The weight of service never truly lifts for those who have worn the Rising Run badge and uniform.
For Cedar Grove war veteran David Philippi, who served in the 2nd/4th Battalion, Anzac Day is a time of deep reflection – a moment to remember the sacrifices of both soldiers and their families.
“It’s a day to remember the sacrifices that were made,” he said.
“Human sacrifice and hardship for both soldiers and family.”
For many, Anzac Day is a time to honour those who fought, but Mr Philippi said there was also an impact on the families left behind.
“They’re the ones that lose loved ones. It’s not only those who have sacrificed. It’s the separation as well from family,” he said.
“They help provide us the lifestyle and the security we have.”
As a veteran, attending Anzac Day services in Jimboomba and Beaudesert is both a solemn and unifying experience for Mr Philippi.
The day brings back memories of his time in service, but also of the friendships formed, bonds that, he says, never fade.
“You’ll never find a better friend that’ll last a lifetime than a veteran,” he said.
“I catch up with people I haven’t seen in 40 years, and it’s like we only talked to each other yesterday.”
That bond, he explained, is forged through trust and reliance in life-and-death situations.
“It’s being able to rely on the soldier next to you to do his job as you do yours,” he said.
“Otherwise, it can become fatal.”
One of the most significant aspects of Anzac Day for Mr Philippi is seeing the growing recognition and attendance at services.
“Nowadays, we’re seeing a lot more people come out for the services, which is incredible” he said.
“It’s everyone remembering but also recognising.”
That recognition is especially important for veterans dealing with the unseen scars of service.
“A lot of the poor old soldiers, veterans, do suffer a lot of mental illnesses. Although they came back, they’re still broken,” he said.
Despite this, Anzac Day does not erase the struggles that many veterans continue to face.
“You’ll always remember the good times and try to forget the hardship and the bad times,” he said.
“But you’ll also remember those that never came back, or that have passed. Whether that’s in war, or through suicide or other struggles after service.”
Ensuring the legacy of the Anzacs remains strong is a key concern for Mr Philippi.
He believes the increasing participation of young people in Anzac Day services and marches is a positive sign.
“It’s still fantastic to see all the Boy Scouts, the Girl Guides, and local schools all participating and marching,” he said.
“It should continue to be taught in schools and in the public because it is part of our history.”
Mr Philippi has experienced firsthand how much a simple acknowledgment means to those who have served.
“There is nothing more humbling than when you’re wearing a shirt that shows you’re an ex-serviceman and someone comes up and says, ‘Thank you for your service,’” he said.
“That is really a big thing, especially outside of the important days Anzac Day or Remembrance Day.”
For veterans like Mr Philippi, Anzac Day is not about celebrating war, but about remembrance.
“It’s to remember the sacrifices people have made, so you can live the life you live now,” he said.
“It’s a wonderful feeling to know that not everybody doesn’t appreciate what you’ve done.”
