One hundred years ago, on 11 November 1918, the Armistice that ended the fighting during the First World War was signed with Germany. After more than four years of brutal fighting in the most destructive war the modern world had seen, the guns fell silent, and people around the world rejoiced.
But it came at a great cost, and for Australia, of the some 416,000 who enlisted for service more than 60,000 died—the effects of which were felt in every community, large and small, around the country. In the years that followed the war, 11 November was known as Armistice Day and two minutes of solemn silence was observed at 11am.
This Remembrance Day, I urge all Australians in communities across the nation to wear a red Flanders Poppy and to stop for a minute’s silence to remember these brave men and women.
We should also remember those who returned home carrying with them the scars of their service, and the family members who cared for them. And we thank those currently serving in the Australian Defence Force and on peacekeeping operations.
As a nation we should all show our gratitude for the sacrifice of those who have bravely served and died. For a century we have remembered them and we will ensure they are remembered still.
Lest we forget.
The Hon. Darren Chester MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
A Poem for Remembrance Day – Death of a Soldier
His time has come; his greatest battle is almost over. I see it in his slackening mouth, the grey sheen of his skin.
Anger and sorrow dance a grim tango through my heart to see him, lying here alone; dying here alone when once he was significant and fighting for his country.
Well where is the grateful nation now?
I sit here, feeling small. Taking his hand, I marvel. It feels solid for all its insubstantial life-force.
I wonder, in wonderment, about this brave man; this proud old soldier and listen with goose bumps to his rattling breath.
I squeeze his hand to convey how much I care. He squeezes back – faintly. Then his breathing stops.
Tearful silence fills the room and I lean over him, tenderly smooth his waxen brow. Whisper to his spirit
Louise Evans
