TODAY, as you enjoy your day off work or school, as you sit down to watch the Essendon-Collingwood match on TV, as you work in your garden, take time to reflect why it is you are able to do that.
Why is it you are lucky enough to live in The Lucky Country? Why is it you enjoy the freedoms denied to some many in other countries?
Yes, today is a national public holiday. But do you really know why?
It’s a day where, as a nation, Australians pay homage to the tens and thousands of men and women – some no more than 15 or 16 years old – who put their lives on the line so future generations could live the lifestyle we enjoy today.
Anzac Day - April 25 - is one of Australia’s most important national occasions, marking the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I.
And while the ceremonies of 2016 are far less grandiose than last year’s centenary celebrations, it doesn’t mean they are no less significant.
While there are no original Anzacs left and the ranks of the World War II vets are thinning fast, there are still many from other conflicts – Korean, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanstan, East Timor, and the like – who will be marching with pride today at services around Australia.
Standing side-by-side will be these diggers’ family and friends, paying their respects to these fine men and women who served our country.
Tthere could be no more respect paid to these diggers than by attending a dawn service or a street march today and coming years, not just because you can, but because you want to.
For the traditions of Anzac Day to continue, our young generation –and future generations – must keep the Anzac story alive.
The story of the brave Anzacs and those who followed must be passed down from generation to generation. Because soon there will be no World War II vets around who can share their stories.
Keeping their dream alive can only be done by you, the young generations. Those who often take what they have for granted.
It’s time to set your clocks to 5am, get out of bed early and take time out of your “busy” day to pay some respect at a dawn service or a march.
Lest We Forget.
