ANZAC Day

Today is ANZAC Day, a sombre and reflective day to remember the many Australians and New Zealand servicemen and women who served during World Wars I and II, but also more recent conflicts including those of the present time.

To remember the fallen soldiers we lay wreaths and pay our respects at ANZAC services.  We wear red poppies and then place them at the cenotaph as a sign of gratitude at the price many have paid for our freedom.  We hear many terrible stories of war and loss, the sounds of 'the last post' which is played to farewell a fallen soldier and see the parade of servicemen and women wearing medals of bravery and service.  It is a day to remember the horrors of war, and a time to pray for peace in the world.

Miss B took the wreath our class made to the ANZAC service at the War Memorial Hall in Whakatane and was able to leave it there with other floral tributes.  Here are some photos of the ANZAC Day service there.

Three pipers lead the servicemen and women into the ANZAC service.

Cadets keep watch over the ceremony.

Dignitaries, incuding military personel, the town mayor, councilors and government officials attend the service.

Crowds of people gather together to show their respects to those who have and are serving our country.

A brass band provides background music and accompanies the hymns and national anthem.

Wreaths are laid to remember the fallen.  Our class wreath is at the front.

The 'last post' is played in memory of those who have perished.

The returned servicement march out after the service to a round of applause.

ANZAC poppies are placed that the cenotaph.