Today Australians the world over will pause to honour the more than 103,000 service personnel who have lost their lives in service to our nation.
This Remembrance Day, we remember the fallen, we remember those they left behind and all who have served in Australia’s uniform over more than a century in war, in conflict and as keepers of peace.
On this day 105 years ago, the guns fell silent on the Western Front. An Armistice was signed, leading to the end of the First World War.
“When we say ‘Lest We Forget’ at the end of the Ode, we mean it; we will remember them. We do remember them,” said Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh.
“This Remembrance Day we pay tribute to all those who have served our nation in war, conflict and in peacekeeping operations.”
Today also marks the 30th anniversary of the interment of the Unknown Australian Solider in the Australian War Memorial’s Hall of Memory, which serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in times of war.
“Today we remember the 60,000 Australians who never returned from the Great War,” said Minister for Defence, Richard Marles.
“And we remember the more than 103,000 Australians who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in serving our nation.
“And we remember those who do the extraordinary act of wearing our nation’s uniform to this very day.”
