Last week saw many communities come together to remember the sacrifice given by so many and to reflect on all current and former service personnel. The dawn service, although short, is something very special with the cool temperature and peaceful silence.
ANZAC Day and what it means to us individually can be very different.
For many years as a teenager, I marched on ANZAC Day in Melbourne to hold banners for the likes of the rats of Tobruk or the Merchant Navy or any number of HMA ships. I joined the Army reserve when I was 18 and later left due to work commitments.
My service was short and minor which I have always felt was not up to the esteem of the soldiers, sailors, and air personnel who our country comes to celebrate on ANZAC Day, so I have never really got involved more since leaving the army.
This attitude was wrong, and I wonder how many others may feel the same. Whilst standing there in the morning waiting for the dawn service to start, there was a call for any veterans and service personnel to come forward into formation for the ceremony. I was surprised at the number of individuals that weaved through the crowd toward the front.
Just imagine how strong our RSL branches could be if all those individuals joined to keep the local branches alive. If you’re one of those people, or you want to see the RSL flourish, get down to the hall and join up. I will be.
Cr Wayne Sproull
