Remember their sacrifice

All who have fallen in the service of Australia were solemnly acknowledged in Remembrance Day ceremonies in Geraldton yesterday.

It is now 94 years since the guns of World War I fell silent “at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” in 1918.

Remembrance Day has been observed ever since that socalled “War to end all wars”, in memory of those who laid down their lives in the name of freedom.

Observance ceremonies began at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, where a red poppy and a small white cross had been laid in front of each headstone.

Naval cadets from TS Morrow then formed a Guard of Honour, marching slowly and silently to their positions.

Veterans of several different conflicts bared their heads in a traditional mark of respect as The Last Post was played.

Ceremonies then moved to Birdwood House, where wreaths were laid before the 11am service at the memorial cenotaph.

At precisely 11am, police halted all traffic on Chapman Rd and Forrest St as Joshua Duff, of Geraldton City Band, strode into the middle of the intersection and played The Last Post.

As the crowd began moving away, a touching comment was heard from one teenager, who told his mates “If it wasn’t for the blokes this is all about, we probably wouldn’t be here.”

So long as that sentiment lives on, so does the spirit of Australia.