The above is a lyric in the moving song by Eric Bogle, ‘The Band Played Waltzing Matilda’, which refers to the story of an Australian veteran of the First World War who is maimed by the conflict.
Today is ANZAC Day, the Antipodean equivalent of Remembrance Day. Originally commemorating the 80,000 Australians and New Zealanders who died in World War One, it now recognises the sacrifices made by so many members of the Commonwealth for the sake of their allies.
Another almost 200,000 ANZACs were injured, and the impact was profound for such relatively small countries. Australian and New Zealand soldiers were praised highly by many British commanders for their dedication, bravery and their quick adaption to the particularly challenging condition of the Gallipoli Campaign.
When I visited New Zealand in 2008, I attended an ANZAC Day ceremony and cathedral service in Dunedin. We sang three anthems – God Defend New Zealand, Advance Australia Fair and God Save the Queen. It was a moving experience, and one in which the sense of gratitude was profound and almost tangible.
Dawn services and marches are common events that take place every 25th April, as Eric Bogle’s song lyrics alluded to. Commerce is limited, and the whole day is – rightly – dedicated to those who fought for their country and the Commonwealth.
Every 25th April, we should remember and be grateful for the efforts and sacrifices of these allies, who travelled thousands of miles and fought on our behalf.
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