From Geraldton to Afghanistan: How ‘sense of adventure’ led Reilly Marsh to join the Australian Army

In many ways, Warrant Officer Class Two Reilly Marsh embodies the Anzac spirit in 2024.

The Geraldton native, who now lives in Perth, has been serving his country for 17 years.

He was part of the security detachment for the Australian ambassador in Iraq in 2008, and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2013 as part of the provincial reconstruction team.

Having lived in Geraldton for most of his upbringing, WO2 Marsh said he had similar thoughts about getting to see the world to those the Diggers did.

“I think growing up in a small town, it was the sense of adventure, of getting out and doing something big like travelling (and) being able to serve the nation, (that) spoke to me,” he said.

For WO2 Marsh, Anzac Day is a chance to honour the legacy of those who came before him.

“We pay our respects for all of those guys that have made the sacrifices,” he said.

“It’s also an opportunity for me to reflect on the service of my mates and catch up with them.

“I think the wider community should embrace their thoughts on what Anzac Day is and get out and have discussions with their servicemen and veterans, and embrace the day.”

After being in the Defence Force for the best part of two decades, WO2 Marsh said he did not aim to stop anytime soon.

He said he had had experiences he otherwise would not have had.

“I can’t see a future of not being in the army at the moment,” WO2 Marsh said.

“It’s very rewarding, and I’ve been afforded so many opportunities that a normal workplace just wouldn’t give.”

This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, when 16,000 vessels from the sea and the air headed to Normandy, France, in what is considered by many as the turning point of World War II.

Thirteen Australians lost their lives on D-Day, while hundreds more were lost fighting for their country.

This year also marks 80 years since women were first deployed by Australia to serve overseas.