Locals can take a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women this Remembrance Day, with public memorials planned in Parramatta and Epping.
City of Parramatta RSL and Epping RSL sub-branches are hosting their annual Remembrance Day services on Monday 11 November to honour those who bravely fought and sacrificed their lives in wars and conflicts.
"Remembrance Day is not just a date on the calendar, it's a heartfelt tribute acknowledging our local heroes' service to Australia and their incredible impact on our lives, giving us the freedom we have today," said City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter.
"Each year we gather in memory of these heroes. It's an opportunity for us to come together as a community to reaffirm our commitment to peace and unity and ensure the legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country lives on in our hearts and our community for generations to come.
"I encourage everyone to join us in reflecting on the sacrifices that have shaped our country and honour the men and women who fought for our freedoms."
City of Parramatta RSL sub-branch Secretary Bryan West JP, who served for 30 years in the Australian Army Reserve said it's about appreciating the peace we enjoy today.
"Remembrance Day for me is an opportunity to remember all those men and women I served with over the years and remember with fondness those who are no longer with us," Mr West said.
"I take time to recall all the Australians who served our country in time of war and who made the supreme sacrifice, so that we can enjoy the lifestyle that we lead today. We are truly a lucky country thanks to those servicemen and women who preceded us."
Epping RSL sub-branch President Brian Swan AM shared his personal connection to the day.
"It is a time that I remember my grandfather, whom I never met. He was killed at Gallipoli in World War I and is buried at the Lone Pine cemetery in Turkey. Many families have lost loved ones who have defended Australia. Although some have been killed, others have been wounded or have been prisoners of war and suffered both physically and mentally," Mr Swan said.
"We would not be able to conduct a ceremony of this nature without the support we receive from City of Parramatta. Remembrance Day is dedicated to Australians who died because of war, particularly from World War I and onwards. It marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I.
"At our service, we remember and salute those men and women who have served and those that are presently serving. Their service has kept Australia free, democratic and prosperous in all that we do. Lest we forget."
A minute's silence will be observed at 11am as part of commemorative services at Prince Alfred Square and Boronia Park on Monday 11 November.
Parramatta RSL sub-Branch Remembrance Day Service
Date: Monday 11 November 2024
Time: 10.50am to approx. 11.25am
Venue: Prince Alfred Square Prince Alfred Square, corner of Victoria Road and Church Street Parramatta
Epping RSL sub-Branch Remembrance Day Service
Date: Monday 11 November 2024
Time: 10.30am
Venue: The cenotaph at Boronia Park, Epping
