Remembrance Day 2012
11th November, 2012
Federal Member for Wide Bay Warren Truss, has encouraged Wide Bay residents to observe the traditional Remembrance Day one minute’s silence this Sunday, to honour those who lost their lives while serving Australia in wars, conflicts and peace-keeping operations.“All Australians should take a moment to observe the traditional one minute’s silence on Remembrance Day to honour the sacrifice of more than 102,000 Australians who have died for our nation in wartime,” Mr Truss said.
“We remember those who suffered to keep our nation secure in World War 1, and the Australian men and women who have served in other conflicts and peace keeping missions.
“This year, we particularly remember the 39 men who have died in Afghanistan, including Corporal Ashley Birt from Gympie, and their families. Their sacrifice reminds us of the ongoing danger of our mission in Afghanistan, but must not weaken our resolve to give Afghanistan the future its people deserve.
“For their family and friends left behind, Remembrance Day is another day of sadness, reflection and remembrance for their loved one who served our nation and made the ultimate sacrifice.
“During the minute’s silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we remember people of all nations who have lost their lives in wartime, and we honour those who have and continue to serve in the defence of Australia.”
More than 1.5 million Australians have served in wars and conflicts — the Boer War, both World Wars, Korea, Malayan Emergency, Indonesian Confrontation, Vietnam, and current operations in Afghanistan and Iraq; as well as peace operations and humanitarian missions since 1947 in places such as Rwanda, the Balkans, East Timor and the Solomon Islands.
The Flanders poppy first became popular in Australia in 1921 to symbolise the end of World War I and the rebuilding of life. It was among the first plants that grew after the devastation on the battle fields in Northern France and Belgium.
“I urge all Australians to continue the spirit and tradition of Remembrance Day, by wearing a red Flanders poppy and pausing for one minute’s silence at 11am.”
Mr Truss will attend a Remembrance Day ceremony at Cooloola Cove.
For more information on Remembrance Day and other commemorations visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website, www.dva.gov.au.
