The origins of the acronym ANZAC were shared with Korumburra Primary School students during a Monday afternoon service in the lead up to Anzac Day.
Korumburra RSL president David Jackson spoke of Australian and New Zealand soldiers landing at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915.
“This was the first major military campaign for the soldiers of Australia and New Zealand,” David said, noting April 25 has since been known as Anzac Day and explaining ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
“Since then, when Australians and New Zealanders have served together, they have been known as Anzacs,” David said.
He reflected on the ways people honour those who have served and those who continue to do so.
“We can gather together like this in schools, attend a Dawn Service on Anzac Day or an Anzac Day march; we can also wear a sprig of rosemary as a symbol of remembrance,” David said.
He explained the significance of The Last Post, including the fact it is a tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
“This is a time to think about those who served in the Australian armed forces, those who continue to do so and about those who lost their lives,” David said.
He also spoke of the poem ‘For The Fallen’ by Laurence Binyon, having recited the famous verse beginning, “They shall grow not old”.
After students sang ‘I am Australian’, school captains Ruby and Flynn recited the Anzac Requiem.
Ruby declared the significance of laying a wreath as a visual representation of respect and remembrance of those who have served and died in war,” calling on school vice captains Thomas and Lara to place a wreath in front of the commemorative cross.
Thomas and Lara continued their involvement with the lowering of the Australian flag during The Last Post, and its raising as the Rouse rang out.
The short but meaningful service ended with the New Zealand National Anthem and a spirited version of Advance Australia Fair.
