Remembering all those who serve

Each year, on the 11^th hour, of the 11^th day, of the 11^th month, we pause for Remembrance Day to honour and commemorate all Australians who have served our nation in war, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. 

In particular, we remember the more than 103,000 Australian servicemen and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our nation.

Their bravery and valour remain as examples for all Australians to live by.

We acknowledge our Defence personnel, both current and former serving, for their service, courage and sacrifice.

Thanks must also go to the families and loved ones, whose support has given them the strength to carry out this service.

This year marked the 80^th anniversary of a number of battles for Australians stationed in Australia and in the Pacific including the Bombing of Darwin, the Fall of Singapore and the Kokoda Campaign. 

I recently had the honour of walking a small section of the Kokoda track in Papua New Guinea, from Ower’s Corner to Goldie River.

While difficult, this trek paled in comparison to the experiences of our soldiers who fought on the track, and was a stark reminder of the sacrifices of our forefathers, not just at Kokoda, but across all conflicts in which Australia has been involved.

I encourage all Australians to commemorate Remembrance Day and honour our fallen, to pause for a minute’s silence at 11:00am or to wear a traditional red poppy.

The Australian Defence Force currently has approximately 2,500 personnel deployed on operations overseas and within Australia, actively protecting Australia and our region. They too will pause to commemorate Remembrance Day, where operations and restrictions allow.

Lest we forget.