Remembrance Day 2017

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Dan Tehan said Remembrance Day today was an opportunity for every Australian to reflect on the lives lost to war and the service and sacrifice of our defence personnel.

Mr Tehan will honour Australia’s service men and women at the Remembrance Day National Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial today.

“Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the First World War Armistice in 1918 and is an important part of Australia’s history,” Mr Tehan said.

“At the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month, the nation observes a minute’s silence for those who have died serving our country in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

“More than 1.5 million Australians have served in defence of our nation and our values and more than 102,000 have died. Today we honour all of them.

“I encourage everyone in the community to observe a minute’s silence today and to wear a red poppy to honour those who have fought and died for our nation.”

Mr Tehan will also attend a commemorative service at the French Embassy with French Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Mr Christophe Penot.

“Australia and France share an enduring relationship forged over a century of military service,” Mr Tehan said. “The bonds formed on the First World War battlefields have strengthened over time and will ensure our continued cooperation in honouring our fallen service men and women.”

Next year marks the 100^th anniversary of the First World War Armistice with a service held in Villers-Bretonneux, France as part of the international commemorative program