Plan your own commemoration this Remembrance Day

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has released a digital kitbag to help families, schools and community groups conduct their own commemorative service on Remembrance Day.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said that during the First World War the kitbag was a soldier’s connection to home, a place to safely store your possessions alongside practical things like a trench coat, helmet and tin opener.

“With this modern day digital kitbag you can download all the tools you need to conduct your own Remembrance Day service in your community or at home,” Minister Keogh said.

“The kitbag includes printable sheets and essential information including an Order of Service, the Ode of Remembrance, the Australian National Anthem and sample speeches.

“A selection of short video reflections from the Second World War and Vietnam, told by those who lost mates and loved ones during their service reveals the true cost of war.”

“There are also social media images to use, craft activities for children and even a Spotify account with a selection of appropriate commemorative music.

“I encourage everyone to make use of these free resources as we prepare to honour our fallen on 11 November.”

The kitbag and other resources are available to download:

• https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/remembrance-day-kitbag
• https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/research-education/schools/remembrance-day-resource-pack

ENDS

Authorised by The Hon Matt Keogh MP.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608