On the 11th Of November marked the 100th Anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War.
Each year on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month we pause to remember those who have died or suffered for Australia's cause in all wars and armed conflicts.
This year we paused to remember the Centenary of the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux, the Battle of Hamel and the Battle of Amiens.
Each of these Battles fought throughout the First World War were witness to the bravery, honour and sacrifice of our Australian Diggers.
Whilst fighting for the ideals of our nation, our men fought in comradery and bravery.
Australia’s First World War Campaign took a brutal toll on our young nation, with more than 60,000 casualties and 165,000 men wounded, gassed or taken prisoner- our story on the Western Front still holds significance in Australia today.
Every town in Australia has its own story and its own personal connection to the terrible conflicts of war, and today we honour and renew that personal connection.
Here in Longman, we paid special tribute to the nine courageous people who lost their lives as a result of their service during the First World War.
“These amazing men fought for everyone in our community, so that we could live our lives in peace. They sacrificed time with their families, their jobs as labourers, miners, farmers and clerks to provide us with the security and safety that we all enjoy today,”
“I had the privilege of paying my respects at the Caboolture service, and my staff and volunteers laid wreaths at the Burpengary, Mount Mee, Beachmere, Bribie Island and Woodford services.”
Whilst Sunday was a significant milestone in our military history, we reflect and remember all of those men and women who have served our country.
And as we conclude the commemorations of the Centenary of Anzac we continue to remember the sacrifice our Australian Diggers made during the First World War.
We remember those who have gone before us, those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, those who have returned home and whose lives were never the same- the depth of our gratitude remains unchanged.
Lest We Forget.