. He never spoke about the war. He never spoke much at all. I am a grandchild who never saw my grandfather laugh. Never saw him smile - he just went through each day like a robot and did what was expected of him as a father and husband. He was given electric shock treatment back home in an attempt to help his destroyed mind but it didn't work. Nothing could remove those memories and scars. For 51 years he remained silent and then passed away without one word being uttered about the war and what he witnessed as a 17 year old. He died with the lead shrapnel from the war still in his body. You may not have been able to utter a word or talk about those times but we will be your voice.

Four generations of our family are alive and well to day and its ALL BECAUSE OF YOU POP.

We will continue to march for you and your mates every ANZAC DAY to show the next generations to come what you did for us. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU