On Sunday, 11 November 2018, Australia will mark a significant milestone in its military history, commemorating the centenary of the Armistice that ended the fighting in the First World War.
Member for Parkes Mark Coulton is encouraging communities across his electorate to participate in their local commemorative service on 11 November and observe a minute’s silence at 11am to remember the Australians who have suffered and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
“Over the course of our history, almost two million men and women have worn with pride the uniforms of the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force,” Mr Coulton said.
“Tragically, more than 102,000 names are today listed on the Australian War Memorial’s Roll of Honour, and on 11 November we remember their service and sacrifice.
“It is also incredibly important to instil an ongoing sense of remembrance and respect in future generations of Australians so our Defence Force personnel know their sacrifices are honoured, now and into the future.”
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the Great War affected every community, large and small, in what was a very young nation.
“On 11 November 1918 at 11am, the guns on the Western Front fell silent and the most destructive war the modern world had seen was all but over, and countries around the world celebrated,” Minister Chester said.
From a population of around 4.5 million, some 416,000 enlisted for service in the Great War, of which more than 60,000 would never return.
In this final year of the Anzac Centenary, Australians will pay tribute to those who served in the First World War and all who have served and died for Australia with honour in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Photo caption: Member for Parkes Mark Coulton with Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Darren Chester, at a special installation of handcrafted red poppies in the marble foyer at Parliament House to commemorate the Centenary of Armistice (1918 – 2018).
Media contacts:
Minister Chester – Whil Prendergast 02 6277 7820
Mr Coulton – Anna Tickle 0400 050 729
