Jason Carruthers - Kokoda With Your Mates Lyrics

Of all the years I've spent thinking of your mates
Lost somewhere in the jungle
Of Kokoda with your mates
I was but a nipper when that telegram arrived
Never forgetting how my mum collapsed and nearly died

When the times at school on fathers day yearly came around
I proudly showed you off to all
In a frame all leather bound
We never got to kick a ball or trundle down some overs
Or the feel of a fishing rod quivering through your shoulders

As I grew to manhood with many of your traits
It always pleased me when grandpa said you remind me of Jack ol mate
Nanna always said I just look like you dad
For when we came to visit it made her heart so warmly glad

As I watch my own two children romping on the lawn
Quietly shedding a heartfelt tear every Anzac dawn
I proudly march on this special day, your medals upon my chest
Thankful in the knowledge that im your chosen guest

This country is free and growing at such a rate
Thanks to a special dad and the unselfishness of his mates
I guess to find your resting place would be really grand
But it was left to lifes destiny and the fate in another's hand

As I grew to manhood with many of your traits
It always pleased me when grandpa said you remind me of Jack ol mate
Nanna always said I just look like you dad
For when we came to visit it made her heart so warmly glad

So I will settle for the memories, that are more than a life time nice
As you lay in your jungle garden... With the New Guinea bird of paradise