ID :
118532
Sat, 04/24/2010 - 21:47
Auther :
Shortlink :
http://m.oananews.org//node/118532
The shortlink copeid
Aussies prepare to commemorate Anzac Day
Australians have battled Icelandic volcano eruptions and drunken partygoers in a bid
to commemorate Anzac Day this year.
But without fail, Australians are due to line up in their thousands to pay tribute
to the 46,000 diggers who lost their lives on the Western Front during World War I.
In France, there were fears Aussie tourists wouldn't make it to the popular
Villers-Bretonneux dawn service after the flight havoc caused by the Icelandic
volcano.
Visitor numbers in the town were dramatically down last week, but as of Friday,
things were picking up - just in time for Sunday's service, which attracts up to
5000 people a year.
And last year in Melbourne, the early morning ceremony was marred after drunken
revellers loudly disrupted the solemn gathering, earning condemnation and complaints
from attendees.
But with a new set of alcohol restrictions in place and inspectors out on patrol,
authorities are hoping to keep the day's events problem-free.
Anzac Day was a special moment that has grown in significance, Prime Minister Kevin
Rudd said, especially given Australia's commitments in places like Afghanistan.
It was a time to not only honour the fallen, but to reflect on the importance of
international relations.
"We commemorate those who served the nation in conflict," he said in Canberra on
Saturday.
"On Anzac Day we remember too that national security for Australians has long meant
international action.
"Events around the globe can, and do, have a direct impact on our nation and in the
21st century, that is the case more than ever."
There were more than 3000 Australian defence force personnel working across the world.
On Sunday, army chief Ken Gillespie will join the tourists at Villers-Bretonneux for
his first visit there, while in Afghanistan, troops will enjoy a rare day of
relaxation.
Two-up, football and a dawn service shared with US, Dutch and Afghan soldiers at the
main base in Tarin Kowt is also on the cards.
Mr Rudd reminded Australians that Anzac Day was also a time to honour the police,
diplomats and other officials who helped secure Australia both at home and abroad.
"We salute their service. We respect their commitment.
"We pay special tribute to those who have fallen in the defence of our land. We
salute their sacrifice."
Dawn services will begin across the country from 4.30am (AEST).
to commemorate Anzac Day this year.
But without fail, Australians are due to line up in their thousands to pay tribute
to the 46,000 diggers who lost their lives on the Western Front during World War I.
In France, there were fears Aussie tourists wouldn't make it to the popular
Villers-Bretonneux dawn service after the flight havoc caused by the Icelandic
volcano.
Visitor numbers in the town were dramatically down last week, but as of Friday,
things were picking up - just in time for Sunday's service, which attracts up to
5000 people a year.
And last year in Melbourne, the early morning ceremony was marred after drunken
revellers loudly disrupted the solemn gathering, earning condemnation and complaints
from attendees.
But with a new set of alcohol restrictions in place and inspectors out on patrol,
authorities are hoping to keep the day's events problem-free.
Anzac Day was a special moment that has grown in significance, Prime Minister Kevin
Rudd said, especially given Australia's commitments in places like Afghanistan.
It was a time to not only honour the fallen, but to reflect on the importance of
international relations.
"We commemorate those who served the nation in conflict," he said in Canberra on
Saturday.
"On Anzac Day we remember too that national security for Australians has long meant
international action.
"Events around the globe can, and do, have a direct impact on our nation and in the
21st century, that is the case more than ever."
There were more than 3000 Australian defence force personnel working across the world.
On Sunday, army chief Ken Gillespie will join the tourists at Villers-Bretonneux for
his first visit there, while in Afghanistan, troops will enjoy a rare day of
relaxation.
Two-up, football and a dawn service shared with US, Dutch and Afghan soldiers at the
main base in Tarin Kowt is also on the cards.
Mr Rudd reminded Australians that Anzac Day was also a time to honour the police,
diplomats and other officials who helped secure Australia both at home and abroad.
"We salute their service. We respect their commitment.
"We pay special tribute to those who have fallen in the defence of our land. We
salute their sacrifice."
Dawn services will begin across the country from 4.30am (AEST).
