Remembrance Day in Australia

Remembrance Day, observed on November 11th each year, commemorates the armistice which ended the First World War (1914–18). At precisely 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare.

History:

• Origin: The armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front, which took effect at eleven o'clock in the morning—the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" of 1918.
• First Commemoration: The first Remembrance Day was observed in 1919 throughout the British Commonwealth. It was originally called "Armistice Day".
• Red Poppies: Inspired by John McCrae's poem "In Flanders Fields", red poppies became a symbol of remembrance because they were among the first plants to bloom on European battlefields.

Traditions:

• One Minute Silence: At 11 a.m., Australians observe one minute’s silence in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.
• Ceremonies: Remembrance Day ceremonies are held at war memorials across the country, with one of the major ceremonies taking place at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
• Laying Wreaths: During these ceremonies, officials lay wreaths to honor fallen soldiers.
• The Ode: The Ode from Laurence Binyon's poem "For The Fallen" is recited.

Activities:

• People wear red poppy pins as a sign of remembrance.
• Schools may hold special assemblies or lessons dedicated to Remembrance Day.
• Community organizations often hold events to raise awareness about military history and honor veterans.

The day serves as an occasion for Australians to reflect upon and acknowledge the sacrifice made by their servicemen and women.