The Harden RSL Chapter held a Remembrance Day Service at Newson Park on Tuesday of last week at 11:00 am to honour those who lost their lives fighting in war.It was a tremendous turnout, demonstrating the town’s unwavering commitment to honouring the service and immense sacrifice of Australia’s veterans and current serving personnel. There was also attendance from local schools, officials, and emergency services.
Tim O’Keefe of the Harden RSL Chapter wanted to thank everyone who laid a wreath, helped organise or just attended for keeping this legacy alive.
“It was very windy, and the weather might have deterred some people from coming, but we had a reasonable crowd. We were well supported by the High School; they brought all their students down,” he said.
“The High School were well represented, Murrumburrah Public School captains were there, and for the first time, the captains from the Murrumburrah Public School spoke at the service. Normally, they don’t, but I decided to share this time because they support us every year,” Tim joked.
“That went well, the captain spoke well.”
Remembrance Day marks the end of fighting in World War I on the Western Front on November 11, 1918. Formerly known as Armistice Day, in reference to the German surrender in 1918, the name was changed to Remembrance Day in 1945. Every year, one minute of silence is held at 11:00 am on the 11th day of the 11th month in Australia and other Commonwealth nations.
Remembrance Day doesn’t only focus on World War I; it extends to the loss of Australian lives from all wars and conflicts, past and present. The red poppy has become the symbol of remembrance after the wild flower grew abundantly after the end of World War I in France.
“It’s a very important thing because every year, more of the younger generation are learning more and more about what happened. On Anzac Day especially, the crowds have been building up for years. Back about 20 years ago, you wouldn’t hardly see any of the younger people at Anzac Day or Remembrance Day.”
It’s customary for Remembrance Day services to recite The Ode, play the Last Post, and observe one minute of silence. The minute’s silence concludes with the playing of The Rouse. Lest we forget.
– Jack Murray
