Lest We Forget: Anzac Day

Picture of Anzac Day Dawn Service at Kings Park
in Western Australia

Yesterday was a public holiday for us- no school and no work. And what was it- ANZAC Day. There are so many different holidays in other countries and I think it is so important to understand what these special days are and what they mean, even though it is not our country or our home. It's important because we are living here and should be honoring and respectful of their holidays- just as I hope anyone does of our holidays in the United States. That's probably where some of our issues lie, the lack of respect for the US and what we were founded on, but I think that is a whole other issue!

So- I had to look up what ANZAC Day was all about and why it deserved a public holiday- and it does. Just like our country, we are proud of those that have served (and continue to serve) in our Armed Services. This is the same. Anzac Day is a national day of rememberance in Australia and New Zealand, every year on April 25th, commemorating the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), who fought at Gallipoli in the Ottoman Empire during World War 1. Now it also signifies those who have served and died in military operations for their countries.

On the news yesterday they talked about some of the Dawn Services that are held in different areas throughout Australia and New Zealand- and some even in London), and how they were also using this day to remember some of the even most recent casualties, including 3 Australians that were serving over in Afghanistan. Another reason why it is so very important to honor, love and respect ALL of those men and women that sacrifice and give of their lives for our freedom. So our children, grandchildren, and thereafter can walk the streets and hold their head high- proud to be a part of their beloved country. While Australia is not our true home, we are temporary residents here and we respect and love this country- enough to know what their special days mean to them- and remember those special days that we hold true to our heart.

I've been thinking alot about our country and how even though we don't live there (now), I want Jack to grow up with a love and respect for his country. So, I'm going to start teaching him the Pledge of Allegiance. I know they don't allow it in the school much anymore (SAD, SHAMEFUL and DISGRACEFUL!), but he will know it. And in due time, Henry will know it too. As a parent, it is my opinion, that they know these certain things- not only honor and respect for themselves, for others, but also for their country.

Remembering all of those that have, are and continue to serve their countries. An Ode of Remembrance:

They went with songs to the battle, they were young.

Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow.

They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,

They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

We will remember them.

Poppies- a symbol of remembrance