The Great War which we remember today was the most cataclysmic conflict in human history, at least in military terms.
It was also the crucible in which our nation was formed.
Of a population of under 5 million; more than 400,000 volunteered, more than 300,000 served overseas, more than 150,000 were wounded and more than 60,000 never came home.
It was sacrifice on a stupendous scale.
Of those who returned, all bore the scars – seen and unseen. Our nation bore the scars. It still does.
As well as suffering, there is another legacy; a legacy of comradeship under fire, of service and sacrifice, of duty in a good cause.
Of the original ANZACs the official war historian Charles Bean said, “their example rises, as it will always rise, above the mists of ages; a memorial to great hearted-men and for their nation, a possession forever.”
And so today we remember all of them, we remember all who have worn our country’s uniform – we remember them – and dedicate ourselves to be worthy of their example.
Lest we forget.
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