The Opposition has marked ANZAC Day alongside thousands of West Australians, remembering the bravery of the many Australians who gave the ultimate sacrifice in wars and conflicts overseas.
Today, Opposition Leader and Leader of The Nationals WA Shane Love attended the dawn service in Albany, home of the ANZAC’s, to pay respect to those who served and died for Australia.
“The service at the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial is significant, as this town was the last Australian port that many service personnel saw before leaving for World War One,” Mr Love said.
“Many of them would never return to our shores, with more than 61,000 Australians losing their lives during the four-year war.
“Since then, thousands of service personnel have committed to serving Australia in wars and conflicts across the world, and many of them came from regional Western Australia.
“Every year, ANZAC Day reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice our brave Australians gave and the commitment our service men and women have to keeping our nation safe.”
Shadow Veterans Issues Minister Colin de Grussa commended all ex-service organisations and volunteers for organising commemorative services, following his attendance at services in Esperance.
Mr de Grussa said these groups provide immense support for both former and still-serving personnel right across the State, with a strong presence in most regional communities.
“ANZAC Day is an important day for all Australians, but particularly our veterans, their families, and their loved ones who are confronted with the impacts of war every day,” Mr de Grussa said.
“The trauma left behind by conflicts are long-lasting, leaving both physical and emotional scars with service personnel which at times, never heal.
“Today, we give thanks to the West Australian men and women who have served in the past and who continue to serve our country in current conflicts and peacekeeping efforts.”
