Bugle keeps up family tradition

When Bunbury Primary School Year 6 student Oliver Mogridge stepped up to play the Last Post for teachers and peers on Friday, he had with him a treasured piece of family history. Oliver’s great grandfather, Leslie Ford, served as a medic during World War II, but also played in the Salvation Army, and the bugle he used has been passed down through the generations to Oliver and his brother Flynn, who both play the trumpet at school and in the Bunbury City Band. Mr Ford’s granddaughter, Desiree Mogridge said the family was extremely proud to see the bugle handed down to her two boys. “He was a medic in the war, he served and played in the Salvation Army band as well,” she said. “The bugle was transferred down from being in the war to my father who also played in the Salvation Army band and he now has the pleasure of passing the bugle down to these boys. “He couldn’t be any prouder.” Flynn said they learnt a lot about the Anzacs at school, but he was also proud of his special connection. “Anzac Day is important to remember the people who fought in the war for our country,” he said. “We know the bugle is over 100 years old, it was made by the Potter family in London and the green tassels represent the battalion he was in.” Oliver also recognised how important it was to commemorate Anzac Day. “I was nervous and excited to play at the ceremony, but I love playing the trumpet and the bugle,” he said. “They fought for our country so that the next generation would have a better life.”