For over a century, Australians have served in conflict and in peace around the world, helping those that needed help, protecting our ever fragile democracies and our envied way of life.
As Australians attend Anzac Day Services all around the country this morning, we take a moment to reflect on the sacrifice of men, women and animals who have served, and who continue to serve, our great country. From the vast plains of South Africa to the jagged landscapes of Afghanistan, the muddy fields of Europe to the holy lands of the Middle East, the dry sands of North Africa to the dense rainforests and grasslands of Asia, for more than a century Australians have served with distinction and honour in the endless struggle against oppression and tyranny.
The many who paid the ultimate price have our undying gratitude...such bravery, unselfishness and self-sacrifice should never be forgotten. As we honour the fallen, we also thank the living, those veterans still with us and the many Australian military personnel serving in theatres all around the world.
Few can comprehend the unforgettable sights and sounds of war that, for some, echo long after their boots have left the battlefield. We hope battle-weary men and women who come home still carrying a piece of the war with them find peace.
Today the contribution of Australian war dogs is rightly recognised in the community as part of the ANZAC tradition. A few years ago, we wrote an article about twenty one brave and faithful canines which served in conflicts spanning from the First World War to Afghanistan. If you have a few minutes and are interested in dogs that have served our nation so heroically, grab a coffee and click on the link below.
Read at https://spark.adobe.com (originally published April 22, 2017).
To make a lasting contribution, please consider donating to the outstanding organisations that assist in the rehabilitation of wounded Australian soldiers and their families.
Lest we forget.
Main Header Photo: Sacrifice, Anzac Memorial, Sydney. Image by Marek Piwnicki @ Unsplash
The Eternal Flame, Australian War Memorial. Image by Troy Scanon @ Unsplash
Background Photo: Ceiling of Stars, Anzac Memorial, Sydney. Image by Marek Piwnicki @ Unsplash
Lieutenant Sarah Rohweder. Image by LSIS Kayla Jackson @ Department of Defence
Remembering War Dog by artist Anne Johnson