How I celebrated ANZAC Day…

On this day 25^th April, we honour all the men and women who have participated in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations around the world.

Traditionally, the day starts with a dawn service that includes one minute of silence and “The Last Post” being played on a bugle. “The Last Post” was originally played during the war to inform soldiers the day was over. Parades are also held, with ex-servicemen and women marching in uniform. Flowers and wreaths are laid on graves or memorials, a poppy or sprig of rosemary is worn. Rosemary signifies remembrance and the poppies symbolise bloodshed in war.

This year was different with everyone in isolation due to Coronavirus. Unfortunately, there wasn’t the traditions that we’re accustom to but we were still able to commemorate ANZAC Day.

I am a member of 1st Sailors Bay Sea Scouts and we made poppy wreaths out of egg cartons and built a shrine at our Scout Hall. At 6am I joined in the "End of your Driveway ANZAC Day Vigil” dressed in my Scout uniform, lit some candles and played "The Last Post" on my trombone.

After an early morning start there’s nothing better than tucking into homemade Anzac biscuits for breakfast.  The mothers, sisters and wives sent ANZAC biscuits to the soldiers. They were perfect for the long journey as they were hard and long lasting. They were eaten instead of bread (which went stale quickly). Some of the soldiers crushed them, mixed them with water and ate them like porridge.

Should you like to know more about the history of ANZAC Day, you can visit the Virtual War Memorial  https://vwma.org.au/.

“As we stand apart let’s stand together for those that have come before” - LEST WE FORGET.

Harry Wall, House Co-Captain Flynn, 6VC