RSL Queensland is calling on all Queenslanders to Remember to Remember on Monday 11 November with a minute’s silence at 11am to honour the service and sacrifice of our fallen service personnel.
More than 100 services are expected to be hosted around the state by RSL Sub Branches, inviting people to commemorate the lives of those who died or suffered for Australia in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. RSL Queensland’s official Remembrance Day service will take place at Brisbane’s ANZAC Square from 10:15am at the Shrine of Remembrance.
State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM is encouraging all Queenslanders to take a moment this Remembrance Day, wherever they may be, to pause and remember those who served for our country.
“It is important that we continue to observe Remembrance Day to safeguard their legacy and remember the ultimate price they paid was not in vain. The services held across the state by our many RSL Sub Branches help ensure the stories and sacrifices of our veterans are not forgotten,” RSL Queensland MAJGEN Day said.
“While Remembrance Day falls on a Monday this year we ask all Queenslanders to Remember to Remember wherever they are – whether that be at work, school or home – and pause for a minute’s silence.
“We understand not everyone might be able to attend a service in person, but we encourage the community to wear a poppy and take time at 11am in memory of those who served and sacrificed for our nation.
Although 11 November marks a poignant anniversary of World War I, MAJGEN Day said the date is relevant and significant to the whole veteran and Defence community.
“While the day was a significant moment for World War I, Remembrance Day is recognised in many countries across the world as a day to reflect and pay tribute to those who have died while serving across all conflicts,” he said.
“I work with veterans and their families every day, and I know that taking the time to commemorate the sacrifice and loss of those who served on Remembrance Day is one of the most powerful ways you can show your support.
“This day gives us all an opportunity to honour and acknowledge those who sacrificed their future so that we could enjoy our today.”
“It may be just one minute of silence, but the impact lasts much longer for our veteran community and their families.”
At 11am on 11 November 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. With their armies retreating, German leaders signed an Armistice (suspension of fighting), bringing an end to World War I.
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month became universally associated with the remembrance of those who died in this war. On the first anniversary of the armistice in 1919, two minutes’ silence was instituted as part of the main commemorative ceremony in London. After the end of World War II, the Australian and British governments changed the name to Remembrance Day to better reflect an occasion commemorating those who died in service to their country.
In 1997, Governor-General Sir William Deane issued a proclamation formally declaring 11 November Remembrance Day, urging all Australians to observe one minute’s silence at 11am to remember those who died or suffered for Australia’s cause in all wars and armed conflicts.
For more information on Remembrance Day, including where to find a local service and downloading digital resources including audio recordings, videos, blogs and veteran stories, visit remembertoremember.com.au
