I worked the Dawn Service and the parade in Brisbane yesterday which were attended by huge crowds - thousands at the former and tens of thousands at the latter. Only 25 years ago those in the commentariat who opposed a national day with military origins were claiming ANZAC Day would die a natural death. The critics miss the point, for ANZAC Day is not a glorification of martial achievements but a day to remember the sacrifices made by so many Australians to keep freedom alive here and in other nations all over the globe. The commemorations are bigger than ever these days as the latest crop of veterans gather as in the same way their fathers, grandfathers and great grandfathers have done over the past century. For veterans ANZAC Day is an opportunity to touch base with old comrades, remember those who did not come home and acts as a reminder that although no longer in uniform you will always be part of a greater collective. That last point is so important to the mental health and welfare of many who struggle, particularly after separation from the service.
Lest we Forget.
Bookmarks