To register ( especially in young children's minds ) the futility of it all, you can't beat the Grand old Duke of York.
I note some one mentions Martin Whyndam Read earlier - he also used to sing a song " William White " (I think that may be the title) about a teacher in N.S.W. who woudn't go to Vietnam , and , Allan Taylor's song which opens " Oh the morning lies heavy on my Father ......." apologies I'm not sure of the exact title of that either.
Problem with Eric Bogle's Waltzing Matilda - not withstanding the factual criticism of Guest 19 Dec 03 - 10:48 AM ,is that I've heard it sang too many times by shitty , over-rehearsed , self indulgent performers, but, to temper that remark, I must say I was stunned the very first time I heard it , and for many times after, however, nowadays its' singing, and I stress, - in the earlier described manner , usually presents me with the ideal opportunity to visit either the bar or the bog.