Tens of thousands of Defence personnel to support Anzac Day

THIS Anzac Day, tens of thousands of Australian Defence Force personnel will be providing ceremonial support to regional towns, schools, veteran and community groups, local memorials and aged care facilities.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the ability to gather in person to honour our service men and women was a welcome return.

“Last year, in the face of a global pandemic, we found new ways to honour those that have served,” Mr Chester said.

“While we are able to participate at in-person services in 2021, I encourage all Australians to continue to follow state and territory COVID-19 guidelines as we reflect on the service and sacrifice of our personnel.

“Anzac Day is an important opportunity to reflect on and commemorate the sacrifices of our people, both domestically and overseas. I am proud of all personnel who are playing a part in services across the country.”

In addition to the national service at the Australian War Memorial, which will be televised and live-streamed by the ABC, Defence personnel will be represented in countless communities across Australia. Key services include:

• Royal Australian Navy ships HMAS Sheean and HMAS Armidale are participating in the Dawn Service in Latrobe, Tasmania. This will be followed by a commemorative march and lunch.
• The Royal Australian Air Force will be hosting a Dawn Service and a commemorative march in Townsville, QLD.
• Australian Army personnel will be returning to Eden, NSW to assist the RSL with local Anzac Day activities.

ADF support will range from catafalque parties and marching contingents to musicians, wreath layers and guest speakers.

Combined, approximately 20 000 ADF personnel and Cadets will be contributing support to Anzac day activities.

Imagery available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20211247