John Simpson Kirkpatrick

John Simpson Kirkpatrick (dinkumaussies.com)

Bullets whistled overhead and artillery boomed with deafening roars. Nonetheless the defiant man, John Simpson Kirkpatrick and Duffy, his loyal donkey, trudged on laboring to bring the wounded men across the melee to get medical attention. Enrolled with the ANZACs, the Australian New Zealand Army Corps, he with thousands of others participated in the invasion of Gallipoli, in 1915; their intention to eliminate Turkey from World War 1. As a medic, transporting men from the battlefield to safety, Simpson worked night and day with the donkey he had found and befriended. Many troops called him, “bravest of the brave,” and were greatly inspired. Regardless of the most extreme dangers, he determined to help others courageously stepping to the job with compassion for his fellow comrades; ultimately giving his life so that others would live. When I think of Simpson's sacrifice, I am amazed by how one man could accomplish so much in barely three weeks, rescuing a total of over 300 men.

With one hand leading his donkey and the other supporting the casualty, Simpson would smile, whistle, and even sing as he journeyed under constant danger. Captain C. Longmore states, “I remembered how the soldiers “watched him spellbound from the trenches… It was one of the most inspiring sights of those early Gallipoli days.” His heart of courage was a light and influence to the men around him, and in turn they respected him. Doubtlessly his determination also played a vital part in the time he served his country. Truly he held a strong compassion for all the men of his country. Spurred on by this tenderness in his heart, Simpson could not back down to anyone’s condition of need.

On May 19, 1915 John Simpson Kirkpartrick was shot through the head by a sniper while assisting a casualty across the battlefield. Known as the “man and his donkey,” Simpson became a world renowned legend in history. It struck me that the simplicity of “the man and his donkey,” against the stark contrast of the entirety of the war, could make such a big impact on people all over the world. I admire Simpson‘s courage, determination, and compassion despite all the odds which confronted him. Sometimes I find I lack courage and determination. Nonetheless I would hope, given the chance that if I faced such a situation, I would stand up and willingly give myself to my comrades.