The sprightly 94-year-old was back on home turf in Clinton for the town's Anzac ceremonies yesterday, where he joined son Charles Macfie (jun).
The distinction is necessary, as Charles Macfie (sen) was Mr Macfie's father - himself a World War 1 veteran whose experiences of conflict could not have been further removed from son Bob's.
Charles sen volunteered for army service early during World War 1, aged 24, and, embroiled in the very heart of those catastrophic hostilities, was discharged injured after the Battle of Ypres in 1916.
The former farmer's injuries were such that a change of career proved necessary, and he became a stock agent on his return.
Despite his life-changing injuries, Charles was proud of his service, and also joined the RSA soon after his return.
This meant the family had enjoyed more than 100 years of RSA membership, Mr Macfie said.
His own military journey began when he enlisted as a Royal NZ Navy rating in 1943.
Modestly downplaying his own contributions to the World War 2 fight against fascism, Mr Macfie described the majority of his day-to-day routine traversing the Indian Ocean as "painting, painting, and more painting".
"The ships of the day were welded together. Every time they fired, which was often enough on convoy duty, the welds fractured. So there was no shortage of repair and redecoration to do."
Despite being guest of honour as the sole remaining veteran at yesterday's Clinton service, Mr Macfie said there were many more deserving of notice.
"I wouldn't describe myself as a true veteran. I'm here as a mascot, and happy to help honour those whose sacrifices endure today."
