United in Remembrance on ANZAC DAY

24 Apr 2021

LEST WE FORGET � three words that will be heard across Australia tomorrow as we join together as a nation to pledge to never forget the service and sacrifice of those who have served and their families.

Minister for Veterans� Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, Darren Chester said Anzac Day was part of our history, our culture and our way of life.

�Anzac Day is more than just a day to Australia, it symbolises what our predecessors went through to give us what we have today and is a time to remember this important part of our history,� Mr Chester said.

�While we remember those before us, it is also important to remember the men and women who currently serve in many ways to protect our nation. More than 39,000 Australians served in Afghanistan. Close to home the Australian Defence Force has responded to natural disasters and the COVID 19 pandemic.

�Tomorrow I will join Territorians in Darwin at the local cenotaph in paying my respects, and I urge every Australian, no matter where you are in the world, to do the same.�

For over a century Australians have served our country in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

During this time, tragically more than 102,000 have lost their lives, and they are remembered on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial and in their local communities, where they were family, friends and heroes to so many.

�For those of us who can, I encourage you to attend a local community dawn or commemorative service or visit your local war memorial at some point tomorrow.

�As a proud Australian, on our nation�s most sacred day of commemoration, I simply say � thank you for your service. Lest we forget.�

The ABC will broadcast the Dawn Service and National Ceremony live from the Australian War Memorial. Check your local guides for times.