Last ANZAC Day was a sad time for World War 11 veteran, 86 year old George Jones and no doubt this year the day will also have a twinge of sorrow about it.

The on-set of ageing, combined with asthma and other respiratory issues, meant that George missed his first ever ANZAC Day Parade in 2009 since returning from the war.

“It was a disappointment missing the ANZAC Parade last year but I was huffing and puffing because of the asthma and the old legs don’t go so well. I was very sad at not being able to march but I caught up with the chaps later on and that was good. I am grateful that I was able to keep marching for so long.”

George lied about his age so he could enlist in World War Two and served with the 2/33rd Infantry Battalion of the 7th Division in New Guinea and later Borneo.