Rethinking ANZAC Day - A new sense of importance for 2022

ANZAC Day is a marker of a time when so many sacrificed so much. A time when everyone gave something and when some gave everything. But it has also become a nostalgic celebration of wartime heroes and memories. 

However, despite the allure of nostalgia and stories of war time heroism, it is critical that we recognise that the ANZAC story is one that is grounded in mateship and service to others. The contribution, the sacrifice and the values that define the ANZAC Spirit live on in the minds, bodies and memories of all of those who have served our great country. We will never forget our beloved and original ANZACs, but we must also recognise and commemorate the contributions that so many others have made, and continue to make, in the service of our nation. 

One thing that connects all ANZACs together, regardless of which service, conflict or historical moment they were part of, is that each and every one of then made a commitment to put their mates and their country above themselves. They did this without knowing exactly what would be required, and it is a commitment that veterans around the country continue to honour – standing by their mates in the good and the bad times.

As was the case when troops stormed the shores of Gallipoli, to this day, everyone who serves knows, understands and values that we are all in it together. Our differences don’t matter. We win together. We lose together. We celebrate together. We remember and grieve together. A commitment to each other that never weakens or lapses. 

The ANZAC Spirit connects all Australians by the example they set. And it invites us to commit to making the best of the opportunity that their sacrifice has given us. It is in this commitment that all Australians can find the true importance of ANZAC Day – a reminder of the legacy we each carry to commemorate these sacrifices and reflect on how we can positively contribute to something bigger than ourselves.

As we continue to navigate a pandemic that has created so many social fractures and watch the unfolding of conflicts and world events that take so much from so many, we can find inspiration and draw strength from the example of our veterans, their mateship, courage, endurance and humour, as we confront the challenges of today. 

So, this ANZAC Day, as we gather at memorials in towns and cities around the country, or join our neighbours to Light Up The Dawn, we should do so knowing that we, the people of Australia and how we live our lives, are the real memorials to our fallen.

Lest We Forget.

Major General Stephen Day DSC AM

RSL Queensland President.