As ever, grey nomads have been well represented among the many thousands of people who have gathered at services across the country to pay tribute to those who have served in the defence forces.
Whether their Big Lap itinerary sees them near small Outback towns or in the capital cities, many travellers ensure that attending a service, or paying respects in their own way, is an integral part of their Anzac Day tradition.
This year, the 107th anniversary of the ill-fated landings at Gallipoli, saw a return to normal crowds following two years of disruption due to Covid-19 restrictions. And many tens of thousands of people were at dawn services in the major cities while in smaller centres the numbers were equally impressive.
At the Australian War Memorial in Canberra this morning, the navy’s archdeacon, Andrew Lewis, urged Australians to learn from the original Anzacs’ commitment to each other and willingness to sacrifice.
“Let us dedicate ourselves to the services of the ideals for which they died,” he said. “Let us give our utmost to make the world what they would have wished it to be: a better and happier place for all its people, through whatever means are open to us.”
Lest we forget.
I can’t do Anzac Day anymore, in my village, as their are bigot’s in our town, have given me and some other Veterans a hard time, so we don’t march or attend anymore. My wife, attends on my behalf, and as she is CWA she organises their part on the day. Disappointing, I know, but that’s how it is.
Ric Normally I wouldn’t get involved in a reply but as an ex serviceman I’d say try not to let a minority dictate what you are entitled to do on ANZAC day.
It’s happening a lot now that a minority of big mouthed, pea brained never done anything for others or their country society bludgers are gettin away with too much.
Stand tall and proud and ignore the minority.
Cheers, Pat.