Services, silence, and poppies to mark Remembrance Day

COMMUNITIES across NSW will come together on Monday, November 11, for Remembrance Day, an annual observance dedicated to honouring fallen service personnel since 1919.

At 11 am on November 11, 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of war.

This moment, known as the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, has become a symbol of reflection.

At 11 am, Australians are encouraged to observe a minute’s silence, wherever they may be, in respect for those who served and continue to serve.

RSL national president Greg Melick said it is a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served.

“As we pause for one minute’s silence on Remembrance Day, let us acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our veterans and continue to strive for the peace they so bravely fought for,” Melick said.

The official NSW Remembrance Day service will take place at the Cenotaph in Martin Place, Sydney, at 10:30 am.

The sails of the Sydney Opera House will be illuminated with poppies at both dawn and dusk.

RSL services will also take place across the Northern Rivers, welcoming community members to honour service personnel from all conflicts.

This year’s commemoration comes on several milestone anniversaries: 110 years since the start of World War I, 80 years since the D-Day landings in Europe, 50 years since Australia’s withdrawal from Vietnam, and 25 years since troops were sent to East Timor.

Poppies are available through RSL sub-branches, with proceeds supporting the Poppy Appeal and veterans’ services.

For those wishing to support further, donations and volunteer opportunities are also available through local RSL branches.

An interactive map of service locations is available at remembertoremember.com.au.

Those unable to attend in person can view broadcasts on ABC TV, ABC Radio, and ABC iview.