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Australia’s
past and present servicemen and women were honoured today at a
special Anzac service and wreath laying ceremony at the Australian
War Memorial hosted by Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Bruce
Billson. The
Minister said the ceremony recognised the special needs of our
veterans and war widows in aged care, for whom it can sometimes
be difficult to attend commemorative services such as Anzac Day.
“Older and more
frail veterans, war widows and widowers living in aged care
are often unable to attend important commemorative events such
as Anzac Day,” Mr Billson said. “This
service at the Australian War Memorial ensures that they have
the opportunity to remember their mates and loved ones and take
part in a service that recognises their contributions to Australia.”
Minister Billson
said the 150 veterans, war widows and widowers who attended
the service were assisted by 35 students from Campbell High
School, who volunteered to play an active role in the local
community. Members of the Australian Rugby Choir and the Band
of the Royal Military College of Australia performed during
the ceremony. “Australia
is forever grateful to its veterans and service personnel for
their service and sacrifice in times of war, conflicts and peace
operations, and for their continuing contribution to the community,”
Mr Billson said.
“Anzac Day is
our chance to express our profound appreciation and gratitude
to those who served our nation – and remember how their
services continue to shape our nation. They are forever honoured,
remembered and treasured.” Today’s
Anzac service was organised in cooperation with the aged care
facilities of the ACT and surrounding regions, the Department
of Veterans’ Affairs and the Australian War Memorial.
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