Hawera soldier honours 'Fighting McCooks' legacy at Gallipoli commemorations

Corporal McCook, a 24-year-old ammunition technician based at Waiouru Military Camp, recently returned from a once-in-a-lifetime experience: serving as a Catafalque Guard at the 2025 Anzac Day commemorations at Gallipoli.

Originally from Hawera and a former student of Francis Douglas Memorial College, Corporal McCook said participating in the Gallipoli ceremonies was both a professional milestone and a deeply personal experience.

“Standing guard at Anzac Cove, where so many made the ultimate sacrifice, was incredibly humbling."

“It was an honour to be there in uniform, representing New Zealand and my family.”

Corporal McCook’s connection to Gallipoli runs deep. His great-great uncle, Sergeant William McCook, was one of four brothers known as the “Fighting McCooks”. He fought and was wounded at Gallipoli.

“Being able to stand on the same ground where my relatives fought brought an extra layer of meaning to the day,” Corporal McCook said.

Corporal McCook fulfilled a long-held ambition when he joined the Army in February 2020.

Since then he has participated in major exercises such as Exercise Cartwheel 2023 in Fiji and Exercise Diamond Run 2024 in Brisbane, where he supported ammunition transport and logistics. 

His willingness to volunteer for ceremonial duties at Waiouru led to his selection in the Gallipoli contingent.

“I’ve always put my hand up for parades and ceremonial duties. Being selected for Gallipoli felt like recognition of that commitment.” 

Adding to the significance of the occasion, Corporal McCook’s parents travelled to Türkiye to also attend the Gallipoli service. 

“It made the experience even more special to share it with them,” he said.

Corporal McCook said the friendships and experiences had been highlights of his military career so far.

“Being out in the bush with my fellow soldiers and now standing on historic battlefields like Gallipoli — it’s moments like these that make it all worthwhile.”