YOUTHS OF ANZAC

Spits of rain fell from the heavens as the swelling crowd gathered below. Magpies, Rosellas and other chirping, native birds joined in the cacophony of melodies that erupted from the surrounding bush. Squawking seagulls flew in from the bay, attracted by the smell of sausages sizzling on the Barbie. Children played on the banks of the Canal, seemingly oblivious to the solemn day

The stirring sounds of the bagpipes heralded the start of the march. The crowd clapped as aging Diggers were slowly driven past, ahead of Veterans and family members honouring fallen heroes from Gallipoli, over one hundred years ago, to Iraq and Afghanistan today. I flicked away a tear of pride as I watched my grandson and other youngsters from various, local sporting and youth groups march past, wearing medals of grandparents and parents they never knew.

As the Bugler sounded The Last Post, the children on the banks jumped to their feet without prompting from parents. The boys instinctively pulled off baseball caps and warm hoodies and stood still, heads bowed in respect.

Yes. Anzac Day is in good hands. And as we welcome more migrants into our diverse communities, hopefully a new generation will be instilled with that same, national pride of being an Aussie, ensuring the tradition of Anzac Day lives on in future generations.

“Lord protect all who serve & comfort those who love, wait, grieve & lovingly heal the fragments of shattered lives. Amen”

Lest we forget

Vivian Waring   (Vietnam Vet widow)

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