A day to remember

As the distinctive sound of the Last Post rings out across Australia this Thursday we will pause for moment of silence to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in battle. 

The 11th hour of the 11th day of 11th month, originally known as Armistice Day, marks the end of the First World War when the guns fell silent on the Western Front.

Since then, we have seen many Australians answer the call to arms in times of war and conflict.

Remembrance Day is an opportunity for us to stand beside our service personnel and veterans.

It is a day where we will reflect and remember in silence the sacrifice of those men and women who have fought for our country.

We can’t help but think of those who have gone before us and how they were just like us. 

Since the First World War more than 100,000 Australian have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Following the end of the First World War red poppies flowered in the devastated battlefields of northern France and Belgium. 

According to soldiers’ folklore, the vivid red of the poppy came from the blood of their comrades soaking the ground. 

The Red Poppy has become a symbol of Remembrance Day and has a special significance for Australians since it was adopted at the Emblem of Remembrance in 1921.

This Remembrance Day I encourage you to wear a Red Poppy.

Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, stop for a moment to remember those who gave their lives in the line of service, those who have returned home injured or ill, and those who bravely serve our country today.

It’s important we continue the tradition of remembrance and recognition of our defence services and the ultimate sacrifices they have made, and continue to make each and every day.

However you choose to mark it, remember to remember.