11 November 2020 marks Remembrance Day when we recognise the service and sacrifice of the more than 102,000 Australian men and women who gave their lives in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Originally known as Armistice Day, this solemn occasion marks the day the guns fell silent on the Western Front during the First World War.

It was later, following the Second World War, that 11 November became known as Remembrance Day.

Federal Member for Blair, and Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Shayne Neumann encouraged people to take the time to pause and reflect on our fallen service men and women.

“Every community has its own stories to tell and its own personal connection to our wartime history, and Remembrance Day is an opportunity to renew those connections.

“In Parliament this week, I spoke about the terrible impact of war on regional communities like Ipswich and small country towns in the Somerset Region.

“So it’s an opportunity to honour all current and former defence personnel, and the families that supported them, and show them that they will never be forgotten.

“It’s a reminder that the best way to honour the fallen is to look after the living by ensuring our veterans and their families get the best possible care and support,” he said.  

Mr Neumann attended a Remembrance Day National Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on 11 November, where he laid a wreath in honour of Australia’s war dead.

The ceremony was broadcast live across Australia by the ABC and available on ABC iView.

“This Remembrance Day I want to invite people to wear a red poppy and share their personal commemorations on social media by using the hashtag #RemembranceDay.”  

More information on Remembrance Day is available on the Anzac Portal.

Any veterans and family members who may need support during this time can call Open Arms 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au to access free counselling and other services.

Lest We Forget.