Ron Rogers, Allora Advertiser

This ANZAC day a sole Riderless Horse will be led by myself (Ron Rogers), the saddle is stripped of weapons and equipment, Light Horsemen boots and leggings are placed in the stirrups backwards. This is to remember those soldiers who have fallen in battle. Today I do this to also honour my partner Tamar Smith who passed away suddenly last month. Tamar was a member of the Army Reserve in the early 1990s. Tamar served as a medic attaining the rank of Lance Corporal and being awarded the Australian Defence Medal for her service in the 25th Battalion Royal Queensland Regiment. This is a Darling Downs Regiment raised from the district to deploy to WW1.

Tamar was also an active member of the Light Horse Association for the last 35 years. She participated in many Light Horse activities over those years such as the freedom of the city parades with 2/14 QMI in Brisbane to the Centenary Light Horse parade through the streets of Brisbane. Tamar and I rode in last year’s parade and services. This year Tamar is here on the Riderless Horse, Tamar’s boots are in the stirrups, so this is my way of honouring not only all who served but also a wonderful, caring lady who is missed by many but will live on in our hearts.

This article appeared in Allora Advertiser, 23 April 2025.