Community remembers fallen diggers

Ms Macklin said that 2008 was especially significant because it marks the 90^th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

 

“11am on 11 November 1918 marked the end of four years of terrible conflict.” Ms Macklin said.

 

“On November 11 2008 we again pause to remember these fallen soldiers and to reflect on the sacrifice they made for their country”.

 

Out of a population of only 5 million, 417,000 Australians enlisted for service, and more than 330,000 served overseas in the First World War. Of those, some 60,000 made the ultimate sacrifice on the Western Front, at Gallipoli, in the Middle East, on the high seas and in the air.

 

“People across our community have paid tribute to those who lost their lives by buying a red poppy and wearing it on this historic day,” Ms Macklin said.

 

Red Flanders poppies grew amidst the devastation on the battlefields of the Western Front.

Australians have been wearing poppies since 1921 as a symbol of remembrance and new life, acknowledging the service and sacrifice of those who died and suffered and to honour their memory.

 

Last Saturday Jenny Macklin official dedicated the Cherry Street Avenue of Honour and Memorial in Macleod to the 60,000 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice in the First World War. 

 

“Macleod was a home away from home to many Australian servicemen and women over the years at both the Simpson Barracks and Heidelberg Hospital, and this area has a proud history of supporting Australia’s defence efforts.”

 

For more information on Remembrance Day visit www.dva.gov.au.