Meet Valour Bear® Private William Bailey, affectionally known to his family and comrades as Billy. He was the only son of Martha and Geoffrey Bailey, and elder brother to Elsie Clara-Anne, a close-knit family from regional New South Wales.
Billy enlisted for war service at Liverpool, NSW, on 12 October 1914 and was eager to serve his country with courage and conviction. He was posted to the 6th Light Horse Brigade as part of the First Reinforcements. After initial training at the Liverpool Showgrounds, he travelled to Melbourne and embarked for Egypt, arriving in Alexandria in January 1915. Deployed to Gallipoli without their horses, the Light Horse supported the infantry in the campaign.
Billy’s uniform proudly displays five Chevrons on his right sleeve. The red chevron signifies that his service began in 1914, while each blue chevron marks an additional year served thereafter. Testament to his long and dedicated commitment throughout the war.
He remained in service until 1918, enduring the harsh realities of desert warfare. In October 1917, during the historic Battle of Beersheba, Billy sustained injuries in the line of duty. For his service and sacrifice, he was awarded a wound stripe, worn with quiet pride on his left forearm.
More than just a soldier, Billy represents the spirit of endurance, mateship, and quiet heroism that defined the Australian Light Horse. Dressed in historically accurate detail, complete with Rising Sun Badge, slouch hat, and authentic insignia, Billy stands as a heartfelt tribute to all who served, and a comforting companion to those who remember.
Billy features articulated arms, legs and head with flexible joints, allowing for fully poseable display.
Each Valour Bear® features an individually numbered heart button sewn onto its left foot and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. Every Valour Bear® is presented in a beautifully crafted display box.
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