BY DI SNEDDON
Back in the 1990’s it was tradition for platoons to plant a stand of trees on their march out at the Australian Army, School of Infantry in Singleton.
Over the years thousands of trees have been grown on the base and training areas, with hundreds more placed in the ground by the hands of those young soldiers, but over time it was a tradition that fell by the wayside.
Last week Warrant Officer Class One John Stonebridge brought the tradition back to life with the support of 20 newly trained soldiers. Together they planted four rows of 20 native trees that now take pride of place on what was once the base’s rustic golf course, it time, they will grow into trees of between 18-20 metres tall.
The location was decided upon with the support of the barrack’s environmental officer and WO1 Stonebridge couldn’t be happier with the result.
Strategically planted, the trees form up in similar position to that of a platoon on parade with two lone trees standing out front as if to attention.
A plaque recognising the platoon responsible for the planting will in time be placed in keeping with the many plaques that have been installed in the past.
These plaques on small head stones have also been refreshed with a coat of white paint and as you glance around the base, you quickly realise the tradition’s impact on the greening of the base.
“It has been an extraordinary time and I wanted to do something to mark this year and involve the soldiers on base,” WO1 Stonebridge said.
“The soldiers will come back here for training from time to time and they will be able to see the growth. I’ve done this over time and you know what, it’s a good thing that makes you smile,” he said.
