Ash Bolt
Australia will pause at 11am today to mark the 103rd anniversary of the Armistice that ended the First World War on November 11, 1918.
With restrictions eased, the Geelong RSL will welcome the public for a commemoration service.
President Andrew Hanns said the usual service at the peace memorial would instead be held outdoors at the sub-branch to allow more people to attend at pay their respects.
“Remembrance Day is an important Day and we’re hoping to see as many veterans and the public come out,” he said.
“We’ll have a guest speaker to talk about the centenary of the RAAF and pay our respects.
“It will be good to see people out there again.”
Veterans’ affairs minister Andrew Gee said Remembrance Day remained one of the most significant days of the year for Australians.
“We must never forget the courage, valour and sacrifice of all those men and women who have served this nation in war, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” he said.
“From those who fought on the Western Front more than hundred years ago to those still serving abroad today, we must continue to acknowledge their service and sacrifice.
“Remembrance Day can be a difficult time for many veterans and those families who lost loved ones, and this year will be particularly difficult for those who served in Afghanistan, and their families.
“We should use this day to also acknowledge the tireless work of all those individuals and organisations who support our veterans and their families. Many of them are veterans themselves and selflessly devote their time to helping others.”
More than 300,000 Australians served overseas and over 60,000 lost their lives.
