A note from a parent of Serving Australian Defence Force members on ANZAC Day

As we approach one of the most solemn days on the Australian calendar, ANZAC Day, and as a parent of two serving members of the Australian Army, this day means so much to us and our nation.

The reasons are all important and personal as we remember those who fought, remain and were lost in all conflicts and actions both past and present.

For our family ANZAC Day and the Dawn Service has been a yearly observance from the time our three children were old enough to attend. This has included the Cenotaph in Fremantle on the hill overlooking the harbour, Launceston Cenotaph in the park and the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance. These yearly events have provided our family with an opportunity to observe, respect and reflect. 

We have two young adult children in the Army; Thomas (24) in the Infantry 6RAR and Lucy (21) in the Cavalry 2CAV both based in Queensland. We are extremely proud of them both and continue to be impressed with the world class training, care and career development offered them by the Australian Defence Force. ANZAC day now takes on a different look for them both as they participate in events on the day and we either watch from afar or join them at the event in which they are participating to continue our Dawn Service tradition and support them on their journey as parents all through the ages have done. 

Pictured: Stewart Raine and Lucy Raine

To all of those that have served, are serving or have family members serving please pass our thanks for their service, sacrifice and courage. 

I would like to acknowledge and pay respect to all our service women and men who have when called upon sacrificed all for the freedom and protection of our great nations past and present. 

Lest We Forget 

Stewart Raine 

Nutrien Ag Solutions Wool Manager, Victoria, Australia  

  

Pictured: Tom Raine and Stewart Raine