Like many Australians, each year St Francis Xavier College student Michael Fulgoni wakes up before the crack of dawn on Anzac Day, 25 April, to commemorate the sacrifices of Australia’s war veterans.
But this year, the 17-year-old had a different view of the services.
He had been entrusted with playing the distinguished Last Post and Reveille bugle calls at the Berwick RSL Dawn Service at Bunjil Place and mid-morning service at the Berwick cenotaph.
With 10 years’ experience playing the trumpet, Michael was well positioned to take on the challenge, which had previously been undertaken by his trumpet teacher for many years.
“He decided that he wanted to take a step back and nominated me to take his place,” Michael explained.
“It’s amazing to be able to have that honour.”
Michael was supported from the sidelines by his parents and sister, who are also musicians.
A chest of medals on the student’s blazer was a nod to Michael’s great grandfather, who served in WWII as a driver and was presented with a distinguished conduct medal for completing 52 trips under fire in the Middle East.
Michael’s grandfather was also in the Navy, making for an emotional day for the family, particularly mum Carolyn.
“This morning it was really teary. My father is no longer here, but he was in the Navy so he would’ve been so proud and we are so proud of Michael,” she said.
“It’s such an honour that the RSL have given him the opportunity.”
The Beaconsfield student had the attention of thousands as he played The Last Post – a bugle call that signifies the end of the day’s activities – followed by Reveille, which was historically played to wake up sleeping soldiers on the battlefield.
