By Shelby Brooks
A moment of silence fell across a small gathering at the cenotaph in Pakenham as RSL members, emergency service representatives and government officials stood to remember those who served and sacrificed their lives during conflict.
Gary Elliott from the Pakenham RSL read a moving speech touching on the reasons it is still important to commemorate Remembrance Day.
“The first world war touched the lives on millions and changed the world forever,” he said.
“Indeed here in Australia, Remembrance Day is a special time where we acknowledge so many Australians who put their own needs and fears aside to serve their country.
“It was a time of hardship and horrors yet out of the chaos a strong national identity was quickly formed and cemented in hearts and lives.
“The Anzacs showed the same qualities which we strive for today; loyalty, courage, humour and a fair go for all attitude.”
Mr Elliott recognised how war has touched all cultures and nationalities across Australia.
“Experiencing abroad opened our minds to different people and cultures,” he said of the Anzacs.
“When soldiers and nurses travelled to Egypt, Turkey, France and other countries they were exposed to many different nationalities assisting the war, including the Indian Army, the Japanese Navy and the Chinese Labour Corp.
“These interactions helped paved the way to the vibrant multicultural society which we enjoy in Victoria today.
“To new Australians that have arrived here after the first world war and since, have influenced modern society, bringing new skills and ways of life.”
Wreaths were laid by the Pakenham RSL president, Sonia Blonski of the New Zealand RSL branch, Henry Van Diemen of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, Eastern Victoria MP Edward O’Donohue, Cardinia Shire councillor Carol Ryan, Legacy Group member Sheryl Phillips, Victoria Police Acting Inspector, Shayne Honey of the Pakenham SES and from the Pakenham CWA.
The Last Post and Reveille here played live, followed by the Australian and New Zealand National Anthems.
