ANZAC Day: what it is and what it is not

Abstract

Having been in the catafalque party when I was at school here, I know how much meaning is placed in this ceremony, and it means a great deal to me to address you this morning at this ANZAC service. I have not served in any of the conflicts remembered on the Honour Rolls here, or seen warlike service. I have, however, recently served in the Australian Defence Force. It is with this perspective that I hope to convey what a commemoration of a battle so long ago, and so far away, should mean to us here today. The first thing to say is that ANZAC Day means different things to different people - for some it is a fond reunion with mates whose bonds were formed by war, while others not so closely involved are struck by the enormous sacrifices made by earlier generations. It almost never fails to evoke a deep emotional response in Australians and New Zealanders. The response is increasing as years go by. Yet, to put into words why this day moves us so much is very difficult.