The time for poppies

FEDERAL Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien has encouraged everyone in Wide Bay to honour Remembrance Day on 11 November, by wearing a red poppy, and observing a minute’s silence at 11am, to remember every Australian who has made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our nation.
“Remembrance Day on November 11 marks 98 years since the Armistice that ended the First World War,” Mr O’Brien said.
“On Remembrance Day we honour more than 102,000 Australians who have died serving our country.
“We wear a red poppy to symbolise the end of World War I and the renewal of life, as the Flanders poppy was among the first plants that grew after the devastation on the battlefields in Northern France and Belgium.”
Mr O’Brien said he encouraged everyone to pause for one minute’s silence at 11am in memory of our servicemen and women who have lost their lives fighting for our freedom in wars, conflicts and in peacekeeping operations.
“It is through their courage and sacrifice that Australia has the security, peace and freedom that we enjoy today,” he said.
“For the family and friends of those personnel who lost their lives, Remembrance Day can be filled with sadness as they reflect upon the service and sacrifice of their loved ones.
“It is important that on Remembrance Day and during the minute’s silence that we remember them and honour those who have served and those who continue to serve in the defence of our nation.
“I encourage every Australian to keep their memory alive, to continue the tradition of Remembrance Day, and educate the next generation about their service and sacrifice.”