This April 25 we reflect on the sacrifices of those who have bravely served our nation in wartime, and to the men and women who continue to serve in military conflict and peacekeeping operations around the world.
Dawn services will be held in Maroondah and around the nation to commemorate the 107th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings.
Ringwood RSL will commemorate Anzac Day with a march on Sunday 24 April at 9.30am, and a dawn service on Monday 25 April from 5.45am at the Ringwood Memorial Clocktower, Maroondah Highway, Ringwood.
Croydon RSL sub-branch will commemorate Anzac Day with a march on Sunday 24 April at 2.30pm, and a dawn service on Monday 25 April from 5.45am at the Croydon War Memorial, corner Kent and Croydon Road roundabout.
Councillor Mike Symon, Mayor of Maroondah, encourages the community to attend the commemorative services happening around the municipality.
"More than 100 years since the landing on Gallipoli, this day still resonates deeply with people young and old.
"For our veteran community, we thank you for the service and sacrifices you have made for us.
"I encourage all Maroondah residents to spend a moment reflecting and honouring our Anzacs and veterans this Anzac Day," Cr Symon said.
Croydon RSL sub-branch President, Arthur Ford, said that Anzac Day is a significant day for the RSL.
"Anzac Day is the most important day in our calendar, with services starting on the Sunday before Anzac Day," President Ford said.
Honouring all veterans — Anzac Day's new meaning
Anzac Day — one of our most important national days — began as a commemoration of the landing of Australian and New Zealand forces at Gallipoli in 1915 during World War I. It has grown to become a reflection on the service and sacrifice of all Australians who have served in conflict or on peacekeeping operations.
Modern veteran, John Baade, highlights the importance of Anzac Day as comradery between new and old veterans.
"As a modern veteran, Anzac Day has significant meaning for me. During my deployments to Afghanistan, I honoured the Anzac forefathers, mates and those who had paid the ultimate sacrifice for Australia. Anzac Day is always remembered and celebrated with comrades," John said.
Serving with the 5Th Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment, John Nyhuis, said that Anzac Day is about support as much as it is remembrance.
"This year will be my first Anzac Day at Croydon sub-branch, and for me it is also somewhat of a homecoming.
"I was wounded in February 1967, and members of the Croydon RSL sub-branch kept my parents informed on how I was going which they were very grateful for.
"I have been a member of the RSL for many years and recently joined the Croydon sub-branch. I have always had the need to belong to the RSL to mix with people who have had similar experiences, and it seems the older I get the more important it becomes.
"Anzac Day and Remembrance Day is not just to remember those who have gone before us, but to support each other," John said.
Not just a day for our Australian veterans, Anzac Day also provides a time to support our mates in arms.
Serving in the British Army for 22 years, Ray Agnew B.E.M, said that Anzac Day is one of the great RSL traditions (along with great mates).
"I have been a proud member of the Croydon RSL for the past 13 years, and a committee member for seven of those years. I served in numerous countries during my service. My Regiment served in Gallipoli with the Aussies and NZ boys; a great honour," Ray said.
Supporting our Anzacs
Anyone wishing to support the Anzac Appeal can make an online donation at anzacappeal.com.au. Money raised through the annual fundraiser will go towards funding vital services for veterans and their families.
