Remembrance Day, A Time to Honour the Fallen

Tomorrow, on the 104^th anniversary of the Armistice that ended the First World War, Australians will pause to honour the more than 103,000 Australians who have lost their lives, and all those who have served our country in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said Remembrance Day is when we honour those Australians who have served, suffered or made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country, and we acknowledge the sacrifice of their families.

“At the 11^th hour on the 11^th day of the 11^th month in 1918, the guns fell silent on the Western Front, and so tomorrow we will unite in a minute of solemn reflection to pay tribute to all those who have served our nation,” Minister Keogh said.

“I invite Australians to wear a red poppy tomorrow in remembrance. The poppy, a traditional symbol of remembrance, sprang up across the ravaged battlefields of France and Flanders in the First World War.”

Minister Keogh also reflected on a number of significant anniversaries Australians have commemorated this year.

“This year marked 80 years since the Battle for Australia in the Second World War, when pivotal campaigns were fought in the defence of our country and our region,” Minister Keogh said.

“Victories in the defence of Australia came at a great cost and were won by the courage and sacrifice of those who served, and their families.

“This year also marks the 50^th anniversary of the end of National Service and 75 years of Australia’s involvement in peacekeeping operations. We are proud of our Nashos and peacekeepers, and of all those who have served in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

“It’s up to all of us to pay tribute to the achievements of our veterans, and ensure that the many who have suffered or lost their lives in service to our nation will never be forgotten.”

“Lest we forget.”

The Remembrance Day National Ceremony will be held tomorrow at the Australian War Memorial from 10:45am, and will be broadcast on ABC radio, television and online.

Authorised by The Hon Matt Keogh MP.

Editor’s note:

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs will be attending Remembrance Day commemorations in Albany, WA an historic site in our ANZAC history.

Media note:

Remembrance Day can be a difficult and emotional day for Australia’s service personnel, veterans and their families.

When you report on Australia’s military history and its effect on Australians who have served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) requests that you include contact details for specialised counselling services and resources for veterans where appropriate.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling Service provides free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families. It can be reached 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or by visiting the Open Arms website for more information.

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