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of the Western Front . Unknown soldiers were interred with full military honours in Westminster Abbey in London and at the Arc de Triumph in Paris . The entombment in London attracted over one million people within a week to pay their respects at the unknown soldier ’ s tomb . Most other allied nations adopted the tradition of entombing unknown soldiers over the following decade .
After the end of the Second World War , the Australian and British governments changed the name to Remembrance Day . Armistice Day was no longer an appropriate title for a day which would commemorate all war dead .
In Australia on the 75th anniversary of the armistice in 1993 Remembrance Day ceremonies again became the focus of national attention . The remains of an unknown Australian soldier , exhumed from a First World War military cemetery in France , were ceremonially entombed in the Memorial ’ s Hall of Memory . Remembrance Day ceremonies were conducted simultaneously in towns and cities all over the country , culminating at the moment of burial at 11 am and coinciding with the traditional two minutes ’ silence . This ceremony , which touched a chord across the Australian nation , re-established Remembrance Day as a significant day of commemoration .
Four years later , in 1997 , Governor- General Sir William Deane issued a proclamation formally declaring 11 November to be Remembrance Day , urging all Australians to observe one minute ’ s silence at 11 am on 11 November each
Sydney , NSW , 11 November 1919 . The view from Castlereagh Street looking down towards George Street , of a large crowd which has gathered in Martin Place to celebrate Armistice Day . The clock on the GPO building says twelve o ’ clock and a replica sailing ship float has been set up in the centre . A bandstand with a domed roof is visible in the background .
year to remember those who died or suffered for Australia ’ s cause in all wars and armed conflicts .
Courtesy of Australian War Memorial https :// www . awm . gov . au /
Lest we forget
with Edmond Atalla MP
On the 11th of November , Australians from all walks of life gather to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who served their nation during times of conflict .
Armistice Day , also known as Remembrance Day , holds a special place in the hearts of Australians as a day to commemorate the end of World War I and to honour all veterans who have made sacrifices in the line of duty .
Australia , along with many other nations , marks this historic day with a variety of solemn ceremonies and events . The significance of Armistice Day lies in its role as a symbol of peace and unity , bringing together people from different backgrounds and beliefs .
In Sydney the main event takes place at the Cenotaph in Martin Place . Crowds gather early in the morning to witness a moving tribute . The service is attended by military personnel , government officials and citizens of all ages . The Last Post is played as a symbol of remembrance , followed by a minute of silence that allows attendees to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served their country .
Across the nation , similar ceremonies are held at local war memorials , schools , and community centres . The red poppy , a symbol of remembrance , adorns the lapels of many as a sign of respect for those who lost their lives in service .
On Armistice Day , Australians also show their support for veterans and current servicemen and women .
Many participate in the RSL Poppy Appeal , purchasing poppies to raise funds for veterans and their families . This support is vital in providing assistance and recognition to those who have given so much for their country .
Armistice Day reminds us all that while the guns may have fallen silent , the memory of those who served and the hope for a better , more peaceful world live on .
In Australia , and indeed worldwide , this day serves as a symbol of unity , respect , and the enduring commitment to peace .
On this day we honour those who have sacrificed so much for Australia
A sacrifice that must always be remembered .
ED HUSIC MP
Federal Member for Chifley
Office : Shop 41 , Plumpton Marketplace , Jersey Road , Plumpton NSW 2761 Email : contact @ edhusic . com
Phone : ( 02 ) 9625 4344 www . edhusic . com
Authorised by Ed Husic MP , ALP , Shop 41 Plumpton Marketplace , Cnr Hyatts & Jersey Road , Plumpton NSW 2761
BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 32 // NOVEMBER 2023 17