Corowa High school students Flynn Williams, Brooke Upton, Phoenix Wight and Franklin Murray-Wright at the 2024 Remembrance Day service.
In a moving service on Monday, Corowa RSL Sub Branch President Lesley Rinehart conveyed the history of the 11th day of the 11th month, starting in 1919 at the end of the First World War, which was known as Armistice Day.
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Two decades after the First World War ended, the world was plunged into a second global conflict. No longer could Armistice Day remain a day only to remember the dead of the First World War.
After the Second World War ended in 1945, 11 November became known as Remembrance Day.
Corowa Club President Jenni Delany, volunteer Irene Elmore and RSL Sub Branch President Lesley Rinehart placing poppies at the RSL Monument before this year’s Remembrance Day.
“This day and date have never changed as we pause to reflect on our service men and women who have fought and served their country for over a century; we pay tribute to them and all those who paid the ultimate price, and to serving personnel today,” Mrs Rinehart told the 200-plus strong crowd at the RSL Monument.
The Master of Ceremony role was shared by Corowa High School students Flynn Williams and Brooke Upton. Acknowledgement of Country was delivered by Corowa High School student Franklin Murray-Wright.
Anglican Church’s Mother Jane Trigg delivered a Prayer. RSL Sub Branch Vice President Neil Lavis recited The Ode.
In her prologue, Brooke advised of the enormity of the First World War, with more than 416,000 Australians involved in battles in the Middle East, Turkey and Europe, with over 60,000 Australians killed in action and a further 156,000 injured or taken prisoner during the four years of war.
“We gather here at this hour, on this day each year, to honour the heroism and resilience of the young men and women who sacrificed their lives so we may live in freedom and peace,” Brooke said.
“Your presence her today leaves no doubt that in our hearts and minds, we will preserve their memory, honour their sacrifices, and ensure their names live on forever, never to be forgotten.”
The high school’s Phoenix Wight followed with a commemorative address.
The RSL Sub Branch President expressed her appreciation to Corowa High School, beginning with the student speakers.
“Your research and participation is magnificent. We do thank you. The teachers and staff who have prepared and printed the service sheets for today and providing the chairs.
“To all of the volunteers who sold tokens and to my committee, a big thank you. And thank you to all the people who came today.”
Remembrance Day means many things to many people. For some, the day and occasion stir up memories of loved ones who have fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
For others, it’s a time to reflect on how fortunate we are as a country and as local communities, to live in a safe, happy and prosperous country.
