The uniformed officer, head bowed, before the half-masted
flag pole as the sun's bright rays begin to creep across the horizon - the
picture of the Dawn Service - is a powerful representation of Anzac Day. Within
its imagery are the symbols of a century old story - the young anonymous soldier,
so resplendent in his uniform, bowing in memory of lost comrades, of shadows,
of heroes; the blush of dawn in remembrance of that fateful morning's beach
landing as the sun rose in a foreign and unknown land; and the flag they fought
and died under, the flag of the nation they served, the flag of the nation whose
freedom endures thanks to their sacrifice.
As the centenary of Anzac Day approaches we are all summoned
to consider its significance and symbolism. It is not a glorification of war,
but a tribute to those who served. It is a day in the history books, but moreso
a spirit which forged our national identity of courage, humour and mateship. In
the face of adversity the Australian spirit triumphed.
As we come to this great national day let us remember and
reflect. Let us pay tribute - the early morning gathering, the flag lowered to
half-mast, the minute's silence. As the Last Post plays mournfully, let our
spirits reawaken and join across the nation in unity - we are Australians, this
is our history, woven through the fabric of time and distance and the many
different faces that make our nation. Let us strive to be worthy of those we
honour. Lest we forget.
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