Formerly located in Apex Park in Moss Vale, the restored gun was appointed to its new home during a small ceremony in Leighton Gardens on April 13.

Council Asset Officer Kylie Stefaniuk said long-time residents may remember the old gun, which sat in the small park at the northern entrance to the town. “But many may be unaware of its significance.”

After being exposed to the elements for 45 years the gun had deteriorated to the point where the timber wheels had partially rotted away.

A year-long restoration project ensued and was funded in part by the NSW State Government’s Community War Memorial Grant and the Federal Government’s Saluting Their Service Grant.

Specialist wheelwright Mahbrook Carriage Supplies was entrusted to restore the timber wheels and spokes while Willis Abrasive Blasting set about refurbishing the original metal body and barrel. A final high-quality three-coat epoxy paint in Field Grey completed the project.

“What’s particularly special about this restoration was that we were able to complete and unveil it in time for this year’s 102nd anniversary of Anzac Day,” Ms Stefaniuk said.

At the unveiling, mayor Ken Halstead said guns like this brought back home were considered war trophies and were not intended to glorify war.

“They remind us of the bravery and in many cases of the ultimate sacrifice that many of our young soldiers paid.”

The newly restored Howitzer Gun was originally captured by the 57th Battalion, 1st Australian Imperial Force (AIF), on August 8, 1918 during the first day of fighting in the Battle of Amiens.