The children wave their flags as the old soldiers march in remembrance of their mates who fell in battle....

Dawn breaks softly in the mists of the new day and the war weary gather to march in remembrance of those who are no longer with us. The shadowy figures from the First and Second World War loom closely telling us again of their pain, to remind us to fight no more. They are joined by the voices of men and women from recent conflicts who gave of their lives so that our future was protected.
But have we listened to them?
Have we learned anything from their memories? I think not.
Since time immemorial, men have engaged in bloody conflicts to control land, religion, and other races. We have traveled to distant lands to subdue the peoples, to take control of vital assets to ensure our survival. In turn we must restore their serenity so that we regain our honor and peace of mind. We must enable them to establish good governance, and laws to protect all races and religions. To ignore this basic right of continued existence would surely place us all in danger…..to lose our freedom of speech and freedom of choice, forever.

Today our children gather to pay respect to those who gave of themselves so that we would remain free and secure in Australia and New Zealand. These children are proud to march with banners held high and voices strong, as they sing their national anthems. They have been taught of these conflicts by teachers and family and understand the stories told by their elders.
Daily we are bombarded by news of another conflict, another bloody battle…..these are uncertain times and we all struggle to come to terms with our uncertainties of involvement. The battle is coming closer to our shores and again we must close ranks to preserve our way of life, our freedom.
Each time we celebrate Anzac day and remember the past, our children listen to their elders’ point of view …..
One day it might be their turn to protect this country, to dedicate their lives to peace and safe passage for all people.