On 11 November 2019, Australia will commemorate the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting in the First World War.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton is encouraging those in his electorate to participate in a local commemorative service and observe a minute’s silence at 11am.
“Remembrance Day is a time to remember the honourable Australian service men and women who have suffered and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” Mr Coulton said.
“Every year on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we mark this occasion – it was at this time and date in 1918 that the guns fell silent on the Western Front, officially ending the First World War.
“The war came at a great cost for Australia, with more than 60,000 service men and women never returning home, from the 416,000 who enlisted.
“This affected every community, including many across the Parkes electorate, in what was a very young nation at that time.
“It is extremely important to instil an ongoing sense of remembrance and respect in future generations of Australians so our current and former serving defence personnel and their families know their sacrifices are honoured.
“These brave Australians have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and the freedoms we enjoy today. Thank you for your service.”
Photo caption: Member for Parkes Mark Coulton with Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester commemorating the Centenary of Armistice (1918 – 2018) in Parliament House last year.
