NSCnews Online June 2017 | Page 86

The catafalque on stage at Southern Cross Catholic College Right - TPR Aiden O’Hanlon and mascot WO2 Courage Southern Cross Catholic College Ceremony for ANZAC Day with 2Cav Regt T HE entire student body participated in a moving and educational ceremony at the Southern Cross primary school during the lead-up to ANZAC Day. A catafalque from 2Cav Regt, including mascot wedge- tailed eagle WO2 Courage, was mounted on stage as the school paid tribute to servicemen and women everywhere, and to the original ANZACs. SGT Scott Maxwell 2Cav Regt delivered the main address and he spoke briefl y of the importance of the reputation the original ANZACs carved for a fl edgling nation at Gallipoli. “Young Australians earned a reputation for courage, self-reliance and mateship,” he told the students. “Their actions forged what has become known as the ANZAC spirit and that spirit has been the driving force beind all Australian servicemen and women ever since.” He said although the original ANZACs owned the ANZAC spirit, it was up to current generations to continue to uphold it. “We need to carry the spirit of ANZAC with us always, because without a remembered past, we will struggle with a better future,” he said. The Southern Cross Catholic College has about 950 students, and at least half had a direct family connection to the Australian Defence Force, DSTA Karyn Penney said. “We have 150 children from families with an active service member,” she said. She said 2Cav Regt had “adopted” the school and this was the fi rst time the unit had provided support for ANZAC Day. SGT James Buquemin 1RAR Band 86 | JUNE 2017 RSM 2Cav Regt