ANZAC Day 2020

On 25 April Australia and New Zealand stop to remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to thank those past and present serving Defence members. ANZAC Day this year was commemorated differently across both countries due to the restrictions in place to keep us safe from COVID-19.

The poignant Dawn Service which so many of us participate in, the 1100 March was not televised nor were the streets lined with people proud to support our Veterans. With some wonderful thinking from two amazing Soldiers, this year, ANZAC Day was held privately in many driveways across the two countries. For us, a private day was also held, however, our thoughts remained with those that have forged the way and given us the term ‘mateship’.

Australia House at Fort Leavenworth had both the Australian and New Zealand Flags outlining the path and verandah along with wreaths in honour of ANZAC Day. Instead of the local community joining for Dawn Service, links were provided by social media to enable those that wished to watch the Dawn Service being broadcasted from the Australian War Memorial.

The day may have been different from others but from watching the news clips and those shared on social media, the two countries proudly commemorated ANZAC Day in the way we should – proudly, respectfully and together.

For our family, we stood together and watched the Dawn Service from the Australian War Memorial, we paused, we shared tears, tears for those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, tears for those that have left us to early, tears for those who battle every day to find peace and for our blessings. Technology was a blessing and we were fortunate to share facetime calls with family and mates.

As each year passes, the importance of ANZAC Day remains. To those who we are so proud to call our battle buddy’s and your families……THANK YOU🇦🇺